OPINION by Refilwe Mochoari

Hi everyone, my name is Refilwe Mochoari and today I would like us to talk about black on black business support.

 • Do you support black businesses?

• What is your experience with supporting a black owned business?

• Or, is it realistic to only support black businesses?

In my mind, I believe when black entrepreneurs support one another, they can create a safety net, share knowledge, and leverage each others strengths.

I believe that is the reason why organisations such as the Black business chambers, NAFCOC and the Black managers Forum (BMF) were formed.

These organisations are essential for building a robust and resilient black business community.

In South Africa, the legacy apartheid continues to influence the economic landscape, with black people still underrepresented in many sectors of business, and I will mention only a few…..energy, property, and advertising spaces.

But also I must say that I see a growing trend which is changing the narrative -  black-on-black business support

I see a phenomenon, where black businesses actively support and uplift one another, this is not only empowering but also crucial for the economic transformation in the country.

Black entrepreneurs face many challenges which amongst others include limited access to capital, networks, and access to markets.

But how far are we with breaking down these barriers?

In 1994, the government created Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policy which aims to facilitate broader participation in the economy by black people.

Two weeks ago the Minister of Communications and digital technologies Solly Mahlatsi relaxed the act to accommodate tech company Starlink.

Historically black businesses were excluded from mainstream economic opportunities.

So by supporting each other, black entrepreneurs can break down these barriers and create new pathways to success. This support can take place in many forms, including mentorship, partnerships, and supplier development programs.

By creating a culture of support and upliftment, black businesses can inspire and enable young entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.

This, in turn, can help to address the country's pressing issues, such as unemployment and poverty.

That is the beauty of  black on black businesses support.

But there is a subtle war that I see when it comes to this narrative.

Mainly from the consumers…

Many consumers have come out guns blazing complaining that black businesses do not  give quality service.

Amongst many grievances are, bad customer service, poor product quality or even being entitled to getting support from a fellow black person.

Sometimes consumers feel that black businesses are not competitive when it comes to pricing.

“SORRY YOU ARE NOT THE TARGET MARKET”

This is one of the most famous taglines used by black entrepreneurs….

Consumers often feel that they want to do what they want with their money.

“Don’t force me to buy from you because we are the same race”..

Is it realistic to only support black businesses?

Personally, that is my dream. But as it stands right now, unfortunately not. We are not there yet.

The government has tried, but in 30 years with the BBBEE laws, black businesses still don’t have land, don’t own industries, and still don’t have access to capital to become industrialists.

So, although I believe in black business support, I think as entrepreneurs we can improve those challenges and end this subtle war.

Supporting a black business is not just a moral imperative, but it is an important step towards economic transformation in our time and for future generations to come.