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IOL News
13 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
Kagiso Trust marks 40 years of transformative development in South Africa
MANKODI Moitse is the Kagiso Trust's chief executive. Image: supplied. On 9 June 2025, the Kagiso Trust proudly commemorated its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of unwavering commitment to enhancing education, fostering socio-economic development, and strengthening civil society and local governance. As an emblem of its enduring mission, the Trust introduced a new positioning statement: 'Igniting Human Capacity.' This sentiment encapsulates its core belief that empowering individuals and communities is imperative for sustainable change. At the heart of Kagiso Trust's operational philosophy lies a steadfast dedication to human capital. 'Investing in people is the most powerful and enduring form of capital investment,' stated Kagiso Trust's CEO, Mankodi Moitse. 'Every student we support and every entrepreneur we train contributes directly to economic growth and a more skilled workforce. This is how we build a self-reliant society.' Among its various educational initiatives, the Beyers Naudé Schools Development Programme (BNSDP) and the Eric Molobi Scholarship Programme (EMSP) exemplify the Trust's commitment to nurturing future generations. Through targeted skills development, these programmes equip individuals with the essential tools to achieve economic independence and actively participate in shaping South Africa's future. Demonstrating a unique approach in the non-profit sector, Kagiso Trust does not rely on donor funding, making it one of the few organisations worldwide to operate independently in this respect. By fusing financial capital with human capital, it has established a sustainable funding mechanism allowing it to amplify its impact. With an asset base of R10 billion, bolstered by investment vehicles like Kagiso Capital and Kagiso Tiso Holdings (KTH), the Trust is well-positioned to reinvest in the nation's future. 'Financial sustainability is not just a goal; it's an imperative,' Moitse added. 'Our investment model proves that development can be both impactful and financially independent.' A significant pillar of Kagiso Trust's legacy is its emphasis on education. For four decades, the Trust has enhanced over 500 schools in rural and underserved communities, making the BNSDP a benchmark for educational transformation. The programme has notably increased matric pass rates, supported teacher development, and integrated digital learning through collaborations with organisations such as ICASA, CSIR, and key network providers. Additionally, the Trust is making strides in reintroducing arts, culture, and sports into school curricula, while expanding pathways for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). These efforts not only prepare learners for future careers but also promote technical education as a viable and respected choice for South Africa's youth. Video Player is loading. 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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Beyond the realm of education, Kagiso Trust is deeply invested in economic empowerment initiatives through its entrepreneurship and skills development strategies. By focusing on the property and agricultural sectors, the Trust is helping to transform these industries into wealth-generating engines for black entrepreneurs and emerging farmers. Strategic alliances with corporates, financial institutions, and governmental entities ensure that these enterprises remain sustainable while promoting inclusive economic growth. Furthermore, Kagiso Trust is reinforcing civic participation through its Local Governance Support and Civil Society Support programmes. By igniting data-driven activism and strengthening networks amongst civil organisations, the Trust is inspiring communities to become collaborative architects of democracy rather than mere recipients of aid. Their engagement with local municipalities, particularly the pilot project in Makana Municipality, showcases how improved public performance is attainable through shared accountability and empowered local leadership. As Kagiso Trust celebrates its remarkable 40-year journey, its gaze is firmly locked on the future. The organisation aims to scale its investment-backed development model, expand educational and entrepreneurial initiatives, and deepen partnerships across public and private sectors. In shaping a South Africa characterised by sustainable development, Kagiso Trust remains steadfast in its commitment to empower individuals and build self-reliant communities. The vision is resolute: to foster a nation where financial and human capital synergistically flourish, transforming lives today and paving the way for future prosperity.
IOL News
27-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Celebrating Eric Molobi: A legacy of leadership in Kagiso Trust's 40th anniversary
'Humility. Ethical leadership. Courage. Wisdom. Integrity.' These were words repeatedly spoken as Kagiso Trust marked the start of its 40th anniversary celebrations with the launch of a biography of its former CEO, Eric Molobi. Former president Kgalema Motlanthe, businesswomen Cheryl Carolus and Kagiso Trust trustee Hylton Appelbaum were among those sharing memories of Molobi, who passed away in 2006. Eric Molobi: A Legacy of Resolute Leadership reflects on the life of a man who helped shape South Africa's transformation with quiet determination and unwavering resolve. From his early activism in the Black Consciousness Movement to his imprisonment on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela's journey was defined by his commitment to social justice and empowerment. Upon his release, Molobi played a crucial role in education during the turbulent 1980s, navigating political repression with strategic foresight. At the end of apartheid, he transitioned into business, championing Black Economic Empowerment – not as a tool for personal gain but to cultivate talent, support socio-economic reconstruction and ensure economic involvement. He served on the boards of major corporations and influenced South Africa's economic landscapewhile avoiding the limelight. After eight years of imprisonment on Robben Island, a key role in the formation of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and leadership of the National Education Crisis Committee in the 1980s, Molobi joined Kagiso Trust as CEO in 1990. He launched Kagiso Trust Investments (KTI), which quickly became one of South Africa's biggest investment companies. Today, investments fully fund the work of Kagiso Trust, one of the country's leading development agencies. Recalling the launch of KTI, trustee Thabiso Ratsomo said it was a game-changer for the Trust. 'And it was largely due to Eric's unwavering commitment to ensuring Kagiso Trust could survive beyond donor funding.' Ratsomo said one of Molobi's key traits was ethical leadership, and he trusted the people he appointed to stand against corruption. 'He was deeply committed to our motto at the time of overcoming poverty. And he was a master networker, politically and in the corporate world.' Written by acclaimed journalist Gaongalelwe Tiro, this biography explores Molobi's impact across politics, business, and social development. It is essential reading for business leaders, activists, educators, and history enthusiasts drawn to stories of resilience and purpose-driven leadership. Through the institutions, careers, and initiatives that he helped to build, Molobi's legacy continues to shape South Africa's future. IOL Entertainment
