South Africa’s township economy is often described as the country’s hidden goldmine
— a powerful engine of trade, resilience, and entrepreneurship worth billions of rand
every year. From spaza shops and street vendors to transport operators and informal
enterprises, township communities continue to sustain economic activity despite deep
structural challenges. This morning, we unpack “Beyond Spaza Shops: Who Really
Benefits from the Township Economy?” as we’re joined by an economist to examine the
real state of township enterprise, the barriers to inclusive growth, and whether South
Africa is doing enough to unlock the full economic power of its township communities.