Updated on 12 August 2025 • Reading Time: 3minutes
Kasinomics is changing the game in township business but it’s not all smooth sailing. This week’s SME Brief covers the real challenges entrepreneurs face, the powerful initiatives helping out, and the huge opportunities ready to be seized. Let’s explore.
Understanding ‘Kasinomics’: The Township Economy
The township, or ‘kasi’, is home to most South Africans and supports a vibrant economy worth an estimated R197 billion in 2023. Made up of spaza shops, hawkers, and service providers, it offers vast opportunities despite funding and infrastructure challenges. With billions in collective spending power, entrepreneurs can tap into this growing market through initiatives like TREP and NYDA.
A Guide to South African Township Economy
South Africa’s township economy is driven by about one million informal and small businesses providing essential goods and jobs to millions. Despite challenges like limited funding, poor infrastructure, and high crime, the township market offers significant opportunities, supported by billions in collective spending and growing sectors like agriculture, tourism, and e-commerce. Entrepreneurs can access funding through government initiatives such as the National Empowerment Fund, as well as alternative options like fintech startups and crowdfunding platforms.
Looking for the Best POS System for Your Small Business?
Managing payments smoothly is crucial for any small business. South African entrepreneurs can now benefit from advanced Point-of-Sale (POS) systems that accept card and tap-to-pay options via smartphones or tablets. These systems not only speed up checkouts but also provide valuable sales insights, inventory management, and customer loyalty features. Popular options like Yoco and iKhokha offer easy-to-use, mobile-friendly solutions tailored to retail and hospitality sectors. Whether you run a market stall or a café, choosing the right POS system can boost sales, improve customer service, and simplify your business operations.
New season, new savings.
A fresh opportunity for your business, for the next 3 months, get Xero at half the price. Whether you missed our last offer or you’re ready to finally simplify your finances, this is your moment to start strong with 50% OFF Xero for 3 months. Don’t miss it, this special partner deal is available for a limited time only.
What’s the one marketing channel you fully own and can rely on to drive sales? e-mail. Unlike social media, where reach depends on algorithms, e-mail puts you directly in front of your audience whenever you choose.
With smart targeting, great content, and well-timed sends, you can build trust, nurture relationships, and turn subscribers into loyal customers. Every send gives you measurable results, helping you refine your strategy and boost conversions over time.
If you’re not making the most of your e-mail list, you’re missing out on one of the most consistent revenue drivers in business today.
Karabo Kgophane is a Social Media & Digital Community Manager with a background in journalism and film and television production, and over four years of experience curating content for entrepreneurs. He manages social media platforms, creates content for newsletters, writes articles, and builds relationships with stakeholders. Passionate about helping entrepreneurs thrive, Karabo stays on top of trends to keep them ahead of the game.
Get Weekly 5-Minutes Business Advice
Subscribe to receive actionable business tips and resources.
