By Siyabulela Skade
President, South African Chamber of Tourism Industries (SACTI)
The entrance to Gugulethu Township in Cape Town is marked by significant memorial sites that tell the story of a proud community. Like many townships across South Africa, Gugulethu possesses a rich cultural heritage and unique history that continues to shape its identity.
At the heart of every community are its people and their stories. These stories form the foundation of tourism, culture, and economic development. The tourism industry itself is deeply interconnected with sport, recreation, arts, and culture, all of which contribute to the social and economic fabric of our nation.
Visionary Black rugby administrators and sports leaders demonstrated long ago that sport could be a powerful tool for social cohesion, community development, and economic opportunity. One such visionary was Mzoli Ngcawuzele, a renowned sportsman, entrepreneur, and pioneer of township tourism whose contribution to Gugulethu and South Africa will never be forgotten.
Clarence Muller/ Gallo Images
Mzoli’s Place, which started as a butchery next to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, became one of the country’s most celebrated township tourism attractions. It drew visitors from across South Africa and around the world, showcasing the vibrancy, hospitality, and entrepreneurial spirit of township communities.
The support and promotion provided by Cape Town’s tourism authorities helped elevate this initiative, demonstrating how tourism can positively impact local economies, create jobs, and transform communities. Through his vision, Mzoli showed that township tourism could become a powerful vehicle for inclusive economic growth.
The name Mzoli Ngcawuzele became synonymous with quality, excellence, and authenticity. His humility, warmth, and character attracted people from all walks of life. Visitors were drawn not only by the food and atmosphere but also by the man himself.
Cleanliness, safety, and exceptional customer experience became hallmarks of his business. These principles helped establish Gugulethu as a must-visit destination and encouraged many other township entrepreneurs to believe in the potential of tourism.
When I had the opportunity to meet Mzoli, he spoke passionately about the importance of relationships and community networks. He credited much of his success to the friendships and connections he had built during his rugby career. Those networks became the foundation upon which he created opportunities for others and expanded township tourism.
Through his entrepreneurial journey, Mzoli created jobs, empowered local people, and helped change perceptions about township destinations. His influence extended beyond tourism and hospitality, leaving a lasting imprint on local economic development and property investment, as reflected by landmarks such as the Gugulethu Mzoli Mall.
Although Mzoli Ngcawuzele has passed on, his legacy remains firmly embedded in the streets of Gugulethu and in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. His achievements continue to inspire community-led tourism initiatives and serve as a reminder of what can be accomplished through vision, determination, and service to others.
South Africa has lost a true champion of township tourism, but his memory and contributions will continue to inspire future generations.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his remarkable legacy live on forever.
