By Thandiwe Matsenjwa
MBABANE – Emaswati should never give up on their dreams because at the end of the day, one has to put food on the table.
These are the words of 31-year old businessman, Musa Masondo from KaKhoza, Esicelwini.
Masondo, who hails from the Manzini Region, has shared with this publication how he has managed to survive despite all obstacles and setbacks he has faced in life. He believes that his survival has resulted to him finding some sources of making ends meet.
Masondo has explained that despite holding a Primary Teacher’s Diploma from the Southern African Nazarene University (SANU), the teaching profession has not yet opened its doors to him. In fact, instead of waiting for opportunities to be employed he decided to look for other options in order to survive unemployment.
He said this was necessitated by the fact that he was faced with bills to pay and a young Son to provide for.
To make ends meet, Masondo has shared that he turned to a noble hustle, that of a Loader, known locally as Matfwalane or Lisha.
When interviewed, he reflected how his biggest motivation is his own Son who gives him the drive of waking up everyday to try harder in his hustle.
“My Son is my biggest motivation because I want him growing up knowing that his father will always be there to provide for him, despite facing unemployment at the moment. I was fortunate enough to be raised in a decent manner and I also want that for my child,” he said.
Stationed in front of the popular Tandoori Express Restaurant at the Manzini Bus Rank, Masondo highlighted how he offers his services with a sense of purpose and pride. He mentioned that his rates are fair and transparent, catering to the needs of the community he serves.
He mentioned how he attracts potential customers on Social Media platforms and expresses his gratitude to Emaswati who have been supporting him from the start of his hustle. He then urged other individuals, especially unemployed graduates who tend to give up on their dreams to never give up as there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
He requested support from the community, and has outlined his charges for lisha/kukutfwalela services around Manzini. He charges E10 for services around the Manzini Bus Rank, E15 from Bhunu Mall to the Bus Rank, and E20 from Mass Cash or Boxer to the Bus Rank. Masondo’s contact numbers, 78106071 and 79520323, are provided for those in need of his services in and around Manzini.
Masondo’s inspirational story reflects the challenges faced by many individuals in today’s society. Despite his academic achievements, he has found it necessary to engage in an alternative means of earning a livelihood in order to provide for his family. His determination and work ethic are evident in his plea for support, and he remains committed to his “hustle” as a means of survival.
