BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- What started as a small backyard project has grown into a thriving business, thanks to the dedication of Simphiwe Magongo. Born in Mfeni under Maphalaleni Inkhundla and now living in Mayiwane (Matibe), Simphiwe spent much of his time at Ensingweni (Ekuphileni Clinic), where he works in the Ministry of Health under the Department of Environmental Health.
“I started planting sweet chilli plants behind my house and made my first delivery to Zimbili Mvubu,” he recalls. “It was that first experience, along with encouragement from a few people, that motivated me to put more effort into this business.” With guidance from colleagues like Nonjabulo Nhlabatsi and a chilli sauce recipe from Lorraine Dlamini at Buhleni, Simphiwe perfected a unique sauce that now delights customers across the country.
Piwe’s Sweet Chilli Sauce officially launched in February 2022, alongside Kranskop Beans, including Cambamanga, NUA 45, and PAN 148 varieties. “I always make sure everything I sell is of good quality in terms of hygiene,” he says. “Practice what you teach that’s a principle I follow as an Environmental Health officer.”
Community support has been overwhelming. “Even during dry seasons, my customers refuse to stop buying. People come from Madlolo, Nsingweni, Mfeni, and Mcengeni just to get the products,” Simphiwe shares.
Branding has also contributed to his success. “My designer, Mr. Mmeli Dlamini, understood my vision and created beautiful stickers. MAGIC HANDS Branding & Design in Manzini helped with T-shirts, making my hustle life easier. I value them wholeheartedly.”
When asked about advice for young people, Simphiwe encourages persistence: “Start small, plan well, and be consistent. Even with zero capital, you can begin. Hard work and determination pay off.”
He admits the journey hasn’t been without challenges, recalling a loss of E2 640 early on. “Preparing the sauce, managing orders, and supplying them demand a lot of time. Sometimes I would sleep at midnight, cook until 4:30 a.m., and still report for work by 8 a.m., but it’s all part of building something meaningful.”
Looking ahead, Simphiwe aims to upgrade Piwe’s Sweet Chilli to a registered company and enter larger markets like SuperSpar and Shoprite. “My goal is to be one of the best sweet chilli producers in the country through quality and accessibility,” he concludes.
Simphiwe’s journey is a testament to how passion, persistence, and community support can turn small beginnings into big success.
(Courtesy Pics)
