Unemployment in South Africa has reached its highest level, especially in townships. However, the spirit of entrepreneurship in these communities offers hope. Starting a small business can help create jobs, provide essential services, and improve livelihoods. With plenty of kasi business ideas available, many of these can even be started from home with little capital.
In this article, we explore the top 20 most popular and profitable kasi business ideas for 2024 and beyond. Whether you’re looking to start something small or build a thriving enterprise, these ideas can guide you towards success.
1. Renting Back Rooms – Township Real Estate
One of the most reliable and profitable kasi business ideas is renting back rooms. Known as “township real estate,” this involves building rooms on your property and renting them out. With rentals in townships starting at around R1,300 per month, you could earn a steady income. If you build six rooms, that’s a potential monthly income of R11,700.
In overcrowded areas like Alexandra, creative entrepreneurs have taken things to the next level by building double-story back rooms to accommodate more tenants.
2. Legal Services
Opening a legal services office in the township is another of the best kasi business ideas. Many residents need affordable legal assistance, and by offering consultations, advice, and court representation, you can build a profitable business. Consultation fees start at R1,500, and representation in court can cost over R6,000. As the go-to legal expert, you’ll help community members with various legal issues.
3. Car Wash
A car wash is one of the most straightforward kasi business ideas that requires minimal startup capital. By charging around R50 per wash, you could easily generate R500 daily with just 10 cars. Over a month, this adds up to approximately R15,500, making a car wash a profitable and sustainable business in the township.
4. Laundry Services
Laundry services are often overlooked, but they are one of the most profitable kasi business ideas. Many township households do not have washing machines, making laundry services essential. By charging around R50 per load, you can build a consistent customer base and grow your income. This business idea is especially promising if you offer additional services like pickup and delivery.
5. Kota Shop – Fast Food Business
One of the most beloved kasi business ideas is opening a kota shop. Kotas, similar to bunny chow, are a popular fast food in South Africa’s townships. Depending on the ingredients, kotas are sold for between R15 and R35. A well-run kota shop can attract a loyal customer base, particularly among the youth, making it a profitable business idea in the township.
6. Furniture Transportation or Moving Services
If you own a bakkie, one of the smartest kasi business ideas is offering furniture transportation services. Many township residents need assistance moving furniture between rented rooms or purchasing large items. By parking near furniture stores or offering door-to-door services, you can earn a good income with relatively low overhead costs.
7. Internet Cafe
Internet cafes remain essential in townships, making them one of the most reliable kasi business ideas. You’ll offer services such as printing, photocopying, and internet access for residents who need to apply for jobs or print important documents. You can also expand by offering graphic design and website development, catering to local businesses looking for affordable marketing solutions.
Read More: Get Unlimited WiFi with Ikeja Wifi: Affordable Internet for South African Townships
8. Tutoring Services
Tutoring is one of the easiest kasi business ideas to start, especially if you have expertise in subjects like mathematics, science, or accounting. With many students in need of extra lessons, you can offer tutoring services from your home or at a community center. This business requires very little capital and can make a significant impact on the lives of students in the township.
9. School Transport
Due to overcrowded schools in townships, many families send their children to schools in nearby suburbs or cities. This creates a demand for reliable school transport services. If you own a minibus, offering school transport is one of the best kasi business ideas. By transporting students to and from school daily, you can earn a steady income while providing an essential service.
10. Driving School
Starting a driving school is another great kasi business idea. You can help township residents obtain their driver’s licenses by offering lessons and helping with the necessary paperwork. While it may seem capital-intensive, you can rent vehicles for lessons if you don’t have one. With the right marketing, a driving school can quickly grow as more clients refer their friends and family.
11. Beat Production – Music Business
In the competitive South African music industry, beat production is one of the most creative kasi business ideas. You can start small by producing beats for local artists, just like producers such as Kabza De Small. By offering affordable rates and building a reputation in your kasi, you can sell beats and work with up-and-coming musicians, eventually expanding your reach in the industry.
12. Home Renovations
Home improvement and renovation services are in high demand, making them one of the most viable kasi business ideas. Starting as a subcontractor allows you to gain experience and build your portfolio. As you build trust with clients, you can offer services such as painting, carpentry, and tiling, helping residents transform their homes while earning a solid income.
13. Ice Cubes Sales
Selling ice cubes is one of the most simple yet profitable kasi business ideas. Many township residents throw parties and events where ice is a necessity. By packaging and selling ice cubes at competitive prices, you can provide a service that’s always in demand, especially during weekends and holidays. Over time, branding your products can help grow your business and attract more customers.
14. House Sitting
House sitting is one of the easiest kasi business ideas to start. Township residents often look for trustworthy individuals to watch over their homes while they’re away. By offering reliable house-sitting services, you can build a client base through referrals. This business requires little to no capital, just trust and reliability.
15. Car Parking Place
Providing secure car parking is one of the lesser-known yet profitable kasi business ideas. Many township car owners have limited parking space, leaving their vehicles vulnerable to theft or damage. If you have extra space, you can offer safe parking for a monthly fee, ensuring residents have peace of mind knowing their cars are secure.
16. Domain Reselling
Domain reselling is one of the more tech-savvy kasi business ideas. Many small businesses in townships are looking to establish an online presence, and you can help them by registering domain names and hosting websites. By partnering with larger hosting companies, you can offer these services at a markup, creating a profitable business without needing extensive technical skills.
17. Mobile Toilets for Hire
Mobile toilets are essential for events in townships, making this one of the most practical kasi business ideas. Whether it’s for funerals, parties, or community gatherings, mobile toilets are always in demand. By investing in a few mobile units and renting them out, you can offer a valuable service that township residents need.
18. Graphics and Web Design
Graphic and web design services are highly sought after, making them one of the top kasi business ideas for creative entrepreneurs. As more township businesses look to advertise and build their brands, you can offer services such as logo design, event posters, and website creation. This business can grow quickly, especially as your reputation and portfolio expand.
19. Security Services
Security is a top concern for many township residents, making it one of the most lucrative kasi business ideas. By offering professional security services for homes and businesses, you can build a thriving business. Whether it’s guarding homes, providing alarm systems, or offering patrolling services, security is a necessity in many townships.
20. Generator for Hire
With the ongoing issue of load shedding in South Africa, generators are essential for many events and businesses, making this one of the most in-demand kasi business ideas. By renting out a large generator, you can charge between R3,000 and R6,000 per event, providing power for sound systems, lighting, and refrigeration. This business is especially profitable during festive seasons and large gatherings.
Read More: Turning Passion Projects into Profitable Ventures: 12 Step Guide
These 20 kasi business ideas offer a range of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in the townships. Whether you want to start small or grow a thriving business, the potential for success is immense. By tapping into the needs of your community and offering services or products that are in demand, you can create a profitable business that supports both you and your kasi.
