PROFILE EAGLE DOUGH BUDDIES
In 2020, Motsamayi Group, co-managing Kruger Station with SANParks, identified the potential in Sipho and Believe Mavundla, who had been running a small bakery in Bushbuckridge but lacked resources for expansion. Through the business incubation programme at Kruger Station, the brothers received the training, mentorship and tools to scale their business.
Under the guidance of Gavin Ferreira, Concession General Manager at Kruger Station, they honed their baking and business skills.“ Their dedication is evident in every loaf,” says Ferreira.“ We’ re proud to offer their bread at Kruger Station and its restaurant.”
Though still midway through the programme, the brothers have already made a mark, demonstrating the power of small, black-owned businesses in tourism.
A taste of success
Starting with basic bread and scones, Sipho and Believe experimented with recipes and techniques, expanding to artisanal breads like sourdough, rye and ciabatta.“ We’ re proud of how far we’ ve come,” says Believe.
Their baked goods are now a staple at Kruger Station’ s 3638 Restaurant and convenience store, and they supply luxury safari lodges and operators, including Kruger Shalati The Train on the Bridge. Their pumpkin spice and gingerbread treats are a hit with both local and international guests.
“ This project has transformed our lives,” says Believe.“ We’ re gaining exposure to guests from all over the world, including Germany, China, India, and more.” The brothers’ family couldn’ t be prouder – with the two even appearing on TV recently.
This kind of investment is essential for sustainable tourism, benefiting everyone …
A sustainable future
Jerry Mabena, CEO of Motsamayi Group, highlights the importance of supporting small businesses in their early stages.“ The Wonderful Baker Brothers,” as he affectionately calls them, demonstrate the long-term value of investing in people and communities.“ This kind of investment is essential for sustainable tourism, benefiting everyone – guests, workers, and the communities they support,” Mabena concludes.
About Motsamayi Tourism Group
Motsamayi Tourism Group, initially established as Thebe Tourism Group in 2001, is South Africa’ s oldest blackempowered tourism entity. With 51 % black ownership, Motsamayi is committed to empowering and transforming the tourism industry. Since its inception, Motsamayi has become a leading force in the South African tourism sector, renowned for its innovative and immersive experiences.
Under the leadership of CEO Jerry Mabena, Motsamayi has become one of Africa’ s foremost hospitality brands, creating unique and iconic tourism products that capture the essence of Africa ' s diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife.
Motsamayi’ s mission is to empower young South Africans by providing skills training, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating job opportunities. Through various incubation projects and strategic partnerships, such as its collaboration with the Good Work Foundation, Motsamayi ensures rural youth gain valuable work experience and secure employment within the wildlife economy. The company owns and operates a diverse portfolio of tourism attractions, hospitality properties, and immersive experiences across South Africa, highlighting Africa’ s iconic destinations.
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