Mzoli’s: the “Pride” of Gugulethu

The establishment was founded in 2003 by Mzoli Ngcawuzele, who owns the place. The Development Bank of South Africa gave Ngcawuzele funding to start the business. The establishment started humbly as a small butchery operated from Ngcawuzele’s garage.

Over the years, the establishment has grown and has become one of the most popular entertainment spots in Cape Town. Mzoli’s has a vast range of customers, both local and international. In contrast to most other township restaurants, many white people come too, to get a taste of the ‘kasi experience’. The customers’ parked cars provide the music. Mzoli provides the meat and the people provide the good vibes.

Mzoli’s is also popular with high-profile celebrities who call the “tshisa-nyama” (butchery) their home. But Mzoli’s is most popular among teenagers and young adults who create the party atmosphere to the establishment.

“Mzolis is where people, especially tourists, get to experience Gugulethu as a township,” said Thuso Motumi (21), an Art and Design student at the College of Cape Town. “It is where our young black DJs and artists alike showcase their talents, and of course a place where everyday hard-working people get the chance to unwind,” said the student, who lives in Guguletu.

“Mzoli’s is really a nice place to visit. It’s cool as you get to meet people, network and have fun,” said Chris Mkalipi (21).

Though Mzoli’s Place may be popular and successful, there are negative factors that affect the barbeque business. Regular customers have stated that although Mzoli’s is a great establishment, it is still affected by gangsterism, which is a big problem in many townships in South Africa.

“I feel unsafe because I don’t know what might happen at any given moment. Having to look over my shoulder all the time isn’t good,” said Melanie Madikane (19). “We are meant to be able to enjoy ourselves no matter where we are. But then again, Mzoli’s is a business which is established in a township, so I guess the gangsterism also adds to the excitement of the ‘kasi’ life or experience. If it was situated elsewhere, it wouldn’t have the same vibe or be as well-known as it is today,” she continued.

Cikizwa Doyi (20) said, “Mzoli’s attracts wealthy customers and they become perfect targets for the township gangsters. Security is not really provided at Mzoli’s so our safety is not guaranteed.”

Despite this problem Mzoli’s Place is the “Pride” of the Guguletu community, bringing its people together and attracting others from all over the world.