WHEN Terence Leluma saw a gap in the condiments market, he filled that gap with Makhamisa Foods!
These days, his company prides itself on manufacturing a range of popular products from pickled vegetables and jalapeno sauces, offered in hot or mild, for R35 each on their website.
Hot sauces are popular among South Africans and can be enjoyed with braaied, roasted or even stewed meat.
Leluma said he got the business idea after tasting his father-in-law’s relish.
“I asked him for the recipe but because he had made it so many times before he didn’t use exact amounts so it was difficult for me to recreate,” he said.
But they worked on the recipe until they eventually got it right last year and, as they say, the rest is history.
Leluma said they have been working with local farmers to supply them with the produce needed for the sauces.
“Although we are currently doing well, distribution is still a problem but we’re working really hard in order to get it all over the country.”
He said he was grateful for the support that he got from his business partner and wife, Phumzile Nkomo.
“She has been by my side since we started the company. We now can see that all the sacrifices that we’ve made were not in vain. We also have a great working relation with our partner,
Senhor Calisto, the owner of Calisto Portuguese Restaurant.”
Leluma said there was a time when he almost lost everything, but because he always had a vision, he never gave up.
“Most people are afraid to fail and that is one of the reasons why they do not want to take risks.”
Leluma said they aim to supply retailers and wholesalers, hotels, restaurants and resorts, both in and outside of South Africa.
Next month, Makhamisa will be showcasing its products in Indonesia’s The 14th International Hotel, Catering Equipment, Food and Drink Exhibition.
“The Department of Trade and Industry gave us this opportunity. We hope to get as many clients and exposure as possible,” he said.
