About
Our history
Formerly known as the Distell Development Trust established in 2005 following a merger between Distell and HEINEKEN Beverages that resulted in a new company called Makwande Empowerment Trust in 2023. Makwande Empowerment Trust emerged reflecting our renewed focus on empowerment and a significant expansion of our reach and continuing a legacy of growth and opportunity. To date, we have impacted over 11,000 lives through the support we give to our beneficiary partners.
Building on a legacy of shared Prosperity
We are a Broad-Based Ownership Scheme (BBOS) dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities in South Africa, particularly rural women and youth. Our name, which comes from the Nguni phrase “let there be growth,” symbolizes our constant commitment to promoting shared prosperity and economic inclusion.
Our focus - sustainable transformation
Makwande has positioned itself as a driving force in achieving long-term change, which is why we target initiatives with a proven track record of success, with the goal of organic growth and long-term sustainability. We accomplish this by taking a varied approach that focuses on:
Education: We prioritize access to quality education, especially in STEM subjects, for a better future.
Skills Development: Our training programs promote employability and prepare individuals to contribute to the economy.
Entrepreneurship: We support prospective black entrepreneurs with mentorship, financial support, and business development.
Our mission
Not simply Development, but Empowerment
- CEO Lwazi Mankahla highlighting the change from development to empowerment.
