REITUMETSE KHOLUMO, an entrepreneur passionate about preserving ancient traditions and creating employment, has founded Kwela Brews, a for-profit social enterprise. Kwela Brews collaborates with homebrewers of traditional African beer, known as umqombothi, providing support to produce nutritious beverages safely, efficiently, and profitably. By acting as a distribution channel, it facilitates market access for home brewers, taking the sorghum to events, markets, and local restaurants.
Kholumo, raised by her grandmother, a home brewer herself, and armed with a degree in chemical engineering from UCT, wanted to improve traditional beer production and preserve the tradition. Kwela Brews offers a platform for home brewers to enhance their products and tap into new markets. The business officially launched on April 29, following a year of market testing at jazz events, aligning with the origin of its name, Kwela, which refers to a popular jazz dance in South African townships.
The market testing allowed Kwela Brews to introduce the beer to new territories, including South Africans outside of townships and international audiences. Due to its fermentation process, Kholumo emphasises the nutritional value of sorghum beer, which is rich in vitamin B, amino acids, and probiotics. Kwela Brews aims to continue this wholesome tradition while catering to people who appreciate indigenous knowledge systems and food.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Kholumo emphasises resilience and the support of her community. As a student pursuing a master’s degree in chemical engineering, she faced time constraints, leading to a start-stop phase for the business. Nonetheless, Kwela Brews achieved significant milestones, such as partnering with Amazink Live in Kayamandi, winning the Social Innovation Idea prize in 2021 hosted by the SAB Foundation at UCT, and being featured in Forbes Africa.
Technology has played a pivotal role in Kwela Brews’ growth, aiding in addressing unemployment in townships. While lab testing ensures brew safety, the business plans to introduce brewing machinery in the future. Kholumo envisions Kwela Brews partnering with more restaurants and participating in Stellenbosch pop-up markets to enhance market access for home brewers and generate additional employment opportunities.
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