Mobile service we never knew we needed
King William’s Town businessman Zanda Madikiza had an idea for a mobile car wash two years ago, but found people were not too keen on the idea. How times have changed. With car washes not allowed to operate under the national lockdown, Madikiza, 39, is very much a man in demand.
Because his existing business falls into the cleaning, sanitation, sewage and waste removal category, he has been able to pivot to mobile services that include deep cleaning and sanitising for properties as well as public and private transport.
Now the figure in the hazmat suit buzzing around town on a motorcycle is instantly recognisable.
He has a permit from the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission to operate his business, Joyride Mobile Carwash, which falls under the banner of his umbrella company, Joyride Shuttle and Other Services. Being able to provide these services to clients has meant that he is able to provide for his family during the economic downturn.
The father of four, who also spearheaded community development projects before the lockdown, told the Dispatch that Joyride Mobile Carwash minimised risks for people who otherwise would have to go out in public to access services.
“We are well aware of the risk and we exercise caution and adhere to the regulations set out, such as wearing masks,” Madikiza said.
“I had the idea two years ago and people did not warm up to it then. Now I have people booking appointments in need of the services,” said Madikiza.
On a good day, he can serve about 15 clients.
“I had to borrow money to start the project, and because it was a prototype I incurred high costs. I had to bring my vision into reality because this is something I have been postponing for a long time.
“I could not just wait for food parcels and a Sassa grant. I have always been in a shell about this business. My plan now is to franchise it and uplift people from all walks of life, and show young people that they don’t have to rely on the government for jobs,” he said.
“People are more conscious about hygiene now and often need their cars to be deep cleaned and sanitised. That is complemented by the car wash.
Over and above that we want to make it convenient for people. Our aim is to try to minimise people going out and being at risk.”
Madikiza said he often employed someone to assist him.
“I am a person who does not sit around and wait to be handed something. I want to empower the disadvantaged who have the zeal. This business is based on an understanding of public relations and trustworthiness.”
Madikiza made a call to the government to support aspiring young businesspeople.
“I opted to borrow the money because of lack of support. People like me have been having ideas for years, but lack the means to execute them. We plead for assistance.”