Campaign helps rebuild eShowe small business
LOCAL businesses suffering from the aftermath of the July lootings and Covid pandemic have been thrown a lifeline through the #HopeIsPower campaign, launched last year.
BET Software, a Durban-based tech company, and sister company HollywoodBets, partnered with radio station Ukhozi FM to launch the campaign which arrived in eShowe on 5 January.
BET Software is a diverse betting software provider for sub-Saharan Africa that supports large transactional volumes in a fast-paced industry.
Together with HollywoodBets, the software development house launched #HopeIsPower to provide relief to the impacted communities.
eShowe businesswoman, Nompilo Kheswa, applied for assistance to rebuild her Touch Technology Internet Café which opened doors in 2019.
‘When my business was looted during the unrest, I was devastated,’ said Kheswa, who had damages amounting to R95 000.
‘The criminals damaged the property and set the place on fire. With no insurance, I tried to rebuild on my own, but things got even harder until I heard a radio announcement on Ukhozi FM.
‘The advert called for business owners to submit applications for funds to assist in restoring their businesses. After following all the steps, I was called back with the amazing news that my application had been successful.
‘I cannot thank BET and Ukhozi FM enough for the help they have provided my business.
Monitors, keyboards, DVD writers and hard drives were donated, which will go a long way in helping Kheswa and the community as it is one of only two internet service providers in the small town.
BET Software's Commercial Manager, Vishen Naidoo, said: ‘At BET Software, ubuntu is at the heart of everything we do.
‘We love giving back to our communities. Technology is important for the growth of small businesses in our country, in turn creating more employment.
‘We wish Nompilo and Touch Technology all the best in the future.'