Feeding the Economy: The amazing impact of SA’s informal sector

Feeding the Economy: The amazing impact of SA’s informal sector
Vukile Property Fund is strengthening its position in South Africa’s township and rural retail sector, where the informal economy plays a vital role in driving growth.

Managing Director Itumeleng Mothibeli notes that Vukile’s township centres continue to outperform urban portfolios, delivering strong trading densities, rental growth and low vacancies. Through initiatives such as the Retail Academy, Vukile supports township entrepreneurs by integrating their businesses into formal retail spaces. This approach highlights the growing influence of township economies in shaping the country’s retail landscape.

This article was originally published by Adele Shevel in the Financial Mail (28 August 2025).