LISAKHANYA NDWAYI
A Mdantsane-based delivery and convenience platform, MDZ Go, has completed more than 500 orders within its first month of operation while growing its user base to more than 2,000 people.
The self-funded platform, which launched on April 1, currently processes more than 30 orders a day using two delivery bikes and has partnered with several local food businesses in and around Mdantsane.
MDZ Go founder Vuyani Mampofu, told the Go! on Tuesday the business was started to bridge the gap between local businesses and customers through technology-driven delivery services.
“I saw that many small businesses in the township had quality products but struggled to reach more customers because they did not have access to reliable delivery systems or digital platforms,” said Mampofu.
“MDZ Go was created to solve that problem while also creating opportunities for young people within the community.”
Mampofu, who was born and raised in Mdantsane, has more than 13 years of experience in the technology industry.
He completed his schooling in Mdantsane before obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Physics and Applied Mathematics from the University of Fort Hare.
The 37 year-old later pursued honours studies in Astrophysics at the University of Cape Town.
He said the company was built with a long-term vision of developing township-based technology solutions that can expand beyond Mdantsane.
“What started as a local solution is becoming something much bigger. We want to prove that innovation can come from townships and that locally built technology can compete nationally,” he said.
Since launching, MDZ Go has partnered with businesses including Kota Culture Wrap, Man’s Buy and Braai, Mtheza’s, Local Eatery, Kowethu Catering and Athi’s Kitchen.
Within its first month, the platform completed more than 500 deliveries while growing its community to over 2,000 users.
“Our growth in the first month showed us that people are ready to support convenient digital services that understand their community and their needs,” Mampofu said.
The platform has been entirely self-funded, with its technology and operational systems built in-house by the team.
“We are still self-funded at this stage, but we are hopeful about attracting funding opportunities that will help us scale faster, create more jobs and expand into other communities,” he said.
Mampofu said the company also hopes to contribute towards local economic participation by creating opportunities for drivers, operational staff and small businesses.
“This is not only about deliveries. It is about building an ecosystem where local businesses can grow and young people can access economic opportunities through technology,” he said.
