From small vegetable garden farmer to sugarcane farmer – Bentakahle Investments

Siphofaneni: Staying flexible and open to new possibilities can lead to great things as can hard work. Starting with a small garden wasn’t the most glamorous job, but it was an important one that led to Nhlanhla Nhleko’s flourishing business path.  

He started growing sugarcane back in 1998. His business is situated at Siphofaneni. Before that, he was unemployed and relied on a small vegetable garden to make ends meet. “I decided to tap into growing sugarcane to make better money,” he said. 

He asked for land from the Chief and got about five hectares. He then received a loan  to start the sugarcane farming business from a close friend, who was employed by one of the financial institutions. He was also able to secure a Lister Diesel Water Pump to draw water from the Great Usuthu River to the farm. 

“That is how I started my business. I then met officers from FINCORP, who assisted me with sustainable finance to expand my business. Between 2005 and 2008, I extended my farm to about nine hectares and I currently have close to 10 hectares. FINCORP also assisted me in buying an electricity pump and two Bell Loaders. The rest was history.” 

Nhleko has diversified his business. He now owns a shopping complex which has a supermarket, hardware store, tire shop, and a butchery. He also has about 10 rental flats. His sugarcane business employs two permanent personnel and creates about seven temporary jobs per year. 

Last year, he received a loan from FINCORP to install a solar system for irrigation. “I thank FINCORP for the assistance because I have been able to reduce electricity costs by almost half from E120,000 to about E60,000 per year.”  

Through the proceeds of his business, Nhleko has raised his children and supported their career aspirations. One of his sons is now an electrical engineer, his daughter has completed her computer studies at one of the local colleges, and the last born is still pursuing his tertiary studies at the Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT). 

“Last year, I registered a company in which my children are now directors. I don’t know what the future holds, but, at least, I know that they will carry my legacy forward.”

“I owe everything I have to FINCORP, especially Mr. Dumisani Msibi and the late Dr. Vincent Mhlanga who showed confidence in my business. I was granted a loan, which enabled me to grow and become what I am today. FINCORP changed my life for the better.”