ABOUT US

Muthobi is a registered section 18A Public Benefit Organisation, non-profit company, and approved B-BBEE initiative in South Africa. It was founded by Mergon on the belief that business can make a meaningful difference in society – restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and uplifting communities. Guided by this vision, Muthobi allocates funding to carefully selected non-profit organisations that share our commitment to lasting impact.

These beneficiaries qualify under Muthobi’s B-BBEE-focussed criteria and have a proven track record of effectively contributing to the sustainable social upliftment of South African society. We also explore innovative business models that serve vulnerable communities while delivering sustainable returns – proving that purpose and profit can go hand in hand.

THE MEANING OF MUTHOBI

Muthobi draws inspiration from the Venda ‘Shepherd’s Tree’ or ‘Tree of Life’ – a resilient tree that thrives in harsh conditions while providing shelter and sustenance to all who need it.

Like this remarkable tree, we aim to strengthen those around us by resourcing opportunities that can transform South Africa’s most vulnerable communities. Through corporate investment, we grow wealth to support the non-profit sector, strengthen partnerships, and build a better future for our nation.

BENEFICIARIES

We currently partner with four non-profit organisations whose areas of impact include education, youth and leadership development, care for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), social justice, and income generation.

 

Living Hope works to ‘bring hope and break the cycle of despair’. To this end, they equip communities with the skills to protect and care for children in safe, loving environments. Living Hope plays a vital role in the prevention, care, treatment, and support of people affected by HIV, AIDS and other chronic illnesses. The ministry promotes family-based care for vulnerable children as an alternative to long-term institutionalisation. Through holistic community development in education, health, and social programmes, Living Hope seeks to restore dignity, strengthen families, and bring lasting transformation.

Legacy Community Development exists to bring God’s love, hope, compassion, and justice to Stellenbosch – starting in Kayamandi. With a heart for holistic transformation, they journey with children, youth, and families to foster employability, spiritual wellness, psychosocial support, and healthier lifestyles. Their four programmes include an after-school centre; a skills and job readiness centre; a holistic education and family support programme; and a community outreach programme. Established in Kayamandi for over two decades, Legacy continues to serve with the hope of seeing every family flourish.

Missio Dei Christian School is a rural school in the Free State providing quality education to the children of farm workers. Its inclusive, community-led approach trains local tutors to deliver teaching and remedial education, while also offering skills and job training that open doors for future employment. Teachings rooted in character, morals, and values underpin every aspect of learning, ensuring that learners are not only prepared academically but also become confident young adults. The model has been replicated in 29 other schools, now reaching 2,600 learners daily.

Work 4 A Living (W4AL) was founded in 2007 to see individuals skilled, employed, and thriving as financially independent contributors to society, living out their God-given potential. Through training centres, they provide practical and soft skills that prepare people to secure jobs, grow businesses, or pursue further education. Their online and in-person courses are replicable and sustainable, combining one-on-one mentoring with access to employment opportunities. Today, over 80% of graduates step into work, business, or ongoing learning, leaving with a strong sense of excellence and employability.

MUTHOBI INVESTMENTS

Muthobi Investments identifies and invests in strategic business opportunities that expand Muthobi’s market presence and social impact.

In 2024, we completed our first major transaction, acquiring a 14.5% equity stake in South African insurer King Price through a R1.2 billion investment.

As King Price’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) partner, Muthobi holds board representation and actively contributes to the company’s strategic direction in both domestic and international markets.

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Working at the unique intersection between corporate investment and social development, Muthobi’s executive team and board of directors offer exceptional expertise and experience as well as an aligned focus on delivering investment excellence.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CONTACT:

3rd Floor, Mill Square | Cnr Plein and Andringa Street | Stellenbosch | 7600