Moses Tembe Builds 30-Year Business Empire Across 7 Sectors in KwaZulu-Natal
Updated
Updated · IOL · Jul 8
Moses Tembe Builds 30-Year Business Empire Across 7 Sectors in KwaZulu-Natal
3 articles · Updated · IOL · Jul 8
Summary
Over more than 30 years, Moses Tembe has built businesses spanning retail, property, manufacturing, engineering, telecommunications, gaming and tourism, making him one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most influential entrepreneurs.
Tembe’s expansion began after he left formal employment in 1990, first backing township retail ventures and later growing into Durban hospitality and major property projects including the Point Waterfront precinct.
His industrial push extended that footprint through Geochem, SAFREIGHT, SAFRAIL and telecom venture SAFCAB, linking his portfolio to chemical manufacturing, shipbuilding, rail and regional digital connectivity.
Beyond his companies, Tembe has held leadership roles at Mr Price, Santova, Tsogo Sun KwaZulu-Natal and business chambers, and now helps drive investment and policy coordination through the KwaZulu-Natal Growth Coalition.
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R180 Billion National Lottery Contract: Moses Tembe’s Rise, Controversy, and Lessons for South African Entrepreneurs
Overview
In 2025, the North Gauteng High Court ordered Minister Parks Tau to finalize the R180 billion National Lottery contract, which was awarded to Sizekhaya Holdings. Shortly before the deadline, Minister Tau learned about Sizekhaya’s ties with Genlot and government shareholding nominees. With Genlot set to manage the transition and Goldrush Holdings providing R92 million in funding, Sizekhaya prepared to take over operations. However, the contract quickly sparked controversy and public scrutiny, as questions arose about transparency and political influence, prompting official investigations and strong denials from those involved.