On the 14th of October 2021, AfriSam, South Africa’s leading cement and construction materials producer handed over a brand new 10-ton truck to Baheso Brickmaking, a black woman-managed multi-purpose cooperative that produces and sell SABS certified cement bricks .On the 14th of October 2021, AfriSam, South Africa’s leading cement and construction materials producer handed over a brand new 10-ton truck to Baheso Brickmaking, a black woman-managed multi-purpose cooperative that produces and sell SABS certified cement bricks.

Baheso was established in November 2011 by a group of 5 women from disadvantaged backgrounds who saw the need to create employment in the impoverished Galeshewe township. To take the SMME to greater heights, AfriSam supplied them with a brand-new truck to make deliveries quick, secure, and easy, cutting costs on hiring.

Several housing developments that have been initiated by the government and private players in the past few years have increased demand for bricks. Baheso proactively identified and bridged the gap by producing cost effective, quality bricks for these projects.

The business currently employs 10 permanent employees and looks geared for more growth with this donation. Baheso trained unemployed youth, equipping with brickmaking skills.

“We are excited and grateful for what AfriSam has done for us. This new truck will solve many of our problems, increase productivity and improve our overall delivery time. We used to hire transport, but we will now be able to provide customers with a reliable door-to-door delivery service”, says Amelia Seile, Managing Director, Baheso Brickmaking.

In the past, the company lost a few big clients as it did not have reliable transport to move its material. Among other challenges, women in business still face marginalisation and intimidation, especially in male-dominated industries.

“At AfriSam, we see value in developing SMMEs as potential customers and partners in community development and job creation. We hope that Baheso Brickmaking remains resilient and grow stronger in the market to employ more people,” says Johan Foure, General Manager, AfriSam Ulco operation.

“We are confident that we will be able to retain old clients, attract new ones and be involved in bigger projects and create more jobs”, Seile adds.