Friends and lovers make zaka at stokvel!

THE rate of crime in Mabopane and Soshanguve, north of Tshwane, has gone up and some of the reasons for this increase include unemployment.

Marks Pub and Shisanyama in Hebron near Mabopane has been fighting unemployment through a stokvel called Friends and Friends.

The stokvel, which started three years ago, is hosted every Tuesday and has gained momentum throughout the years.

Shisanyama manager, Regopotswe Matibako, popularly known as Rego, said: "There was a few of us when we started. Initially, people came here to wash their cars and relax over a few drinks.

"Then, we decided to start a stokvel that'll help people who are unemployed get a source of income. When we introduced it, people showed interest, and we now have over 50 members."

Rego said people's lives have changed, thanks to Friends and Friends.

"People can now take care of their families. It's bad for people to depend on government for jobs. Some people have now taken charge of their lives and are making money while saving," he said.

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Rego said the shisanyama entertains patrons once the stokvel is done.

"We usually book popular artists and DJs to perform. We've had artists like Cyan Boujee, Mawhoo, Oscar Mbo and Kabza Da Small."

Rego said people developed friendships through the stokvel.

"People come as strangers and leave as friends. Friendships and romantic relationships have been formed from this. Our establishment doesn't only entertain through alcohol and groove, but also promote people's well-being," he added.

"We don't want people to have fun with no direction. We want patrons to buy a beer knowing there's money in their bank accounts."

Rego said they also have a soccer team that usually plays for charity.

"We believe in giving back and making a difference. People love this place, but we also want to help those in need."