Astron Energy and Silulo Foundation invest R220 million to combat local unemployment
Centre to provide free digital skills training and support for 240 entrepreneurs in Dunoon
Community leaders and beneficiaries laud new facility as beacon of hope
Peter Luhanga
To confront unemployment and poverty, the Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) and the Silulo Foundation have come together to give 600 unemployed youth a rigorous six-month digital training initiative, and also support 240 struggling entrepreneurs through specialised training, targeted mentorship, and indispensable business resources.
Launched on Wednesday 21 August, a walk-in business and career centre across the road from the Dunoon taxi rank was launched on 21 August as a much-needed resource for one of Cape Town’s most overpopulated and economically strained communities.
Supported by AEDF’s R220 million investment, the centre is more than just a hub for digital skills training – it serves as a vital platform for nurturing entrepreneurial growth and fostering economic independence in a community that has been left behind by the digital revolution due to high data costs and limited access to internet-connected devices.
At the inauguration of the new centre, Silulo Foundation founder and township entrepreneur Luvuyo Rani, and AEDF head Debbie Parker spoke about the impact of grassroots initiatives.
“We’re not merely handing out resources. We’re creating a space where ideas can flourish, partnerships can thrive, and futures can be shaped,” said Rani.
Rani said he is profoundly grateful for the walk-in business and career centre in Dunoon, saying it is something needed in South Africa. He said the centre will offer a crucial platform for entrepreneurs to develop their skills and expand their businesses.
“Dunoon is brimming with potential, and we must unlock that opportunity through innovative approaches and new ways of doing things,” he said.
He said the foundation is currently conducting interviews, with the inaugural cohort set to begin in the first week of September.
The students will acquire foundational skills in artificial intelligence, computer literacy, cybersecurity, and job readiness.
He said his Silulo Ulutho Technologies, with outlets in townships across the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, established its facility 14 years ago at the Dunoon Taxi Rank – one of its initial sites – and has since offered fee-based internet access, CV drafting and printing, email services, and computer literacy courses.
However, the Silulo Foundation operates differently from Silulo Ulutho Technologies.
Maxell Miselo, who owns the Silulo Ulutho Technologies franchises in Dunoon and Witsand, said the foundation’s enrolled youth and entrepreneurs will face no fees, courtesy of AEDF funding.
“The foundation is giving back to the community; every service is provided at no cost,” said Miselo.
“Dunoon faces greater poverty compared to other communities we serve, with a higher proportion of students unable to afford school fees at the Silulo Ulutho Technologies Dunoon branch,” said Miseko. The involvement of Astron Energy represents a pivotal opportunity. We are enthusiastic about the potential for development in Dunoon and optimistic that this initiative will transform the current circumstances,” he said.
Dunoon resident Lisakhanya Mafungwe, 18, is one of the 600 unemployed youth who will benefit from the collaboration between the Astron Energy Development Fund (AEDF) and the Silulo Foundation.
In her remarks at the launch, Mafungwe said she completed her matric at Inkwenkwezi Secondary School in 2023 with a bachelor’s pass. Although she aspired to study teaching at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), she did not secure a place for the 2024 academic year and had limited knowledge about other universities.
With the new walk-in business and career centre now open, Mafungwe said she is eager to begin a six-month digital literacy course offered through the partnership.
“It makes me feel better. I feel like a dark cloud has been lifted from above me,” said Mafungwe.
Dunoon ward councilor Messie Makuwa said she was struck by the vibrancy of the training facility, noting the well-equipped classrooms with computers.
“People will find success in their entrepreneurial endeavours. There is a significant demand for these services. As a ward councilor with humble beginnings, I am proud of Dunoon and its progress,” said Makuwa.
She said Astron Energy has made substantial contributions to Dunoon, with the refinery’s support helping residents to better provide for their families.
The South African National Civic Organisation SANCO) Dunoon branch deputy chairperson, Lundi ‘MaOrange’ Wulanasaid the centre would serve as a beacon of hope for residents of the community and neighbouring areas.
“We have many young people who are eager and willing but lack the resources and investment for training and skill development. This centre will significantly contribute to empowering people in Dunoon and the surrounding regions,” said Wulana.
Astron Energy corporate affairs manager Donna Fata said the company’s long-standing relationship with Dunoon has been marked by collaboration with community leaders to address pressing skill development needs.
Fata thanked the leaders for their crucial role in making the project a reality.
She stated the new facility aims to inspire and connect residents, reflecting her company’s commitment to community engagement and transparency.
“This facility is here to serve as an enabler, to inspire you and to help you connect with others in meaningful ways. We hope that each of you will find something here that enriches your life and strengthens your sense of belonging,” said Fata.
Parker stated that the AEDF is committed to driving sustainable, visible change and prosperity for small businesses within the Astron Energy value chain and surrounding communities.