Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi, an emblematic figure in South African entrepreneurship and football, embodies the classic rags-to-riches narrative.
Born in the rural township of Nqamakwe in the Eastern Cape, Mpengesi has transformed himself from a humble security guard into a multimillionaire.
He owns a vast portfolio under Chippa Holdings and, notably, the football club Chippa United.
Early life and career
Siviwe Mpengesi’s early life was marked by economic hardship, where opportunities for education and growth were scarce. At 18, driven by ambition and needing to escape poverty, Mpengesi moved to Cape Town.
In Cape Town, Mpengesi initially lived in a shack in Nyanga, one of the city’s townships. He faced the daily grind of survival with little to no prospects.
His first job was as a security guard, which paid him a meagre salary of R500 a month.
The position, however, was a stepping stone. Mpengesi’s dedication and entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue security guard courses, which shaped his future.
The birth of Chippa Security
With the skills acquired from his training, Mpengesi founded Chippa Security Services in 2002. His first breakthrough came when he secured a contract to recover stolen trolleys for Pick n Pay, earning him R40,000 monthly.
The contract provided him with the capital and credibility to expand his operations. Chippa Security quickly grew, securing contracts for significant events like the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted in South Africa.
These events increased his company’s exposure and wealth, cementing his position in the security industry.
Chippa Security became known for its reliability and innovation, particularly in training security personnel, which led to the establishment of Chippa Training Company in 2008.
Expansion into Chippa Holdings
From security, Chippa Mpengesi’s vision broadened to encompass a conglomerate now known as Chippa Holdings. His holding company has interests in various sectors:
- Security and Training: The foundation of his empire, offering security services, training, and certifications through Chippa Training Company.
- Construction and Property: Through companies like SQT Civils and Chipcor Properties, Mpengesi ventured into real estate, managing and developing properties across South Africa.
- Education: Chippa Training Academy focuses on vocational training, enhancing employability in various sectors.
- Mining and Manufacturing: Diversifying into industries that support South Africa’s economy, providing jobs and fostering industrial growth.
- Sports and Entertainment: Perhaps most notably, Chippa United Football Club.
The company has grown to employ over 1,000 people, and its business model is centred around creating opportunities for black-owned enterprises.
Chippa United Football Club
In 2010, Chippa Mpengesi’s love for football led him to purchase Mbekweni Cosmos, a third-tier football club, for R400,000.
He renamed it Chippa United, aiming to create a club that would compete in the Premier Soccer League and act as a beacon for local talent from Eastern Cape.
Chippa United was also crowned the 2010–11 Vodacom League National champions after beating Inland Stream winners Sivutsa Stars.
The club finished its debut season in the National First Division, second behind the University of Pretoria. In June 2012, it won the Premier Soccer League promotion via the play-offs.
Chippa United, affectionately known as the ‘Chilli Boys,’ has been a South African football scene rollercoaster.
Known for Mpengesi’s quick decisions on managerial changes, the club has seen over 30 coaches in a decade, earning him a reputation as a “trigger-happy” owner.
Despite this, the club has stayed in the top-tier league for much of its history, even playing home games at prestigious venues like Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
Mpengesi’s involvement in football also includes significant community engagement, such as partnerships with organizations like Meals on Wheels to address hunger in the Eastern Cape.
His club has become synonymous with grassroots football development, aiming to give back to the community that shaped him.
Personal life and philanthropy
Both tragedy and philanthropy have marked Siviwe Mpengesi’s personal life. Married to Phumeza Mpengesi, they faced the devastating loss of their 20-month-old Zenande Mpengesi after falling into the family pool in 2014.
The tragedy did not dim his commitment to community service but enhanced his resolve to give back. Siviwe Mpengesi has multiple children, including Sandiso, Kaizer Jr, Thlopie, and Andile.
Siviwe Mpengesi is a devout Christian who attributes much of his success to his faith. His philanthropy includes substantial donations to the Universal Church Kingdom of God and initiatives like the Mpengesi Heights Initiative, which provides housing to vulnerable communities.
Conclusion
Siviwe Mpengesi’s trajectory from a security guard to a pivotal figure in South African business and sports is inspirational.
Through Chippa Holdings, he has built a diversified business empire and has become a beacon of economic empowerment in South Africa.
Furthermore, Mpengesi’s ownership of Chippa United has transformed it into more than just a club; it is a platform for local talent, a symbol of Eastern Cape’s sporting pride.
