Already grappling with a shrinking economy, these businesses have encountered exacerbated difficulties due to insufficient government support and funding, particularly in rural provinces.

Keothaile Manyanye, a small business owner from the North West province, voices the struggles faced by many. His production company, like numerous others, has seen little to no assistance despite repeated pleas for aid.

"After Covid hit, our business suffered greatly. We reached out for government funding, and underwent a site inspection, but then all communication ceased without explanation. We're left in the dark, with no answers, and eventually, we just had to give up," Manyanye expressed in a recent interview.

--SABC--