“Mr Khazamula Michael Nkuna has a track record of pioneering development of property in previously disadvantaged areas.”
Mr Khazamula Michael Nkuna, a South African entrepreneur, has received a University of Johannesburg (UJ) honorary Doctor of Philosophy honoris causa, during its 2021 virtual graduation commencement ceremonies.
The Institution recognised Mr Nkuna’s outstanding contributions as one the most successful commercial and retail property developers in South Africa. His Honorary Doctorate is conferred in the context of rural development, areas mostly being synonymous with poverty, joblessness, lack of basic services and other social ills. Property development is fundamental to creating an enabling environment (roads, power, water, sanitation), quickly leading to the development of retail outlets. Ultimately, these integrated developments result in a healthy society.
Addressing the class of 2021 at the College of Business and Economics (CBE) at the University, Mr Nkuna admirably stated: “To me, it is not about enriching myself. I have the will to help the community through the creation of platforms where people can get employment to help them support their families,” he said.
As the pioneer of Township and Rural Commercial and Retail Development, Mr Nkuna has successfully ventured into modern commercial and retail developments, which were historically exclusive to urban areas, with the primary aim of restoring the dignity of black communities and most importantly, contributing towards local and rural economic development that addresses the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequalities in previously neglected communities of South Africa.