It’s been a little over three months since the SKUBU Project opened its doors at Chuma Mall, and MANZI Water is celebrating the early success of South Africa’s first fully automated refill store, a bold leap forward in both retail innovation and community service.
Several news reports about the project reveal the extent to which local community members are making use of the products on offer due to affordability in price and flexibility in quantity, with Diepsloot residents sharing that they can go to bed on a full stomach for just R50.00.
Designed as a next-generation grocery store, SKUBU combines MANZI Water’s refill station with everyday essentials, all accessible through a fully automated self-service system. Staying true to its mission, the project offers safe, clean drinking water at just R1 per litre.
“In just a few weeks, we’ve seen growth in support and usage from the Diepsloot community,” said Alfred Challis, CEO of MANZI Water. “It proves that if you offer affordable, high-quality options, consumers will choose sustainability every time.”
“SKUBU is not just another store, it is a statement,” added Eben de Jongh, CEO of Sonke. “It is about restoring dignity through affordable access to essentials and giving people control over their choices. We are proud to see how this model is already changing lives in Diepsloot, and we are eager to learn from this pilot as we explore what is possible for other communities.”
The initiative was developed by Sonke in collaboration with major partners in the retail and sustainability industries, combining social impact entrepreneurship, technical innovation, and global development expertise to address the affordability and accessibility of everyday essentials.
Local MANZI Water Licensees have played a vital role in bringing this innovation to life, demonstrating the power of inclusive, community-based entrepreneurship and reinforcing MANZI Water’s commitment to delivering affordable hydration solutions.
As a pilot, SKUBU serves as a testing ground for innovative retail models that could one day benefit other underserved communities, showing that innovation doesn’t just belong in high-income areas.
About MANZI Water
MANZI Water is a social enterprise focused on delivering safe, clean, and affordable drinking water across South Africa. Through innovation, licensing, and community-rooted solutions, MANZI is building a healthier, more hydrated future for all.
Learn more: www.manzi.co.za
