Leadership magazine sat down with Pinagare Mogodi, Managing Partner and CEO of the Matshapa-A-Botshelo Group (MAB) to discuss the mining industry and what role his company has in it
Matshapa-A-Botshelo group is a multifaceted company that specialises in mining, general construction, and trucking services. Their commitment to delivering high-quality services without compromise is at the core of their mission.
Pinagare Mogodi obtained a bachelor’s degree in accounting and management from Eduvos Institute. He gained additional certifications in project management, pastel accounting, and tactics: strategic planning and management that has further equipped Pinagare Mogodi to navigate the complexities of business management.
Pinagare Mogodi’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2010 and over the past 13 years he has accumulated invaluable experience in construction, mining, and financial management, culminating in the realisation of various successful projects that have bolstered Matshapa-A-Botshelo reputation.
Pinagare Mogodi conceptualised MAB, which has since evolved into a prominent brand in the mining and construction industry. With a familial background deeply rooted in construction, mining, and trucking projects, which started in North West before they became an international brand, Pinagare Mogodi embarked on this entrepreneurial venture with a vision to create a lasting impact.
Services
Matshapa-A-Botshelo Group offers a wide to their clients. Their suit of products and services include:
Mining Services: MAB GROUP offers a comprehensive range of mining services, encompassing exploration, excavation, mineral extraction, and processing than export the commodity. They are dedicated to sustainable and responsible mining practices that prioritize safety, environmental conservation, and community engagement.
General Construction: MAB expertise extends to general construction, where we undertake various construction projects, including residential, commercial, civil works, and industrial. They have a skilled team capable of handling everything from building design to engineering design and site preparation to construction and project management.
Trucking Services: MAB GROUP provides reliable and efficient trucking services for the transportation of goods and materials. Their fleet of well-maintained trucks and experienced drivers ensures timely and secure deliveries.
Job Creation and Community Development: Beyond their core services, they are deeply committed to addressing the issue of unemployment in South Africa. MAB view their work as more than just projects; it’s about making a positive impact on communities by creating job opportunities, supporting local businesses, and contributing to the overall economic development of the region.
MAB Group’s mission goes beyond business success; they are dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities they serve. An overarching goal is to address the unemployment rate in South Africa by providing opportunities for skills development and economic empowerment.
One of MAB’s key initiatives is their internship and learnership programs, which are designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and experience to succeed in the workforce. Through these programs, they aim to nurture talent, foster growth, and create pathways to meaningful employment.
Additionally, MAB is dedicated to building strong and resilient communities by giving back and supporting local families. From providing essential resources to promoting education and healthcare initiatives, they strive to uplift and empower individuals and families across the nation.
MAB’s commitment to social responsibility is deeply ingrained in everything they do as Pinagare Mogodi explains with passion. “We invite others to join us in sharing this vision for a better South Africa. By working together and investing in the future of our communities, we can create lasting change and build a brighter tomorrow for all.”
Partnerships
Strategic partnerships play a key role in any company’s success and it is no different for the MAB Group. In fact, Pinagare Mogodi embraces the fact that it is important and at MAB they consider these partnerships to be crucial for a number of reasons:
- Financial Strength: Strategic partnerships bring additional financial resources to the table. In many cases, projects, especially in South Africa, face funding challenges. Collaborating with strategic partners provides access to capital, enabling them to undertake larger and more ambitious projects that might otherwise be financially out of reach.
- Expertise and Resources: Partnerships often come with a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and resources. These assets can be invaluable, particularly in complex industries like mining and construction. Partnering with organisations that have complementary skills and experience enhances our ability to deliver high-quality services efficiently.
- Risk Mitigation: By sharing risks and responsibilities with strategic partners, they can better manage and mitigate potential challenges and uncertainties that may arise during project implementation. This risk-sharing approach enhances their project’s chances of success.
- Market Expansion: Collaborating with strategic partners can open up new markets and opportunities. It allows them to tap into the networks and customer bases of their partners, thereby expanding their reach and customer base.
- Innovation and Efficiency: Partnerships often foster innovation and efficiency by bringing together different perspectives and approaches. This can lead to the development of new technologies, processes, and solutions that can benefit their projects and the industry as a whole.
- Local and Global Impact: Strategic partnerships enable MAB to have a more significant impact on our goal of addressing unemployment and contributing to community development in South Africa. By combining forces with like-minded organisations, they can amplify their efforts and create lasting positive change.
Other than that, strategic partnerships are also essential to MAB Group because they provide the financial, operational, and strategic support needed to achieve their objectives. They help overcome challenges, drive innovation, and make a meaningful impact, not only on the company’s growth but also on the communities and industries they serve in South Africa.
Achievements & Challenges
Pinagare Mogodi says that the MAB Group’s biggest achievements to date is the exporting vessels between 75,000 and 150,000 tonnes of coal. Furthermore, Pinagare Mogodi is proud that MAB has been involved in construction development projects, built cities such as Rama City as well as human settlement projects with a number of other PPP projects with government.
Undoubtedly, one of the most challenging periods for MAB has been navigating the disruptions in the mining industry caused by issues with rail infrastructure and port logistics, particularly due to challenges within Transnet.
“While these issues have presented significant obstacles to our operations, I must commend Transnet for their commitment to addressing and rectifying these challenges promptly.
“However, mitigating the impact of these disruptions on our relationships with clients and avoiding penalties has been a constant concern for us,” says Pinagare Mogodi.
Another significant challenge MAB has faced was the complexity of navigating the Know Your Customer (KYC) processes with both international and domestic banks, particularly concerning Letters of Credit (LCs).
Pinagare Mogodi exolains, “The lengthy processing times associated with activating LCs have at times hindered our ability to conduct transactions smoothly, requiring careful management and proactive communication with our clients to ensure minimal disruption to our operations.”
In addition to challenges within the mining sector, their construction department has encountered difficulties posed by construction mafias operating in South Africa. These mafias create additional layers of complexity and risk for construction projects, necessitating increased vigilance and strategic planning to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure project success.
Furthermore, late government payments have posed significant challenges for SMMEs and BEE companies within the industry. The delays in payments exacerbate financial strain, leading to increased overheads and interest rates on capital funding, which can severely impact the viability of projects and the sustainability of businesses.
Despite these formidable challenges, the MAB Group has emerged stronger by implementing resilient strategies and fostering a culture of adaptability and innovation. They have proactively engaged with stakeholders, including Transnet and financial institutions, to address issues and streamline processes. Moreover, MAB has strengthened their internal capabilities and risk management practices to navigate external uncertainties effectively.
Their commitment to transparency, integrity, and collaboration has enabled us to build enduring relationships with clients and stakeholders, fostering trust and confidence in their ability to deliver exceptional results even in the face of adversity.
“By learning from past experiences and leveraging our collective expertise, MAB continues to position themselves as a resilient and agile entity capable of thriving amidst challenges.”
The dynamic nature of these industries ensures that there is always something new to learn and explore. As MAB navigates through the ever-changing landscape, they have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills and knowledge, which can then impart to their people, empowering them to thrive in their respective fields.
Pinagare Mogodi says, “What excites me the most about the future of these industries is the transformative impact they have on people’s lives and the potential to drive positive change on a societal level. Every day in the industry presents an opportunity to make a difference, whether it’s through creating job opportunities, fostering economic growth, or implementing innovative solutions to address challenges.”
Furthermore, Pinagare Mogodi looks forward to the growth and economic progress that these sectors bring to South Africa. By leveraging the companies resources and expertise, they have the potential to make significant contributions to the country’s development and prosperity.
Pinagare Mogodi explains, “At the heart of our endeavours lies a commitment to social responsibility and making a meaningful impact. While profitability is important, our ultimate goal is to improve these sectors and create more opportunities for our people.”
This ethos drives everything they do at the MAB Group, ensuring that they remain focused on their mission of driving positive change and creating a better future for all.
Innovation
While challenges undoubtedly exist, Pinagare Mogodi views them as opportunities for growth and innovation. The prospect of overcoming obstacles and continuously improving their operations is what drives them forward.
Every challenge presents an opportunity to learn, innovate, and adapt, according to Pinagare Mogodi. By embracing these challenges head-on, they strengthen their capabilities and position themselves for long-term success. Whether it’s navigating changes in regulations, addressing infrastructure constraints, or managing market fluctuations, they are committed to finding creative solutions and mitigating any potential impacts on their operations.
At the MAB Group, they thrive on the excitement of tackling challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Their resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence ensure that we remain well-equipped to navigate any uncertainties that may arise in the future.
As a business leader, Pinagare Mogodi believes in maintaining a constructive approach to their interactions with the government. While it is true that there are areas where improvements can be made, it’s important to recognise the efforts of the government in supporting businesses and driving economic growth.
Pinagare Mogodi explains, “In terms of support, I acknowledge the government’s role in providing various forms of assistance and incentives to businesses, particularly in sectors crucial to our operations. However, there is always room for enhancement, particularly in bolstering support for Small, Medium, and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) companies.”
Pinagare Mogodi continues, “One area where improvement is needed is in providing more accessible funding opportunities for SMMEs and BEE companies. Access to capital is vital for the growth and sustainability of these businesses, and increased support in this regard would undoubtedly contribute to their success.
Additionally, timely payments to SMMEs and BEE companies for services rendered is crucial for their financial stability and long-term viability. Reducing bureaucratic processes and streamlining payment systems could significantly alleviate financial burdens and support the growth of these businesses.”
Pinagare Mogodi remains optimistic about the potential for collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive positive change and foster an environment conducive to business growth and development.
The CEO is looking forward to the rest of 2024 as it marks an significant milestone of celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa.
Growth
He is proud to be a South African and to witness the progress and development that our country has achieved over the past three decades of democracy. As a business leader, he understands the complexities and challenges of managing a business.
“Despite the inevitable ups and downs, I am genuinely proud of the strides made by the current government in fostering economic growth and development in South Africa. The advancements in infrastructure, investment initiatives, and policies aimed at supporting businesses have undoubtedly played a significant role in creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and leadership in various industries.”
Pinagare Mogodi continues, “As a businessman, I am particularly grateful for the opportunities and platforms that have been created, allowing individuals like me to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation.
The economic scale and development initiatives implemented by the government have not only facilitated the growth of businesses but have also empowered leaders across various sectors to make meaningful contributions to our society.”
While challenges will always exist, Pinagare Mogodi is not one to let them get him down. He, unlike many others, is very optimistic about South Africa.
“As we reflect on the past 30 years of democracy, let us celebrate the achievements and milestones while also remaining committed to addressing the challenges that lie ahead, working together towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all South Africans.”
Giving Back
As the Managing Director and Group CEO of MAB, Pinagare Mogodi’s foremost commitment lies in giving back to the community and creating opportunities for those in need. Philanthropy is not just a passion for Pinagare Mogodi, but also a fundamental aspect of the company’s ethos. In commemoration of this significant milestone in our nation’s history, MAB is planning a series of initiatives aimed at giving back and making a positive impact on our society.
“Our plans include various philanthropic activities and community outreach programs designed to uplift and empower individuals and communities across South Africa. From supporting education and skills development initiatives to investing in sustainable development projects, MAB is committed to leveraging their resources and expertise to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” says Pinagare Mogodi.
The company recognises the importance of celebrating our democracy by fostering unity and inclusivity. Therefore, they will also be organising events and activities that bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds to commemorate their shared journey towards freedom and equality.
At the heart of our celebrations lies a deep-seated commitment to social responsibility and making a lasting impact on the communities they serve. Pinagare Mogodi believes that by working together and giving back they can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all South Africans.
Pinagare Mogodi’s passion for communities and assisting those who are less fortunate comes across in his style of leadership. As the CEO of MAB Group, Pinagare Mogodi’s leadership style is characterised by active listening, objectivity, and fairness. They have achieved recognition in their fields because they prioritise open communication, value diverse perspectives, and treat everyone with equity and respect.
Pinagare Mogodi’s journey has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. With each obstacle he has encountered, he has approached it head-on, emerging stronger and more resilient than before.
Pinagare Mogodi says, “It’s crucial to highlight that my role as Managing Partner was not merely bestowed upon me; rather, I was entrusted with this responsibility by our esteemed Board of Investors and Partners. Their recognition of my unique skill set and experiences is a source of immense pride, and I am deeply honoured to lead this exceptional team towards our collective vision.”
Throughout Pinagare Mogodi’s career, one of the most valuable leadership lessons learned is the importance of patience coupled with a keen appreciation for time management. While patience allows for thoughtful decision-making and strategic planning, it’s imperative to recognise the value of time and refrain from investing it in endeavours that lack substance. Time is a precious commodity, and squandering it on fruitless pursuits can never be regained.
By mastering the delicate balance between patience and time management, Pinagare Mogodi has been able to navigate the complexities of leadership with clarity and purpose. This skill has not only contributed to the growth and success of the MAB Group but has also fostered a culture of efficiency and accountability within the organisation.
As MAB continues to chart the companies course towards excellence, Pinagare Mogodi remains committed to upholding these fundamental principles and leading by example. “Together, we embrace challenges, learn from our experiences, and strive for nothing short of excellence in all that we do,” says Pinagare Mogodi.
Work/life Balance
Pinagare Mogodi explains that stress as a leader is fundamentally shaped by the profound sense of purpose and fulfilment derived from his work.
“Every day presents an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life, whether it’s through creating job opportunities or contributing to reducing the unemployment rate. This overarching mission serves as a constant reminder of the significance of my role and helps me maintain a positive outlook even in challenging times.” says Pinagare Mogodi.
It is essential to recognise the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Despite the demands of Pinagare Mogodi’s career, he prioritises spending quality time with his children as a means of unwinding and finding solace amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
By consciously carving out time for personal pursuits and relationships outside of work, Pinagare Mogodi is able to create a buffer against the potential negative effects of stress. This balance enables Pinagare Mogodi to approach his professional responsibilities with a sense of resilience and perspective, ensuring that stress does not consume him but rather serves as a catalyst for growth and motivation.
Future
Looking forward, Pinagare Mogodi’s vision for himself and the MAB Group is ambitious yet deeply rooted in their commitment to making a positive impact on society. The company aims to expand their reach and become one of the largest exporting and mining houses, not only in South Africa, but across the African continent. By achieving this goal, they aspire to transform the landscape of unemployment in Africa and create opportunities for individuals from all walks of life. As the MAB Group evolves and grows, Pinagare Mogodi’s role as a leader will continue to evolve as well.
Pinagare Mogodi explains, “I envision myself spearheading this journey with a focus on strategic expansion, innovation, and sustainable growth. By leveraging our collective strengths and expertise, we will work towards achieving a terminal value for the MAB Group ranging between R12 billion to R20 billion.”
In terms of leadership aspects Pinagare Mogodi wishes to master over the next decade, he is committed to further developing skills in strategic planning, team building, and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration within their organisation. Additionally, Pinagare Mogodi aims to deepen the understanding of emerging market trends, technological advancements, and sustainable business practices to ensure that the MAB Group remains at the forefront of the industry.
Pinagare Mogodi’s vision for the next decade is grounded in their unwavering commitment to creating lasting value for our stakeholders, empowering communities, and driving positive change on a global scale.
“I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” says Pinagare Mogodi.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pinagare Mogodi is keen to pay homage to his mentor and Chairman of the MAB Group, Richman Ketlele.
“In the world of business, finding a mentor who not only guides you professionally but also influences your personal growth is a rare gem. For many, Richman Ketlele, the chairman of MAB, embodies this invaluable combination of mentorship and leadership. His impact on both the business and personal life of those around him is profound and enduring.
“I first encountered Richman Ketlele during a time when MAB was at the pinnacle of its reputation for construction quality. His reputation preceded him as an attorney of exceptional calibre. Seeking guidance, funding, and legal advice, I approached him, hoping to benefit from his expertise. Little did I know that this encounter would mark the beginning of a transformative journey.
“Richman Ketlele not only lent his professional expertise but also invested in MAB’s growth with his qualifications and character. His legal acumen proved instrumental in navigating complex challenges and seizing lucrative opportunities. With his guidance, MAB embarked on a trajectory of success, fuelled by integrity and excellence,” concludes Mogodi.
