My Cape Town: Kayamandi, Stellenbosch

Say “Stellenbosch” and the picture comes quickly: wine farms, mountain views, long lunches under the oaks. But drive five minutes beyond the historic centre and the town’s heartbeat changes. Welcome to Kayamandi, where the people who live there tell the stories, the food comes straight from home kitchens, and every rand you spend stays right here in the community.

Established in the 1940s, Kayamandi is one of South Africa’s oldest townships, after Langa. To get a local perspective on the area, we asked Khanyisa “Kay” Mhlakaza, Operations Manager at AmaZink, to share her favourite places to visit and things to do.

“What stands out about Kayamandi is that it is thriving economically, driven by a growing community of young entrepreneurs. We have a sense of community here,” she says.

Here are a few of her recommendations.

AmaZink

AmaZink brings together delicious food, dinner theatre, and live performances under one roof. The menu proudly keeps things local, serving crowd favourites such as flame-grilled chicken, pap, spicy chakalaka, and fresh slaw. As South Africa’s first township dinner theatre, it keeps the stage alive year-round with everything from theatre and live music to cultural events.

For Kay, though, the real magic happens around the tables: “It’s a space where people who might not otherwise cross paths can sit around a table, talk, laugh, and build friendships.”

Keep an eye on their social media pages to see what is coming up next on stage!

Location: 118A Masithandane Street, Kayamandi, Stellenbosch, 7600

Website: amazinklive.co.za/

Kuyasa Horizon Empowerment

Looking to give back? Kuyasa Horizon Empowerment is doing incredible work for children, young people, and families in the community.

What began in 2001 as a small tutoring and life-skills programme in Kayamandi has grown significantly. Today, they offer everything from early childhood development and after-school support to youth leadership, feeding schemes, and the performing arts.

To get involved or see what they’re currently up to, reach out to find out about their latest initiatives.

Location: Watergang Farmhouse, Luyolo Road, Kayamandi, Stellenbosch
Website: www.facebook.com/Kuyasaempowerment/

 

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Nocawe’s Home Dining Experience

Want to truly taste Xhosa culture? Pull up a chair at Nocawe’s Home Dining Experience, where host Nocawe Piedt welcomes guests into her home and around her family table. For Nocawe, food is about more than what’s on the plate. It’s also about connection. Tuck into generous helpings of pap, chakalaka and slow-cooked stews as stories flow and conversation turns to local customs and traditions. On some days, you can roll up your sleeves to cook alongside her or try on traditional Xhosa attire. This isn’t a meal you watch from the outside but one you’re part of.

Location: Kayamandi, Stellenbosch
Website: www.townshipandvillage.co.za/

Book Your Tour

To book a guided tour or to learn more about local experiences, contact Kay Mhlakaza directly. Email: info@amazinklive.co.za or call 083 600 1498

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