In South Africa, we often speak passionately about “supporting local”, yet too often, that support stops at words. For local brands, especially those in the technology sectors, access to large-scale retail opportunities and meaningful corporate partnerships remains one of the biggest hurdles to growth.
That’s why Telkom’s recent R400 million Summer Campaign is such a powerful statement, not just in marketing terms, but in what it represents for South African innovation. By featuring Khoi Tech devices in this national campaign, Telkom is doing more than selling products; it’s investing in local capability, affirming confidence in South African talent, and showing that the success of homegrown innovation is not a distant dream, but a present reality.
This partnership marks a milestone not only for Khoi Tech as a local Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), but for every South African business striving to prove that global quality technology can be designed right here, by our people, for our people.
Building local value through intentional corporate choices
Telkom’s decision to integrate Khoi Tech devices, including our flagship Khoi Afriwatch1 and Khoi Afripods1, into its nationwide retail network is a reminder of what intentional corporate procurement can achieve. It’s a clear example of a major company putting its money where its mouth is, demonstrating that empowering local enterprises is not charity, it’s strategy.
When corporates deliberately choose South African innovations, they create ripple effects far beyond their supply chains. They stimulate local economy, create jobs, keep money circulating within our borders, and help build globally competitive brands that tell a new African success story.
This is the multiplier effect we should all be aiming for.
A call for more corporate acts of empowerment
Telkom’s move should not be the exception, it should be the start of a new norm. As we approach the festive season, this is a critical commercial moment that shapes consumer behaviour. They are also opportunities for brands and retailers to make bold, value-based choices: to elevate local products, feature South African tech, and amplify the stories behind them.
Imagine the difference it would make if every major corporate made even a fraction of Telkom’s R400 million commitment to showcasing South African innovation. We would not only strengthen our economy, but also shift national consciousness towards seeing local as premium, because quality and innovation have no postcode.
Proudly South African, proudly world-class
At Khoi Tech, we’ve always believed that innovation should not be imported, it should be homegrown. Our products, proudly endorsed by Proudly South African and certified by ICASA, reflect that belief. Whether it’s the Khoi Afriwatch1, a health and fitness smartwatch that blends health, wellness and sporting benefits, or the Khoi Afripods1 True Wireless Earphones, delivering premium audio with accessible pricing, every Khoi device represents the potential of local design meeting global standards.
Partnerships like this one with Telkom reaffirm that South African innovation deserves a seat at the table, not as a token gesture, but as a serious player in the technology and lifestyle markets.
Let’s make “Buy Local” more than a slogan
Telkom has shown leadership by backing its talk with tangible action. My hope is that more corporates and retailers will follow this example, not because it looks good on a CSI report, but because our nation’s growth depends on it.
If we want a thriving economy that creates sustainable jobs, if we want young innovators to believe their ideas can succeed here at home, then we must all make deliberate choices to build, buy, and believe local.
Because when we choose South African innovation, we’re not just buying products, we’re investing in the future.
- Seati Moloi, CEO and Founder at Khoi Tech
