Keely Goodall14 August 2025 | 17:13

More than 11 million South Africans are members of stokvels - NASASA

Many rely on them to manage financial burdens, or to fund special items or events.

More than 11 million South Africans are members of stokvels - NASASA

Picture: Pixabay

Thabo Shole-Mashao (in for John Perlman on 702) speaks with Andrew Lukhele, founder and Chairperson of the National Stokvel Association of South Africa (NASASA).

Listen below:

For decades South Africans have made use of stokvels, where they pool money for important occasions.

These operate like a rotating credit union or saving scheme, and the money can be used for anything from weddings and funerals, to supporting a business to buying property.

Members of a stokvel will contribute to a common pool and can draw it out on a rotational basis.

According to Lukhele, more than 11 million South Africans are believed to be members of stokvels.

RELATED: Stokvels going digital: Transforming community savings in the tech age

“Stokvels are proving to still be relevant. Young people are joining stokvels in droves.” 
- Andrew Lukhele, Founder and Chairperson - NASASA

He says many of these people have found that the traditional banking system does not benefit them.

Scroll up to the audio player for more.