By Nkhensani Mthombeni
- Amos Sambo, known as Dr Atchar, runs a security training company, a takeaway, an atchar business and more from Shikhumba Village in Giyani after his government job ends each day.
- Sambo’s Ntokoto Security has employed three previously unemployed villagers. He says a salary alone cannot be trusted in an economy where the cost of living keeps rising.
Amos Sambo sets his alarm for 3am. He prays, plans his day, responds to emails, and deals with urgent business matters before most people in Shikhumba Village are awake. Then he goes to his government job. Then he comes home and does it all again.
He has a reason for the pace.
“I became passionate about entrepreneurship because I wanted to create opportunities for myself and others. Over the years I turned that passion into businesses that serve my community while creating jobs and improving lives,” Sambo said.
The 8-to-5 salary, he says, is not enough. Not in this economy. So after hours, Sambo becomes Dr Atchar — a name he earned selling atchar with such conviction that MECs in Limpopo are among his customers. He also runs a takeaway selling kotas and fast food, sells mopani worms in season, recycles used cans, and organises the Spar Shikhumba 4-in-1 Marathon.
His most recent venture is Ntokoto Security, which operates as a security training centre in Giyani. It currently employs three people, all of whom were unemployed before Sambo hired them.
He has also written a book.
“The Village Hustler: Step by Step Guide to Financial Freedom” shares practical lessons on entrepreneurship, financial discipline, and building multiple income streams. Its central argument is simple: coming from a village is not a limitation.
“Poverty fears someone who uses their hands and their brain. When you are willing to work hard, think creatively, and manage your time wisely, you can build opportunities not only for yourself but also for others,” Sambo said.
He encourages every working person to start a side business, however small.
“An extra business provides financial security, creates wealth, and allows people to prepare for retirement or unexpected challenges. Start little, be consistent, and that is how you grow,” he said.
Pictured above: Amos Sambo, known as Dr Atchar, with his atchar business in Shikhumba Village, Giyani.
Image source: Supplied
