About Us

MISSION

Driving Sustainable Impact

Rhiza Holdings’ mission is centred on empowering communities and building sustainable futures. We are committed to driving sustainable development and holistic change across South Africa and East Africa’s vulnerable townships. Our purpose is to significantly reduce extreme poverty and economic inequality through financially viable socio-economic interventions and innovative solutions.

We focus on three core areas:

  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Livelihoods

VALUES

What guides us

Our values aren’t just words — they guide how we work and who we are.

OUR TEAM

Management Team

Alef Muelenberg

ALEF
Muelenberg

Founder

Godfrey Katsande

GODFREY
KATSANDE

CEO

Joost Muelenberg

JOOST
MEULENBERG

COO

Robbert Popken

ROBBERT
POPKEN

Head of Fundraising

Rashuping Morake

RASHUPING
MORAKE

Special Projects

Nthuthuzelo Qeqe

Nthuthuzelo
Qeqe

SA Fundraising Manager

Nadira Sukdeo

Nadira
Sukdeo

Group Company Secretary

Linda Dunkley

LINDA
DUNKLEY

MD Rhiza Ventures

Nick Henry

Nick
Henry

MD Rhiza Babuyile

Francisca Muema

Francisca
Muema

Head of East Africa

Stephenson Tapera

Stephenson
Tapera

Head of Finance

Simphiwe Nzima

Simphiwe
Nzima

Group HR Manager

Lungile Khambule

Lungile
Khambule

Marketing Manager

Susan Okioma

Susan
Okioma

East Africa Programmes Manager

Therese Niyigena

Therese
Niyigena

Rwanda Programmes Lead

Our Impact

Stories of Impact

Seeds of Change- August 2025

Shalama Agricultural Primary Cooperative

Specialising in growing spinach, chilies, garlic, okra, and moringa, their products are distinguished by a unique approach that combines sustainable farming practices with rigorous quality control throughout the production process. By using locally sourced inputs, environmentally friendly methods, and modern agro-processing techniques, they ensure their produce is fresh, nutritious, and of consistently high quality. Township Fleva has played a significant role in supporting and strengthening business operations. It has provided the business with essential inputs such as chicken feed, borehole equipment, seeds, and organic fertilizers. This support has improved productivity, reduced operational costs, and enhanced the capacity to expand horticulture and agro-processing activities.

Matlosana Robotics Programme- November 2025

Phase 1 of the STEM Robotics Programme at Matlosana Learning Centre, featuring the Leaphy Flitz Robot, successfully concluded in October 2025. Since its launch in April ‘25, the programme immersed learners in foundational robotics, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. A total of 101 learners completed the programme, with participation across five partner schools remaining strong throughout the year. Each institution met or exceeded expectations, reflecting the commitment of both learners and educators. The journey culminated in a vibrant graduation ceremony which celebrated not only academic achievement but the empowerment of young minds ready to innovate and lead in the world of technology.

Khayelitsha Mobile Clinic Launch- February 2026

We continue to expand our healthcare footprint across South Africa, strengthening partnerships that ensure quality care reaches the communities who need it most. Following our collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Health and the signing of an MOA with the City of Cape Town Health in December 2025, our Mobile Clinic is now officially operational in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH). The launch marked an important step in our mission to reach underserved communities with vital health services. With the support of our funder, the FirstRand Empowerment Fund (FREF), the Clinic offers: Maternal and child health services, HIV/AIDS and TB testing, Chronic disease management and General primary healthcare.

Unlocking the Future- February 2026

In 2023, Axole’s journey with Rhiza Babuyile began as an IT learner, at a time when the path to higher education felt uncertain. Coming from a background where fees to a higher education were out of reach and Matric results did not meet traditional entry requirements, pursuing a degree seemed like an unattainable dream. Rhiza Babuyile stepped in and provided an opportunity, allowing for completion of NQF Level 4 and Level 5 IT Qualifications- creating a vital bridge toward a brighter future. Today, that dream of studying further has become a reality. With studies fully funded by Rhiza, Axole is pursuing a Bachelor of Information Technology in Business Systems in 2026. Over and above this, the dedication and performance led to being selected as one of just four candidates- out of 20 learners- to secure a permanent role as an administrator at Mpathy (an entity under Rhiza Ventures).

Strengthening Early Learning- March 2026

Through our Education Programme in Kenya, we closely collaborate with Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres and partner institutions through a series of high impact activities designed to enhance school leadership, operational excellence, and long term sustainability. Beyond these initial interventions, each school benefits from more than 10 months of continuous mentorship and coaching, ensuring that training translates into meaningful, measurable improvements in school operations and learner outcomes. This helps build our commitment to building resilient early learning ecosystems, empowering school leaders, and establishing sustainable education models that can uplift communities across Kenya