The Order of the Baobab in Silver

Dora Ndaba (1945 - ) Awarded for:

Her distinguished contribution to the development of formal and informal business and for black and women economic empowerment in South Africa.

Profile of Dora Ndaba

Dora Ndaba started her career in business in the 1970s in the informal sector. From that humble beginning, Ndaba rose to be at the forefront of many of the country’s most important economic empowerment initiatives.

In 1981, Ndaba was appointed as public relations officer for the Foundation for African Business and Consumer Services (FABCOS). FABCOS served as the umbrella body for 14 informal sector business and consumer organisations including the South African Black Taxi Association, Black Builders Association, National Black Consumer Union, Taverners Association, Hawkers Association and the National Stokvels Association.

Throughout the 1990s, Ndaba played a leading role in the development of South Africas informal and formal transportation industry by working and liaising between government, motor manufacturers, oil companies, taxi associations, transport companies and other role-players in the industry.

In 1991, Ndaba was voted runner-up for the prestigious South African Businesswoman of the Year Award in recognition of her personal business achievements and her role in supporting women entrepreneurs. Ndaba went on to demonstrate her unique entrepreneurial flair by building a successful business in the agricultural sector (Ndaba Fresh Cut) between 1995 and 2000.

Ndaba continues to do public service in her present position at the National Agricultural Marketing Council as an advisor to the Minister of Agriculture on matters relating to the marketing of agricultural products and government policy.