Botswana's Corn Lady Builds Food Empire
Tshephiso Marumo, known as "the Corn Lady," transformed humble grilled corn stands into a culinary empire across Botswana through unwavering work ethic and creative street food approaches. Initially facing criticism from traditionalists, Marumo's stands now feed communities and provide jobs, demonstrating how food entrepreneurship can transform neighborhoods. Her rise showcases the power of simple, flavorful food combined with entrepreneurial tenacity.
- Tshephiso Marumo, a media graduate from Limkokwing University, started her business in 2019 with only P100 (about $7 USD) after struggling to find employment in her field. She initially sold cooked corn to teachers at a nearby school before delivering it office-to-office in Gaborone. - The brand name "Mmammidi" was what customers started calling her, as it means "the one who sells corn" in Setswana. She decided to keep the name for her business as it had already gained recognition. - Beyond grilled corn, Marumo's stalls now offer a wide range of traditional Botswana dishes, including seswaa (pounded meat), bogobe jwa lerotse (melon porridge), and morogo wa dinawa (bean leaf stew). She has also expanded her brand to include packaged products like "Mmammidi Gemere" (ginger beer), biltong, and bottled water. - As a female entrepreneur in the traditional food space, Marumo has faced criticism from some male customers who undermine her services, believing that certain traditional dishes are best prepared by men. - After a year-long trial of a stall in a less profitable location, Marumo recently relocated and opened a new branch in the Fairgrounds area of Gaborone in January 2026. - As of early 2024, the "Mmammidi" brand employed 12 young people, demonstrating its growth from a solo street vending operation. - Marumo is currently developing franchise contracts to expand her traditional food brand, aiming to make traditional cuisine a more popular and accessible healthy option without diluting the original concept.
