Men at work: Lekgwathi & Katsande strengthening the unlikeliest of bonds

When images of Lucky Lekgwathi’s looted restaurant started making the rounds in July, more than a few South African hearts were broken. 

During what was a trying time for the nation, taken amidst the ruins of the former Orlando Pirates captain’s fledging business, brought into sharp focus the loss and despair that had engulfed the country. 

It was only less than three months before that looting spree that Lekgwathi had unveiled his Grootman Restaurant to the world, shining the spotlight on that little corner of Kliptown, Soweto.  

In a country where stories of former diski stars fallen on hard times are never far from the headlines, ‘Captain my Captain’s business adventures had been a much-needed breath of fresh air. 

At a time when businesses are closing doors, as Covid-19 also took a financial toll, it was encouraging to see a former player that retired only seven years ago lay the building blocks on what would hopefully become a business empire. 

However, just a mere three months later, Grootman now resembled a wasteland, brought to its knees by marauding looters, some of whom Lekgwathi said he had identified as his friends. 

Amidst all that gloom came shining light. Soon, people were pledging to help Grootman get back on its feet, and amongst those putting their hand up was a man that Lekgwathi faced many times in the heat of battle, former Kaizer Chiefs hardman Willard Katsande.

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