Christo Wiese speaks out: His take on Johann Rupert, the Stellenbosch mafia, and South Africa’s future

South African business magnate Christo Wiese has addressed speculation about his relationship with fellow billionaire Johann Rupert and weighed in on the so-called “Stellenbosch Mafia,” dismissing the term as exaggerated and largely inaccurate. His remarks came during an in-depth conversation with Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh on the SMWX podcast, covering business rivalries, national prospects, and personal philosophy.

Wiese, widely regarded as a pioneer of discount retail in South Africa, acquired a controlling stake in Pep Stores in 1981 and transformed Shoprite Holdings into Africa’s largest supermarket chain, alongside former CEO Whitey Basson. His business interests now extend across Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, OK Bazaars, and Pepkor, as well as investment holdings including Virgin Active, New Look, Invicta Holdings, and the Lourensford Wine Estate. Despite setbacks, including the collapse of Steinhoff, Wiese has rebuilt his fortune, currently ranked the seventh richest South African with an estimated net worth of R31 billion.

On the subject of Johann Rupert, Wiese was unequivocal: “There is no bad blood from my side, despite past business differences.” The two men previously clashed over the diamond mining company Trans Hex Group, where Wiese, as the largest shareholder, successfully negotiated a higher price than Rupert’s company initially offered. Wiese described the incident as a normal business negotiation in which he emerged favorably and emphasized that there is no lingering animosity.

He elaborated on the much-discussed “Stellenbosch Mafia,” a term popularized by EFF leader Julius Malema and explored in Pieter du Toit’s book, The Stellenbosch Mafia – Inside the Billionaire’s Club. The phrase refers to wealthy Afrikaans men with business and political influence in South Africa, including Wiese himself, Rupert, Shoprite CEO Whitey Basson, and Mediclinic’s Edwin Hertzog. Others reportedly associated with the group include Jannie Mouton, Koos Bekker, Michael Jordaan, Paul Harris, and GT Ferreira.

Wiese dismissed the concept entirely, calling it “laughable” and likening it to a conspiracy theory. He stressed that many supposed members do not even reside in Stellenbosch and that interpersonal relationships among the group are far from harmonious. “There is not a lot of love lost between several of them,” he said, “and I can hardly imagine them conspiring together.”

Beyond business rivalries, Wiese shared his thoughts on South Africa’s potential. He believes the country can overcome many of its challenges if the government allows the private sector to lead solutions. “A year from now, South Africa could look entirely different,” he said. “The private sector is large, competent, and committed—it can solve issues the government cannot.”

Wiese highlighted what he sees as South Africa’s unique advantages: its people, resilience, and a history of fortuitous events, including the Mandela-de Klerk era, which averted potential national crises. Despite opportunities to live elsewhere, Wiese remains in South Africa, citing the quality of its people and the vibrancy of its private sector as reasons to stay. He also ensures his children understand both the challenges and opportunities the country offers, emphasizing optimism alongside realism.

For Wiese, South Africa is a fortunate nation with immense potential for growth, and he sees his role—and that of other successful business leaders—as crucial in driving progress. His remarks underscore a pragmatic, business-focused vision for the nation, rooted in opportunity, collaboration, and strategic action.

FAQ

Who is Christo Wiese?
Christo Wiese is a South African billionaire businessman, best known for transforming Shoprite Holdings into Africa’s largest supermarket chain and leading Pep Stores and Pepkor.

What is Wiese’s relationship with Johann Rupert?
Wiese says there is no bad blood between him and Rupert despite past business negotiations, emphasizing cordial interactions when they meet.

What is the Stellenbosch Mafia?
The term refers to a purported network of wealthy Afrikaans business leaders in South Africa. Wiese dismisses it as a conspiracy theory with little factual basis.

Why does Wiese stay in South Africa?
He remains in the country because of its resilient people, strong private sector, and historical fortune, believing in its potential despite challenges.

What are Wiese’s views on South Africa’s future?
He believes the private sector can solve many of the country’s problems if the government steps aside, and he is optimistic that South Africa could improve dramatically in a short time.