Pinagare Mogodi: From Hardship to Billion-Rand Success – The Story of MAB Group’s Rise
A Visionary Entrepreneur Born from Struggle
Few names in South African business command as much respect as Pinagare Mogodi, the self-made titan behind MAB Group (Matsapa-A-Botshelo). From humble beginnings to building a multi-billion-rand empire, Mogodi’s story is one of resilience, grit, and sheer determination.
Today, his company generates over R200 million in monthly revenue from coal exports alone, with an additional R75 million in monthly profits from chrome mining. Beyond mining, MAB Group is developing construction and infrastructure projects worth over R4 billion, transforming South Africa’s industrial landscape.
But the road to success was not smooth. Mogodi’s journey is not just about wealth—it’s about overcoming adversity, making tough decisions, and rising against all odds.
Early Life: Built by Hardship, Driven by Hunger for Success
Pinagare Mogodi was born and raised in South Africa, where he witnessed firsthand the struggles of poverty. Raised by a single mother who worked multiple jobs to provide for him and his sister, Mogodi learned the value of hard work and sacrifice early on.
“My mother was my first inspiration. I saw her work herself to the bone so we could have a better life. I knew that one day, I had to make sure she never had to struggle again,” Mogodi recalls.
Growing up, he saw two choices:
- Remain trapped in financial struggles like so many around him
- Break the cycle, build something great, and create generational wealth
He chose the second option.
The Birth of an Entrepreneur: From University Hustle to Building an Empire
Mogodi’s entrepreneurial journey began during his university years. Though he was studying Public Relations and Financial Management, his real education came from the world of business.
With a sharp business mind and an eye for opportunities, he started small ventures in construction and logistics. While others were focused on getting degrees for corporate jobs, Mogodi was already building something of his own.
It was during this time that he co-founded MAB Group (Matsapa-A-Botshelo). Initially, it was a small operation, taking on subcontracted construction and mining work.
But Mogodi had bigger plans.
“I realized that the real power wasn’t in being a contractor—it was in owning the resources, controlling the supply chain, and cutting out the middlemen.”
The Breakthrough: Entering the Billion-Rand Mining Industry
His breakthrough came when he secured his first major coal contract. Instead of just supplying labor and services, Mogodi invested in mining rights, logistics, and export infrastructure, ensuring that MAB Group could operate independently.
This shift skyrocketed the company’s revenue, placing MAB Group in the big leagues of South Africa’s mining and export industry.
⬛ Coal Exports: Over R200 million in monthly revenue, supplying high-grade coal to international markets
⬛ Chrome Mining: A new chrome processing plant producing 50,000 tonnes per month, generating R75 million in monthly profits
⬛ Construction & Infrastructure: Managing over R4 billion in development projects, reshaping South Africa’s industrial sector
Despite these achievements, success came with major setbacks and hardships.
Rock Bottom: The Struggles That Almost Broke Him
Mogodi’s journey wasn’t without extreme failures, betrayals, and financial crises.
At one point, MAB Group was drowning in over R50 million in debt, with stalled projects, cash flow issues, and investors pulling out. To make matters worse, he went through a difficult divorce, and the COVID-19 pandemic nearly wiped out his company.
“There was a point where I was drinking heavily and partying, trying to escape the stress. I felt lost, like I had built everything just to see it crumble.”
One morning in Sandton, a moment of clarity changed everything.
“I saw my friends working, taking meetings, hustling. Meanwhile, I was wasting time. I told myself: ‘Misery loves company, but I have too much left to do.’ That’s when I decided to rebuild.”
He cut unnecessary expenses, refocused his company on high-value deals, and made difficult but necessary decisions to get MAB Group back on track.
The Rebuild: Securing Billion-Rand Deals and Expanding into New Markets
Mogodi’s comeback story is legendary.
By securing massive coal export contracts with global players like FUJAX, he positioned MAB Group as a dominant force in the industry.
He expanded into chrome mining, built new infrastructure, and streamlined logistics, ensuring that MAB Group controlled every aspect of its operations.
His secret? Cutting out dependency on external companies and prioritizing direct control over supply chains.
“Reliance on third-party facilities limits your priority and consistency. That’s why MAB Group owns and controls our processing, logistics, and exports.”
Legacy & Philanthropy: Giving Back to South Africa
Beyond business, Mogodi is a philanthropist. He has invested millions into:
- Housing projects for orphans and the elderly
- Education sponsorships and scholarships
- Job creation initiatives in mining, logistics, and construction
“I don’t just want to make money—I want to make a difference. If I can uplift people while building my empire, then I’ve truly succeeded.”
What’s Next? The Future of MAB Group
MAB Group is far from done. Mogodi is focused on:
◆Scaling coal and chrome exports to global markets
- Expanding mining operations to secure long-term supply
- Launching large-scale construction projects across Africa
- Continuing to create employment and economic growth in South Africa
Final Thoughts: A Billionaire’s Blueprint for Success
Pinagare Mogodi’s story is proof that hardship is not the end—it’s the beginning of greatness.
His rise from financial struggles to billion-rand success shows that anyone with resilience, vision, and relentless determination can achieve the impossible.
When asked about his success, Mogodi says:
“I built MAB Group from nothing—no handouts, no shortcuts, just hard work, smart decisions, and faith. If you want success, you have to go after it with everything you have.”
As he continues to shape industries, inspire entrepreneurs, and create opportunities, one thing is clear:
Pinagare Mogodi is not just a businessman—he is a symbol of resilience, vision, and unstoppable success.
