TRIBUTE: Richard Maponya through the years

Circa September 1972: South Africa's first black millionaire Richard John Maponya was born on 24 December 1926 in the Northern Transvaal (now Limpopo Province). He is best known for building a retail business empire during the 1960s and 1970s, despite the restrictions of Apartheid, and for his contribution to the economic development of Soweto township.
Circa September 1972: South Africa's first black millionaire Richard John Maponya was born on 24 December 1926 in the Northern Transvaal (now Limpopo Province). He is best known for building a retail business empire during the 1960s and 1970s, despite the restrictions of Apartheid, and for his contribution to the economic development of Soweto township.
Image: Rand Daily Mail Archives

The great-grandfather of black business Richard Maponya died on Monday January 6 aged 99. Sowetan has put together some of his memorable stories in his honour.

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