Munya Chimba: A Master of Logistics and Retail in South Africa

Munya Chimba’s story is one of resilience, strategic thinking, and transformative leadership in logistics and retail in South Africa. From humble beginnings as an accounts clerk to founding and leading SITT Group, his career exemplifies the power of bold decisions, deep expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence. For business owners, industry stakeholders, and investors, Chimba’s journey offers lessons in growth, innovation, and building enterprises that thrive across borders.

A Solid Foundation for Success

Chimba’s career began with strong academic and professional foundations. After excelling at Kutama High School with A-Level passes in Accounting, Literature, and Management of Business, he pursued further studies at the University of Witwatersrand, focusing on a Bachelor of Accounting. His academic pursuits, combined with an early aptitude for numbers, set the stage for his entry into the financial world.

Starting as an Accounts Clerk at Frontline Cash & Carry in 2006, Chimba quickly mastered the fundamentals of financial management. His work ethic and precision saw him rise to a position at Equity Aviation Services, where he handled key responsibilities like creditor reconciliation and payment preparation. These early roles shaped his technical skills and gave him a firm grasp of financial operations.

Mastering Financial Management at Sanlam

Chimba’s career took a decisive leap in 2007 when he joined Sanlam Developing Markets, a division of one of Africa’s most respected financial services firms. Over seven years, he rose through the ranks from Accounts Payable Clerk to Financial Controller, honing his leadership skills and technical expertise.

As Financial Controller, Chimba oversaw expense budgeting and variance analysis, managed general ledger operations, and played a key role in implementing new financial systems. His ability to manage complex projects and deliver precise reporting positioned him as an indispensable part of the team. These experiences not only deepened his understanding of financial systems but also prepared him for leadership roles that required both operational and strategic acumen.

Scaling New Heights at Shingai Group

In 2014, Chimba took on a new challenge as Head of Operations at Shingai Group. Here, he proved himself as a leader who could drive growth and innovation in competitive markets. Initially tasked with managing SPSK Enterprises, a supplier of Zimbabwean goods to South Africa, Chimba’s vision led to the creation of African Basket in 2016—a retail brand that became a household name in South Africa’s ethnic food market.

Under Chimba’s leadership, African Basket expanded from one store in Midrand to 16 stores across three provinces by 2022. He spearheaded the setup of a state-of-the-art milling operation that produced over 20 tonnes of mealie meal daily. His responsibilities spanned procurement, logistics, store expansions, and operational efficiency, showcasing his ability to balance strategy and execution.

The Birth of SITT Group: A Vision Realized

Chimba’s entrepreneurial spirit reached new heights in 2022 with the founding of SITT Group. This dynamic enterprise specializes in logistics management, retail consulting, and property management. SITT Group operates at the nexus of efficiency and innovation, helping businesses navigate the complexities of cross-border trade and retail operations in Africa.

The logistics division is the backbone of SITT Group, focusing on freight forwarding, truck management, SARS handling, and seamless cross-border clearing. By offering end-to-end solutions for African businesses, Chimba has positioned SITT as a trusted partner for companies looking to optimize their supply chains.

The retail consulting arm complements this by enabling businesses to maximize profit margins, streamline procurement, and manage day-to-day operations. From sourcing products across African markets to advising on pricing strategies, Chimba’s team delivers actionable insights and measurable results.

Lessons in Leadership and Growth

Munya Chimba’s career is more than a story of professional growth—it’s a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and vision. His ability to scale operations, manage diverse teams, and innovate in challenging markets sets him apart as a leader with a proven track record.

For potential partners, clients, and investors, SITT Group is not just a business—it’s a reflection of Chimba’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether driving efficiencies in logistics or helping retailers optimize their operations, Chimba and his team are delivering the tools businesses need to thrive in Africa’s competitive landscape.

As he continues to expand SITT Group, Chimba’s story serves as an inspiration for business leaders and entrepreneurs across the continent. He is not only building a company but also contributing to the growth of African trade and retail by bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and delivering exceptional value. His journey is proof that with the right strategy and determination, it’s possible to build a legacy that transforms industries and communities alike.