“Looks Like Res Grocery”: Stokvel Savings Leave Mzansi Talking
- A stokvel grocery haul surprised South Africans because the items were fewer than expected after a full year of saving
- The video sparked broader conversations about how different groups manage contributions and what people consider a successful stokvel
- The clip spread quickly as viewers debated value, savings culture and the reality of grocery shopping in SA
South Africans turned the small haul into a lively talking point, mixing jokes with real discussions about savings and what stockvel value looks like today.
Source: TikTok
A video posted by @nomfundohadebe2 on 26 November 2025 showed the grocery haul her stokvel group managed to collect after saving from January to December. The clip showed a modest selection of items, including tinned goods, bar soaps, a 5kg bag of samp and other cabinet basics. The grocery sparked immediate conversation because many viewers were expecting a much larger haul after a full year of saving. The post landed on South African TikTok timelines quickly, creating a mixed reaction from people who had their own ideas about stockvel expectations.
Beyond the initial shock, the clip offered a glimpse into how different stockvel setups function. Some groups focus on bulk items, while others spread contributions across the year depending on affordability. In this particular case, the grocery list was smaller than what most people would assume after 12 months of consistent saving. The video reminded viewers that not all stockvels follow the same system and that some groups prioritise participation more than quantity.
Small annual haul sparks a big debate
Within one day, the video posted by user @nomfundohadebe2 on a public platform pulled in over 63,000 likes and more than 7,000 comments as people tried to process the small grocery haul. The reaction became even more dramatic when some users compared it to the type of groceries university students keep in residence, adding a playful tone to the conversation. Others insisted that groceries like these still carry value for families who budget tightly. The fast rise of the clip showed how quickly South Africans latch onto relatable content, especially anything involving food prices or savings.
PAY ATTENTION: Briefly News is now on YouTube! Check out our interviews on Briefly TV Life now!
Once the comment section settled, the overall mood shifted into humour and personal opinions. Some viewers laughed at how tiny the haul looked for a full year of saving, while others defended the group by saying every contribution counts. Several people added that the value of stockvels isn’t just in the grocery total but in the sense of community and shared effort. The story ultimately became a mix of jokes and genuine reflection on how different households approach saving.
Source: TikTok
Here’s what Mzansi had to say
Pertu Mogale wrote:
"Okare food parcel tsa ANC ka Covid. Translation: They look like ANC food parcels.”
VictoriaAau1 said:
"Ekare grocery ya Res. Translation: It looks like Res grocery.”
Fatso Masilo wrote:
"This is funny; who ate the stokvel money?"
No Name wrote:
"Some people survive on R350, so that R10 per month did something at least."
Zandile Zinhle Nkosi wrote:
"So much drama; they could’ve shared in the dining room."
nninie_radebe asked:
"E felletse? Translation: Is that all?”
Lwandi wrote:
"Niqale ngo October. Translation: You guys started in October.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Other Briefly News stories related to grocery
- A viral TikTok video showed a woman who was overseeing the distribution of stokvel purchases, prompting reactions online.
- The SAPS in Vhembe District in Limpopo responded to a woman who reported that multiple men broke into her home and stole stokvel money.
- Free State police are searching for a missing Botshabelo couple last seen on Thursday, 12 December 2024, after fleeing with stokvel money.
Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
