As a way of affirming its mandate of helping small businesses build sustainable businesses, Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa) in Limpopo assisted local pharmacist McDonald Senyatsi and his wife, Lorraine with R500 000 in funding to enable the establishment of a second outlet of Nthamed Pharmacy in Nebo, Sekhukhune.
The business loan was approved in October last year to make it possible for the outlet to start operating on 18 December 2018. The proud entrepreneurs indicated that the store has created three job opportunities thus far and they were grateful that sefa could assist with the funding. The couple owns two pharmacies – the one in Nebo and another, The Local Choice Cure-O-Pharm situated at 42 Thabo Mbeki Street and currently employing ten people.
They applauded the agency for good service and transparency as they indicated that the process was quick and simple. “The entity has a great attitude towards boosting black-owned small businesses and the fact that they update you frequently makes one not to panic. The interest rate is very good and we really appreciate the support,” they stated.
They concluded by thanking sefa management, especially Vivian Kgohloane the entity’s investment officer for excellent service. They also encouraged small businesses to approach the agency for assistance. sefa is committed to developing small, micro and medium enterprises and cooperatives.
The entity offers business loans of up to R5 million. Local small businesses that need assistance can contact the Limpopo offices on 015 294 0900, visit their website www.sefa.org.za or visit their offices at Suite No 4, Biccard Park, 43 Biccard Street.
Development finance at your fingertips
sefa is a developmental catalyst for SMMEs and cooperatives, and assists them in building sustainable businesses by means of affordable, repayable loans. The agency ensures that small enterprises receive the best financial assistance, hence it takes a higher risk than any other financial institution. Optimal growth of small businesses will help to create much-needed jobs.
The agency operates across industries which includes services, manufacturing, agriculture, mining and green industries.
Story and photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
