Emalahleni entrepreneurs can now apply for support and loans

Thungela Resources, Absa and Raizcorp have joined forces to launch a business-development programme focused on providing small enterprises in mining communities in Mpumalanga with hands-on business support, loan funding and technical development.

The joint programme, named Thuthukani, which means ‘uplift’ in isiZulu will run across the Thungela operational areas that include eMalahleni.

Nkosi Motsoeneng, head of corporate affairs at Thungela said, “Through our partnership with Raizcorp and Absa, we hope to make a positive impact in local communities. The mining sector is a key contributor to South Africa’s fiscus; we have an important role to play in the communities where we operate, and we know that small business development is critical to the long-term growth of South Africa and its people. Thungela is proud to be playing an active role in the creation of a thriving small business sector.”

Powered by a leading business incubator, Raizcorp, entrepreneurs who are selected to take part will receive practical entrepreneurial learning, skills and mentorship.

In addition, Raizcorp  will assist participants to uncover any technical gaps in their businesses and, if necessary, provide them with technical support and development.

“Entrepreneurs are our future. The mining context provides a unique environment for us to support large suppliers to effectively scale, as well as those entrepreneurs just entering the mining supply chain for the first time. At the same time, we also develop entrepreneurs who are not currently in the supply chain, but have the potential to become future suppliers,” said Allon Raiz, chief executive officer of Raizcorp.

Loan funding will be offered, in partnership with Absa, to those who qualify. Dumisani Mkhonza, chief operating officer for Absa Corporate Funds Management said, “Small businesses face many challenges, especially in our post-pandemic economy, most notably with a lack of access to finance. Through this initiative, Absa aims to enable economic and social development to small businesses and entrepreneurs in these areas.”

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Only South African citizens over the age of 18 may apply
• Must have a 51% or more black-owned business. Must have been trading for at least six months
• Applicants must be active in the business full time
• Applicants must have access to their own transport
• Must be based in one of the Thungela mining communities in the eMalahleni, Steve Tshwete or Govan Mbeki Municipalities
• Must have a cell phone, email address and access to a laptop or computer

Interested?

SMS “THRS2022” to 35839 and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

Or you can apply for the programme onlinehttps://www.thungela.com/suppliers/business-development-programme.

“The long-term success and sustainability of our communities, employees, shareholders and society as a whole is our top priority. We look forward to this partnership which we hope will add to our efforts to ignite value for a shared future,” concluded Motsoeneng.

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