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Zimele, established in 1989 and meaning “to stand on your own” in Nguni languages, is deeply committed to empowering individuals, local SMMEs and communities. Zimele, South Africa’s largest enterprise development programme, which is sponsored by Anglo American South Africa, is dedicated to developing sustainable growth through meaningful skilling. Through Zimele’s initiatives, we not only support emerging black businesses and entrepreneurs, but we also make a significant impact on local communities by nurturing their potential to thrive.

Sustainable businesses, sustainable livelihoods

Discover how  Anglo American's enterprise development programme Zimele empowers communities by promoting self-sufficiency beyond the mine. Through comprehensive training in business management, finance, marketing and more, Zimele equips individuals with the skills to build sustainable businesses.

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Hear inspiring testimonials from Rudzani Ratshitanga, Elais Machoga, Edwinah Loate and others. Through support and guidance from Zimele, they have transformed their lives and their communities.

Watch as they share their journeys of growth and newfound possibilities – journeys that highlight the profound impact Zimele has had on the local economy.

 Through the Zimele development programmes, we hope to support business owners with the right tools, skills and networks to be able to grow themselves, their employees and their businesses.

Larisha NaidooHead of Anglo American Zimele

Find Your Nearest Hub

Find the nearest Zimele hub to access support, resources or more information. Download the provided documents to apply or gain a deeper understanding of the programme.

Kumba Platinum

Kumba Platinum

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• Kolomela
• Sishen

HUB Manager
Leonard Davids
0810664381
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Petunia Van Der Merwe
0717168081
[email protected]

20 Main Road | Postmasburg | 8420 | South Africa(not in the mine)

HUB Manager
Ernest Meas
0825259543
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Matlhogonolo Seloge
0717914549
[email protected]

Cnr Ian Flemming and Hendrick Van Eck Street, Sioc CDT Office Building, Kathu, 8446

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• Mogalakwena
• Polokwane
• Rustenburg
• Amandelbult
• Twickenham
• Der Brochen

HUB Manager
Zukiswa Poswa
0765682814
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Lutendo Mulamuli
0612686769 / 0656303516
[email protected]

South Concentrator-Steiloop
Road Mokopane

HUB Manager
Matlhatse Shaibu
0827769844
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Gladys Mokau
0767028212
[email protected]

10 Rabie Street Polokwane

HUB Manager
Caiphus Makgetha Kali
0828687780
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Katlego Nethononda
0817780611
[email protected]

33 Hystek | Block 3 | Rustenburg 0299

HUB Manager
Rudzani Ratshitanga
0716028457
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Kamogelo Molokomme
0646292667
[email protected]

3118 Caley Street , Northam | 0362| South Africa

HUB Manager
Lebogang Brian Ngweye
0820540253
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Naphtally Nkgabane
0717020919/ 060 924 8753
[email protected]

1556 Wildebees | Elephant Hill| Burgersfort | South Africa

HUB Manager
Mashilo Chauke
0761405742
[email protected]

Advisor_Admin:
Tshepo Makuwa
0799343099
[email protected]

1556 Wildebees | Elephant Hill| Burgersfort | South Africa

Zimele Beneficiaries

Explore the stories of our Zimele beneficiaries and see how the programme has impacted their lives, businesses and communities.

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“We received intensive training and support in financial management, marketing, and growth strategies. They have helped us improve our business management skills immeasurably, and set a blueprint for future growth.”
– Sanna Sebone, Sebongi Construction

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“Starting with only two trucks in October 2021, I have financed four more trucks through Zimele and now have 28 staff members, all from local communities.”
- Sammy Mmotlana, Unit 7 Logistics

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Babalwa Nosisi Makobane enrolled in the Zimele training programme and learnt how to identify the resource support she needs to succeed in her business, Sande Services. Today, it boasts an on-site operations manager and finance manager – allowing Babalwa to concentrate on building revenues.

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“I came across the Kumba tender a few years ago and it was successfully awarded to us. We applied for funding through the Zimele programme and we got it. I want to thank Zimele for the funding, because we now also have the resources we need to execute the work."
- Vallery Horing, Loading Techniques

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Zimele Blue Pages

Download the Zimele Blue Pages to view all the SMMEs supported by the programme.

Download full PDF

Our partners

Zimele thrives as the product of strong partnerships forged with communities, businesses and organisations committed to sustainable development.

For more information on these programmes, please contact Zimele via email:
[email protected]

Supplier Development Partners

Letsema Ventures

Supplier development incubation

Partnership:

Letsema will provide comprehensive supplier development support, including technical and business management, market access and finance.

Impact:

Suppliers will receive the necessary resources and mentoring to grow their businesses and service contracts effectively.

PUM

Technical enablement various categories

Partnership:

PUM, funded by the Dutch Government, will offer technical and business coaching using experienced retired experts. Zimele will cover travel and accommodation costs.

Impact:

Beneficiaries will receive practical advice and implementation support, enhancing their technical and business capabilities.

Solugrowth

Business support services

Partnership:

Solugrowth will provide a virtual platform offering legal, IT, marketing, supply chain, HR and finance support for suppliers.

Impact:

Suppliers will have access to essential business services, aiding in their daily operations and long-term growth.

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Loan Funding Partners​

Absa

Supplier loan funding

Partnership:

Absa manages the evaluation, disbursement, monitoring and collection of business loans provided by Zimele.

Impact:

Zimele has disbursed R556 million in loans since 2018, supporting SMEs within Anglo American’s area of influence.

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Youth Development Partners​

ATI

Artisanal training

Partnership:

ATI offers technical skills training in Kathu, Northern Cape, focusing on auto electrical, heavy equipment mechanics, fitting, rigging, welding, boilermaking, electrical and instrumentation.

Impact:

The programme prepares 50 previously disadvantaged individuals for employment and self-employment opportunities.

Trace Academia

Trace Academia Self Learning

Partnership:

Trace Academia provides free mobile courses on employment, entrepreneurship and soft skills, with industry-accredited certificates.

Impact:

Young people, especially women, gain access to high-quality training, enhancing their career prospects.

Reach Summit

Hospitality/Tourism & Wholesale/Retail

Partnership:

Reach Summit offers programmes in hospitality, tourism and retail, along with a field guide training pilot.

Impact:

Youths receive sector-specific skills and work placements, improving their employability in local and international markets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have an Absa account to qualify?Icon Plus

Yes, having an Absa account is necessary to qualify. This requirement helps streamline the process of managing loans, ensuring efficient payment to suppliers and easy loan repayments. Using one bank makes the entire system simpler and more organised for everyone involved.

What if I don’t have an account with Absa?Icon Plus

You don’t need to worry about your current bank account. Zimele and Absa will review all applications equally. However, you will need to open a new Absa account for the loan. Absa will assist you in setting up this account, as well as a transaction account for your business profits.

If I have a judgement/default against me, can I still apply? Icon Plus

Yes, however, you need to show that you have a payment plan in place and if possible you should be able to show that you have adhered to the payment plan to date.

Why does it take 10 days to approve the loan?Icon Plus

A number of checks have to be done to make sure that an applicant qualifies for a loan.
However, Anglo American is working with Absa to constantly improve the loan application process to make it easier for applicants.

Will the interest rate change?Icon Plus

No, the same interest rate of 6% applies to all transactions.

Once my loan is approved, how long will it take for the money to reflect in my account?Icon Plus

It will take 48 hours. If after 48 hours it still doesn’t reflect, you can escalate to the Absa Banker allocated to you. Alternatively, you can also ask your Hub Manager to escalate the problem.

What helps speed up the process?Icon Plus

• Ensure all supporting documents are correctly submitted to avoid delays.
• Having an existing Absa account speeds up approval since no new client verification is needed.
• Provide detailed information on your application, including any financial issues, to prevent follow-up questions.
• Be aware that credit checks are part of the process, and any arrears or judgments will cause delays.

Will Zimele provide funding to SMMEs not on the programme?Icon Plus

Yes, we will continue to provide funding for now, for supply chain deals. Our new “mentorship first, funding second” approach will be phased in over the next 18 months.

What are the documents required for the application?Icon Plus

For businesses:

• Registration documents
• Proof of address
• Resolutions
• Shareholding confirmation
• BEE certificate or affidavit
• Tax clearance
• VAT clearance if applicable
• Business plan or business profile to explain the business case and why you need finance
• Cash flow projections for the duration of the loan
• Latest financial statements and latest management accounts
• Repayment plans for credit listing (if applicable)
• Copy of contract and purchase order
• Copy of quotes and invoices
• 3 months’ bank statements

For business owners:

• Identity document (colour copy)
• Proof of address
• 3 months’ bank statements
• Latest income and expenses – complete the Absa form
• Latest assets and liabilities – complete the Absa form
• CVs of principals

SMMEs must sign a letter of consent agreeing that Anglo American and Absa are able to share this information about the business. The letter can be signed via the online platform as part of the registration process or signed manually.

Note: All documents must be accurate, complete and current.

Can I get funding if I don’t live in the host community?Icon Plus

Anglo American Zimele now focuses on mentoring and coaching SMMEs before funding them, prioritising host communities. However, there are other organisations like NEF, IDC, and SEFA that provide funding support. You can find more information through the links below:

• https://www.idc.co.za/who-how-we-help/
• https://www.sefa.org.za/
• https://www.nefcorp.co.za/funding-solutions/how-to-apply-for-funding/

For more information on these programmes, please contact Zimele via email:
[email protected]

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Downloads

Government Supporting Business

Download full PDF

UIF Employee Declaration Form

Download full PDF

UIF Easy Aid Guide

Download full PDF

Zimele COVID-19 Announcement

Download full PDF

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