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.
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.
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.
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.
HUB Manager
Gomolemo Moalahi
053 313 9622
[email protected]
Admin Advisor:
Petunia Van Der Merwe
053 313 9467
[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
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
Explore the stories of our Zimele beneficiaries and see how the programme has impacted their lives, businesses and communities.
Download the Zimele Blue Pages to view all the SMMEs supported by the programme.
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.
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.
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.
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.
No, the same interest rate of 6% applies to all transactions.
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.
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.
For businesses:
For business owners:
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.
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:
For more information on these programmes, please contact Zimele via email:
[email protected]