R1.5 million boost for rural entrepreneurs in Northern Cape

RURAL entrepreneurs in the Northern Cape have received a significant boost with Anglo American's Zimele programme and partner Sigma awarding R1.5 million in seed capital to budding business owners.

The funding follows a 12-week business development initiative that culminated in pitching sessions, where 93 businesses from rural communities presented their ideas to a panel of judges.

Winners, including Tshepang Pako, founder of Nelomo, a manufacturing company specialising in multipurpose cleaning products, received prizes ranging from R50,000 to R150,000 to help launch or grow their enterprises.

Pako, who secured R150,000 in seed capital, said the funding will enable her to produce her products in bulk and invest in new equipment.

The programme, which was quality-assured by the University of KwaZulu-Natal, had a strong focus on inclusivity, with women making up 56% of the winners and approximately 68% being youth.

"This demonstrates what's possible when we invest in people's potential and equip them with the right tools to succeed," said Larisha Naidoo, vice president of Anglo American Zimele.

The programme provided training in business model canvas methodology, design thinking, and artificial intelligence tools, supporting Anglo American's commitment to economic diversification beyond mining.

The winners are expected to create jobs and strengthen their communities through sustainable businesses.