Khoemacau Copper Mining and Absa Bank Botswana partner to boost citizen SMEs

Khoemacau Copper Mining and Absa Bank Botswana have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to improve access to finance and enterprise development support for citizen‑owned small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) participating in Khoemacau’s Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme (CEEP). The partnership will provide tailored funding, advisory services and capacity‑building initiatives aimed at strengthening the operational and financial capabilities of local businesses within the mining value chain.

Absa’s Managing Director Keabetswe Pheko‑Moshagane said the collaboration reinforces the bank’s commitment to supporting citizen‑owned enterprises and aligns with the Government of Botswana’s broader economic empowerment objectives. SMEs account for about 40 % of Botswana’s economy but face barriers such as limited collateral, unsuitable loan products and gaps in business skills, which the partnership seeks to address.

By combining Absa’s financial resources with Khoemacau’s industry insight, the initiative aims to increase local participation in mining contracts, promote sustainable growth of Botswana’s SME sector and contribute to the country’s long‑term economic development.