- Youth-led enterprise sees SMMEs as potentially dynamic for job creation
Emerging fintech company and small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) financier, Khana Capital, is aiming to be the go-to establishment for supplying chain financing in Botswana and the rest of the southern African region.
In a recent interview, the newly appointed Chief Operations Officer of the 100 percent youth-led company, Reitumetse Lekoko, told this publication that despite having been formed during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are off to a good start.
“Our goal is to be the most inclusive financing company, providing great financing products at competitive prices to the traditionally underserved sectors of the economy, including informal traders.
“Through a clear vision, good understanding of the market and employing effective technology, the sky is the limit,” said Lekoko, who has worked in various capacities involving strategy, business performance and consultancy for various companies over the years. Through technology and innovation, Khana Capital provides affordable, flexible and convenient financing to SMMEs. The company also provides working capital solutions and consultancy services.
It is the company’s technological and innovative services which give it an upper hand compared to its peers in the cutthroat market. Khana Capital has a Financing App that existing and prospective customers can log into to access its various services. Lekoko, who is a graduate of the revered Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in South Africa, explained further: “We are extremely encouraged by the market’s reaction to our products, particularly our financing platform. It is clear from the market reception that there is a strong need for the services we provide.
“Our government implemented the very commendable initiative to engage local suppliers where possible, and when the service does not compromise the end-users experience.” Where opportunities present themselves, Khana Capital partners with large private and public sector companies that have significant supply chains. Typically, the Gaborone-based boutique targets organisations that spend more than P2.5 million a month on supplier payments.
“We sign agreements with these organisations that permit Khana Capital to finance their valued suppliers directly,” Lekoko said. “We make a commitment to provide cheaper and more convenient financing for suppliers. The aim is to support and help SMMEs grow, which in turn lowers costs and improves efficiency for the large companies.” Khana Capital is itself a start-up company. In Botswana, like the in many others countries, start-ups are often faced with immense challenges that call for forward thinking that the company has. Lekoko admitted there have been obstacles along the way but emphasised, that they did not deter them from their long-term vision.
“A big challenge has been how reluctant many organisations are to embrace technology and innovation even when the benefits are well understood,” she said. “Most organisations in Botswana are not very adaptive and flexible. We do not have a work culture that encourages initiative and innovation. “So when you present a new and exciting solution to leaders, it often does not get the attention required. Even so, it must be stated that from business leaders and senior representatives of commercial banks to development agencies and government officials, we have been incredibly fortunate to work with some fantastic and supportive people.
“I think the challenge lies in the institutions – the way organisations are structured and how leaders are incentivised. This determines whether or not staff have the support to fully embrace a new idea.” Lekoko believes that the success of SMMEs will create more opportunities of employment, economic diversification, increased use of technology, as well as youth and women empowerment in the economy.
