DHL and Absa Group have signed an agreement to expand a programme providing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with training and support for cross-border trade across sub-Saharan Africa.
The memorandum of understanding provides for the rollout of DHL’s GoTrade programme in selected African markets, combining the logistics company’s trade expertise with Absa’s banking and financial services.
The partners said the programme will help SMEs understand export requirements, access financial support, reach customers through e-commerce and enter international markets.
Approximately 1 600 SMEs have participated in the programme in Uganda. It has also been implemented in Kenya, Botswana and Zambia. Mozambique and Tanzania are expected to be the next markets included in the rollout.
No timeframe, participation target or investment value for the wider expansion has been disclosed.
Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zuko Godlimpi said access to finance, logistics services and market information could help South African SMEs trade beyond the country’s borders.
“This partnership brings together the finance, logistics, market knowledge and public support that SMEs need to trade beyond our borders,” Godlimpi said.
The partnership intends to help businesses overcome obstacles encountered when exporting for the first time or expanding into new international markets, DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa CEO Hennie Heymans said.
Absa Group Business Development Managing Executive Faisal Mkhize said the initiative will provide business owners with practical support and access to trade-related services.
