Khana Capital gains entry into the Sub- Saharan market
Khana Capital, the Botswana based supply chain financing company has just announced its intention to roll out its services to the rest of the Sub Saharan region. The company, is better known for cutting edge digital financing technologies which targets Botswana’s SMMEs sector. The founder and Managing Director of the company, Theo Modise, has in fact announced their inroads into Zambia, one of the continent major copper producers this week.
Modise, who has a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Cape Town has said the business strategic intent is to go all out into Africa.
In a move that bears testimony to their strategic intent, the company has met with senior government officials in ZamBIA. “I am excited to share that our team, accompanied by our partners Quest Financial Services Zambia, recently traveled to Lusaka, Zambia to meet with His Hon. Eng. Elias Mubanga, MP ( Zambia’s Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development) and discuss how our technology solutions can promote financial inclusivity and support previously underserved communities,” said Modise. According to the company, ’ during our visit, we had the opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by small and medium- sized businesses in Zambia, and how our solutions can help bridge the gap between these businesses and the financial services they need to grow and succeed. We were thrilled to receive positive feedback from the Minister and other key stakeholders, and we look forward to continuing our work in Zambia and beyond.’ Modise has explained they believe ‘ that access to financial services is a basic human right, and we are committed to leveraging technology to make this a reality for all. Our trip to Zambia was a powerful reminder of the impact that our work can have, and we’re excited to continue making a difference in the lives of people around the world. The Chief Operations Officer of the firm, Reitumetse Lekoko told Botswana Guardian they are up to task. “Our goal is to be the most inclusive financing company, providing great financing products and 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 positions involving strategy, business performance, consultancy for various companies over the years.
Through technology and innovation, Khana Capital provides affordable, flexible and convenient financing to SMMEs. In addition, the company also provides working capital solutions and consultancy services. It is the company’s technological and innovative services which give the business an upper hand compared to peers in the cutthroat market. The company also has a Financing App, which existing and prospective customers can log into and access various services. “We are extremely encouraged by the market’s reaction to our products, particularly our financing platform. It is evident 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,” said a content Lekoko who is a graduate of the revered Gordon Institute of Business Science ( GIBS) in South Africa.
Where opportunities present themselves, Khana Capital partners with large private and public sector companies that have significant supply chains. Typically, the Gaboronebased boutique targets organisations that spend more than P 2.5 million a month in supplier payments.
“We sign agreements with these organisations that permits Khana Capital to finance their valued suppliers directly. 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,” she explained.
Khana Capital is itself a start- up company. In Botswana, like the in many others countries, start- ups are often faced with challenges, that call for forward think business, which fortunately, the company has. Lekoko admitted there has been obstacles along the way, which she emphasized, did not deter them from their long- term vision. “A big challenge was how reluctant many organizations are to embrace technology and innovation, even when the benefits are well understood. 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.