Mmegi

Absa, Stanbic partner in historic R680m sustainable funding deal

Pen to paper: Stanbic, Absa and Norsad officials at the signing on Monday PIC: MBONGENI MGUNI
Pen to paper: Stanbic, Absa and Norsad officials at the signing on Monday PIC: MBONGENI MGUNI

Absa Bank Botswana and Stanbic Bank Botswana have partnered to lend sub-Saharan credit firm, Norsad, R680 million to support financial inclusion as well as women and youth programmes, under a historic sustainable-linked funding arrangement.

The deal unveiled on Monday was at least two works in its arrangement and represents the first sustainable-linked funding developed in the local market. Sustainable funding refers to financing linked to the borrower’s pursuit or attainment of Environmental, Social, or Governance (ESG) targets.

Typically, such funding is incentivised in terms of the cost of funding and is tightly monitored for impact by the lenders.


Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up