Absa Bank Botswana is strengthening its support for farmers, informal traders and small businesses through tailored banking solutions and digital payment innovations, through a partnership with the Naledi Vegetable and Fruits Market in Gaborone North.
The partnership was highlighted during the market’s official opening on Tuesday, held under the theme “Connecting Farmers to Markets”. Through the collaboration, Absa aims to bring practical banking services closer to vendors while enabling them to access payment solutions that support efficient transactions and business growth.
Speaking at the event, Absa Bank Botswana Director of Personal and Private Banking, John Lalit D’Souza, said small businesses need more than access to funding to become sustainable and competitive.
“We don’t want to be just a bank that provides loans; instead, we want to be a partner that understands the ambitions and realities of Botswana’s businesses and helps them navigate the journey from an idea to a sustainable enterprise,” he said.
A key component of the partnership is Absa MobiTap, which enables eligible merchants to accept Visa and Mastercard payments using a compatible NFC-enabled Android smartphone, without requiring a traditional point-of-sale terminal. The solution also supports Orange Money payments. Merchants without compatible smartphones may access a device through the Bank’s rental arrangement.
The Bank provides a broader range of business solutions, including current and savings accounts, the SHE Account for women in business, point-of-sale services and e-commerce payment solutions. Absa’s commitment to enterprise development is also reflected in its financing activities.
For vendors operating at Naledi Market, these capabilities offer an opportunity to serve customers who prefer digital payments while reducing reliance on cash. Absa also intends to support participating vendors through its ReMmogo Account, designed for informal businesses, bringing banking services closer to traders and the surrounding community.
The Bank provides a broader range of business solutions, including current and savings accounts, the SHE Account for women in business, point-of-sale services and e-commerce payment solutions. Absa’s commitment to enterprise development is also reflected in its financing activities. During the first half of 2026, the Bank provided P96.6 million in SME funding and continued initiatives focused on financial literacy, business capacity building and women’s economic participation.
D’Souza noted that businesses at different stages of development need solutions that meet their individual needs, whether they are formalising operations, expanding production, purchasing equipment, or improving how they receive payments.
For his part, Naledi Vegetable and Fruits Market Managing Director, Sameer Pelwan, said the market was established to address the challenges farmers face in accessing reliable markets and building consistent customer relationships. Operating seven days a week, the market seeks to connect producers with consumers while creating opportunities for traders and entrepreneurs.
Through the partnership, Absa aims to help translate these opportunities into sustainable commercial activity.
