This month Daily Sun ran the story of Jomo Khomo and his wife, Kefilwe, who came back from overseas with a suitcase full of great ideas, after spending several years there.
Upon their return, the couple formed KELE Mining Solutions, and their story is an example of what is possible through real empowerment in South Africa’s mining industry.
KELE is a 100% black owned and operated company implementing mining solutions through contract mining.
The Khomo’s have never looked back since they partnered with Anglo American’s iron ore business, Kumba Iron Ore, two years ago.
“We stared in Northern Cape because the province is the key area in terms of the opportunities that match with the resources that we have and the huge unemployment of the youth as well, said Khomo.
KELE Mining has also given birth to KELE Logistics, which does bulk materials transportation.
“In the next four to five years we want to list on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange,” said Khomo.
Communications manager at Kumba, Sinah Phochana, told Daily Sun that Kumba has earmarked R1billion specifically for local procurement and supplier development.
“Our focus on supplier development is rooted in lending a hand to grow small and medium businesses in our mining communities. KELE Mining is a shining example of this commitment. It is heart-warming to see the multiplier effect their success has had on the surrounding community and other businesses,” Phochana said
The company, based in the John Taolo Gaetsewe Municipality, Kuruman in the Northern Cape, has over 3000% revenue increase a year and offers opportunities for other local businesses.