Staff Reporter
The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade has warned the public to be cautious of a scam circulating on social media under the title ‘Official grants application form’.
The fraudulent communique targets entrepreneurs and SMEs in need of financial assistance and grants.
The post, circulating via email, states: “The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade has established a partnership with African Development Bank, Global Entrepreneurship Network, The World Bank, and the Africa Trade and Investment Forum” to support SMEs by providing financial assistance/grants. Interested individuals/business entities who wish to be considered for this crucial funding programme are invited”.
The post further requests submission of applications be sent to salomekatoole@gmail.com and/or approval.grants@gmail.com for approval.
The trade ministry has hereby pleaded with the public to avoid completing the form and disclosing any personal details or information related to their companies or enterprises in hope of receiving grants.
The public is also urged not to circulate the fraudulent form, as it may cause misfortune and irreversible consequences.
“The public is urged to first verify the authenticity of notices that are being claimed to be from the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade through its Corporate Communication subdivision,” the trade ministry advised.