5+ Decades of Consistency and Still Counting...
16 Sep, 2025
Business Botswana held its 51st Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together members from across its 22 sectors. More than just a statutory exercise, it is a reaffirmation of the private sector’s pivotal role in driving economic transformation.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Farzam Kamalabadi, the Presidential Envoy on International Relations & Economic Development, shared lessons from China’s rise. He recalled how entrepreneurs who once appeared ordinary went on to become billionaires who transformed their nation. Drawing parallels with Botswana, he urged members not to view themselves as small businesses waiting for support, but as future leaders ready to build markets, create jobs, and drive Africa’s growth.
“Mark this point,” he said. “You will not be observers… You will be participants in Africa’s economic wave. The era of Africa is upon us.”
Dr. Kamalabadi highlighted Botswana’s strong advantages, natural resources, a youthful population, and untapped industries, but stressed that unlocking this potential requires courage: courage to depend less on government, to take bold risks, and to embrace collaboration both locally and globally.
In his remarks, Business Botswana President, Mr. Neo Nwako, echoed this message, reminding members that the organisation will continue to advocate for reforms, influence policy, and drive impact. His message was clear: the future is not a distant dream; it is here, and it demands bold private sector leadership.
The AGM also confirmed and introduced new sector chairs, injecting fresh energy and leadership across Business Botswana’s 22 sectors.
The AGM also confirmed and introduced new sector chairs and inducted the new Board of Governance, bringing in fresh leadership across key areas. Among them were Dr. Thapelo Matsheka (Finance), Mr. Mahube Mpugwa (Petroleum and Chemicals), Mr. Thabiso Titus Paul (Youth), and Mr. Moraki Mokgosana (Health), alongside other sector representatives and specially elected members. Their inclusion reflects Business Botswana’s commitment to ensuring broad-based leadership and diversity of expertise.
In addition, members were presented with the 2024 Audited Financial Statements, providing a transparent view of the organisation’s performance. The discussion also explored new ideas on how to commercialise Business Botswana’s operations, ensuring that it continues to effectively represent and serve its members without placing undue financial burden on them. This signals a forward-looking approach to sustainability, innovation, and member value.
As the meeting ended, members left not only looking back at more than 50 years of progress but also looking forward with renewed confidence.
The newly inducted board will be profiled in due course.