Africa-Press – Botswana. Dr. Pinkie Kebakile, Head of Trade, Industry and Private Sector Development at the Botswana Institute for Development Policy Analysis (BIDPA), emphasised the institute’s role as Botswana’s key policy think tank in supporting economic growth. She highlighted the importance of regulatory reform, targeted support, and strong institutional frameworks to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) scale sustainably. Dr. Kebakile explained that effective policy interventions can remove barriers to growth, promote competitiveness, and create an environment where SMEs thrive. She stressed that SMEs are vital to diversifying the economy, generating employment, and contributing to long-term national development. Her presentation underscored the need for a coordinated approach between government, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders to support enterprise growth.
Following Dr. Kebakile, Thapelo Moribame, Head of Market Development at the Botswana Stock Exchange Limited (BSE), presented on financing tools available for SMEs through Botswana’s capital markets. Moribame outlined initiatives and frameworks designed to de-risk SME participation and facilitate their transition from informal operations to formal, scalable enterprises. She emphasised that access to structured financial platforms enables SMEs to attract investment, expand operations, and improve governance standards. By leveraging capital market solutions, small businesses can secure funding while building credibility with investors and stakeholders. Her presentation highlighted the growing role of the BSE in promoting financial inclusion for emerging enterprises.
Together, the BIDPA and BSE presentations reinforced the idea that with the right combination of policy support and financial platforms, SMEs can move from the periphery to the centre of Botswana’s economic growth agenda. Regulatory clarity, targeted assistance, and institutional backing provide the foundation for sustainable scaling, while accessible capital market tools create opportunities for expansion and innovation. Both speakers stressed that integrating SMEs into formal economic structures not only strengthens individual businesses but also contributes to national development, job creation, and a more diversified economy. The engagement highlighted the critical intersection of policy, finance, and enterprise development in shaping Botswana’s SME landscape.
