Botswana's economy has been one of the fastest-growing in Africa, thanks to its wealth of natural resources and sound economic policies. Let's count down the top 10 companies that are driving Botswana's economic success.
10. Choppies Enterprises
Choppies is a leading supermarket chain in Botswana, with operations expanding into other African countries. It has played a significant role in modernizing the retail sector in Botswana.
Founded: 1986
Employees: 17,000+
Stores: 260+ across several African countries
9. Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL)
BIHL is a leading financial services group in Botswana, offering a wide range of insurance and investment products. It has been instrumental in developing Botswana's financial sector.
Founded: 1975
Market Cap: Over 4 billion Pula
Subsidiaries: Botswana Life, Bifm, Legal Guard
8. Letshego Holdings Limited
Letshego is a microfinance holding company with operations across 11 countries in Africa. It has been crucial in providing financial services to the underbanked population.
Founded: 1998
Presence: 11 African countries
Customers: Over 600,000
7. Wilderness Holdings
Wilderness Holdings is a tourism company that operates luxury safari camps and lodges. It has been at the forefront of promoting eco-tourism in Botswana and other African countries.
Founded: 1983
Camps and Lodges: 40+
Countries of Operation: 7 African countries
6. Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC)
BTC is the leading telecommunications company in Botswana, providing fixed-line, mobile, and internet services. It has been crucial in developing Botswana's digital infrastructure.
Founded: 1980
Services: Fixed-line, Mobile, Internet
Market Share: Largest telecom provider in Botswana
5. First National Bank Botswana (FNBB)
FNBB is one of the largest commercial banks in Botswana, offering a wide range of financial services. It has played a significant role in the country's economic development.
Founded: 1991
Branches: 25+
ATMs: 150+
4. Botswana Development Corporation (BDC)
BDC is the main agency for commercial and industrial development in Botswana. It has been instrumental in diversifying the country's economy beyond diamond mining.
Founded: 1970
Investments: Various sectors including agriculture, services, and manufacturing
Ownership: 100% owned by Botswana Government
3. Barclays Bank of Botswana
Barclays Bank of Botswana is one of the largest banks in the country, offering a wide range of personal and business banking services. It has been a key player in Botswana's financial sector for decades.
Founded: 1950
Branches: 30+
ATMs: 100+
2. Botswana Power Corporation (BPC)
BPC is Botswana's national electric utility company. It is responsible for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution throughout the country, playing a crucial role in Botswana's infrastructure development.
Founded: 1970
Coverage: National electricity provider
Key Projects: Morupule B Power Station
1. Debswana Diamond Company
Debswana is a joint venture between the Government of Botswana and De Beers Group. It is the largest diamond mining company in Botswana and has been the primary driver of the country's economic growth since independence.
Founded: 1969
Ownership: 50% Government of Botswana, 50% De Beers Group
Production: Approximately 24 million carats of diamonds annually
These companies represent the backbone of Botswana's economy, showcasing the country's success in various sectors including mining, finance, telecommunications, and tourism. Their continued growth and success play a crucial role in Botswana's economic development and its position as one of Africa's most stable and prosperous nations.
