FNB Botswana Showcases FirstPreneurs Driving Innovation in Local Manufacturing

FNB Botswana Showcases FirstPreneurs Driving Innovation in Local Manufacturing. FNB Botswana, in collaboration with The Neo Hub, is celebrating a new wave of entrepreneurs transforming Botswana’s manufacturing and fabrication landscape through the FirstPreneur Development Programme. The spotlight is now on FirstPreneurs in the specialised manufacturing and fabrication sector—visionaries who are converting raw materials into high-quality, locally made products.

These entrepreneurs represent a growing movement that is not only generating employment but also proving that Botswana has the capability to produce competitive products across diverse industries.

Featured FirstPreneurs:

• Oratile Mathews Wetshootsile (Fasteners Hub) – Based in Gaborone, Fasteners Hub manufactures mild steel round nails, addressing demand in the local hardware and construction sector.
• Ada Thelma Thela (Zoe Diamonds) – A leader in diamond manufacturing and rough trading, adding value to one of Botswana’s most iconic resources.
• Nigel Gilbert (Afriolis) – Operating from Selebi Phikwe, Afriolis produces sustainable sunflower oil, tapping into the health and agri-processing market.
• Kgalalelo Machacha (Southoak Medical) – Suppliers of medical uniforms and PPE, meeting rising needs in the healthcare sector.
• Posters Lebala (Maken Panel Beaters) – Specialists in auto body repair, spray painting, and automotive electronics.
• Modisaotsile Samson Tshuma (General Trade & Manufacturing Supplies) – Manufacturers of gates, trellidors, mobile kitchens, and cabins.

FNB Botswana reaffirmed its commitment to supporting these entrepreneurs through mentorship, funding opportunities, and business development tools. “These FirstPreneurs are not just building businesses—they’re helping shape a more self-sufficient and industrially capable Botswana,” the bank noted.

The initiative reflects a larger effort to support local production, drive value addition, and strengthen Botswana’s economic resilience through manufacturing.