Business Botswana Targets Investment Deals and Measurable Outcomes at 2026 Conference

Business Botswana Targets Investment Deals and Measurable Outcomes at 2026 CConference. Business Botswana will host its 18th National Business Conference (NBC) in Francistown from 18 to 21 October 2026, with a focus on converting discussions between businesses, government and investors into practical economic opportunities.

The conference will operate under the theme “From Dialogue to Delivery: Business Driving Economic Transformation”, reflecting the organisation’s emphasis on implementation, partnerships and private-sector participation in Botswana’s economic development.

Speaking at a media briefing at Cresta Lodge, Business Botswana president Neo Nwako said the conference remained an important platform for engagement between the private sector, government and other stakeholders as the country seeks to diversify its economy and identify investment opportunities.

Chief executive officer Tumi Mbaakanyi said this year’s programme would include business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) engagements, a CEO Forum, strategic networking and sector-specific discussions.

The aim is to connect businesses with decision-makers and potential partners while identifying opportunities that can progress beyond the conference.

Key sessions will include “The Beautiful Botswana Diamond Story: The Future Beyond” and discussions on multi-sectoral resolutions emerging from stakeholder engagements held during 2026.

The programme will also feature the signing of strategic memoranda of understanding (MoUs), providing a platform for partnerships and commitments arising from the discussions.

Mbaakanyi said the emphasis would be on identifying opportunities, determining the stakeholders required to advance them and establishing practical next steps, rather than focusing exclusively on business challenges.

Networking activities will include a golf day on Sunday, followed by a cultural and networking experience at Kuminda Farm under the theme “Dinner Under the Stars”.

Debswana will host a gala dinner on Monday evening, while KBL will conclude the executive networking programme with a cocktail event on Tuesday.

Francistown’s selection also carries historical significance, as the city hosted the inaugural National Business Conference in 1988. The event provides an opportunity to highlight the city’s commercial and investment potential beyond Gaborone.

Taking place after Botswana’s 60th Independence anniversary, the conference will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers to discuss the country’s economic future.