FNB Botswana and RMB Push Stronger SME Financing Partnerships

FNB Botswana and RMB Push Stronger SME Financing PPartnerships. Access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) was a key focus at the National Business Conference 2026, where FNB Botswana and RMB highlighted the role of partnerships and tailored funding in supporting businesses.

During a panel discussion on SME financing, Dr Mbako Mbo, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said businesses require a coordinated financial ecosystem that can respond to their needs at different stages of development.

Mbo said deliberate partnerships and tailored funding solutions were important in helping SMEs establish, expand and build sustainable operations.

The discussion placed financing access within the broader needs of businesses as they progress through different stages of development. It also highlighted the role that financial institutions can play in creating funding solutions aligned with the circumstances of individual businesses.

Resego Keipidile, FNB Botswana’s Business Development Lead for Strategic Partnerships, focused on sustainable finance and its potential role in raising investment capital in Botswana.

Keipidile highlighted FNB Botswana’s efforts to direct funding towards green and social projects, while expanding sustainable lending and attracting investment through strategic partnerships. Sustainable finance formed part of the wider discussion around improving access to capital and supporting businesses that contribute to economic development.

FNB Botswana and RMB, the Corporate Investment Banking division of First National Bank of Botswana, said collaboration remains central to strengthening access to finance for SMEs.

The institutions said partnerships can support the development of sustainable businesses while contributing to Botswana’s longer-term economic growth. The focus on SME financing comes as businesses continue to require funding to establish operations, expand existing activities and develop sustainable enterprises.

The panel discussion at the National Business Conference provided an opportunity to examine the different approaches needed to support businesses at various stages, including tailored financing and partnerships between financial institutions and other stakeholders.

FNB Botswana and RMB said their collaboration reflects the importance of a coordinated approach to financing and sustainable investment.

The discussion also connected SME funding with broader sustainable finance initiatives, including green and social projects.