Business Botswana Urges Practical Reforms to Unlock Economic Growth

Business Botswana Urges Practical Reforms to Unlock Economic GGrowth. Business Botswana President Neo Nwako has called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, alongside practical reforms to create conditions for businesses to expand and generate employment.

Nwako made the call while delivering remarks at the official opening of Day Two of the 18th National Business Conference 2026 in Francistown.

He said the conference provided an opportunity for the business community to engage political leadership on measures needed to accelerate economic transformation.

Nwako noted that this was the first National Business Conference under the new government. He also highlighted engagement mechanisms such as the Presidential Business Roundtable, which brings government and business leaders together every six months to discuss economic issues.

According to Nwako, businesses require supportive policies, efficient public services and an improved ease of doing business to expand operations, diversify revenue streams and create jobs.

He argued that a private sector-led economy requires government to create conditions that enable businesses to grow rather than compete with or crowd out private enterprises.

Nwako pointed to existing public-private partnership models and private sector developments in Botswana as examples of initiatives that could be replicated to support economic development.

He also raised concerns about delays in government systems, including the renewal of licences and permits. He contrasted these processes with digital services provided by private institutions, which he cited as examples of more efficient service delivery.

Nwako urged delegates at the conference to focus their discussions on practical solutions that can support economic diversification, investment and employment creation.

He said the private sector was ready to contribute to Botswana’s development if the necessary conditions were in place.

The comments place collaboration between government and business, regulatory efficiency and practical reforms at the centre of discussions at the 2026 National Business Conference.