Re Godisa Podcast Spotlights Botswana Trade Portal’s Role in Digitalising Trade

Re Godisa Podcast Spotlights Botswana Trade Portal’s Role in Digitalising Trade. Episode 6 of the Re Godisa Botswana podcast highlights how digital innovation is reshaping trade in Botswana, with a focused discussion on the theme “Simplifying Trade Through Technology.” The episode features Mr. Mogakolodi Olefile, Manager of the Botswana Trade Portal under the Export Promotion & Development division at the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC).

Launched in 2016, the Botswana Trade Portal is a central online platform designed to streamline trade-related processes, reduce administrative barriers, and improve transparency. In his conversation with the podcast team, Mr. Olefile traces the origin and development of the portal, highlighting its growing impact on local traders, exporters, and policymakers.

The platform provides access to regulatory requirements, trade-related laws, forms, and procedures—helping businesses, particularly SMEs, comply more easily with trade regulations. Mr. Olefile also explains how features like the Trade Facilitation Enquiry Point and the Focal Persons Committee play a vital role in supporting users and maintaining inter-agency collaboration.

Of particular interest to Botswana’s entrepreneurs and exporters is the platform’s role in connecting local businesses to regional and international market opportunities. With over 40,000 users recorded during 2023–24, the Botswana Trade Portal continues to demonstrate the value of technology in enabling greater economic participation.

Mr. Olefile emphasised how ongoing user feedback is shaping the evolution of the portal, ensuring it remains relevant and user-friendly for the business community.

The episode is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and trade professionals interested in understanding how digital tools are transforming trade in Botswana.