FRANCISTOWN – FNB Botswana has reaffirmed its commitment to private sector-led economic growth and diversification through its partnership and participation in the 18th National Business Conference (NBC), currently underway in Francistown.

The conference, hosted by Business Botswana in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship and FNB Botswana, brings together business leaders, government officials, investors, entrepreneurs and development partners under the theme, “From Dialogue to Delivery: Business Driving Economic Transformation.”

The four-day event aims to strengthen public-private sector collaboration, unlock investment opportunities and develop practical solutions to accelerate Botswana’s economic transformation.

Speaking ahead of the conference, FNB Botswana Deputy Chief Executive Officer Dr Mbako Mbo said the country’s next phase of economic growth will depend on its ability to move beyond discussion and implement actionable solutions that support enterprise development.

“Economic transformation requires more than dialogue. It requires deliberate collaboration, practical interventions and a shared commitment to creating opportunities for businesses to grow and succeed,” said Dr Mbo.

He said the conference provides an important platform for government, business and development partners to align around strategies that can boost investment, strengthen entrepreneurship and stimulate economic activity.

Dr Mbo added that the conference theme comes at a time when Botswana is seeking to deepen economic diversification and increase the contribution of the private sector to national development.

“A thriving private sector is fundamental to a resilient economy. When entrepreneurs and businesses have access to markets, capital, digital solutions and the right enabling environment, they create jobs, drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to national prosperity,” he said.

According to Dr Mbo, FNB Botswana remains committed to supporting businesses through financial solutions, partnerships and initiatives designed to foster sustainable growth.

The conference also places a spotlight on Francistown’s role as a key commercial and industrial centre, with discussions expected to focus on how the city can attract greater investment, trade and entrepreneurial activity.

As part of the programme, Dr Mbo is expected to participate in a high-level panel discussion titled “Building an Impactful Financial Ecosystem for Entrepreneurs,” where industry leaders will explore ways to strengthen financial inclusion, innovation and support structures for entrepreneurs.

He said access to finance alone is not enough to ensure entrepreneurial success, stressing the need for stronger networks, knowledge-sharing platforms and business support systems.

“By working together across sectors, we can build an ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to scale sustainable businesses, create employment and contribute to Botswana’s long-term competitiveness,” he said.

FNB Botswana said its involvement in the National Business Conference aligns with its broader strategy of supporting entrepreneurship, investment and enterprise development as the bank marks 35 years of operation in Botswana.

The bank said it will continue working with government, business and communities to help build a more diversified, inclusive and sustainable economy.