The Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE), in partnership with Stanbic Bank Botswana and mining giant Debswana, has hosted a landmark conference aimed at highlighting the value proposition of listing on the local bourse. The event brought together captains of industry, institutional investors, financial advisors, and representatives from both public and private sectors to engage in high-level discussions on how listing on the BSE can unlock long-term growth, transparency, and capital access for local and regional businesses.
Held in Gaborone, the conference provided a platform for the BSE to promote itself as a credible and strategic gateway for raising capital in Botswana and the wider African market. The initiative is part of the BSE’s ongoing efforts to attract more domestic companies to the exchange, increase market participation, and diversify listings across various sectors of the economy.
Keynote speeches were delivered by BSE CEO Thapelo Tsheole, Stanbic Bank Botswana CEO Chose Modise, and Debswana’s Acting Managing Director, who each emphasized the strategic importance of capital markets in driving Botswana’s economic transformation. Tsheole noted that listing on the BSE offers significant benefits such as increased brand visibility, access to long-term financing, enhanced corporate governance, and a stronger investor confidence profile.
“Capital markets are not just for large corporations,” Tsheole said. “We are seeing increased interest from SMEs and family-owned businesses looking to scale. This conference is about showing them that the BSE is a vehicle for sustainable growth and wealth creation.”
Chose Modise of Stanbic Bank echoed this sentiment, stating that the bank is committed to supporting businesses at every stage of their listing journey. She added that Stanbic’s investment banking and advisory services are designed to help companies navigate the regulatory landscape and prepare for public offerings.
Debswana’s participation was also highly symbolic, as the company plays a pivotal role in Botswana’s economy. The diamond mining powerhouse reiterated its support for initiatives that broaden the capital base of the country and encourage financial literacy and corporate inclusivity.
The conference also featured panel discussions on practical steps to listing, investor relations, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and post-listing obligations. Participants shared real-world experiences and case studies, making the event a valuable learning opportunity for businesses contemplating a listing.
With growing calls for economic diversification, the BSE’s efforts to broaden its portfolio of listed entities are increasingly important. This conference marks a significant step toward strengthening Botswana’s capital markets and encouraging a culture of investment and public ownership.
As momentum builds, more companies are expected to explore the opportunities that come with a public listing on the BSE, setting the stage for a more dynamic, transparent, and inclusive financial ecosystem in Botswana.
