Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, is fast becoming a vibrant hub for innovation, thanks to a growing wave of youth-owned tech startups. Driven by digital transformation and supported by government and private-sector initiatives, young entrepreneurs in Gaborone are building solutions that not only solve local challenges but also compete on the global stage. These startups are reshaping Botswana’s economy, creating jobs, and inspiring a new generation of tech-savvy leaders. Here are a few case studies highlighting the impact and potential of youth-owned tech ventures in Gaborone.
Brastorne Enterprises
Founded by Martin Stimela and a team of young innovators, Brastorne Enterprises is revolutionizing digital inclusion for underserved communities. Their flagship product, mAgri, is a mobile platform that connects farmers to markets, information, and financial services—using basic mobile phones. With over a million users in Botswana and other African countries, Brastorne’s solutions are bridging the digital divide and empowering rural youth. Their success demonstrates how technology can be harnessed to drive agricultural development and economic inclusion.
Xhuma Africa
Xhuma Africa is a youth-led startup that focuses on smart logistics and digital finance solutions. Co-founded by Kabelo Mokgalabone, the startup developed a platform that helps informal traders and small businesses manage inventory, track sales, and access mobile payment systems. By simplifying commerce for the informal sector, Xhuma is enabling young entrepreneurs to grow sustainable businesses using technology. Their innovation won regional recognition and continues to scale in both urban and rural communities.
Modisar
Modisar is an award-winning livestock farm management software developed by a young team led by Nchafatso Obonyo. The platform allows farmers to digitally record data related to livestock health, feeding, breeding, and finances. Modisar addresses a real need in Botswana, where farming is a key economic activity. By making farm management smarter and more efficient, this tech startup is transforming traditional agriculture through youth-led innovation.
Social Light
Social Light, founded by Lerato Modiega, is a digital marketing agency and creative tech firm that supports local brands in establishing a strong online presence. The startup offers services in branding, web design, digital campaigns, and content creation. As the demand for digital skills and services grows, Social Light is empowering young Batswana creatives to compete in the digital economy while helping businesses adapt to a fast-changing market.
These Hands GSSE
Although a bit broader in scope, These Hands Global Social & Sustainable Enterprise (GSSE) is a youth-driven initiative that helps young innovators across Botswana prototype and build tech-based solutions using local materials. With its base in Gaborone, the organization runs innovation labs where young minds collaborate to solve problems in education, agriculture, and health. Many of these innovators go on to create startups or contribute to existing ones, fueling the ecosystem from the grassroots up.
The rise of youth-owned tech startups in Botswana’s Gaborone reflects a broader shift toward digital entrepreneurship on the continent. With access to innovation hubs like Botswana Innovation Hub, support from government programs such as LEA and CEDA, and growing interest from private investors, young tech founders are seizing the moment to build, scale, and innovate.
These case studies showcase what is possible when youth are empowered with the right tools, mentorship, and platforms. As Botswana continues to embrace digital transformation, the youth-led startup scene in Gaborone is poised to play a leading role in shaping the country’s tech future.
