- Tsaone Segaetsho
Taking over the reigns from the retired and long-serving Chief Executive Officer, Norman Moleele, Business Botswana’s new head, Boitumelo Mbaakanyi affirmed her intention to usher in a new era for the organisation as it looks toward 2026 and beyond.
The new Business Botswana CEO stated that she intends to drive meaningful policy reforms, ensuring that Business Botswana continues to serve as a catalyst for competitiveness, investment, and sustainable growth.
“I will also look into positioning Botswana as a regional force in trade and enterprise. I will also work on enhancing business facilitation for our members, and pursuing new partnerships and opportunities that drive value,” Mbaakanyi said following her appointment.
She emphasised that Business Botswana must step into the future grounded in partnership, united in purpose, and confident in its collective capabilities.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I wish to express my deep appreciation for the trust placed in me as the incoming CEO of Business Botswana. I am grounded by the insight gained through my years serving on the Board of Business Botswana and being the President of an association (WIBA). That experience has given me a clear understanding of our members’ aspirations, the organisation’s strategic priorities, and the immense potential that exists within our private sector,” she said during the Business Botswana Annual Gala Dinner.
Mbaakanyi reiterated her commitment to ensuring that Business Botswana remains a strong, credible, and proactive voice for the private sector.
“This role is both an honour and a responsibility I take seriously. I stand ready to serve, to listen, and to work closely with all our stakeholders as we accelerate the work ahead,” she added.
During the Gala Dinner, Mbaakanyi expressed her appreciation to Business Botswana members for their confidence, resilience, and continued investment in the country’s economic growth and transformation journey.
“Everything we do at Business Botswana is built around your needs, your challenges, and your ambitions,” she said.
Mbaakanyi succeeds Moleele, who founded the iconic Northern Trade Fair, and although she assumes a role with a significant legacy, speakers at the event noted that she is well positioned for the task, having served on the organisation’s board and led several major institutions.
