Global Venture Partners (GVP), a Dubai-based investment and media group, has entered a landmark strategic partnership with the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) that is expected to inject approximately P163 million in media value to boost Botswana’s international visibility and economic diversification.
As part of the deal, GVP will establish its African headquarters in Botswana and introduce globally recognised media brands such as Billboard Africa, Rolling Stone MENA, and Robb Report Africa to the country. The move is backed by GVP’s partnership with Penske Media Corporation, a U.S.-based media conglomerate that owns iconic titles including Variety, W Magazine, and Rolling Stone.
GVP Managing Director Joshua Wilson described Botswana as a gateway to Africa, noting the country’s stable and transparent business environment. “After attending and speaking at the Forbes event in Botswana last year, I was struck by the country’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, its exceptional resource management, and its focus on fostering a secure, prosperous future for its citizens,” Wilson said.
The partnership aligns with GVP’s pan-African investment strategy, which includes active projects in Rwanda and Ghana in financial services and infrastructure, and a creative sector push in South Africa. The firm is also eyeing opportunities in Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania and other major markets across the continent.
“This collaboration is a turning point,” Wilson said. “Botswana is underappreciated for its extraordinary accomplishments. We are proud to partner with the country to amplify its voice on the global stage.”
The partnership supports President Advocate Duma Boko’s vision to diversify Botswana’s economy beyond minerals and promote ethical governance and sustainability. GVP says its entry will provide direct value in four areas:
- Media expansion: Boosting Botswana’s global image as an investment and tourism destination through premium media coverage.
- Infrastructure development: Supporting projects in residential and commercial real estate, energy, and large-scale arena developments.
- Banking and finance: Enhancing financial innovation and cross-border trade through GVP’s financial sector investments.
- Research and analytics: Expanding data capabilities to provide investment insights and guide development efforts.
Trade and Entrepreneurship Minister Tiroyaone Ntsima welcomed the partnership as a significant leap forward for Botswana’s global visibility.
“For the first time, Botswana will be featured in key global media spaces,” Ntsima said. “This will enhance our ability to promote investment, grow tourism, and build the creative sector. We are confident that BITC, through the Brand Botswana initiative, will help deliver the full benefit of this partnership.”
Global Venture Partners (GVP) is an international investment and media group focused on economic growth across Africa and the MENA region. With a diversified portfolio in media, banking, infrastructure, and energy, GVP partners with Penske Media Corporation to expand iconic brands across the continent.
Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) is the country’s investment promotion agency, responsible for attracting foreign and domestic investment, facilitating export growth, and managing the Brand Botswana initiative to promote the nation’s image globally.
Penske Media Corporation (PMC) is a global media and entertainment company headquartered in the U.S., known for its digital and print platforms that span entertainment, fashion, business, and luxury industries. Its brands reach millions of readers worldwide.
