Francistown, Botswana – FNB Botswana has reaffirmed its commitment to Botswana’s economic transformation through its strategic partnership and participation in the 18th National Business Conference (NBC), taking place from Sunday 18 October to Wednesday 21 October2026 in Francistown.
Hosted by Business Botswana in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship and FNB Botswana , the conference convenes business leaders, government, investors, entrepreneurs and development partners under the theme “From Dialogue to Delivery: Business Driving Economic Transformation.” The gathering seeks to translate policy discussions into practical action, strengthen partnerships, unlock investment opportunities and accelerate private-sector-led economic growth.
As a conference partner, FNB Botswana believes platforms such as the National Business Conference play a critical role in shaping Botswana’s economic future by bringing together decision-makers and industry leaders to identify solutions that stimulate enterprise development, attract investment and create sustainable employment opportunities.
FNB Botswana Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr Mbako Mbo, said Botswana’s next phase of economic growth will depend on the country’s ability to convert ideas into action and build an environment where businesses can innovate, scale and compete.
“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. The National Business Conference provides an important platform for government, business and development partners to align around solutions that will unlock investment, strengthen entrepreneurship and accelerate economic activity.”
Dr Mbo said the conference theme is particularly relevant as Botswana seeks to deepen economic diversification and strengthen 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. As FNB Botswana, we are committed to facilitating the ecosystem that enables businesses to succeed because business growth ultimately translates into economic growth.”
The conference’s return to Francistown presents an opportunity to spotlight the city’s strategic role as a commercial and industrial hub and its potential to drive regional investment, trade and entrepreneurship.
As part of the conference programme, Dr Mbo will participate in a high-level panel discussion titled “Building an Impactful Financial Ecosystem for Entrepreneurs,”where industry leaders will explore how financial institutions, policymakers and ecosystem partners can move beyond access to finance and advance financial empowerment through innovation, digital finance and inclusive growth.
According to Dr Mbo, building successful entrepreneurial ecosystems requires coordinated effort and a shared vision among all stakeholders.
“Access to finance remains important, but entrepreneurs also need the right support structures, networks, knowledge and growth opportunities. 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.”
As FNB Botswana celebrates 35 Years of Help, the Bank continues to play an active role in supporting entrepreneurship, investment and enterprise development through solutions and partnerships that contribute to shared prosperity.
The Bank’s participation in the National Business Conference reflects its ongoing commitment to partnering with government, business and communities to help create an economy that is more diversified, inclusive and positioned for sustainable growth.
