Vunani Fund Managers has unveiled Botswana’s first global actively managed ETF, giving investors a locally listed vehicle to access international equity markets while navigating the country’s traditionally illiquid investment environment.
Speaking at the Opening Bell Ceremony at the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE), Kopano Bolokwe, Head of Product Development at the BSE, said:
“This ETF adds meaningful depth to Botswana’s investment landscape. It enables investors to access global markets through a locally regulated platform, supporting diversification and long-term portfolio growth.”
Juliana White, Director – Capital Markets at NBFIRA, highlighted the importance of innovation and investor protection:
“Actively managed ETFs provide sophisticated tools for risk management and portfolio optimization. Regulatory oversight ensures these products are transparent and well-structured, giving investors confidence in the market.”
Butana Khoza, Group Executive of Vunani Limited, emphasized the ETF’s impact for everyday investors:
“This product opens doors for local investors to benefit from global market opportunities. It strengthens financial participation, enhances investor choice, and contributes to a more inclusive and competitive investment landscape in Botswana.”
The ETF equips investors-including pension funds and insurance companies, with diversification and hedging capabilities that help manage risk without needing to liquidate assets under pressure. Vunani has committed to ensuring the product is fully transparent, with clear disclosures and robust operational structures designed to function effectively even in low-liquidity environments.
The launch marks a milestone for Botswana’s capital markets, offering a practical, innovative solution for investors while supporting the growth and sophistication of the country’s financial ecosystem. As Thabo Moipolai, Managing Director of Vunani Fund Managers Botswana, concluded:
“By introducing this first-of-its-kind ETF, we are empowering investors and contributing to a stronger, more resilient market for Botswana.”
