Business Botswana engages with Minister of Finance Honourable Mr. Ndaba Gaolathe. Business Botswana’s leadership team, including Vice President South, Mr. Odirile Merafhe, CEO, Mr. Norman Moleele, and Head of Policy and Research, Mr. Mpaphi Tsholofelo, yesterday paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Finance, Honourable Ndaba N. Gaolathe.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Moleele congratulated Minister Gaolathe on his appointment and emphasised Business Botswana’s unwavering commitment to supporting the government’s initiatives. He highlighted the importance of research-based policy as a key component of a thriving business environment.
Mr. Merafhe took the opportunity to inform the Minister of Business Botswana’s five-year strategic plan, which aims to enhance stakeholder engagement including strengthening the Public-Private Dialogue, and evidence-based policy amongst others. One of the key priorities for the sector was the resuscitation of engagement structures, such as the Ministerial Tax Committee and the Finance Sub High-Level Consultative Council (SHLCC). These platforms, he noted, were critical in addressing barriers to growth in the private sector and ensuring that businesses can contribute meaningfully to Botswana’s economic development.
Additionally, Mr. Merafhe shared that Business Botswana has made proposals on the draft Pula Code of Corporate Governance, and Public Interest Entity (PIE). He assured the Minister that a summary of the proposals and other issues would be shared for further consideration and further engagement. He reiterated Business Botswana’s readiness to support the government through its advocacy and lobbying efforts.
Mr. Tsholofelo also spoke about Business Botswana’s anticipation of the Minister’s maiden budget speech, scheduled for February 10th, 2025. He noted that the organisation has been in ongoing consultations with the Ministry of Finance, demonstrating its commitment to collaborative efforts that benefit both the public and private sectors.
In response, Minister Gaolathe expressed his appreciation for Business Botswana’s continuous support. He acknowledged the valuable insights shared by the organisation through its interactions with the government and reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with Business Botswana. He emphasised that the Ministry of Finance would continue to engage with the private sector to ensure that Botswana’s business environment remains conducive to growth and success.
