Repositioning Botswana as Africa’s Investment Hub: A Decade of Growth by BITC. The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) has become a cornerstone of the country’s drive to attract investments, promote exports, and strengthen the national brand. Established in 2012, BITC has spent over a decade spearheading initiatives to position Botswana as a globally recognized trade and investment destination.
BITC has achieved remarkable milestones, including growing domestic investments from P362 million in 2015 to P3.58 billion in 2024, while foreign direct investments (FDI) rose by 357% over the decade. This success stems from its innovative strategies, such as profiling growth sectors, offering investor incentives, and launching the Botswana One Stop Service Centre (BOSSC), which streamlines business approvals.
To boost Botswana’s global appeal, BITC has harnessed its Nation Branding initiatives. The #PushaBW campaign promotes local products and services, increasing domestic consumption while showcasing Botswana-made goods internationally. From retailer collaborations to a dedicated store at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, BITC has amplified visibility for local entrepreneurs.
Despite global headwinds, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuating economic conditions, BITC has demonstrated resilience. In 2023/24, it exceeded targets, securing P2.49 billion in FDI and creating over 6,600 jobs. Its strategic focus includes greenfield investments in priority sectors like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
BITC’s success highlights the value of research-driven strategies, strong stakeholder engagement, and agile adaptation to global trends. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from the organization’s ability to align national goals with investor interests, prioritize innovation, and champion local businesses.
With its robust efforts, BITC continues to shape Botswana’s transformation into a premier investment hub, attracting global attention while fostering sustainable growth for its people.
