Publication

Promoting SME competitiveness in Botswana: A bottom-up approach to economic diversification

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Botswana are engines of job creation with significant potential to foster economic diversification.

Drawing on data from the SME Competitiveness Survey, this report shows that improved access to skilled labour has strengthened Botswana companies, especially in services. However, very low rates of certification to international standards, and infrastructure shortfalls, prevent many firms from going global. Young entrepreneurs often struggle to grow, and could benefit from management and accountancy training. With most firms perceiving major environmental risks and 40% investing to reduce their environmental footprint, Botswana SMEs are at the frontier of the green economy.