NBC 2026: From Dialogue to Delivery
Lesang Maswabi | Monday October 12, 2026 09:12
Representing Business Botswana President Neo Nwako, Head of Policy and Research Mpaphi Tsholofelo reaffirmed the conference’s role as a platform for constructive engagement between government and the private sector.
He said Botswana’s changing economic landscape demands fresh thinking on investment, technology, skills and competitiveness, with business remaining central to economic transformation. Following the country’s 60th Independence anniversary, he added, the conference presents an opportunity to reflect on national progress and chart a more diversified economic future.
Tsholofelo also emphasised the media’s role in bringing critical business issues, including the cost of doing business, regulation and job creation, to the public, while thanking government, sponsors and organisers for their support.
Organising Committee Chairperson Shyam Harith said this year’s theme, “From Dialogue to Delivery: Business Driving Economic Transformation,” underscores the need to translate discussions into practical outcomes.
A new tripartite co-chairing structure brings together Presidential Affairs Permanent Secretary Matshidiso Bokole, Debswana Head of Strategy and Corporate Affairs Wanatsha Moakufi, and Harith. He said the arrangement reflects the collaboration required between government and business to achieve meaningful economic progress.
Organised by Business Botswana in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Debswana and First National Bank Botswana (FNBB), the conference will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, government officials and industry representatives. Harith said success would be measured not by attendance alone, but by the quality of engagement and lasting partnerships established.
He also highlighted Francistown’s historic connection to the NBC, which it has hosted since 1988, noting that the return would stimulate local economic activity and reinforce the importance of opportunities beyond Gaborone.
Business Botswana Chief Executive Officer Tumi Mbaakanyi outlined a programme designed to move beyond conventional conference discussions towards measurable commitments and commercial opportunities.
The four-day event will feature plenary sessions, a CEO Forum, sector dialogues and business-to-business and business-to-government engagements aimed at connecting companies with decision-makers and investors.
Highlights include “The Beautiful Botswana Diamond Story: The Future Beyond,” the advancement of multi-sectoral resolutions arising from 2026 engagements, and the signing of strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
Networking activities will begin with a golf day and a Dinner under the Stars at Kuminda Farm on Sunday, followed by a Debswana-hosted gala dinner on Monday and a KBL-hosted executive closing cocktail on Tuesday.
Mbaakanyi said returning to Francistown honours the conference’s roots while positioning the city as an important investment hub. She urged delegates to arrive ready to engage, forge partnerships and turn ideas into practical action.
The 18th NBC will bring the business community together under a shared imperative: moving Botswana’s economic transformation from dialogue to delivery.