BSB wins international award for digital transformation
Kingsley Kuda | Monday November 9, 2026 09:30
The award ceremony was held in Bangkok, Thailand, on October 16, recognising the bank’s efforts to modernise financial services, expand financial inclusion and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. BSB Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Wabo Kagiso Moswate, received the award on behalf of the bank and described the achievement as a source of national pride, demonstrating Botswana’s capacity to develop institutions that can compete internationally. “This is more than an award for Botswana Savings Bank. It is a proud moment for our country and a powerful demonstration that institutions built and developed in Botswana can innovate, transform and earn recognition on the global stage,” Moswate said.
Established in 1963, three years before Botswana attained independence, BSB has evolved from a traditional savings institution into a digitally enabled bank, with investments aimed at improving customer access and the delivery of financial services. Under its previous corporate strategy, the bank expanded its branch network from four to 11 branches and increased its automated teller machine (ATM) footprint. It also established an agency banking network comprising 97 agents. These developments were complemented by the introduction of mobile and internet banking, digital wallet services, electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) onboarding and instant card issuance. Moswate said the bank’s investment in technology was driven by a broader objective of improving financial accessibility and creating economic opportunities for Batswana. “Technology must serve a greater purpose than simply modernising banking systems.
It must remove barriers, expand opportunities and empower people,” he said. He added that the bank aimed to translate technological innovation into improved customer experiences and greater participation in the economy. The recognition comes at a time when financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and economic diversification remain important priorities for Botswana. Through alternative banking channels and digital solutions, BSB seeks to extend access to formal financial services, particularly for underserved communities, emerging entrepreneurs and small businesses.
The WSBI-ESBG is an international banking association that brings together savings and retail banking institutions committed to financial inclusion, responsible banking and sustainable economic development. Its Sustainable Development Goals Awards recognise member institutions making notable contributions towards global development priorities. BSB’s achievement reflects its efforts to modernise its banking infrastructure and integrate technology into service delivery. Moswate attributed the award to the collective efforts of the bank’s employees, the strategic guidance of its board, support from Government as its sole shareholder, and the continued confidence of its customers. The bank is now implementing its new corporate strategy, Pinagare 2029, which seeks to position BSB as the bank customers rely on most. The strategy aims to move the institution beyond traditional savings and lending services towards becoming an integral part of customers’ everyday financial lives. Moswate said the international recognition should serve as motivation for further progress rather than an end in itself.
“The true measure of our success will not be the awards we receive, but the lives we improve, the businesses we empower and the contribution we make to Botswana’s economic future,” he said. The award comes as Botswana marks 60 years of independence, highlighting the potential of local institutions to innovate and gain recognition on the international stage. BSB is also expected to feature in the forthcoming WSBI-ESBG Sustainable Development Goals Report, which will provide further international visibility for the bank’s initiatives.