Her perfumed, hygienic wash that was designed to meet the demands of modern households and businesses is already making waves in Botswana’s personal and household care sector. She explains that the idea for the business came from a dream, highlighting the personal vision and determination that had driven the project from concept to market. "I used to be a housewife until one day I had this dream of making a washing powder. I approached my sister to finance my idea, and she agreed, (and then) bought the machinery," Golekanye tells Business Monitor. The businesswoman says the washing powder, which was launched in February this year, is a culmination of a year-and-a-half-long research and development process, including securing necessary clearances from South Africa. The product, suitable for both hand and machine washing, restores whiteness to clothes, brightens dark fabrics without causing them to fade, and removes soil in as little as 15 to 20 minutes.
Her company sources raw materials from Botswana and South Africa and focuses primarily on manufacturing the product from scratch. Current production stands at 500 units per day, with the potential to double the output to 1,000 units with additional labour. All production machines are owned by the company, purchased with financing provided by the owner’s sister. The business currently employs four staff members, who assist in production, marketing, and distribution. According to Golekanye, marketing efforts are a combination of door-to-door sales and online promotion, allowing the company to reach individual households as well as institutional clients. The washing powder has gained traction in the hospitality sector, including key hoteliers, amongst them Cresta Hotel, small tuck shops, and health facilities like hospitals. For hospital clients, the entrepreneur adds special ingredients to meet stricter hygiene requirements, demonstrating adaptability and attention to client needs. By combining effective cleaning, fabric care, and a pleasant fragrance, Golekanye’s product has positioned itself as a versatile option for a wide range of clients. "Unlike our competitor, our product removes stains, is perfumed, has Sta Soft, and has anti-soil redeposition, "she says.
