Empretec is a training and motivational programme intended to encourage entrepreneurship in developing countries. Supported by UNCTAD, Empretec centres now operate in 32 developing nations, and have trained over 150,000 aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Empretec programme began in 1988. The competition is run by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)while locally it is facilitated by Enterprise Botswana. Extramile Express offers customs-clearance services for rail, sea, road and airfreight at major border posts around Botswana. It also provides warehousing, distribution, and messenger-delivery services. " The firm responded to an increasing need for effective customs clearance brought about by globalisation. It competes directly with existing companies, differentiating itself through the quality of its staff and services," Simakane said. Enterprise Botswana managing director Dennis Maswabi said entrepreneurs nominated for the second Empretec Woman in Business Award 2010 have established or expanded successful companies in a challenging business environment. "These are women in unexploited market, have created employment opportunities and the companies' outreach and uniqueness of service exceptional," Maswabi said.
