Francistown, Botswana — On 13 February 2026, Access Bank Botswana, in collaboration with Andersen and Kgori Capital, hosted the 2026/2027 Botswana Budget Speech Review at Cresta Marang Hotel. Held under the theme "Advancing Inclusive and Sustainable Prosperity," the event brought together business leaders, financial experts, and policymakers to discuss key budget highlights and their implications for Botswana's economic landscape.
Opening the event, Mr Sheperd Aisam, Managing Director of Access Bank Botswana, emphasised the role of financial institutions in supporting national development. "The 2026/27 National Budget is more than a fiscal instrument; it is a strategic mandate for the financial sector," he noted, highlighting five key areas of optimism, including SMME financing with P1.31 billion allocation, export-led trade finance with citrus exports growing 390% in a single season, and infrastructure project financing totalling P23.38 billion. "When necessity sharpens policy, when fiscal discipline is no longer a choice but a condition of survival, the private sector finally inherits its proper role," he stated, stressing the importance of collaboration between banks and government to ensure economic policies lead to tangible benefits.
The discussions continued with Craig Granville, CEO Andersen, who unpacked the tax implications of the budget. He highlighted the importance of understanding tax adjustments, especially for businesses and individuals navigating the changing financial landscape. "We are seeing the largest tax reforms ever in Botswana, with a new 27.5% tax band for annual income above P400,000 and corporate tax increases of 3% across sectors," he said, encouraging business owners to take a proactive approach in planning their financial strategies. He noted that four major pieces of tax legislation will be presented to the National Assembly in February 2026, with implementation expected from 1 July 2026.
The event also welcomed Honourable Thapelo S. Mosenya, who spoke about the budget's impact on the city and the importance of local government in ensuring economic policies benefit communities. He expressed appreciation to Access Bank Botswana for choosing Francistown as the host city for this critical discussion. "Local governance is strengthened when national policies take community development into account, and I am grateful to Access Bank for bringing this important dialogue to Francistown," he said, highlighting key projects including the Tati Nickel Mine reopening, the Francistown-Nata road reconstruction, and the North-West Transmission Grid Phase II. "We are working to unlock new tourism potential and broaden the foundation of our local economy."
The event featured a distinguished panel discussion titled "A Budget for Inclusive and Sustainable Prosperity," moderated by Kgori Capital Development Manager Mr. Tiro Howard, and brought together esteemed panelists including Francistown City Council Principal Economist Mr. Mmolotsi Katlholo, Business Botswana Vice President North Mr. Humphrey Nawa, Security Services representative Mr. Gaisi Khama, and Borolong Filling Station Managing Director Mrs. Makovore, who collectively offered diverse and expert perspectives on the national budget.
In her closing remarks, Mrs Maipelo Mzizi, Francistown Branch Manager at Access Bank Botswana, reinforced the bank's commitment to supporting local businesses. "Access Bank continues to support local businesses through financial solutions designed to meet changing needs," she stated, highlighting the bank's presence in 25 countries, including 16 African nations. "When reform is called for, we move forward together—informed, aligned and intentional," she said, inviting stakeholders to leverage Access Bank's global network to scale regionally.
Access Bank Botswana recognises the vital role of the banking sector in shaping the country's economic future. The insights from the 2026/2027 Budget Speech provide a valuable roadmap for businesses and financial institutions alike, highlighting key areas for growth and investment, including the 186 BETP projects representing P514 billion in investment potential now positioned for private financing. By working closely with businesses, providing tailored financial solutions, and promoting financial awareness, the bank strives to create real opportunities for progress. Through meaningful partnerships and a deep understanding of Botswana's evolving economic landscape, Access Bank remains dedicated to empowering individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive.
For more information, please contact:
Lame Madiba
Marketing Communication Manager
Access Bank Botswana
madibal@accessbankplc.com
+267 72301550
Duduetsang Chappelle-Molloy
Head, Marketing, Brand and Communications
Access Bank Botswana
Chappelle-molloyd@accessbankplc.com
+267 77607759