05 Dec 2023

Embracing innovation, collaboration and digital transformation by districts can help unlock their potential and contribute to economic growth and prosperity.

Speaking during a joint District Cluster Exposition for wealth creation programme, formerly known as Poverty Eradication Programme held under the theme: Exploring Possibilities of Trade in the Changing World as an SMME, Ministry of Entrepreneurship’s  Chief Programmes Officer, Ms Lesego Sepato, said it was important to work together to ensure none of the citizens lived in poverty.

Poverty issues, she said, were complex. Government, private sector and other stakeholders should work as a unit to explore all possibilities and build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem to create wealth for all Batswana.

The expo attracted districts such as Maun, Okavango, Boteti, Charleshill, Chobe, Ghanzi and Hukuntsi under one roof, to provide a marketing platform for exhibitors funded through the programme.
One of the key strategies for SMMEs to thrive is to break down silos and work as unit under a joint approach hence we have started by bringing districts together under one roof, pooling resources and sharing expertise to create a more cohesive and impactful trading force.

Ms Sepato said moving away from the individual district approach, they could leverage their collective strengths and expand their reach into new markets.

She also motivated SMMEs to network, actively seek opportunities and learn from each other’s experiences through workshops, conferences and mentorship programmes.

By networking, she said, they could collectively elevate their businesses and reach higher levels of success because in today’s competitive business landscape, innovation was the key to success.

“As SMMEs, you must continuously develop new products, services and processes to stay ahead of the curve and meet the ever-changing needs of their customers. This required a commitment to research and develop a willingness to experiment and a culture of creativity,” she added.

Ms Sepato said in today’s globalized economy, it was essential for SMMEs to venture beyond the local market and explore new opportunities beyond borders because exposure to different markets would not only increase their customer base but also allow them to gain valuable insights into emerging trends and customer preference.

She  emphasised the importance of modernizing selling process through internet citing that digital revolution was not just about adopting technology but also about transforming the way they think, operate and connect with customers.

SMMEs, she said must embrace the change to stay competitive and relevant noting that by integrating digital tools into their businesses, embracing e-commerce and using online platforms, they could streamline operations and improve customer service.

Ms Sepato said producing high quality products that met international standards, could position Botswana as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Government has been and continues to play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for SMMEs to thrive and that includes providing access to financing, training and mentorship programmes, and creating a conducive regulatory framework. She  reckoned that by working together, government and SMMEs could create a synergetic partnership that drove economic growth and job creation.

“Government also facilitates market access by negotiating trade agreements, promoting Botswana products and services abroad, and supporting SMMEs in participating in trade fairs and export promotion programmes,” she said. “As SMMEs, you just need to take advantage of availed opportunities.” Ends