Capital:  Gaborone

Languages: English, Setswana

Currency: Pula (BWP)

 

OUR SERVICES;                      

• Consultation (in person, online, phone)
• Helping to prepare your documents
• Start to finish your company registration process
• Immigration services

 

Botswana 

 

Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, has a captivating history, vibrant culture, robust economy, and stable political landscape. From ancient civilizations to colonialism and independence, Botswana’s historical narrative has shaped its identity and contributed to its present-day development.

The history of Botswana dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation in the region since the Stone Age. The Tswana people, who form the majority ethnic group in the country, have a rich history of governance and organized societies. In the 19th century, the arrival of European explorers, traders, and missionaries brought significant changes to the region, leading to the establishment of the British protectorate of Bechuanaland in the late 19th century.

Unlike many other African countries, Botswana managed to avoid colonization by European powers. It peacefully transitioned from a protectorate to an independent nation on September 30, 1966. This achievement can be attributed to the country’s strong traditional leadership, skilled diplomacy, and the foresight of its first President, Sir Seretse Khama.

Botswana’s culture is diverse, reflecting the traditions and customs of its various ethnic groups, including the Tswana, Kalanga, and San communities. The country’s cultural heritage is celebrated through vibrant music, dance, arts and crafts, and storytelling. Traditional music, such as the captivating rhythms of the Kwaito genre, and traditional dances like the Setapa and Tsutsube, continue to thrive in Botswana. The San people, known for their intricate rock art and unique way of life, contribute to the cultural richness of the nation.

Botswana’s economy has experienced remarkable growth and transformation since independence. The country is endowed with significant mineral resources, particularly diamonds, which have played a crucial role in its economic development. Botswana has managed its diamond revenues prudently, implementing policies that prioritize sustainable development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Additionally, the country has made strides in diversifying its economy by promoting sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Politically, Botswana is a multi-party democracy with a stable political system. It has enjoyed a long history of peaceful elections, democratic governance, and respect for the rule of law. The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has been the dominant political party since independence, although opposition parties have gained representation in the National Assembly. The country has a strong emphasis on good governance, accountability, and transparency, which have contributed to its reputation as one of Africa’s most politically stable nations.

Botswana’s success story includes significant achievements in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and wildlife conservation. The country is renowned for its efforts in preserving its natural heritage, including vast wildlife reserves such as the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, which attract tourists from around the world.

As Botswana looks to the future, it continues to face challenges such as unemployment, income inequality, and the need for sustainable development. The government is committed to addressing these issues by investing in human capital, diversifying the economy, and promoting private sector growth.

Botswana’s rich history, diverse culture, strong economy, and stable political environment serve as the foundation for its aspirations to build a prosperous and inclusive nation. The country’s commitment to good governance, sustainable development, and cultural preservation positions it as a beacon of progress and stability in the African continent.

 

Types of Companies in Botswana

 

Mining Companies: Botswana is known for its rich mineral resources, particularly diamonds. Mining companies play a significant role in the country’s economy, extracting and exporting minerals such as diamonds, copper, nickel, and coal.

Tourism and Hospitality Companies: Botswana’s wildlife, national parks, and natural beauty attract a significant number of tourists each year. Tourism and hospitality companies provide services such as accommodations, safari tours, transportation, and recreational activities to cater to the needs of visitors.

Financial Institutions: Banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions are prevalent in Botswana. These companies provide banking services, insurance coverage, investment opportunities, and other financial products and services to individuals and businesses.

Manufacturing Companies: Botswana has a developing manufacturing sector, including industries such as textiles, food processing, beverages, plastics, and construction materials. Manufacturing companies in Botswana produce a wide range of products for local consumption and export.

Agriculture and Agribusiness Companies: Agriculture is an important sector in Botswana, and several companies are involved in farming, livestock production, agro-processing, and related activities. These companies contribute to food security, job creation, and the development of agricultural value chains.

Telecommunications and Information Technology Companies: Botswana has a growing telecommunications and IT sector. Companies in this industry provide telecommunication services, internet connectivity, mobile networks, software development, IT consulting, and other technology-related services.

Construction and Engineering Companies: With ongoing infrastructure development projects, construction and engineering companies are in high demand. These companies undertake various construction projects, including residential buildings, commercial complexes, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure developments.

Renewable Energy Companies: Botswana aims to increase its use of renewable energy sources. Companies in this sector focus on solar power, wind energy, and other forms of clean energy generation, providing solutions for both domestic and industrial needs.

Retail and Consumer Goods Companies: Retail businesses, supermarkets, malls, and consumer goods companies cater to the local population’s needs. These companies sell a wide range of products, including groceries, household items, electronics, clothing, and more.

Professional Services Companies: Professional services firms, such as legal, accounting, auditing, consulting, and architectural firms, provide specialized expertise to individuals and businesses. These companies offer advisory, support, and consulting services to clients across various sectors.

“Our team can provide assistance if you need help registering a company in Botswana.”

 

Common Questions

 

What are the types of companies that can be registered in Botswana?

The common types of companies in Botswana include private companies, public companies, and non-profit companies.

How do I register a company in Botswana?

To register a company in Botswana, you need to submit the necessary documents to the Companies and Intellectual Property Authority (CIPA).

What documents are required for company registration? 

The required documents typically include a completed application form, memorandum and articles of association, identification documents of directors and shareholders, and proof of payment of registration fees.

Can a foreigner register a company in Botswana?

Yes, foreigners can register a company in Botswana, subject to certain conditions and requirements.

What is the minimum number of directors required for a company in Botswana?

A private company in Botswana must have at least one director, while a public company must have at least two directors.

What is the minimum share capital requirement for a company in Botswana?

There is no specific minimum share capital requirement for most types of companies in Botswana. However, public companies have a minimum authorized share capital requirement.

How long does it take to register a company in Botswana?

The registration process usually takes about 10 to 15 working days, assuming all the required documents are in order.

Can I reserve a company name before registration?

Yes, you can reserve a company name for a fee before proceeding with the registration process.

Can I change the company name after registration?

Yes, you can change the company name after registration by following the necessary procedures and paying the required fees.

Do I need a physical office address to register a company in Botswana?

Yes, a physical office address in Botswana is required for company registration.

Can I use a residential address as the company’s registered office?

Yes, you can use a residential address as the registered office, provided it is permissible under local regulations.

What is the role of a company secretary in Botswana?

A company secretary is responsible for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, maintaining corporate records, and facilitating communication between the company and its stakeholders.

Can the company secretary be a director of the company?

Yes, the company secretary can also be a director of the company.

Are there any restrictions on foreign ownership of companies in Botswana?

There are generally no restrictions on foreign ownership of companies in Botswana, except in certain sectors like mining.

What taxes do companies in Botswana need to pay?

Companies in Botswana are subject to various taxes, including corporate income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and employee payroll taxes.

How often do companies need to file tax returns in Botswana?

Companies in Botswana are required to file tax returns annually within a specified period after the end of the financial year.

Can I register a company with only one shareholder?

Yes, a company in Botswana can have a single shareholder.

Can I appoint a non-resident as a director of my company?

Yes, you can appoint a non-resident as a director of your company in Botswana.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for companies in Botswana?

Ongoing compliance requirements include filing annual returns, maintaining proper accounting records, and holding annual general meetings.

Can I change the company’s registered address?

Yes, you can change the registered address of a company by following the required procedures and notifying the relevant authorities.

Do I need to have a bank account for my company in Botswana?

Yes, it is advisable to have a bank account for your company in Botswana to manage financial transactions.

Can I register an online/e-commerce business in Botswana?

Yes, you can register an online or e-commerce business in Botswana like any other type of company.

Can I register a sole proprietorship in Botswana?

Yes, you can register a sole proprietorship, which is known as a business name, in Botswana.

Can I convert a sole proprietorship into a company later?

Yes, it is possible to convert a sole proprietorship into a company in Botswana by following the necessary procedures.

Do I need to register for VAT in Botswana?

If your company’s taxable turnover exceeds the VAT registration threshold, you must register for VAT in Botswana.

How long is a company registration certificate valid in Botswana?

A company registration certificate in Botswana is valid indefinitely unless the company is deregistered or dissolved.

Can I register a company with a foreign address?

Generally, a Botswana company must have a local physical address for registration. However, there may be exceptions for certain types of companies or specific circumstances.

Can I register a company as a non-profit organization in Botswana?

Yes, you can register a non-profit organization (NPO) or non-governmental organization (NGO) in Botswana, subject to specific requirements for such entities.

Can I register a company with a virtual office in Botswana?

Virtual office addresses may not be accepted as the registered office address for company registration in Botswana. It is advisable to consult with CIPA for clarification.

Do I need to have local shareholders in a company registered in Botswana?

There are no specific requirements for local shareholders in a company registered in Botswana. Foreigners can hold 100% of the shares in most sectors.

Can I register a branch of a foreign company in Botswana?

Yes, you can register a branch of a foreign company in Botswana, subject to compliance with local regulations and requirements.

How do I know if my proposed company name is available?

You can conduct a name search with CIPA to check the availability of your proposed company name before registration.

Can I register a company with a similar name to an existing one?

It is generally not allowed to register a company with a name that is too similar to an existing registered company in Botswana.

Can I register a partnership in Botswana?

Yes, you can register a partnership in Botswana, known as a business name, which can have two or more partners.

Can I register a company online in Botswana?

Yes, you can use the online registration system provided by CIPA to register a company in Botswana.

What is the cost of company registration in Botswana?

The cost of company registration in Botswana varies depending on the type of company and the authorized share capital.

Can I register a company with only foreign directors?

Yes, a company in Botswana can have only foreign directors, as long as at least one director is ordinarily resident in Botswana.

Can I register a company with different classes of shares?

Yes, you can register a company with different classes of shares, such as ordinary shares, preference shares, or redeemable shares.

Do I need to register for social security contributions for my employees?

Yes, as an employer, you are required to register with the Botswana National Social Security Fund (BNSSF) and make social security contributions for your employees.

Can I register a company with a foreign currency share capital?

Yes, it is possible to register a company with a share capital denominated in a foreign currency in Botswana.

Can I register a company with multiple business activities?

Yes, you can register a company with multiple business activities in Botswana, provided they are within the scope of legal and regulatory requirements.

Can I register a company with a dormant status?

Yes, you can apply to CIPA for dormant status if your company is not actively trading or carrying out business activities.

Can I register a company with a post office box as the registered address?

A post office box is generally not accepted as the registered office address for company registration in Botswana. A physical address is required.

Can I register a company with foreign directors residing in Botswana temporarily?

Foreign directors residing in Botswana temporarily can be appointed, provided at least one director is ordinarily resident in Botswana.

Can I register a company without a company secretary?

A company secretary is not mandatory for private companies in Botswana. However, public companies are required to have a company secretary.

Can I register a company with a single director and shareholder?

Yes, a private company in Botswana can have a single director and shareholder.

Can I register a company with a nominee director?

Nominee directors can be appointed, but their roles, responsibilities, and legal obligations must be properly understood and adhered to.

Can I register a company with a non-Botswana citizen as the majority shareholder?

Yes, non-Botswana citizens can be majority shareholders in a company registered in Botswana.

Can I register a company without physical presence in Botswana?

While physical presence may not be required for all stages of company registration, certain steps and documentation may necessitate local presence or representation.

 

Major Banks in Botswana

 

Bank of Botswana – https://www.bankofbotswana.bw/

Absa Bank Botswana – https://www.absa.co.bw/

First National Bank (FNB) Botswana – https://www.fnbbotswana.co.bw/

Barclays Bank of Botswana – https://www.barclays.co.bw/

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana – https://www.sc.com/bw/

Stanbic Bank Botswana – https://www.stanbicbank.co.bw/

Bank Gaborone – https://www.bankgaborone.co.bw/

Bank ABC Botswana – https://www.bancabc.com/

Bank of Baroda Botswana – https://www.bankofbarodabotswana.co.bw/

First Capital Bank Botswana – https://www.fcb.co.bw/

Capital Bank Botswana – https://www.capitalbank.co.bw/

BancABC Botswana – https://www.bancabc.com/bw/

Ecobank Botswana – https://www.ecobank.com/bw/

Letshego Bank Botswana – https://www.letshego.com/bw/

MyBucks Bank Botswana – https://www.mybucks.com/bw/

Orange Money Botswana (Mobile Financial Services) – https://www.orange.co.bw/

African Banking Corporation (BancAfric) Botswana – https://www.bancafric.co.bw/

“Our team can provide assistance if you need to open a bank account in Angola.”

 

The top universities in Botswana 

 

University of Botswana

• Website: https://www.ub.bw/
• Location: Gaborone
• Major Courses: Business Administration, Law, Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences

Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST)

• Website: https://www.biust.ac.bw/
• Location: Palapye
• Major Courses: Engineering, Sciences, Informatics and Computer Science, Health Sciences

Botho University

• Website: https://www.bothouniversity.com/
• Location: Gaborone, Francistown, Maun
• Major Courses: Business, Computing, Accounting, Hospitality, Engineering, Health Sciences

Limkokwing University of Creative Technology

• Website: https://www.limkokwing.net/botswana/
• Location: Gaborone
• Major Courses: Design, Multimedia, Business, Communication, Information Technology, Architecture

Ba Isago University

• Website: https://www.baisago.ac.bw/
• Location: Gaborone
• Major Courses: Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Accounting, Information Systems

Botho College

• Website: https://www.bothocollege.ac.bw/
• Location: Gaborone
• Major Courses: Business Management, Information Systems, Accounting, Marketing, Tourism and Hospitality

Botswana Accountancy College (BAC)

• Website: https://www.bac.ac.bw/
• Location: Gaborone
• Major Courses: Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, Human Resource Management

 

Strange or unusual to visitors in Botswana

 

Wildlife Encounters: Botswana is known for its abundant wildlife, and it’s common to encounter wild animals like elephants, lions, or giraffes in certain areas. For visitors from urbanized areas, this close proximity to wildlife can be both thrilling and unusual.

Traditional Customs: Botswana has a rich cultural heritage, and you may witness traditional customs and practices that are unique to the country. This can include traditional dances, music, clothing, and rituals, which may be different from what you’re accustomed to.

Greetings: Batswana (people from Botswana) often greet each other with handshakes, followed by placing the right hand on the left forearm or elbow as a sign of respect. This traditional greeting, known as “pula,” may be unfamiliar to visitors and may take some time to get used to.

Communal Lifestyle: In rural areas and some traditional communities, you may find a strong sense of community and a communal way of living. People often work together and support each other in various activities, such as farming or building houses. This collectivist lifestyle may differ from individualistic cultures.

Traditional Cuisine: Batswana cuisine includes dishes like seswaa (shredded meat), bogobe (porridge), morogo (wild spinach), and samp (crushed maize). The taste, texture, and ingredients of these traditional foods may be new and unfamiliar to visitors, providing a unique culinary experience.

Use of Hand Signals: In some rural areas, hand signals are commonly used for communication while driving or walking. It’s not uncommon to see drivers using hand gestures to indicate their intentions or communicate with pedestrians or other drivers.

Time Flexibility: The concept of time may be more flexible in Botswana, particularly in rural areas. Punctuality may not be as strict, and meetings or events may start later than scheduled. It’s advisable to embrace the relaxed approach to time and be patient.

 

“Tips for Newcomers: Adjusting to Life in Botswana”

 

Embrace the Culture: Botswana has a rich cultural heritage. Take the time to learn about the local traditions, customs, and etiquette. Respect the values and practices of the Batswana people, and be open to new experiences.

Learn the Local Language: While English is widely spoken in Botswana, learning a few phrases in Setswana, the national language, can go a long way in building connections and showing respect to the local community.

Connect with the Locals: Batswana are known for their warmth and friendliness. Make an effort to interact with locals, be it your neighbors, colleagues, or people in the community. Engaging in conversations and building relationships can help you feel more at home and gain insights into the local way of life.

Stay Safe: Familiarize yourself with the safety guidelines and practices in Botswana. Be aware of your surroundings, take necessary precautions, and follow any local security advice to ensure your safety and well-being.

Enjoy the Wildlife and Nature: Botswana is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. Take advantage of opportunities to explore national parks, game reserves, and other conservation areas. Safaris and nature walks can provide unforgettable experiences and allow you to appreciate the country’s biodiversity.

Embrace the Slow Pace of Life: Botswana has a relaxed and unhurried lifestyle, particularly in rural areas. Adjusting to this slower pace can help you reduce stress and enjoy a more balanced way of life. Patience and flexibility will go a long way in adapting to the local rhythm.

Try Local Cuisine: Explore the diverse flavors of Batswana cuisine. Sample traditional dishes like seswaa, bogobe, and morogo. Be adventurous and try street food or visit local markets to experience the vibrant food culture.

Get Involved in the Community: Botswana has a strong sense of community. Participate in local events, festivals, or community projects. Join clubs, sports teams, or interest groups to meet new people and engage in activities that align with your interests.

Understand the Climate: Botswana experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Familiarize yourself with the seasonal variations and prepare accordingly, especially for activities like safaris or outdoor adventures.

Stay Open-Minded: As with any new cultural experience, keep an open mind and be adaptable. Embrace the differences, challenges, and opportunities that come with living in a new country. Maintain a positive attitude and be willing to learn and grow from your experiences.

 

Top recruitment agencies in Botswana

 

• CareerPool Botswana Website: https://www.careerpoolbotswana.com/
• AdoGreen Africa Website: https://www.adogreen.com/
• Tlhalefang Placements Website: http://www.tlhalefang.com/
• Botswana Ash (Pty) Ltd Website: https://www.botswanaash.com/
• Adept Solutions Website: http://www.adeptsolutions.co.bw/
• Voltex Botswana Website: https://www.voltex.co.bw/
• MatchTech Website: http://www.matchtech.co.bw/
• HRMC (Human Resources Management Consultants) Website: http://www.hrmc.co.bw/
• Botselo Holdings Website: http://www.botselo.co.bw/
• Oxford Recruitment Website: http://www.oxfordrecruitment.co.bw/

 

Necessary phone numbers in Botswana

 

Emergency Services:

• Police: 999 or 911
• Fire and Ambulance: 998

Medical Services:

• Princess Marina Hospital (Main Referral Hospital): +267 363 6000
• Bokamoso Private Hospital: +267 363 5300
• Gaborone Private Hospital: +267 398 7800

Directory Inquiries:

• Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC): 11811

Tourist Helpline:

• Botswana Tourism Organization: +267 391 3111

Embassy Contacts:

• United States Embassy: +267 395 3982
• British High Commission: +267 395 2841
• South African High Commission: +267 397 1405

Botswana Police Stations:

• Gaborone Central Police Station: +267 368 9200
• Francistown Central Police Station: +267 241 3201
• Maun Central Police Station: +267 686 3303
• Kasane Central Police Station: +267 625 2232

Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) Customer Service:

• Residential Customers: 1517
• Business Customers: 1518