Our reading of the economy, small firms, energy, trade and capital in Botswana and across Africa, with every figure sourced.
Second-quarter growth of 8.7% was driven almost entirely by diamond mining. What the numbers say about the rest of the economy, and where patient capital can help.
October 20265 min readInflation is easing but still above target, the policy rate is 5.5%, and the 2026/27 budget raises taxes. Why tighter conditions favour disciplined, short-cycle funding.
October 20265 min readBotswana’s main SME lenders are shifting from single loans to whole value chains and bankability support. What that tells us about how early-stage capital should work.
October 20264 min readAfrica faces a trade finance gap of about US$100 billion a year, just as a continental market opens. Why funding linked to real sales matters for Botswana’s businesses.
October 20264 min readElectricity imports fell 62% in the first quarter of 2026 and a 100 MW solar plant is now feeding the grid. What it means for energy projects and the businesses that run on power.
October 20264 min readThe IMF and the African Development Bank both see growth of 4% to 4.5%. Southern Africa lags, and the main constraint is not too little capital but how it is deployed.
October 20265 min readAVCA’s report for the first half of 2026 shows deal volume down 16% and value up 65%. Venture retreated, private debt had its strongest half, and Southern Africa lost ground.
October 20264 min readNothing matches that filter yet.
We are glad to share how we read them.