Botswana Development Corporation

Overview

Established in 1970, Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) serves as the Government of Botswana's primary agency for commercial and industrial development. Its mission is to provide, facilitate, and support financing for commercially viable enterprises, contributing to the sustainable development and economic growth of the country. BDC offers both debt and equity funding to projects that pioneer new industries, unlock value in existing ones, drive diversification and exports, create significant employment, and stimulate private sector growth through local industry linkages. BDC's investment strategy encompasses a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure, energy, mining, agriculture, tourism, cybersecurity, defence, manufacturing, information technology, financial services, education, retail, telecommunications, transport, logistics, construction, media, entertainment, and real estate. The corporation focuses on various stages of investment, from early-stage ventures to growth, late-stage, buyouts, turnarounds, and distressed assets. Geographically, BDC's investments span across Botswana and extend to several other African countries, reflecting its commitment to regional economic development. In recent developments, BDC has been actively involved in significant investment initiatives. Notably, in August 2025, Botswana secured a $12 billion investment agreement with Qatar's Al Mansour Holdings, targeting key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, mining, diamond refinement, agriculture, tourism, cybersecurity, and defence. This partnership underscores BDC's role in attracting substantial foreign investment to diversify Botswana's economy beyond the diamond industry. Additionally, BDC has been reconstituting its board and management to strengthen governance and align with the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme, aiming to accelerate investments in priority sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing. These strategic moves highlight BDC's ongoing efforts to drive economic transformation and sustainable growth in Botswana.

Investment Focus

• Commercial viability
• Alignment with national economic priorities
• Potential for job creation
• Contribution to economic diversification
• Sustainable development impact

Portfolio Companies