Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between GEN in Botswana and Women in Business Association (WIBA)
GEN in Botswana and the Women in Business Association (WIBA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today in a virtual ceremony. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate the growth and visibility of women-led enterprises, starting with joint initiatives for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2025. This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to promote inclusive innovation, support women entrepreneurs, and influence policy reform for sustainable economic development.
Farhana
Akter

GEN in Botswana and the Women in Business Association (WIBA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today in a virtual ceremony. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate the growth and visibility of women-led enterprises, starting with joint initiatives for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2025.

This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to promote inclusive innovation, support women entrepreneurs, and influence policy reform for sustainable economic development.

Strategic Areas of Collaboration

Under the MoU, GEN and WIBA will collaborate in the following key areas:

  1. GEW 2025 Botswana Activities

  • Co-host curated sessions, workshops, and networking events focusing on women-led businesses, innovation, and sustainable growth.

  • Organize a flagship event titled “Women in Innovation Showcase.”

  • Identify and promote female speakers and mentors throughout GEW programs.

         2. Joint Training and Capacity Building

  • Design customized training programs for women entrepreneurs on business planning, digital skills, and financial literacy.

  • Facilitate structured mentorship programs using both networks’ expertise.

         3. Policy Dialogue and Advocacy

  • Organize policy forums and develop joint policy briefs to advocate for regulatory support for women-led enterprises.

        4. Access to Markets and Investors

  • Host pitch competitions and exhibitions to connect women-led startups with investors.

  • Enable B2B matchmaking and facilitate participation in regional and international trade fairs.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • WIBA shall:

  1. Mobilize its members for participation in GEW and other related programs.

  2. Lead the planning and delivery of women-focused sessions and exhibits.

  3. Share success stories and data on women-led businesses for visibility and reporting.

  • GEN in Botswana shall:

  1. Coordinate national GEW activities and ensure consistent branding and communication.

  2. Provide technical and logistical support to WIBA.

  3. Integrate WIBA into GEN’s global ecosystem for learning and exposure.

Virtual Signing Ceremony

The MoU was formally signed during a virtual ceremony attended by representatives from both organizations.

From GEN in Botswana:

  • Mooketsi Bennedict Tekere, GEN Ambassador for Botswana

  • Ms. Nahid Nishu, Secretariat

  • Ms. Khan Farhana, Managing Director of GEW in Botswana

From WIBA:

  • Ms Christinah Leshego, Wiba President
  • Mrs Jane P Matome, Vice Secretary
  • Public Relations Practitioner, Mrs Thato Dithupe

The ceremony was officially opened by Ms. Nahid Nishu, who welcomed attendees and introduced both teams. Ms. Khan Farhana delivered brief remarks on her appointment as Managing Director of GEW in Botswana and expressed her enthusiasm to work closely with WIBA to deliver a successful GEW 2025.

Mr. Mooketsi, GEN Ambassador for Botswana, gave an inspiring address on the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and unlocking new opportunities through partnerships like this.

The WIBA team expressed their gratitude and excitement about the partnership, emphasizing their commitment to working collaboratively with GEN Botswana to elevate women-led enterprises across the country.

Quotes

  • The signing of this MoU marks a pivotal moment for Botswana's women entrepreneurs, uniting our strengths to ignite innovation, we are  exited  about GEN Botswana's commitment to amplifying women’s voices and fostering collaborative ecosystems  and we are inspired by the tangible impact this alliance will create nationwide.
    – Ms Christinah Leshego,

  • “This partnership is not just about GEW 2025; it's about building a long-term, impactful ecosystem where women entrepreneurs thrive. Together with WIBA, we’re setting a new standard for collaboration and innovation.”
    – Khan Farhana, Managing Director, GEW in Botswana

About WIBA

The Women in Business Association (WIBA) is a national platform committed to empowering women entrepreneurs through advocacy, training, mentorship, and access to resources.

About GEN

GEN is dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development through initiatives like GEW and ongoing ecosystem support.