from ODIRILE TOTENG in Gaborone, Botswana
Botswana Bureau
GABORONE, (CAJ News) – THE Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) eager to enhance financial performance this current year, is pinning its hopes on the government’s digitisation drive in under-served areas.
The listed telecommunications and internet service provider has not been spared the economic dip endured by the Southern African country over the past year largely due to a slump in the diamond sector.
Botswana’s economy contracted by 3 percent in 2024 following a 3,3 percent growth in 2023 and Botswana noted in contrast, the non-diamond private sector posted growth of 4,1 percent.
The outlook for 2025 still remains weak, with GDP growth forecast at 0 percent, while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects a contraction of 0,4 percent, citing ongoing challenges in diamond exports and the recent imposition of United States tariffs.
BTC, in its financial statement for the financial year ended March 31, remains upbeat.
“Nevertheless, government-led digitisation initiatives, including digital learning in schools, village connectivity and device distribution programs are expected to drive demand for digital services,” Mokgethi Magapa, board chairperson, and Boitumelo Paya, Chief Executive Officer, jointly stated.
The company released a lukewarm set of results for the 12 months ended March 31, with revenue increasing 4 percent to P1,49 billion (US$111,6 million).
Profit before tax increased by 30 percent to P259 million ($19,4 million).
Earnings per share were up 28 percent to P0,19 ($0,014).
BTC has pledged to continue leading Botswana’s digital transformation journey with a focus on affordable and reliable connectivity.
Key strategic highlights include investment in mobile broadband data network (4G) and automation of customer touch points.
BTC has the third largest market share of Botswana’s three operators, at around 18 percent, behind Mascom and Orange.
– CAJ News