EP14: Driving entrepreneurial growth: Exploring Botswana's role in supporting Small and Medium Enterprises

Mr. Aobakwe Nkoni is a dynamic and passionate young entrepreneurial business strategist from Mapoka, Botswana, emerging as a prominent figure in the business landscape, driven by his unwavering dedication to entrepreneurial development and growth. With a strong foundation of academic excellence, Mr. Nkoni is committed to empowering others and making a positive impact on society. Mr. Nkoni holds a distinguished first-class honors degree in Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership from Sheffield Hallam University (UK), in collaboration with Botswana Accountancy College. Continuously striving for excellence, he further pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Suffolk (UK), where he conducted groundbreaking research on the supporting role of Botswana's government in the growth, development, and mitigation of challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). His academic achievements reflect his deep understanding of entrepreneurship and his drive to make a difference in the business world. Passionate about knowledge sharing and thought leadership, Mr. Nkoni has actively contributed to numerous business presentations and media platforms. Notably, he presented a research paper titled "Digital and Technology Adoption in Entrepreneurship and SMMEs" at the 2022 Local Enterprise Authority Symposium. His insights on leveraging technology for business growth have proven invaluable to entrepreneurs and SMEs, helping them navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. Mr. Nkoni's sense of social responsibility led him to take swift action in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic for SMEs and SMMEs. He founded the Gaborone Bonnington North Constituency Business Clinic, a noble initiative that provides free business consultancy services to over 450 individuals. Additionally, he actively mentors students, nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit and guiding them to establish their own enterprises through the University of Botswana Business Clinic. Mr. Nkoni's dedication to empowering others and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship is transforming lives within the community. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Mr. Nkoni has made significant contributions to various media platforms, addressing critical topics such as academic excellence, mental health, and pan-Africanism. Through his thought-provoking newspaper articles, engaging podcast contribution, insightful radio interviews, and impactful television appearances, he inspires audiences to pursue their goals and contribute meaningfully to society.