The event, which was held in Africa for the first time last year, will be held in Gaborone from April 23 to 26, 2023. According to the draft 2023-24 estimates of expenditure from the Consolidated Funds, which will be presented to Parliament for approval, the Ministry of Finance has proposed P25 million for the hosting of the event.
The event features under the Ministry of Entrepreneurship’s proposed budget of P272.8 million for the coming financial year. This is despite government receiving several criticism as many social media commentators questioned whether the expenditure was necessary for such a gathering which does have any tangible benefits.
Held under the theme 'Entrepreneurial Africa' with Botswana at the centre, the 2023 Forbes Under 30 Summit Africa aims to "harness the power of entrepreneurial capitalism amidst the continent whose growth will help define the 21st century.” Last year, the then Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Peggy Serame told the media that government had contributed $250,000 with the private sector bringing in $750,000 to host the event that took place in Gaborone and Kasane.
Botswana was allocated 200 slots for its Under 30 delegates across various sectors such as manufacturing, creativity and technology, fashion design, and horticulture, to name a few. A total of 600 delegates from across the continents participated at the summit which took place over three days. During the gathering, guests explored the best of Botswana.
Beginning in Gaborone, attendees heard from a wide section of speakers, both national and international, who spoke of their experiences in both business and high-flying careers. The attendees were also afforded the chance to immerse themselves in Botswana’s culture and experience the sounds and cuisine of local's best performers and chefs.
Halfway through the event, attendees travelled to Kasane, the world’s largest elephant sanctuary, for a fully programmed agenda focused on sustainability, a sunset river cruise amongst hippos and crocodiles, and a one-day safari that ranks among the best in the world. Meanwhile, a recent statement from the Ministry of Entrepreneurship said the biggest economic beneficiaries were transport operators; specifically, taxis who ferried delegates over the days, hotel industry, performing arts as well as event promoters.
“These industries were greatly affected by the lockdowns and slowdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and their resuscitation has been critical to government,” said the statement. “As with every Under 30 Summit, the social and cultural opportunities will be world-class.
Participants and other stakeholders will get an opportunity to hear from government, venture capital and business role models, providing inspiration for the newest and next generation of leaders,” added the statement. The summit will also provide a platform for local performers, chefs, and entrepreneurs, allowing participants from around the world to experience the sounds, cuisine, and staples of local culture while engaging in unbeatable networking and pitching opportunities, the statement further reads.
