*Standard Chartered Botswana reaffirms client commitment in Francistown
Standard Chartered Botswana hosted a distinguished client engagement event in Francistown, on Saturday, reaffirming its enduring commitment to clients and celebrating over a century of partnership, trust, and shared growth in Botswana.
Standard Chartered Bank Botswana first opened in Francistown in 1897, marking it as the country's first bank. The institution established a permanent presence, with its agency becoming a full branch in 1956 and maintaining operations through the early 21st century.
On Saturday, in a symbolic event marking 129 years on their existence in Botswana, Standard Chartered returned to their roots, to engage with clients, some who have been with the bank since inception.
The engagement brought together valued clients, business partners, and stakeholders for an afternoon of appreciation, connection, and dialogue.
Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer Mpho Masupe highlighted the significance of Francistown in the bank’s legacy, describing it as the foundation upon which Standard Chartered Botswana has built its long-standing presence in the country.
Masupe said not only was the bank the first one in the country, but they continued to lead with innovative ideas like the first Automated Teller Machine (ATM), and the digital first banking app.
“Francistown is not just where our story began. It represents the deep relationships and enduring partnerships that have defined our journey in Botswana. For over a century, we have stood alongside our clients through growth, change, and opportunity, supporting businesses, families, and institutions as they shaped the nation,” said Masupe.
The event underscored the Bank’s recognition that its legacy is defined not only by its history, but by the strength of its relationships. Many attendees reflected longstanding partnerships with the bank spanning decades and generations; an enduring testament to trust and loyalty.
Welcoming guests, Acting Head of Wealth and Retail Banking Diakolo Neo emphasised the importance of client relationships in shaping the Bank’s evolution.
She said the engagement was about appreciating their clients who are at the heart of everything they do. Neo said clients’ loyalty and trust has enabled them to grow, to innovate, and to continuously refine how they serve them.
“We remain committed to understanding your aspirations and supporting your financial journeys at every stage of life,” she said.
Looking ahead, Standard Chartered Botswana reaffirmed its strategic focus on deepening client relationships, enhancing accessibility, and delivering solutions that respond to the evolving needs of individuals and businesses in an increasingly interconnected world.
The Bank also acknowledged recent developments regarding the intended sale of its Botswana business, assuring clients and stakeholders of its continued commitment throughout the process.
“As this process progresses, our priority remains unchanged; serving our clients with consistency, transparency, and excellence. We are committed to keeping our stakeholders informed and ensuring continuity in the high standards of service they expect from us,” Masupe added.
The Francistown engagement formed part of the Bank’s broader client engagement strategy, aimed at strengthening connections and maintaining open dialogue with clients across the country.
