- The bank says it will maintain operations and support staff as it moves toward the sale of its Botswana franchise
GAZETTE REPORTER
Standard Chartered Bank Botswana says it will continue operating with the same focus on clients, employees and stakeholders as it progresses toward the sale of its local franchise.
In its 2025 Integrated Report, Chief Executive Officer Mpho Masupe said the bank remains committed to preserving the value of its Botswana business while ensuring continuity throughout the transition process.
“Our focus remains on preserving the value of the Botswana franchise and ensuring continuity for our clients, colleagues and stakeholders,” Masupe said.
The bank will continue to leverage its local presence and international network while maintaining what Masupe described as the discipline, integrity and client-centricity that define the institution.
Sale Process
The planned sale follows a strategic review that began in November 2024, when the bank announced it was exploring the sale of its Wealth and Retail Banking segment.
After approximately a year of assessment, Standard Chartered PLC announced in January 2026 that it would move toward the sale of the entire Botswana franchise.
According to Masupe, the decision reflects the value of the Botswana operation, including its client relationships, brand strength and workforce.
“The Bank has demonstrated sustained performance, resilience and strategic relevance, making it a highly attractive proposition for prospective buyers,” he said.
The bank said it would continue providing updates on the transaction through the Botswana Stock Exchange in line with regulatory requirements until the process is completed.
Supporting Staff
Masupe said employees had maintained stability for clients and stakeholders despite significant organisational change.
He said the bank was investing in upskilling and reskilling initiatives aimed at preparing employees for a smooth transition to a new owner.
The measures include capability development programmes, internal talent mobility initiatives, transparent communication and structured change management processes.
“Maintaining employee well-being and engagement remains a priority as we sustain performance throughout the transition,” Masupe said.
Financial Results
The bank’s 2025 financial performance was affected by a volatile liquidity environment and worsening macroeconomic conditions, according to the report.
Masupe said those conditions placed pressure on margins and required a more cautious approach to new lending and asset growth in order to protect balance sheet strength and preserve asset quality.
The results also included a once-off impairment charge linked to an accounting adjustment reversing duplicated interest in suspense.
Masupe said the charge was non-recurring and did not indicate a deterioration in the bank’s asset quality or credit fundamentals.
“Importantly, it does not reflect any deterioration in the Bank’s underlying asset quality or credit fundamentals, which remain stable and well managed,” he said.