Introduction
Established under an Act of Parliament in 1963, the National Development Bank (NDB) of Botswana is a government-owned financial institution dedicated to supporting the country’s economic development. The bank operates under the supervision of a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning and was the first bank in Africa to be certified under ISO 9001:2000 International Quality Standards in 1998.
Mission and Vision
NDB's mission is to provide sustainable and innovative financial products and services across the agricultural value chain through strategic partnerships. Its vision is to be a catalyst for economic transformation in Botswana by focusing on service excellence, sustainability, and innovation.
Core Values
The bank operates on four core values:
- Teamwork
- Excellence
- Accountability
- Customer Focus
Who We Finance
NDB provides financial services to a wide range of clients, including:
- Botswana citizens
- Legally registered citizen companies, joint ventures, and partnerships
- Locally registered foreign-owned companies
- Other locally registered and legally recognized entities (e.g., trusts, Agricultural Management Associations)
Financial Products and Services
NDB offers a variety of loan products tailored to meet the needs of different sectors in Botswana’s economy. These include:
1. Agricultural Loans
NDB finances all agricultural projects, providing support to farmers for seasonal inputs, equipment, and development projects.
2. Business Loans
The bank offers business loans ranging from BWP 10,000 to BWP 60 million. These loans cover sectors such as retail, commerce, tourism, manufacturing, processing, and mining. Key loan products include:
- Ntlhatlosa Kwa Morakeng: For agricultural development
- Temo Bokamoso: Integrated crop farming
- Bonno Home Loan: Residential property financing
- Nthuta School Fees Loan: For educational expenses
3. Human Capital Development Loans
These loans cater to individual needs, such as education and residential financing.
4. Real Estate Loans
Loans for property development and purchases, covering office, retail, industry, and commercial residential spaces.
Insurance Services
NDB provides comprehensive insurance services to safeguard loans and assets. These include:
- Credit Life Insurance: Covers disabilities, loss of employment (instalments for up to six months), and key person protection.
- Natural Hazards Insurance: Protects against natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and fires.
- Mortgage Protection: Optional insurance for residential loans.
- Asset Insurance: For business loans, covering assets against damage and theft.
- Business Interruptions Insurance: Covers fines and penalties for late submissions or payments due to funding delays.
- Goods In Transit Insurance: Protects goods against physical damage or loss during transportation.
- Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme (ACGS): Established to assist dry-land arable farmers against crop-related natural hazards.
Support Programs
NDB runs several support programs to enhance economic growth and development:
- Green Energy Fund: Supports the adoption of green technologies in agriculture.
- ISPAAD: Enhances agricultural productivity.
- FMD: Provides financial support for market development.
- IAS: Supports agricultural infrastructure development.
- Letsema Strategy (2019-2022): Focuses on food security and SMME growth through innovation and youth-driven ventures.
Client Stories
NDB features success stories from individuals and business owners who have benefitted from its financial services, highlighting the bank’s impact on Botswana’s economic development.
Branch Network and Contact Information
NDB operates branches across Botswana, including Gaborone, Francistown, Palapye, and Maun. Customers can contact branch managers directly for personalized service.
Conclusion
The National Development Bank of Botswana plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s economic development through its diverse range of financial products and services. By financing key sectors and offering comprehensive insurance and support programs, NDB is committed to fostering sustainable growth and development in Botswana.
For more information, visit the National Development Bank of Botswana website.
