Grant Thornton Botswana has marked its 50th anniversary, celebrating a half-century that has mirrored the growth of Botswana’s private sector while setting out plans for further expansion and investment.
The celebrations began in Francistown, bringing together clients, business leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the firm’s development since its founding in 1976 and its priorities for the years ahead. The event is the first in a series of activities planned to mark the company’s golden jubilee.
Established as Acumen Associates, the firm built its reputation as a chartered accountancy practice before joining the Grant Thornton network 30 years ago. It has since grown into a professional-services firm offering assurance, tax, advisory, business process solutions and corporate services, supported by the resources of the global Grant Thornton network.
Kalyanaraman Vijay, managing partner of Grant Thornton Botswana, said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the relationships that have shaped the organisation’s development.
“Celebrating 50 years is an opportunity to reflect on the relationships, trust and partnerships that have shaped our journey. We are proud of the role we have played in supporting businesses and economic development in Botswana, but we are even more excited about the future,” he said.
Vijay noted that businesses are operating in an environment increasingly shaped by digital innovation, artificial intelligence and data analytics. He said the firm’s focus remains on helping clients adapt to those changes while creating long-term value.
He added that demand for advice on environmental, social and governance matters is growing alongside more traditional audit, tax and advisory services.
Grant Thornton Botswana now employs more than 160 professionals. About 70% of its workforce are women and 65% are youth. The firm says it continues to invest in staff development, client relationships and community initiatives through its values of Collaboration, Agility, Respect and Excellence.
Over the past year, Grant Thornton Botswana has expanded its investment in the region, doubling its presence through the acquisition of an existing accounting practice. The move has strengthened its Francistown office, which now includes two managers and more than 10 team members serving clients across northern Botswana, including Selebi-Phikwe, Letlhakane, Maun and Kasane.
As part of its growth strategy, the company is increasing investment in technology, innovation and professional training. A central element of that effort is the BQA-accredited Grant Thornton Training Academy, which provides practical learning opportunities aimed at strengthening professional skills and supporting talent development within Botswana’s business sector.
The firm is also expanding its capabilities in digital transformation, data analytics, ESG-related services and technology-enabled solutions as organisations adapt to changing business conditions.
The decision to launch the anniversary celebrations in Francistown reflects the firm’s long-standing presence in northern Botswana, where it has operated for more than 25 years.
Over the past year, Grant Thornton Botswana has expanded its investment in the region, doubling its presence through the acquisition of an existing accounting practice. The move has strengthened its Francistown office, which now includes two managers and more than 10 team members serving clients across northern Botswana, including Selebi-Phikwe, Letlhakane, Maun and Kasane.
Aswin Vaidyanathan, partner and chief operating officer, said the firm’s approach combines local knowledge with international expertise.
“One of our greatest strengths is our ability to bring together deep local understanding and the resources of a leading global network. Our investment in Francistown reflects our commitment to being closer to our clients, supporting business growth in the region and ensuring organisations have access to the expertise they need to succeed,” he said.
The event also featured reflections from long-standing clients. Dr Kgosidialwa Mompati, managing director of Riverside Hospital, described how a relationship that began through a statutory audit evolved into a broader advisory partnership that supported the hospital’s growth and governance objectives.
Ogaisitse Khama, former general manager of Tati Company Limited, highlighted the firm’s professionalism, integrity and collaborative approach, noting its ability to provide professional guidance while maintaining strong client relationships.
As it enters its next phase, Grant Thornton Botswana says it will continue focusing on business growth, skills development, innovation and helping organisations respond to an increasingly complex operating environment.
While the anniversary marks five decades of activity, the firm views it as the start of a new period of expansion centred on strengthening capabilities and contributing to Botswana’s economic development.
“Our story has never been about growth in isolation,” Vijay said. “It has been about growing together with the businesses, people and communities we serve. As we look ahead, we remain committed to helping shape a stronger and more prosperous future for Botswana.”
