StanChart Explores Sale of Entire Botswana Franchise in Strategic Africa Pullback

Gaborone / London – Standard Chartered PLC has confirmed it is exploring the sale of its entire Botswana franchise, marking a significant escalation in the British bank’s strategic retreat from smaller African markets and a pivot toward higher-growth regions in Asia and the Middle East.

In a cautionary announcement released on January 13, 2026, and shared via the Botswana Stock Exchange and the Bank of Botswana, Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Limited’s majority shareholder revealed it is now seeking buyers for its full stake in the local subsidiary.

This includes both the Wealth & Retail Banking (WRB) segment—initially flagged for divestment in November 2024—and the Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) operations.

The decision to broaden the sale scope came after strong market feedback during the initial WRB process. “Bidders have made it clear that they see significant value in the combined scale of the full SC Botswana franchise,” the bank stated, highlighting synergies in funding efficiency, operational leverage, and broader client coverage.

The move aligns with Standard Chartered’s broader strategy, as outlined in its 2024 results, to accelerate income growth and returns by focusing on core markets while exiting non-strategic footprints.

The bank has already completed or agreed deals for similar operations in Uganda (sold to Absa Group) and Zambia (acquired by FirstRand), fueling speculation that South African lenders could again lead the pursuit.

Industry observers note that Absa and FirstRand—both of which have been actively expanding their pan-African presence—are among the leading contenders for the Botswana assets.

Other players with existing operations in the country, including Standard Bank and Nedbank, could also express interest as the full franchise offers greater market share and diversification opportunities beyond South Africa.

The proposed transaction remains at an early stage and is expected to take 12 to 15 months to complete. It remains subject to regulatory approvals from authorities, including the Bank of Botswana, as well as market conditions and final bidder negotiations.

Standard Chartered has sought to reassure customers and employees, emphasising that the bank will continue normal operations throughout the process and work to minimise any disruption during a potential transition.

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana, the country’s oldest banking institution (with roots dating back to an agency established in Francistown in 1897), maintains a strong presence in retail, wealth management, and corporate services.

Its website and branches continue to operate as usual, with no immediate changes to client services announced. This latest development underscores a broader reshaping of Africa’s banking landscape, as global players recalibrate their footprints amid shifting economic priorities and competitive dynamics.