Urge President Boko to honor Chema-Chema grant promises
The Issue
In 2024, the government of Botswana introduced the Chema-Chema scheme, a visionary initiative aimed at empowering non-formal entrepreneurs by providing them with low-interest loans. These loans were designed to help people like me, individuals with entrepreneurial dreams but without access to conventional financing, to become profitable and hence, contribute positively to Botswana's economy.
However, on October 30th, 2024, when the government changed hands, new President Advocate Duma G. Boko announced the phase-out of this scheme. In the transition, a promise was made: those of us who had signed loan contracts but had yet to receive funds would receive them as a grant. Yet, nearly two years have passed, and we are still waiting for this promise to be fulfilled.
The delay in distributing these grants is not just an administrative oversight—it is a direct blow to our entrepreneurial dreams. Many of us counted on these promised funds to start or expand our businesses, contribute to economic growth, and support our families. The lack of follow-through not only stalls potential personal success but also stifles the economic vibrancy that small and non-formal businesses bring to our communities.
The Chema-Chema scheme was more than just a financial promise; it was a lifeline for grassroots economic empowerment. We urge President Boko and his administration to honor this commitment to us, the entrepreneurs who are yet to receive the grants.
Bringing transparency and urgency to the grant distribution process is imperative. By doing so, the government would not only be keeping its promise but also proving its commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic economy.
We call on the President's office to act swiftly. Let's uphold the vision of Chema-Chema, empower Botswana's enterprising spirit, and support the livelihoods of countless citizens who stand to benefit from this grant.
Please join us in urging President Duma G. Boko to deliver on the Chema-Chema grant promises. Sign this petition and help us bring positive change to our lives and communities.
415
The Issue
In 2024, the government of Botswana introduced the Chema-Chema scheme, a visionary initiative aimed at empowering non-formal entrepreneurs by providing them with low-interest loans. These loans were designed to help people like me, individuals with entrepreneurial dreams but without access to conventional financing, to become profitable and hence, contribute positively to Botswana's economy.
However, on October 30th, 2024, when the government changed hands, new President Advocate Duma G. Boko announced the phase-out of this scheme. In the transition, a promise was made: those of us who had signed loan contracts but had yet to receive funds would receive them as a grant. Yet, nearly two years have passed, and we are still waiting for this promise to be fulfilled.
The delay in distributing these grants is not just an administrative oversight—it is a direct blow to our entrepreneurial dreams. Many of us counted on these promised funds to start or expand our businesses, contribute to economic growth, and support our families. The lack of follow-through not only stalls potential personal success but also stifles the economic vibrancy that small and non-formal businesses bring to our communities.
The Chema-Chema scheme was more than just a financial promise; it was a lifeline for grassroots economic empowerment. We urge President Boko and his administration to honor this commitment to us, the entrepreneurs who are yet to receive the grants.
Bringing transparency and urgency to the grant distribution process is imperative. By doing so, the government would not only be keeping its promise but also proving its commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic economy.
We call on the President's office to act swiftly. Let's uphold the vision of Chema-Chema, empower Botswana's enterprising spirit, and support the livelihoods of countless citizens who stand to benefit from this grant.
Please join us in urging President Duma G. Boko to deliver on the Chema-Chema grant promises. Sign this petition and help us bring positive change to our lives and communities.
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 18 August 2026