Botswana’s entrepreneurial landscape reflects a growing commitment to resilience, innovation, and economic diversification. Among the notable contributors to this dynamic environment is Sprint Couriers, a company that has emerged as a significant player in the courier and logistics industry. Established in 2006 by two Batswana women, Sprint Couriers exemplifies the determination and resourcefulness that fuel local business growth.
Founded by Michelle Gebrial and Pinkie Setlalekgosi, Sprint Couriers has expanded from a modest startup into one of Botswana’s leading logistics providers, currently a market leader and veritable case study of excellence for local entrepreneurs. Inspired by the cheetah leaping in the brand’s logo, Sprint has always made its proposition clear: efficiency and excellence. What we can add to this, however, is a sense of passion to always do the right thing, and this is a proposition at the very heart of the business.
Operating in a sector traditionally dominated by men, the company has gained recognition for its leadership and service excellence – this at a time when such a vision was itself rare. Today, Sprint Couriers employs over 330 people and handles over 70 000 deliveries each month for businesses and individuals, domestic and international. The company’s modern fleet and range of services, including air, road, and sea freight, customs clearance, and e-commerce logistics, position it as a vital partner for businesses seeking efficient delivery solutions. Its tailored logistics services not only support Botswana’s domestic businesses but also enhance the country’s competitiveness in global trade.
Their achievements have been recognised through various accolades, including awards at the Women in Business Awards Botswana, the Diamond Prize for Excellence by PMR Africa, and the Grant Thornton Private Business Growth Awards. These milestones highlight the broader role of women in advancing Botswana’s economic and social development. Sprint Couriers’ operations span more than 42 towns and cities across Botswana, reaching even remote areas. The company’s acquisition of Aramex Botswana in 2018 further expanded its reach, enabling it to provide services to over 240 countries under the Sprint Global Express brand.
So why do we not tell stories of businesses like these as often as we should? These achievements, impact and growth align with Botswana’s Vision 2036, which seeks to establish a diversified and export-led economy as well as UN SDGs looking to drive inclusion and empowerment more sustainably. By supporting key industries such as mining, pharmaceuticals, and financial services, Sprint Couriers demonstrates how local businesses can contribute sustainably to national economic goals. They reinforce Botswana’s adaptability and agility in a competitive global landscape.
As a citizen-owned enterprise, such businesses play a role in fostering socio-economic development. This is something we can all surely get behind. The continued success of Sprint Couriers reflects the potential of local enterprises to contribute to Botswana’s economic resilience. As non-mining sectors increasingly drive economic growth—accounting for nearly 50% of GDP, according to the World Bank—companies like Sprint Couriers are integral to this diversification. By facilitating trade, supporting small businesses, and driving innovation.
This success story underscores the importance of continuous improvement and innovation in maintaining industry leadership. Sprint Couriers illustrates the transformative power of local entrepreneurship, demonstrating how Batswana enterprises can achieve global competitiveness while promoting national development. As Botswana advances towards inclusive economic growth, companies like Sprint Couriers serve as examples of how homegrown businesses can shape a sustainable and prosperous future.
