local developers can, and do deliver. As we continue our strive in leveraging modern technology to elevate organisations in the public and private sector, our learning is never over. This allows us to collaborate well and continuously seek the best possible solutions for our clients.

GUARDIAN: Within the broader tech industry, Artificial Intelligence( AI) appears to be taking centre stage. How prepared is BlackOak to this phenomenon that seeks to totally change the tech space forever?

CHILISA: An interesting question as we navigate the forever changing landscape of tech. AI has begun an era of transformation for all industries. It provides an opportunity to enhance operational efficiency, aid in decision making, and reshape customer relations amongst other things. Through machine learning and deep learning, businesses can gain better insights on their customers, and how to better service them. Whether it is understanding their customers’ behaviour, optimizing strategies, or delivering tailored solutions that resonate with their customers. Leveraging AI, we are here to help clients unleash new possibilities and achieve unprecedented growth. Our qualified and experienced team is available to assist not just in the design and development of scalable solutions but to help our clients navigate the changes that come with disruptive technology.

How supportive has the government been to this company?

CHILISA: We couldn’t be more excited about the new chapter the country is taking in engaging local tech companies in development. By allowing us to be part of the conversation and development, the Government has made it possible for us to realise our dreams of being able to allow our work alone to speak for itself. This will surely help to cultivate an environment that is conducive to growth and innovation in the field, and drive technological advancements.

GUARDIAN:

GUARDIAN: What is the importance of companies such as BlackOak to a developing economy like Botswana which is seeking to become a knowledge based economy- highly diverse and digitally transformed?

CHILISA: First and foremost, companies like ours are at the forefront of driving advancements in various sectors through technology. Efforts are being made, through organs such as GovOnline to foster co- creation and open innovation, and therefore create a vibrant tech ecosystem. This consequently encourages local talent to flourish. We are proud to play our part in developing the economy and our country’s endeavour to become knowledge based and digitally transformed. As a tech company, we generate employment opportunities for a wide range of professionals, especially in the tech field. We are proud to be nurturing and empowering local talent and professionals. Our BlackOak team is composed of budding minds that are dedicated to the work and believe in the synergy of ideas to see a project through. Additionally, our collaborations with local businesses and start- ups create a ripple effect, fostering the growth of the broader tech ecosystem.

In Botswana, the tech sector, although still at a developmental stage, is surely worth millions of Pula. Will you be kind enough to tell us BlackOak’s share of this market in Pula terms? CHILISA: We have since inception been mostly focused on making our presence known in the tech industry which as you say is at development stages. While we cannot disclose financial details, we are however proud to be part of the growing tech sector. We can assure you that we continue to actively contribute to its growth, development, and overall value.

GUARDIAN:

GUARDIAN: Sustainability and ESG are all important elements of corporates like BlackOak. What are some of the projects the company has taken that are focused on giving back to the community and strengthening corporate governance systems? CHILISA: At BlackOak, we strongly believe in social responsibility, sustainability and environmental stewardship, and strong corporate governance. That is why we actively engage in projects and initiatives that resonate these values. For example, the My Thabang game fundamentals are embracing diversity in local cultures and inclusivity. We have formed partnerships and collaborations that have allowed us to participate in teaching coding to children in primary schools to enhance their problem- solving skills and encourage an interest in technology. We are thrilled by our recent giveaway, which was to provide a handful of female entrepreneurs with a free website and email hosting. These are just some of the steps we have taken, anchored on providing an ecosystem for upcoming entrepreneurs to equip themselves with tools that increase their market value and professionalise their endeavours. We also have an exciting partnership in the works that aims to bring services such as web development closer to people who would otherwise find them difficult or cumbersome to access.

GUARDIAN:

Are there any plans to expand beyond Botswana’s borders?

CHILISA: Absolutely! BlackOak strongly believes that our method of working can allow our clients to be anywhere in the world and we are working very hard to put in place structures and processes that will allow our products and services to be delivered beyond the boundaries of the borders. Again, watch this space.

GUARDIAN: Where will BlackOak be in the next

ten years?

CHILISA: We hope that as a company we would have grown in leaps and bounds to become a prominent player in the tech industry. Our goal is to grow with the tech industry in Botswana and continue to feed into it, and make a mark globally through continuing to innovate, offering cutting edge technology solutions and helping to drive the industry forward. We are glad to see so many countries taking an interest in Botswana, and we intend to take full advantage of this by welcoming new industries into our service pool.