Women empowerment is crucial to the success of businesses run by women.

The duo of Ms Theo Khumo (34) from Tonota and Ms Marea Otlaadisa (35) from Mahalapye were the brains behind Mma Mosadi Movement.

The duo said in an interview that they started the business in June to encourage women to become entrepreneurs as well as provide assistance to those struggling to open their own businesses.

Ms Otlaadisa said they held motivational meetings and business events to motivate women to invest their time in business.

She said they invited aspiring and well established women entrepreneurs and other relevant stakeholders during public lecture events that disseminated information to expedite women businesses.

Ms Otlaadisa said the business was based in Maun and Francistown but they reached women all over the country, adding they used their own money to fund the business.

She said with Mma Mosadi Movement, the intention was to empower women through workshops, having a database that would guide the business to know their clients, projects and their location and through ladies outing retreat adventure where they reflected and shared ideas on how best to break into the market.

For her part, Ms Khumo said they aimed at empowering and calling out women to support one another and introduce the spirit of sisterhood among women.

She said they found it important to elevate Batswana women in business and bring them together.

Ms Khumo said they had hosted successful events where women came together to empower one another.

She said they hosted the first annual Maun women in business open market day where women showcased their products and services.

She said the event was hosted at Sedia Lodge in Maun.

They also hosted the first annual Francistown women in business high tea at Adansonia hotel recently.

The duo said the business was performing well and challenges encountered are minimal as events pay off.

Ms Khumo said the response from Batswana is positive. “We do have minimal problems and our events are always informative and successful” she said.

Ms Khumo and Otlaadisa said they also run their own businesses, something which makes them proud and found it relevant to start Mma Mosadi Movement.

“I have a business called Martevy Hire Services that deals with event management and it is based in Maun” Ms Otlaadisa said.

“My company is based in Francistown and it is called African Wax Prints Botswana, an African Print oriented business and design outfits, cover shoes, bags and neckpieces using African print cloth”, said Ms Khumo.

They said their businesses changed their lives for the better, as they think and lead a positive life than before and they are focused and empowered.

They also encouraged young entrepreneurs to be determined, to work hard and stay focused.