Title: Rotational savings and credit associations 'Metshelo' prevalence in Gaborone, Botswana

Authors: Enid Kaluba Kazimbaya-Simbule

Addresses: Graduate School of Business, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract: From ancient times, human beings have been known to cooperate amongst each other in order to make their lives better. This study is an exploratory study into the prevalence of Metshelo (ROSCAs) in the city of Gaborone. ROSCAs have been extensively researched around the world, but not in Botswana. This paper thus lays a foundation for further research into the different facets of Metshelo, including their use of Metshelo as an alternative source of funding for small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in Botswana. An initial random survey of 50 people in the City of Gaborone and a follow up study of 360 was done. This paper gives credence to the anecdotal reports of the prevalence of ROSCAs in Botswana. It also provides a base for future research into the different structures and operations of Metshelo in Botswana.

Keywords: informal financial sector; rotational savings and credit associations; Metshelo; small, micro and medium enterprises; SMMEs; Botswana.

DOI: 10.1504/AJESD.2025.151434

African Journal of Economic and Sustainable Development, 2025 Vol.10 No.4, pp.419 - 427

Received: 25 Jan 2024
Accepted: 10 Jul 2024
Published online: 29 Jan 2026 *

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