Chandra Chauhan leads Sefalana Group to $800 million revenue

Sefalana Group, a leading retail conglomerate led by Botswana retail tycoon Chandra Chauhan, closed its 2025 fiscal year on a high note, with revenue exceeding $800 million, the highest in the company’s 51-year history. This milestone shows even more how Sefalana is one of Botswana’s largest and most resilient businesses.

Sefalana reports record profit, higher revenue

According to its 2025 annual report, revenue for the year went up 15 percent from BWP9.72 billion ($695.7 million) in 2024 to BWP11.17 billion ($800 million) in 2025. The increase was due to strong growth in its fast-moving consumer goods and manufacturing divisions, which were helped by a larger regional presence and ongoing diversification across business segments.

The group’s disciplined approach to cost management and operational efficiency under Chauhan translated into record profitability as net profit increased from BWP335.52 million ($24 million) to BWP426.03 million ($30.5 million) in the prior year, thus reflecting sound financial management and adaptability to changing market conditions.

From six shops to a regional powerhouse

Established in 1974 with a maize mill and six wholesale stores, Sefalana has grown into a diversified manufacturing and retail giant. It runs a chain of manufacturing facilities, liquor stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and hypermarkets throughout the area. Throughout the year, the group opened 12 new stores as part of its ongoing efforts to increase its presence. It currently runs 32 stores in Namibia and 134 in Botswana.

The company’s balance sheet benefited from its strong performance as well. As of April 27, 2025, total assets increased from BWP4.06 billion ($290.6 million) to BWP4.75 billion ($340 million), while retained earnings increased from BWP1.56 billion ($111.7 million) to BWP1.82 billion ($130.3 million), indicating its continued profitability and reinvestment strategy.

By converting its preference share investment in UIH South Africa into a 30 percent equity stake, Sefalana also made a significant strategic move in South Africa. The decision offers the group direct access to one of the largest FMCG markets on the continent and positions them for long-term growth in the area.