Your company name must be unique, easy to pronounce, and memorable. Before you pay for reservation, search it on the CIPA registry, Google, domain platforms, and the main social networks. You are checking that it is truly free — and that you will not walk into branding or IP conflict.
Reservation is the first step
On CIPA, registration starts with name reservation at P20. You choose the organisation type at the same time: private company (shares or guarantee), public company, external company, closed company, or business name. That choice decides the path.
Review takes about one to four days. If rejected, fix within five days and re-reserve without another fee. If approved, you have 30 days to register — or extend another 30 days for P40. Miss the window and the name is free again for anyone.
Spelled wrong or wrong org type? Email info@cipa.co.bw and ask them to return the application for fixing. Changing a name after registration costs P1,000 — cheaper to measure twice first.
Drawn to spec: decide the structure, clear the name, then register. We can walk the full stack on Pricing.