Author: Boi Bolele

This project will extend the shovel’s operational life by an additional 8-10 years Previously the rebuild was done by experts from South Africa. For this project, 148 employees participated, with 95% of them being Batswana. “We have built a skills base in Botswana,” remarked Barloworld. We have similar machines in the SADC region, our locally trained Batswana technicians are now being dispatched into the region Zambia to perform repairs, expanding Botswana’s engineering capabilities across the SADC region. It also aligns with the CEEP deliverables of development of the value chain to a value generating economy through local manufacturing and in…

At the heart of this initiative is the Supplier Development Programme (SDP), which is primarily focused on building capacity and improving access to supply chains. Participants in Jwaneng and Orapa have realized significant gains from advisory training and mentorship. Interviews with suppliers revealed that the partnership between Debswana’s CEEP and Tokafala is making a profound impact on local businesses! A total of 205 beneficiaries across Orapa Letlhakane and Jwaneng have been supported, collectively sustaining 2,763 jobs. Suppliers have highlighted improved market access, with 89 beneficiaries accessing opportunities valued at over P141 million, P79 million from Jwaneng and P61.8 million from…

The Petroleum industry in Botswana is witnessing a transformative shift, driven by a landmark partnership established in August 2022 between Debswana Diamond Company and Botswana Oil Limited (BOL). This collaboration is not only reshaping the local petroleum value chain by promoting localization but also enhancing the role of citizen-owned companies in fuel transportation—an area previously dominated by foreign enterprises, fostering a more resilient and inclusive economy. This strategic move has ushered in a new era of economic empowerment, boosting local entrepreneurship, and fostering a robust, inclusive economy. Notably, under this initiative, Botswana Oil has increased the ownership of citizen-operated trucks…

During the Botswana-Canada Mining Seminar at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Honorable Minister Lefoko Maxwell Moagi pitched Botswana’s rich mining sector to Canadian investors. Minister Moagi highlighted the country’s strategic position as an investment launchpad and its stable political climate, complemented by a solid legal framework and consistent economic growth. He underscored Botswana’s focus on mining and beneficiation, emphasizing how policies are being tailored to maximize the value of critical minerals crucial for the digital and sustainability transitions. Moagi detailed the shift towards exploration of key minerals, including lithium and cobalt, and flaunted investor incentives such as Botswana’s low…

At the Mining Indaba Mpho Mosate, the Executive Head of Safety and Sustainability at Debswana, leads the charge for safety and sustainability in the mining sector. Her presence at this esteemed event not only represents one of Africa’s leading mining companies but also highlights her pivotal role in shaping the future of responsible mining practices. As a key member of the Botswana Chamber of Mines executive committee, Mosate brings extensive experience and expertise to the table. Given the significance of Botswana’s mining industry to its economy, her insights into safety protocols and sustainable development strategies are invaluable in ensuring the…

Since the inception of the Debswana Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme in 2019, a total of eleven thousand two hundred and thirty-three (11, 233) direct and value chain jobs have been created. So far, Seventeen Billion Pula (P17 Billion) against a target of Twenty Billion Pula (P20 Billion) by the end of 2024, has been spent on fuel, lubricants, drilling, crushing, repairs and maintenance of equipment by Batswana. Sixty-four percent (64%) of Debswana’s suppliers are citizens who have access to finance through its partnership with local banks. As a result of the arrangement, One Billion Two Hundred Million Pula (P1.2 Billion)…

The upcoming inauguration of the state-of-the-art facility in Phakalane by April 2024 is a monumental achievement. Barloworld Equipment Botswana envisions utilizing the Phakalane facility as a ONE-STOP FACILITY for the rebuild, supply, and maintenance of all construction and mining components and machines. This marks a significant leap in Barloworld’s continued commitment to the region, reflecting a substantial investment aimed at fostering economic growth and creating job opportunities. Barloworld Equipment Botswana has been an integral part of the region for over 60 years, demonstrating excellence and a strong focus on community involvement. With a workforce predominantly comprising local talent, a substantial workforce of…

I am an advocate for a programme that embodies the aspirations of our nation, the Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme (CEEP). This groundbreaking initiative, is a conduit towards fulfilling the nation’s Vision 2036 and facilitating a thriving, stable, and inclusive economy. The alignment of Debswana’s CEEP with our government’s transformative aspirations is evident. Vision 2036 echoes pillars of sustainable economic growth, governance, and security. Debswana’s initiative is the muscle propelling us towards this vision, empowering our citizens to surge forward in prosperity. Indubitable, the CEEP enhances the execution of government strategies such as the Economic Diversification Drive (EDD) and supports our…

The unveiling of their new Corporate Strategy for 2022-2027 bore witness to the commitment made by the business to empower citizens and foster homegrown enterprise. This announcement, a part of the business lead at Little Paws Garden in Palapye, held a strong emphasis on nurturing Batswana’s participation in economic activities, aligning with MCM’s core business principles. Dr. Bonny Ignitius Matshediso, the esteemed Chairperson of MCM, elucidated that the new strategy embodies a dedicated focus on empowering citizens. Notably, MCM had already established a specialized office for citizen economic empowerment, signifying a tangible commitment to fostering local business ownership. Matshediso emphasized…

During a SUSTAINABILITY & INCLUSIVITY event, organized by Turning Point, Hon Minister Kgafela emphasized the importance of companies continuing to source from local service providers and manufacturers. He also urged them to collaborate with the government to enhance the productivity, quality, and consistency of supply from these local businesses. Highlighting the leadership role of companies such as Lucara, Morupule, and Debswana Mining Company, Minister Kgafela specifically acknowledged Debswana’s ambitious target of investing P20 billion in citizen-owned companies by 2024, an initiative expected to create 20,000 jobs. Furthermore, he stressed that the CEEP initiative applies to all sectors of the economy…