Botash, BDC collaborate to drive economic growth
Lebogang Mosikare | Tuesday May 14, 2024 06:05
The MoU focuses on investment, impact assessment, and the beneficiation of Botash products. It serves as the foundation for future binding contracts, detailing the terms and conditions of their joint endeavours.
According to the terms of the agreement, the parties’ envisioned relationship provides a cornerstone and structure for any possible impending binding contracts between the Parties.
Speaking at the signing on Friday, Managing Director of Botash, Kangangwani Phatshwane said this partnership signifies a strategic alliance aimed at unlocking Botswana's economic potential. Through value chain enhancement and strategic investments, they are positioned to meet regional and global demands.
'As a leading supplier of soda Ash in Southern Africa, Botash is instrumental in Botswana’s industrial transition, perfectly aligning with BDC’s vision to be an investment partner of choice in the transformation of Botswana’s economy,” Phatshwane said. “Botswana’s Vision 2036 speaks volumes about our commitment to progress. It is a bold roadmap towards industrialisation, job creation, and sustainability—a journey we are taking together to forge a dynamic, resilient future. But to truly embrace this future, we must shift our mindset. It is about challenging norms, embracing change, and tapping into the power of innovation and entrepreneurship. Both parties here-present stand as catalysts for driving economic growth and innovation. Together, we are building a knowledge-based economy that empowers our people and ensures a sustainable tomorrow,” he added. For his part, BDC Managing Director, Cross Kgosidiile emphasised the pivotal role of partnerships in driving success. He underscored BDC's commitment to fostering collaboration for mutual growth and sustainable development.
'Beyond immediate benefits to Botash, our collaboration aims to catalyse broader economic growth and diversification within Botswana, enhancing Botash capabilities and market competitiveness,' he said. 'This partnership is about creating jobs, boosting the local manufacturing sector, and elevating Botswana’s global standing. Our vision is to propel Botswana towards an industry-led economy driven by innovation and sustainability that we will harness Botswana’s resources, fully explore opportunities in order to achieve economic diversification and global competitiveness.' Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry Seipati Olweny said strategic alliances, such as this one between BDC and Botash, are essential for leveraging diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives.
Through these partnerships, Olweny said the country can optimise the beneficiation process and pave the way for sustainable practices and community engagement. “I am honoured to be a part of this initiative. As we convene here between the Ministry of Trade and Industry with BDC and Botswana Ash, it is crucial to recognise the potential this collaboration holds for our nation’s prosperity. Our government’s vision for economic diversification is no secret,” Olweny said. “We aim to move beyond reliance on traditional industries and explore new avenues that harness the full potential of our natural resources.
Today, through the signing of the MoU, we stand at the cusp of achieving this vision by exploring mineral beneficiation opportunities, particularly concerning Botash products.” Mineral beneficiation, Olweny noted, is not merely about processing raw materials; it is about unlocking their full value, infusing innovation, technology, and expertise into the process, transforming these resources into high-value products that resonate in domestic and international markets. Botash is Africa’s leading supplier of natural sodium and related products while BDC is government’s investment arm.