LEA opens up to other sectors of the economy
Boitshepo Majube | Friday April 25, 2014 12:33
Speaking at the SMME Pitso yesterday, LEA board chairman, Batlhatswi Tsayang said in the just ended financial year of 2013/2014, the Authority conducted research, which was aimed at identifying and assessing business opportunities in the different regions across the country, to sift out areas of economic activity, which can give a competitive edge to each region.
“Opportunities in these regions have been identified and will be shared with Botswana’s entrepreneurs for their uptake,” he said.
Tsayang stated that LEA would also offer differential service to its clientele, wherein there will be specific assistance given to micro enterprises on the other hand, and small and medium enterprises on the other hand. “This strategy recognises the differing needs which our enterprises have, and endeavours to meet the varying needs of our enterprises to ensure growth, but beyond that to ensure sustainability of these businesses.”
Still at the Pitso, LEA CEO, Tebogo Matome revealed that they have sight of the much-anticipated Leather Sector Park, which has been approved to be incorporated into the current National Development Plan (NDP10). He said the establishment of this park, with common effluent treatment plant, is the genesis of an industry in our country, which has been noticeably absent, in spite of competitive advantage, which Botswana has in terms of livestock population.
“This park will establish downstream and upstream linkages which will enable Batswana at all levels to innovate and find opportunities in the leather industry value chain; including hide collection, tanning and manufacturing of leather goods,” Matome said. He further stated that import bill for leather and leather products is rather high for a country with a large livestock herd.
Matome also stated that the implementation of a rapid incubation centre is now ready. He said the centre will be set up to assist aspiring entrepreneurs, to have first-hand experience in the technologies linked to various industries.
“This experience will enable them to be shrewd in their selection of viable opportunities, having understood the day to day running of their chosen businesses through a rigorous three month training programme.”
Matome stated that they have identified innovation and technology as key strategic issues that need to be addressed to ensure that the organisation mandate is achieved.