Symposium recommends leading role for the private sector
Brian Benza
Staff Writer
| Tuesday July 29, 2008 00:00
'For a long time now, government has been the key driver of the economy,' said James Masisi, 'but time has come for the private sector to take its rightful place in growing the economy as clearly demonstrated in the theme for NDP10.'
The Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry was speaking at the national symposium to consider a Private Sector Development Strategy (PSDS) in Gaborone last week.
'Our challenge is to focus on the strategic pillars that, if exhaustively addressed, will definitely elevate the private sector to its desired position. These pillars include trade and expansion, productivity issues, trade support institutions and the business climate.' Masisi said the fulfilment of these strategic pillars should capacitate the private sector to effectively respond to the improved business environment and the various initiatives that government has put in place (for) citizen economic empowerment.
The PSDS was designed by BOCCIM to draw a roadmap for use by all stakeholders in increasing private sector participation in the economy. Since its official launch in January this year, a series of consultative meetings and workshops have been held to thrash out critical issues and formulate a private sector vision.
Last week's symposium, which was the last consultation before the draft PSDS is handed to government for final determination, also gave the potential development partners an opportunity to identify key areas of collaboration and support that will drive the economy forward, with the private sector in the forefront.
'For government and development partners to play their supportive roles effectively, it is imperative that the private sector speaks with one voice,' Masisi said, 'and I have no doubt that this will form part of the outcomes of the PSDS.'On our part, I can assure you that my ministry is ready and prepared, as it is its mandate to work closely with the private sector in all respects to move their agenda forward.'
Also speaking at the same symposium, BOCCIM President Modiri Mbaakanyi thanked the Commonwealth Secretariat for giving technical and financial assistance to the PSDS.
'The product that we see here today is a result of joint efforts of government, the private sector and civil society,' Mbaakanyi said. 'We expect implementation to follow the same path, but this time with greater support from development partners.
'The benefits should accrue to every Motswana and anyone who chooses Botswana as a destination for whatever reason investment, for tourism or just as a place to live.' The attainment of Vision 2016 will bear testimony to this if the private sector can clearly demonstrate its share in the economic growth of our country. Today marks a critical juncture in the process which started exactly 12 months ago.
'It was in July 2007 when we approached (the) Ministry of Trade and Industry with the idea of a PSDS ... The ministry welcomed the idea and government embraced it with both hands. 'The Commonwealth came to the party and offered financial support and technical expertise in selecting the consultants for this project.'