Barclays to relocate to P110m CBD complex

Barclays Bank of Botswana will next year relocate its headquarters from the Government Enclave to a five storey complex in the new Central Business District (CBD) following yesterday's signing ceremony with the developer of the new building.

The 5,000 square metres complex, which forms the second phase of the  Prime Plaza, is currently being  built at the tune of P110 million by   listed property developers, Prime Time. The first phase of the Prime Plaza is a two storey building which was completed last year and is already occupied by CEDA.Speaking at the signing ceremony, Barclays  chairman  Rizwan Desai  said that they beat several other competitors who were eyeing the same complex. The chairman said the current headquarters, Barclays House,  is now becoming old hence the need to move to a newer location.

"We will certainly make our presence felt. It is tailor-made for the presence of a modern bank operation, a world class building for a world class financial institution," said the Barclays chairman.He added that the new headquarters will also house a wellness centre with a modern fitness centre for employees. According to Barclays head of corporate real estate Baks Chakalisa, the new building is expected to be ready for occupation by August 2014, with two basement floors. He hailed the complex for its strategic positioning which he says will give their brand unparalleled visibility from all angles. "It has a 360 degree view. The brand will be visible from all angels, and it is also accessible from the Gaborone West Phase II road, or from the Masa complex road," explained Chakalisa.
He further estimated that the complex is capable of housing 410 workers.

Editor's Comment
Botswana at a critical juncture

While the political shift brings hope for change, it also places immense pressure on the new administration to deliver on its election promises in the face of serious economic challenges.On another level, newly appointed Finance Minister Ndaba Gaolathe’s grim assessment of the country’s finances adds urgency to the moment. The budget deficit, expected to be P8.7 billion, is now anticipated to be even higher due to underperforming diamond...

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