BR unveils ambitious growth plans
Friday, August 22, 2014
![Steven Makuke](https://cdn4.premiumread.com/?url=https://www.mmegi.bw/uploads/imported_images/2014/august/22/php3E1B.tmp.jpg&w=400&q=72&f=jpg)
Steven Makuke
Speaking during his presentation at the Francistown Investment Forum (FIF2014), which was held from August 19 to 21 at Adansonia Hotel under the theme, ‘City of Francistown: An Investment Centre of Vibrancy by 2022 - A Step Forward Top Your Investment.’ the BR Business Development Director Stephen Makuke revealed that they have several prospective investments plans they believe will contribute to Francistown’s economic growth. He said these plans would also contribute to the city attaining its Vision 2022, which is aimed at transforming Francistown into an economic hub.
Apart from plans to resume operation of the passenger train, BR is planning a railway shopping centre, a tourist train to Kasane, en-route the Mosetse and Kazungula line and another up-class tourist train called City of Francistown on Wheels. Makuke highlighted that there are endless opportunities and BR is prepared to jump on board and assist where possible to develop the northern area. He, however, said patience would be necessary as the Kazungula railway line would take about five years to complete.
These roads, which are vital conduits for trade and tourism, have long been in dire need of repair. However, while this development is undoubtedly a positive step, it also raises questions about broader issues of infrastructural management and road safety that deserve closer scrutiny.The A3 and A33 roads are not just any roads, they are critical arteries that connect Botswana to its neighbours and facilitate the movement of goods and people...