Speaking at the launch earlier today, Masisi said whilst trading in commodities has carried the country thus far, Botswana needs to recognise that the next growth phase requires restructuring of the economy and the development of value chains, driven by technological transformation.
“To this effect, my government has adopted an ambitious digitalisation strategy to transfer the economy and improve the livelihoods of our people. We are at the forefront of creating digital infrastructure driven by our Digital Transformation Strategy, SmartBots,” he said.
Masisi said government’s ambition to industrialise cannot be achieved without a sufficient injection of private capital.
The Global Expo brings together investors, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, government departments, financial institutions, and SMMEs from more than 10 countries, to explore profitable business and joint venture opportunities. In addition, the Expo has attracted 200 exhibitors from Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia, Lesotho, Mozambique, India, Indonesia, Swaziland, Namibia and Kenya.
“I believe that these international exhibitors will not go back home empty-handed,” Masisi said. “The Expo will provide a platform for securing mutually beneficial investment deals and direct investments. “We have a keen interest in developing domestic and regional value chains in sectors such as automotive and components manufacturing, including e-mobility solutions, meat and meat products, fruits and vegetables, leather and leather products; textile and clothing, as well as financial services and pharmaceuticals.”
The Expo ends on Friday.
