The European Times - Botswana 2

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BOTSWANA

BOTSWANATHE EUROPEAN TIMES

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BOTSWANA

INTRODUCTION• President Consolidates Gains in Botswana 3

• Vice President Welcomes Investors to Business-Friendly Botswana 5

• The Jewel of Southern Africa 6

• EU Bullish on Botswana 8

• UN Praises Botswana’s Impressive Track Record 9

• Ministry Helping Rural Communities Prosper 10

• Dedicated Leaders Creating a Modern, Business-Friendly Gaborone 11

• Key Member of the Southern African Development Community 12

• Opening Doors to Investment Opportunities in Botswana 13

• Making Botswana One of the World’s Least-Corrupt Countries 14

• Botswana’s Fact File 15

• Japan and Botswana Forging Stronger Ties 16

• China and Botswana Going Forward Together 17

GOVERNMENT• Empowering Women and Achieving Gender Equality 19

• Independent Republic with Long History of Stability 20

• Duma Boko, a Young Forward Thinking Leader 22

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES• Trade and Industry Minister Calls for Projects to Reduce

Import Bill 24

• Daisy Loo Botswana 25

• Botswana is Open for Business 26

• Ministry Helping to Improve Workforce and Create Jobs 28

• Innolead 29

• Chilume and Company 29

• Botswana Work Force is Key to Continuing Economic Development 30

• HRMC 31

• FDI to Drive Economic Diversification 32

• Glam Collections 35

• Impex Fasteners & Tools 36

FINANCE & CONSULTING• An Investment Oasis 38

• Fleming Asset Management Botswana 39

• World-Class Financial Services for All 40

• Botswana Unified Revenue Service 41

• Bankers Association: a Channel to Support Botswana’s Banking Sector 42

• New Regulations for Fast-Growing Insurance Industry 43

ENERGY & MINING• The Coal Reality of Energy Security and Export 46

• Total 47

• Meeting the Challenges of Fuelling the Future 48

• Rich Mining Resources beyond Diamonds 50

• Strong Advocate for the Mining Industry 52

TRANSPORT & ICT• Robust Transport Industry

and State-of-the-Art ICT Services 54

• Gabz FM 55

• Transforming Botswana into Digital Economy 56

• Empire Synergy 58

TOURISM• Conserving a Sustainable Future for Botswana 60

• Bidvest Car Rental 61

• A Country of Contrasts and Beckoning Beauty 62

• Majestic Five Hotel 64

• Top Places to Visit 66

• Chobe Marina Lodge 68

• Tlotlo Hotel and Conference Centre 68

• Rosewell Chauffeurs 69

• Dishes of Delight and the Influence of European Cuisine 70

• Rhapsody’s 71

This guide is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This publication, or any part thereof, may not be reproduced, stored electronically or transmitted in any form, without the prior written permission of European Times. Every effort has been made to ensure information contained in this publication is correct and up-to-date. The authors and publisher accept no responsibility for any errors it may contain, or for any loss, fi nancial or otherwise, sustained by any person using this publication. 16-06-15

International Manager: Aukje Oostendorp - Regional Director: Mihai Petrut - Project Manager: Walter Hernandez – Project Coordinators: Derek Palm, Jessica James – Business Analysts: Shadeh van Esch, Dan Teodorescu, Rachel Cooper – Production Co-ordinator: Ivana Atanasoska – Copy Editor: Vicky Kox – Editorial: Emily Emerson-Le Moing, Jake Addison, Christopher Herrett – Design: Martine Vandervoort, Johny Verstegen, Walter Vranken, Dirk Van Bun

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This guide is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This publication, or any part thereof, may not be reproduced, stored electronically or transmitted in any form, without the prior written permission of European Times. Every effort has been made to ensure information contained in this publication is correct and up-to-date. The authors and publisher accept no responsibility for any errors it may contain, or for any loss, fi nancial or otherwise, sustained by any person using this publication. 16-06-15

International Manager: Coordinators: Co-ordinator: Herrett –

The European Times PO Box 685 66 – London EC1P 1XP – United Kingdom – Phone: +44 (0)208 371 2356 – Fax: +44 (0)208 371 [email protected] – www.european-times.comThe European Times is a trading name of Crystal Mediacorp Ltd

BOTSWANA

THE EUROPEAN TIMES

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MASTER REGIOTHE EUROPEAN TIMES

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President Consolidates Gains in Botswana

A decisive and effi cient leader, His Excellency Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama comes from a long line of political pioneers that have overseen the transformation of Botswana into one of the leading countries in Africa.

HE Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President

HE Ian Khama was born in Surrey, UK on 27 February 1953 to his Motswana father Sir Seretse Khama and British mother Ruth Williams. Controversy over the marriage of his parents in Britain and Bechuanaland (pre-inde-pendence Botswana) pressured the British government to exile the couple in 1951. Sir Seretse Khama returned to Bechuanaland with his family in 1956 after renouncing the Bamangwato tribal throne. In the following decade, Ian

Khama will have witnessed his father founding the Bechuanaland Demo-cratic Party and successfully competing in the 1965 elections to become the Prime Minister. Achieving the premier-ship provided Sir Seretse Khama with the platform to continue his campaign for an independent Bechuanaland, which was realised in 1966 when Bechuanaland became the Republic of Botswana with Sir Seretse Khama as its fi rst President.

The Khama political dynastyIt could be forgiven for thinking that a political career was inevitable for Lt. Gen. Khama, given the rich political heritage given him by his forbears. In the unlikely event that his father does not serve to be a suffi cient source of inspiration, he has the ability to draw upon the legacy of his grandfather Sekgoma Khama II, himself a tribal chief and his great grandfather Khama III, the tribal leader that brought Bechuanaland into a cohesive unit under the protection of the British in 1885.

His childhood education was spent at the boarding school of Waterford Kamhlaba in Mbabane, Swaziland. British teacher Michael Stern founded the school, which provided a liberal education for multi-racial groups of students. In 1972, Ian Khama joined the military college of Sandhurst, where he studied for about a year.

Service in defence of Botswana

On returning to Botswana in 1973, Ian Khama joined the Police Mobile Unit. However, the precarious security situation in the country saw Parlia-ment pass the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) Act in 1977, creating a new force to protect Botswana from attacks origi-nating in the neighbouring States of Rhodesia and South Africa. Around 120 men were drafted into the BDF, the Deputy Botswana Police Commissioner Mompati Merafhe assuming the position

Introduction


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THE EUROPEAN TIMES

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Sector

The European Times team met with HE President Seretse Khama Ian Khama

of Commander with Ian Khama as his second in command. His posting was in the North of the country, which shared a border with Rhodesia.

In 1989, when Lieutenant General Merafhe left the BDF to take up a role in politics, Ian Khama became the new commander. It is said that Khama was well regarded by his troops and that his leadership style was participative.

Transition into politics

Ian Khama retired from his BDF command in 1998 and shortly after-wards was made Vice President when Festus Mogae succeeded Quett Masire as President. However, as Ian Khama had not been elected to sit on the National Assembly, he was obliged to compete for a seat in the July 1998 by-election of Serowe North. By winning the by-election Ian Khama gained a seat in the National Assembly and was able to assume the position of Vice President.

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) elected Khama to act as its Chairman in 2003. President Mogae had backed him for the position and his success was perceived by some as paving the way for him to eventually succeed Mogae as President. When President Mogae stepped down in 2008, Ian Khama was made the fourth President of Botswana. On becoming President, Ian Khama was replaced as the Chairman of the BDP.

Interim period of government

In his role of being a successor for the exiting President Mogae, Ian Khama’s interim term of government (April 2008 to October 2009) saw him attempt to implement some daring policy changes such as a 70% alcohol levy meant to combat excessive drinking. Other moves that attracted criticism were the Media Practitioners Law that was accused of inhibiting free speech and the creation of the Directorate of Intelligence and

Security Services, an equivalent to the American CIA.

Ian Khama won widespread praise for his stance against the Zimbabwean government and other despotic govern-ments in Africa. On an economic front, the President has been a vocal supporter for the diversifi cation of the Botswana economy away from its over-reliance upon diamonds. Khama’s government has been very pro-business and the deregulation of the fi nancial sector has derived particular benefi ts in the rapid growth of fi nancial services.

Following his interim period of govern-ment, Ian Khama contested two general elections. In October 2009, he led the BDP to victory taking 45 seats and 53% of the vote. Although Ian Khama and the BDP were also successful in the October 2014 general election, some ground was lost on the previous turnout with the party taking 37 seats and 46.7% of the vote. In order to win an election, the successful party is the one that wins at least 29 of the 57 parliamentary seats.

THE EUROPEAN TIMES

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Introduction

Vice President Welcomes Investors to Business-Friendly Botswana

His Honour Mokgweetsi Masisi, Vice President of the Republic of Botswana since November 2014, has had a prestigious career in education and the public service. He formerly served as Botswana’s Minister for Presidential Aff airs and Public Administration and as Minister of Education and Skills Development. He discusses Botswana’s ambitious development targets.

His Honour Mokgweetsi Masisi, Vice President

European Times: What are Botswana’s main goals?

HH Mokgweetsi Masisi: Botswana’s public and private-sector leaders share a commitment to the national agenda of diversifying the economy, increasing exports, and creating employment. We aim to stimulate sustainable economic growth that reduces poverty and mobilises the entrepreneurial potential of our people, in particular youth and women. We will also support the private sector, including Small or Medium

Enterprises (SMEs), and we welcome foreign investors. We are saying with one voice that Botswana is open for business!

European Times: What is Botswana doing to further improve the business climate?

HH Mokgweetsi Masisi: It is our primary responsibil-ity as a country and as a government to put in place the necessary legislation and administrative policies to enhance the ease of doing business. We have done so. We have also created an environment conducive to private-sector devel-opment, including private-sector Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). But we should not stop there. We must continue to strengthen Botswana’s role as the hub of Southern Africa and to step up our cooperation with neighbouring countries.

European Times: What about Botswana’s relations with the EU?

HH Mokgweetsi Masisi: Botswana values our partnership with the EU within the framework of the African, Caribbean and Pacifi c Group of States and the EU-Cotonou Partnership Agreement. Now Botswana, particularly its Minister of Trade and Industry, is the coordinator of the proposed full economic-partnership agreement between the EU and SADC. Botswana also cooperates with the EU under the fourth EU-Africa Summit Joint Strategy and the Roadmap 2014-2017, whose priorities are peace and security; democracy, good govern-ance and human rights; human development; sustainable and inclusive development, growth and integration; and global and emerging issues. We are currently focusing on promoting sustainable and inclusive development.

European Times: What is your personal message to potential EU investors?

HH Mokgweetsi Masisi: Entrepreneurs in many parts of the world and in particular Europe are looking for new invest-ment opportunities. The global consensus is that Africa is the continent of hope and economic growth, and Botswana is one of Africa’s star performers. We look to the private sector to score more goals. The message to the European business community and all potential investors is simple and clear: you are especially welcome to invest in Botswana!


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Botswana boasts a rich heritage of political stability and sound government. This has enabled the country to make the most of its abundant natural resources for the promotion of economic and social development.

Aerial view of Gaborone Botswana at sunset

Located in the centre of southern Africa, Botswana is a land-locked plateau bordered by South Africa, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The country boasts outstanding natural beauty, including forested regions, the Okavango Delta, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pan and the tableland of the Kalahari Desert.

Wildlife is conserved within the boundaries of three national parks and fi ve game reserves, the most notable of these being the Okavango Delta, The Chobe National Park and The Gemsbok National Park. Wildlife conservation is not only a societal contribution, but also makes good business sense, ecotourism contributing large revenues to the nation’s coffers.

A good indicator of the success of conservation efforts and anti-poacher initiatives is the large population of elephants that Botswana hosts in the North West of the country. Some sources claim that this is the largest single population of elephants in existence. The same region also contains one of the few remaining populations of the endangered African wild dog.

Early settlers and the emergence of a modern state

Botswana was fi rst peopled by San or Basarwa (Bushmen), who were nomadic hunter-gatherers. Few remnants of the

The Jewel of Southern Africa

© Vladm2 | Dreamstime.com

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IntroductionSector

Bushmen exist to describe their culture and society apart from the rock paintings found at the UNESCO world heritage site in the Tsodilo Hills. The hunter-gatherer way of life has persisted to the current day through numerous generations of Bushmen. However, this way of life is now on the wane as the descendants of the fi rst settlers of Botswana take advantage of the numerous benefi ts of settled civilisation.

A key fi gure in the social and political development of Botswana was the Bamangwato tribal leader Khama III. In 1885, he took control of the political administration of Bechuanaland, as Botswana was then known, under British protection. Bechuanaland became the Republic of Botswana when the country gained independence from British colonial rule in 1966.

At independence, the newly founded Republic did not have armed forces. However, instability caused by confl ict among its more powerful neighbours and cross-border assaults prompted the creation of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) in 1977. With peace taking a fi rmer hold in southern Africa, the missions of the BDF have focused on the fi ght against poachers, preparing for emergencies and foreign peacekeeping.

Economy and society

Before independence, Botswana was one of the poorest countries in the world with an annual GDP in the region of US$70 during the late 1960s. Sound government and economic policy that focused upon the development of export markets, saw GDP per capita grow to US$7,028 in 2014.

Political stability has benefi tted the economy and enabled it to achieve and sustain some of the highest growth rates in Africa. Botswana depends heavily upon its mining operations and is among the World’s largest producers of diamonds. Agriculture and tourism also play signifi cant roles in the economy. One of

the most encouraging developments of recent years has been the emergence of the fi nancial services sector, which has been helped by supportive government legislation.

With a population estimated at two million in 2012, Botswana is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the World. Most people live in urban areas, the capital city and seat of Gaborone itself accounting for 10% of the population. The most densely populated areas are in and around the cities found in the South East of the country, situated close to the border with South Africa.

The languages spoken in Botswana refl ect the ethnic mix originating from early settler groups and also the most recent colonial past. English is the offi cial language and Setswana is the national language. A number of other languages are spoken including Kalanga, Sarwa and Ndebele.

Great strides have been taken since independence to improve the uptake of basic education and vocational training in skilled trades. Education is of utmost importance to the gov-ernment as it seeks to create a qualifi ed workforce that will drive growth in sectors outside of mining operations and increase the diversifi cation of the economy.

An extensive paved road network connects the major cities in Botswana. Railway lines are exclusively designated for freight, although plans are afoot to introduce passenger services at some point in 2015. The government-owned airline Air Botswana operates internal fl ights between the major cities of Francistown, Gaborone, Maun and Selebi-Phikwe. There is an international service out of Gaborone international airport to South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and beyond.

Botswana is a member of various international organisations in partnership with its African neighbours and partners from further afi eld. It boasts membership of the African Union, the Southern African Development Community, the South African Customs Union, the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations.


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EU Bullish on Botswana

The EU has long been a strong advocate for Botswana. In the early 1990s, the EU provided more than €21.5 million to support the diversifi cation of Botswana’s mining sector in Selebi-Phikwe. A few years later, EU grants fi nanced nickel and copper mining in the same area.

Alexander Baum, EU Ambassador to Botswana

Now the EU aims to help Botswana diversify its economy beyond minerals. Alexander Baum, the EU’s Ambassador to Botswana and to the Southern African Development Community, points out, “Mining will remain an important economic sector for Botswana for many years to come, but there is an urgent need to look into other sectors as well, as future economic growth cannot be sustained by mining alone. None of the developed high-income countries around the world is depending solely on exports of raw materials. Botswana will only move farther up the ladder by adding value in the country.”

The EU Private-Sector Development Programme has funnelled some €2.3 million to Botswana. Speaking at the launch of this European Times report, Alexander Baum

explained, “The EU has been supporting many value-chain analyses for Botswana’s important and emerging sectors, such as the beef industry, tourism, horticulture, dairy products, leather goods, and poultry and pork pro-duction, just to name a few.” Education is another priority for the EU, which has funded educational projects in Botswana for many years and has earmarked €117 million in support for the country’s educa-tional system up to 2017. “The EU and Botswana’s govern-ment agree that development is driven by brain power, and education is the key to everything,” Alexander Baum says, adding that Botswana must also create jobs for its young people.

“The EU and Botswana’s government agree that

development is driven by brain power, and education is the key to everything.”

EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement

The EU and Botswana are set to strengthen their trade ties thanks to the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement. Alexander Baum explains, “The SADC EPA offers a good deal for Botswana and the SADC countries that have signed it: 100% duty-free, quota-free access with attractive rules of origin, and other critical elements that are drivers of change. I think budding entrepreneurs need to look no further than the European Times for ideas on how to exploit the benefi ts of the EPA.”

The EU will continue to support Botswana’s development drive. Alexander Baum concludes, “I can clearly see that EU–Botswana relations can grow on new, fertile ground and that we together can become an example of a maturing relationship between countries that leave the unequal aid relations in the past.”

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UN Praises Botswana’s Impressive Track Record

The United Nations is very positive about Botswana’s progress and potential. In November 2014 at the launch of the European Times report on Botswana, UN Resident Coordinator Anders Pedersen said, “Over the next fi ve to 10 years, we expect a majority of the Sub-Saharan countries to have achieved middle-income status and an increased level of human development. Botswana has in many ways led this development on the continent and is in many ways a unique country in Africa, and beyond. What makes Botswana unique is that it has both the resources to fi nance its own development and the demonstrated will and commitment to do so.”

Anders Pedersen, UN Resident Coordinator

As the UN Coordinator pointed out, many countries in Africa are blessed with rich natural resources, but Botswana has set itself apart by investing the revenues from its resources in improving the lives of its people. Botswana achieved the UN Millennium Development Goals target of cutting its poverty rate in half between 1990 and 2015. In addition, Botswana reduced extreme poverty by a very impressive 73% in only seven years, between 2002 and 2009. As Anders Pedersen points out, “This is reason enough to be optimistic that Botswana could eradicate extreme poverty by 2016.”

Reaching UN Millennium Development Goals

Botswana has also met or is well on course to meet the other Millennium Development Goals concerning human development, including improving education, healthcare, gender equality, and access to basic services like clean water and sanitation. The UN recognises

that Botswana still faces challenges, such as the need to diversify the economy, abolish any remaining social and economic equalities, boost employment, eradicate poverty, and empower children, young people and women. In the UN’s view, Botswana will overcome these challenges. Anders Pedersen explains, “Botswana is now an upper-middle-income country with a medium human-development ranking of 109 in the world and two in Sub-Saharan Africa. Together I am convinced we can make Botswana a high-income country with a high human-development ranking.”

The UN will continue to support Botswana as it pursues its ambitious development targets. Anders Pedersen concludes, “We look towards Botswana’s future with big hopes and con-fi dence. Together, we aim to achieve even more in 2015 and beyond than we have done in the past. Botswana has been doing great and continues to do so. As the UN, we reaffi rm our commitment to work with the government of Botswana and all our partners and deliver results that will continue benefi tting all of Botswana.”


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Ministry Helping Rural Communities Prosper

Botswana’s government is committed to promoting sustainable development throughout the country. Honourable Slumber Tsogwane, Botswana’s Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, discusses his ministry’s priorities and projects.

European Times: What are your ministry’s main goals?

Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The mission of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is to ensure effective government services and social protection for all the people of Botswana. Our number one priority is to reduce unemployment and poverty. The ministry also contributes to the government’s drive to develop Botswana’s educational system, fi ght HIV and AIDS, combat corrup-tion and allocate fi nancial resources wisely. One major step Botswana has taken in fi ghting corruption is to eliminate the government’s involvement in the tender-selection process so that this process will always be completely transparent.

European Times: What benefi ts is your ministry bringing to local communities?

Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The ministry is imple-menting measures to ensure that local businesses have top priority concerning tenders for local projects, as long as local suppliers can meet quality and quantity requirements. For example, school uniforms will be manufactured by a company in the district where the school is located if possible.

European Times: How does the ministry allocate its budget to Botswana’s 16 regions?

Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The ministry is revising its system in order to allocate funds based on the importance and timeframe of each project, rather than on the size of the community where the project is located. Each local council must establish an annual budget, but these budgets can be revised if communities’ needs change, as long as projects benefi t local populations.

European Times: How is your ministry helping Botswana attract FDI?

Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: Since this ministry is very active at the local level, it is the best source for information on available land for projects. Our staff members also have in-depth knowledge about local human resources and suppliers. The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development welcomes the chance to assist foreign investors and can even provide subsidies for projects that develop Bots-wana’s business sector and provide employment. In addition, each district in Botswana has the authority to partner with foreign and local investors. Local leaders know what is best for their communities and the ministry does not want to hold back any community’s chance to grow.

European Times: What is your personal message to European readers?

Honourable Slumber Tsogwane: The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development is committed to promoting the development of local communities through-out Botswana and welcomes international partnerships.

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Dedicated Leaders Creating aModern, Business-Friendly Gaborone

As Botswana’s capital, Gaborone has a key role to play in the country’s development. Improving the city’s infrastructure, reaching Millennium Development Goals (particularly empowering young people), and enhancing Gaborone’s position as a diamond hub are some of the current targets for Gaborone’s City Council, most of whose members are in their 30s. As His Worship Mayor Kagiso Thutlwe points out, “Young people are dreamers who are always willing to fi ght for their dreams. Gaborone’s current leaders are dynamic young people working to turn the city around.”

His Worship Kagiso Thutlwe, Mayor of Gaborone

which will create job opportunities for youth. Over the longer term, the City Council actively supports invest-ments in new hotels and other facili-ties and services which will enhance Gaborone’s role as an international diamond hub and will help encourage both business and tourism visitors to stay longer in the city.

A top priority at the moment is to upgrade Gaborone’s water and elec-tricity networks. One project will focus on improving the city’s street lighting, including installing LED lights, and the City Council has issued a tender for this initiative. As part of its effort to empower local young people, the City Council is organising festivals

International partners and investors welcomeTo reach these ambitious goals, the City Council welcomes the help of interna-tional investors and partners. As Mpho Mathe, Town Clerk, points out, “Gab-orone’s City Council aims to create an open, favourable environment for private-sector investors, both local and foreign. Rather than relying solely on government support, Gaborone must fully involve the private sector in devel-opment projects. The City Council is creating public-private partnerships and looking for opportunities for outsourc-ing. We are currently seeking partners for road construction. Gaborone is open for business!”

The City Council especially supports environmentally-friendly projects, like a current one in a partnership with Sweden to turn an existing slaughter-house into a recycling centre. Gaboro-ne’s leaders want to encourage a culture of recycling in the city and particularly favour “green” energy projects, such as turning recycled waste into energy.

Through all these efforts, the City Council aims to establish a modern, forward-thinking, business-friendly Gaborone. Mpho Mathe concludes, “The City Council wants people to want to live, invest and do business in Gaborone, and is actively involved in rebranding the city. Gaborone has a very strategic location and great economic potential, and the City Council is committed to positioning Gaborone as a thriving destination for both tourism and business.”


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Key Member of the Southern African Development Community

Botswana, which will host the 35th Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in August 2015, is an African success story and an important SADC member.

Stergomena Lawrence Tax, Executive Secretary SADC

Botswana is committed to SADC’s main objectives, which are to achieve economic development, peace and security, the alleviation of poverty, and a better quality of life for the people of Southern Africa. SADC’s headquarters are in Bots-wana’s capital, Gaborone, and Botswana’s President, Ian Khama, was recently appointed SADC’s Deputy Chairman.

SADC aims to achieve its goals through regional coop-eration and integration as outlined in the SADC Common Agenda. SADC member states are Angola, Botswana, Dem-ocratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa,

Swaziland, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

A number of innovative SADC projects have been launched in Botswana, including the recent Monitoring of the Environment for Security in Africa (MESA) initia-tive developed by Botswana’s Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism in collaboration with the SADC secretariat. Kitso Mokaila, former Minister of the Envi-ronment and now Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, says, “The MESA initiative will play a pivotal role in supporting environmental-monitoring capabilities within the SADC region. It brings satellite technology and infrastructure to SADC member states, including Botswana, to allow continuous monitoring of our environment for hazardous natural disasters such as floods, wildfires and drought.”

High-priority energy project

At the 34th SADC summit in August, the heads of gov-ernment of SADC member states announced that at least nine high-priority energy-transmission projects budgeted at over €3 billion are being developed in the SADC region and are open to international investors. These projects include the fl agship ZiZaBoNa Interconnector Initiative to be implemented by Botswana along with Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. The initial capacity of the transmis-sion interconnector will be 300 MW; it will be increased to 600 MW.

Botswana is also one of seven SADC member states par-ticipating in the EU-SADC Partnership Agreement, which was formally implemented in August this year; the others are Angola, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland and South Africa. Gerard McGovern, former Head of the EU Delegation to Botswana and to SADC, noted in August that the new agreement allows for duty- and quota-free entry of Botswana’s beef into the EU. He added, “It is up to Botswana to take advantage of the EU-SADC partnership, especially since other middle-income countries competing for the same market do not have this advantage.”

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Introduction

Opening Doors to Investment Opportunities in BotswanaThe Embassy of Botswana in Brussels supports the country’s national development agenda and works to forge strong ties between Botswana, the EU and other international partners. Hon. Samuel Outlule, Ambassador, discusses the embassy’s current projects and goals.

European Times: What are the embassy’s main tasks?

Hon. Samuel Outlule: The embassy focuses on six key areas, which are to attract investment in Botswana; to promote Bot-swana’s international trade and its tourism industry; to support Botswana’s private sector and the African, Caribbean and Pacifi c Group of States (ACP)-EU Partnership Agreement; to inform the world about Botswana and its culture; to handle visa applications to facilitate the movement of people to and from Botswana; and to provide consular services for citizens of Botswana and for companies operating in Botswana.

European Times: How would you describe the rela-tionship between Botswana and Europe?

Hon. Samuel Outlule: Botswana has strong, old and enduring bilateral and multilateral relations with the EU. These relations are born out of shared interests and com-mitment to common values, such as the belief in an open economy, democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and the rule of law. Botswana has been adhering to these values by conviction since its independence in 1966. Botswana has benefi ted from bilateral and EU develop-ment funds and technical assistance. As a member of ACP, Botswana has also benefi ted from the Stabilisation of Export Earnings (STABEX), System on Minerals (SYSMIN) and FLEX initiatives. Botswana enjoys quota-free and duty-free access to the European market. In addition, through the Cotonou Partnership Agreement, Botswana cooperates with Europe in economic, political and social fi elds. Botswana also participates in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC)-EU Regional Indicative Strategic Programme. As the home of SADC, Botswana sees a bright future for the

economies of the region. European investors should recognise and seize the myriad opportunities the region offers.

European Times: How can the embassy assist investors in Botswana?

Hon. Samuel Outlule: The embassy is ready to provide pertinent information to potential investors concerning Botswana’s investment climate and targeted sectors, and will help link investors to Botswana’s key institutions and business leaders. An increase in investment from Europe will certainly help Botswana diversify its economy. High-potential sectors include diamonds, transport and logistics, agriculture, science and technology, mining, energy, phar-maceuticals, fi nancial services and others.

European Times: What is your personal message about the embassy?

Hon. Samuel Outlule: The Botswana Embassy in Brussels serves as a one-stop service centre for travellers and investors.

Hon. Samuel Outlule, Ambassador of Botswana to Belgium


14

Making Botswana One of the World’s Least-Corrupt Countries

In a strong commitment to fi ghting corruption, in 1994 Botswana’s government established the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC), an autonomous law-enforcement agency reporting directly to the President of Botswana. Rose Seretse, Director General since 2009, explains the DCEC’s activities and highlights the agency’s successful eff orts to make Botswana one of the least-corrupt countries in the world.

Rose Seretse, Director General DCEC

European Times: What are some of the DCEC’s recent achievements?

Rose Seretse: Within the last fi ve years, we have managed to bridge the gap between the community and the DCEC. In the past, the DCEC was seen as Botswana’s only tool to fi ght cor-ruption; the general population did not take responsibility for this task. The DCEC established Community Anti-Corrup-

tion Clubs to sensitise members of the public about corrup-tion and report suspicious activities. Now ordinary people in local communities are playing a critical role in the fi ght against corruption. Anyone who informs the DCEC about possible corruption can count on complete anonymity. The DCEC also established Anti-Corruption clubs in Secondary Schools to teach the youth about corruption. The DCEC has special teams to deal with corruption investigations and is proud of Botswana’s 70% conviction rate in corruption cases in the courts. Today, Botswana is ranked the least corrupt country in Africa and the DCEC is widely known as a benchmark in the fi ght against corruption. Anti-Corruption organisations from all over the world come to Botswana to learn about our strate-gies, and Botswana was chosen to be the home of Common-wealth Africa Anti-Corruption Centre.

European Times: How is Botswana working to eliminate corruption in the public sector?

Rose Seretse: The President of Botswana himself is per-sonally committed to combating corruption; he was very instrumental in the establishment of Anti-Corruption units in Ministries. These anti corruption units conduct prelimi-nary investigations within the respective Ministry and refer matters that need further investigations to DCEC or the Police. Each Ministry also has a Corruption Prevention Committee. The draft legislation on whistle blowing which will protect whistle blowers is at an advanced stage.

European Times: What are your goals for the DCEC?

Rose Seretse: The DCEC wants Botswana to be seen not only as a model for Anti-Corruption measures in Africa but also internationally, so we continuously review our strategies to stay up to date with global Anti- Corruption standards. One of the goals is to reduce the DCEC case load from 20 to 10 cases per investigator. International investors should know that Botswana is ranked 31 out of 175 countries on trans-parency International Perception Index making Botswana one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Investors can come to Botswana with the confi dence that Botswana has zero tolerance to corruption.

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1

Introduction

Botswana’s Fact FileBotswana, formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, adopted its new name upon its independence in 1966. More than four decades of uninterrupted democratic government, progressive social policies, and signifi cant capital investment have made Botswana one of Africa’s most stable and prosperous economies, and Botswana is now ranked a middle-income nation. Mineral extraction, principally diamond-mining, dominates the economy but Botswana’s government is actively promoting diversifi cation into other sectors, including tourism.

Official Name: Republic of Botswana

Location: Southern Africa, north of South Africa

Capital: Gaborone

Area: 581,730 sq km

Border countries: Namibia 1,544 km, South Africa 1,969 km, Zambia 0.1 km, Zimbabwe 834 km

Geography: landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country

Climate: semiarid, with warm winters and hot summers

Area: Total: 581,730 sq km Country comparison to the world: 48 Land: 566,730 sq km Water: 15,000 sq km Terrain: Predominantly fl at to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest

People Population: 2,155,784

Local name for citizens: Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)

Ethnic groups: Tswana (or Setswana) 79% of the total population, Kalanga 11%, Basarwa 3%, others including Kgalagadi and white 7%

Official languages: Setswana 78.2%, Kalanga 7.9%, Sekgalagadi 2.8%, English (offi cial) 2.1%, other 8.6%, unspecifi ed 0.4%

Religions: Christian 71.6%, Badimo 6%, other 1.4%, unspecifi ed 0.4%, none 20.6%

PoliticsGovernment type: Parliamentary republic

Independence: 30 September 1966

Legal system: mixed legal system of civil law infl uenced by the Roman-Dutch model and also customary and common law

Chief of State: President Seretse Khama Ian KHAMA (since 1 April 2008); Vice President Ponatshego KEDIKILWE (since 2 August 2012); note - the president is both chief of state and head of government

Head of government: President Seretse Khama Ian KHAMA (since 1 April 2008); Vice President Ponatshego KEDIKILWE (since 2 August 2012)

Elections: President indirectly elected for a fi ve-year term (eligible for a second term); Vice President appointed by the President

Judicial BranchHighest court: Court of Appeal, High Court (each consists of a chief justice and num-ber of other judges as prescribed by the Parliament)

Judge selection and term of office: Court of Appeal and High Court chief justices appointed by the presi-dent and other judges appointed by the president upon the advice of the Judicial Service Commission; all judges appointed to serve until age 70

Subordinate courts: Industrial Court (with circuits scheduled monthly in the capital city and in three districts); Magistrates Courts (one in each district); Customary Court of Appeal; Paramount Chief’s Court/Urban Customary Court; Senior Chief’s Representative Court; Chief’s Representative’s Court; Headman’s Court

Economy at a GlanceCurrency: Botswana pula (BWP)

GDP (purchasing power parity): US$34 billion (2013 est.)

GDP per capita: US$16,400 (2013 est.)

GDP real growth rate: 3.9% (2013 est.)

GDP contributions by sector: agriculture: 1.9%, industry: 35.7%, services: 62.4% (2013 est.)

Industries: Diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver; livestock processing; textiles

Total exports: US$7.569 billion (2013 est.)

Export commodities: Diamonds, copper, nickel, soda ash, meat, textiles

Total imports: US$7.389 billion (2013 est.)

Import commodities: foods, machinery, electrical goods, transport equipment, textiles, fuel and petroleum products, wood and paper products, metal and metal products

Source: www.cia.gov


16

Japan and Botswana Forging Stronger Ties

Japan and Botswana may be on opposite sides of the globe, but the two countries have forged a strong partnership. Masahiro Onishi, Japan’s Ambassador to Botswana, discusses this partnership and cites Botswana’s investment appeal.

Masahiro Onishi, Ambassador

European Times: Can you describe relations between Botswana and Japan?

Masahiro Onishi: Botswana and Japan have had offi cial diplomatic relations since 1966, but this partnership has become particularly strong since Japan opened an embassy in Botswana in 2008. In the past few years, travel between the two countries has been growing and Japan is proud of supporting Botswana’s technical development by providing hardware as well as Japanese expertise. Japan and Botswana share a belief in freedom, democracy, the rule of law and human rights, and Japan cherishes Botswana as a reliable partner in southern Africa. My responsibility as ambassa-dor is to continue to strengthen this bilateral relationship, for example by working to attract more Japanese investors to Botswana. Botswana is a peaceful country that has avoided

civil war and offers very favourable conditions for business. It also has a steadily growing economy, high per capita GDP, and is one of Africa’s most corruption-free countries. Japanese companies would greatly benefi t by doing business in Botswana.

European Times: What are some of the projects Japan currently supports in Botswana?

Masahiro Onishi: Following Botswana’s adoption of the Japanese Digital Broadcasting System – the fi rst to be introduced in Africa – Japan has been actively engaging in assisting Botswana with its smooth transition to the new system. Also, Japan provides technical assistance to the project for the establishment of the One Stop Border Post (OSBP) on the border between Botswana and Namibia, which upgrades the effi ciency of border crossings. Fur-thermore, Japan is undertaking the Jatropha bio-diesel project, which is expected to promote the diversifi cation of the energy supply in a sustainable manner. In addition, the Japanese embassy provides grants for development projects proposed by such bodies as local government authorities and NGOs.

European Times: How about bilateral ties at the government level?

Masahiro Onishi: Japan cherishes its relationship with Bots-wana’s government. I personally have many close acquaint-ances in the government, including cabinet members. Japan understands well the plans and goals of Botswana’s govern-ment. This is why the Japanese government is encouraging Japanese investors to seek opportunities in Botswana and to contribute to Botswana’s economic diversifi cation and human-resources development.

European Times: What is your personal message to potential investors?

Masahiro Onishi: Ties between Japan and Botswana are strong and getting even stronger. I am excited to see more interest in Botswana, not only from Japan but from the global investment community as a whole.

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China and Botswana Going Forward Together

Celebrating forty years of a fruitful relationship between China and Botswana, the Chinese Ambassador, H.E. Zheng Zhuqiang emphasizes that,

“having the same interest and trust in each other, the two countries have had a solid foundation since the beginning and continue to have a great one.”

Throughout their long, close and established alliance, China has given various forms of aid to Botswana. China has given economic aid through the renovation and expansion of the railway from Zimbabwe to South Africa, as well as multiple land surveys and contracts with the Government’s Parastatal Botswana Housing Corpora-tion (BHC). Building 700 houses, multiple primary schools and even a multi-use youth center in Gaborone, China continues to develop Botswana’s infrastructure sector. Through its medical aid, Botswana has now received 14 teams of Chinese medical volunteers ranging from doctors to nurses, giving guidance to the Country’s Health Sector. In regards to education, China has given over eighty scholarships to Botswana citizens.

Now in his second year as Ambassador, Zheng Zhuqiang points out that his role is to promote the relationship between the two countries and keep expanding through-out needed areas of the economy. “Botswana is still

short on infrastructure and China is able to help build Botswana up,” Zheng Zhuqiang says. “Because Botswana is a peaceful and stable democratic system, Chinese companies are able to work diligently and fi nish on time and with good quality.”

“Additionally, China is able to further help the Botswana economy through its knowledge in manufacturing. Although having had a poor reputation in the past, Chinese companies have learned their lesson and now correcting the miss-representation of Chinese products in Africa”, the ambassador adds.

“China has the knowhow and Botswana has the interest, and we will

continue to grow together.”

Chinese companies are able to come into Africa and employ the local population while teaching them the skills and trades that continue to be used long after a contract has expired. “China is able to share its experience and production capability with the African countries while promoting a new global market,” Zheng Zhuqiang explains. “China has the knowhow and Botswana has the interest, and we will continue to grow together!”

Introduction


18

Government

• Independent Republic with Long History of Stability

• Duma Boko, a Young Forward Thinking Leader

“Women hold many leadership positions in Botswana today, including as CEOs. The Attorney General, the Governor of the Bank of Botswana

and the Speaker of Parliament are all women.”

Gladys Kokorwe, Speaker of Parliament

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Empowering Women and Achieving Gender Equality

Botswana is committed to empowering women and achieving gender equality in line with the UN Millennium Development Goals. Gladys Kokorwe, Speaker of Parliament and one of Botswana’s most prominent female leaders, explains, “Women hold many leadership positions in Botswana today, including as CEOs. The Attorney General, the Governor of the Bank of Botswana and the Speaker of Parliament are all women.”

Gladys Kokorwe, Speaker of Parliament

Many challenges remain, however. Only four women have top political positions in Botswana, and Gladys Kokorwe notes that socialisation is the main reason. She says, “A female candidate, either for parliament or council, is not viewed very

positively. This needs to be changed through education and a review of laws. When I fi rst stood as a member of parliament in 1994, women raised the most objections to a female MP. It takes a lot of education to motivate women to make their voices count.”

Gladys Kokorwe entered civil service in 1972, studied at the University of Connecticut, became an MP in 1994 and then served as assistant Minister of Local Government, Deputy Speaker, and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture before retiring from politics in 2009. She was then appointed Bots-wana’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe and later became Speaker. She is Botswana’s only MP to draft a bill voted into law; she is responsible for Botswana’s law on domestic violence, which is now an Act.

Promoting women in business

In addition to entering public service like Gladys Kokorwe, women are playing an increasingly important role in Botswa-na’s business sector as a result of government programmes like the Financial Assistance Policy, which gave women the fi nancial support they need to start a business. Companies in many sectors in Botswana are now headed by women.

In its drive to achieve gender equality, the government has placed a high priority on education and now more girls than boys attend Botswana’s primary schools. Some girls leave school early, however, because of pregnancy. The govern-ment has launched information campaigns to fi ght teenage pregnancy and is encouraging families to educate their daughters about this issue. As Gladys Kokorwe points out, “The task should not be the government’s alone; parents must talk to their children.”

In spite of the challenges, Gladys Kokorwe is very confi dent about the future of women in Botswana. She says, “Women make up 42% of senior posts in public-service jobs and the government is aiming for 50%. Women also hold 46% of NGO senior jobs and 27% in parastatals. We are getting there. I can see light at the end of the tunnel.”

Government


20

Independent Republic with Long History of Stability

The Republic of Botswana is a parliamentary republic which achieved its independence from Britain on September 30, 1966. Botswana’s current constitution dates from 1966. It has been amended several times, most recently in 2006.

Botswana Parliament

Government organisation

Executive Branch Botswana’s Chief of State and Head of Government is the President, currently Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, elected in 2009 and (for a second term) in October 2014. The President is seconded by the Vice President, currently Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi (since November 2014). The President appoints a Cabinet.

Legislative BranchBotswana’s legislature is a unicameral Parliament, the

National Assembly, which has 63 seats. The House of Chiefs (Ntlo ya Dikgosi), with 35 members, serves as an advisory body for the National Assembly.

Judicial BranchBotswana has a mixed legal system of civil law infl uenced by the Roman-Dutch model, as well as customary and common law. Botswana accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdic-tion with reservations and accepts ICCt jurisdiction. The highest courts are the Court of Appeal and the High Court. Each has a chief justice appointed by the President and other judges appointed by the President upon the advice of the Judicial Service Commission. All judges serve until age 70. Lower courts are the Industrial Court (with circuits scheduled monthly in Gaborone and in three districts); Mag-istrates Courts (one in each district); the Customary Court of Appeal; the Paramount Chief ’s Court/Urban Customary Court; the Senior Chief ’s Representative Court; the Chief ’s Representative’s Court; and the Headman’s Court

Key leaders

Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of Botswana, is the son of the country’s fi rst President, the late Sir Seretse Khama. The current president was born in the UK in 1953 when his parents were in exile. Following his parents’ return to Botswana in 1956, Seretse Khama Ian Khama was educated in Botswana, the Waterford School Swaziland in Geneva, and the UK’s offi cer-training school, the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst. After graduat-ing he enrolled for further training at the Nigerian Police Academy at Ikeja and was trained as a pilot in Gaborone and in Antwerp, Belgium. In 1973, the future President Khama joined the paramilitary Police Mobile Unit, the forerunner of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), and played a central role in transforming the BDF into a modern professional fi ghting unit. After serving in the military, Seretse Khama Ian Khama was elected to Parliament in 1998. His political posts have included Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Admin-istration, Vice President (in 1999), and chairman of the Botswana Democratic Party (2003). When former President

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21

Sector

Three Chiefs monument

Festus Mogae resigned in 2008, Seretse Khama succeeded to the presidency and he was elected President in 2009. He is known for his support for investors and the private sector.

Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi, Vice President since November 2014, former Minister of Education and Skills Development and a member of the National Assembly representing the Moshupa/Manyana constituency. A teacher, he was a graduate student in education at Florida State University (US). He previously served as the National Coordinator for Social Studies Education and represented Botswana at the African Social and Environmental Studies Programme (ASESP) and the Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA). He held a key post at UNICEF and was Botswana’s Minister for Presidential Affairs and Public administration (2011-2014) before becoming Minister of Education and Skills Development.

Elections

Botswana has universal suffrage; all citizens aged 18 and over may vote. The President is elected for a fi ve-year term and is eligible for a second term. The last presidential election was in October 2014 and the next will be in October 2019. The Vice President is appointed by the President. Concern-ing the National Assembly, 57 members are directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, four are nominated by the President and indirectly elected by simple majority vote by the rest of the National Assembly, and two (the President and Attorney General) are ex-offi cio members. Members of the National Assembly serve fi ve-year terms. The last National Assembly elections were held in October 2014 and the next will be in October 2019.

Ministers

Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration: Eric Molale

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development: Slumber Tsogwane

Minister of Trade and Industry: Vincent Seretse

Minister of Finance and Development Planning: Ontefetse Kenneth Matambo

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture: Thapelo Olopeng

Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources: Onkokame Kitso Mokaila

Minister of Infrastructure, Science and Technology: Nonofo Molefhi

Minister of Defence, Justice and Security: Shaw Kgathi

Minister of Agriculture: Patrick Ralotsia

Minister of Transport and Communication: Tshenolo Mabeo

Minister of Labour and Home Affairs: Edwin Batshu

Minister of Health: Dorcus Makgato

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation: Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi

Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism: Tshekedi Khama

Minister of Education:Unity Dow

Minister of Lands and Housing: Prince Maele

Government


22

Duma Boko, a Young Forward Thinking Leader

It seems that Duma Boko has always been involved in politics, since his time in university as a student leader. During his tenure in law school he was part of the student representative council and became president in his fourth year.

Duma Boko, President of the Botswana National Front

After graduating and moving into practicing law, Duma Boko kept a close ear to the political landscape. “It was during my term practicing law when the opposition was in almost complete disarray, especially at the Botswana National Front, the main opposition party which I had been a member of all my life. At that time I decided to step into the fray and offer myself to lead, with a view to change the fortunes of the party and the political landscape of the country,” Duma Boko states.

Ultimately Duma Boko succeeded in becoming the president of the Botswana National Front (BNF) with an almost unanimous endorsement by the entire membership of the party. This is where Duma Boko began his mission to transform his party.

Forging unity among the opposition

Duma Boko’s big challenge was to deal with internal issues and to form a unity between all the opposition parties that were already in existence. With his help, a road map was made to allow the four opposition parties to work together and become united. At this point in time all the opposition parties are working together to make this a reality.

The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) is the beginning of that road map, a manifest encapsulating the spirit of unity. The UDC comprises of the Botswana National Front (BNF), the Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD) and the Botswana People’s Party (BPP).

“The 2014 elections played out extremely well,” states Duma Boko. “The only downside was that confi dence developed only after the registration for voting had closed.”

Duma Boko feels that, in order for Botswana to diversify its economy, it should begin with larger infrastructure develop-ment. “The UDC has a very ambitious infrastructure plan to develop the transport sector in the short and medium term, especially the railroads, road network and the Botswana airports,” Duma Boko emphasises. This should generate more jobs and enable more foreign direct investment to par-ticipate in PPPs or outright funding.

“When it comes to energy, Botswana needs to focus on renewable energy like solar power. In order to develop the agriculture and livestock sector, Botswana needs to advance farming innovation and create competition when it comes to exporting beef,” states Duma Boko.

Duma Boko is a young political fi gure with forward-mov-ing ideas, who has been making airwaves starting from his student career to becoming the head of the BNF & UDC.

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23

Business & InvestmentOpportunties

• Trade and Industry Minister Calls for Projects to Reduce Import Bill

• Botswana is Open for Business

• Ministry Helping to Improve Workforce and Create Jobs

• FDI to Drive Economic Diversification

“We want to position Botswana as a top international business location like Singapore, Malaysia and the

Scandinavian countries.”Hon. Vincent Seretse, Minister of Trade and Industry


24

Trade and Industry Minister Calls for Projects to Reduce Import Bill

Botswana is working hard to boost its exports, reduce its imports, and stimulate industrial growth with the help of both domestic and foreign investors. Leading this eff ort is the Ministry of Trade and Industry, headed by Hon. Minister Vincent T. Seretse.

Hon. Vincent T. Seretse, Minister of Trade and Industry

At the Global Expo Botswana trade fair held in November 2014, the minister commented, “Botswana has a narrow manufacturing base and 80% of what the country consumes is imported. Investors in manufacturing in Botswana can not only reduce this huge import bill but also access the SADC market, with its 50 million consumers, without being hampered by duties and quotas.”

Addressing potential international investors, the minister added that Botswana’s government continues to work with the local business community to improve the country’s business climate. He said, “As a market-led economy, Botswana’s objective is to provide a conducive investment climate which will nurture economic growth through maintaining a stable macroeconomic environ-ment and providing institutional support.”

Vincent T. Seretse formerly served as Botswana’s Assistant Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Assistant Minister of Trade and Industry,

Acting Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, and as the CEO of national telecom provider Botswana Telecom-munications Corporation, where he spearheaded the company’s successful restructuring. He is well placed to recognise the potential of cooperation between the gov-ernment and the private sector. He explains, “Botswana’s private sector has a key role to play, and an effective part-nership between the government and the private sector is essential for Botswana’s industrial growth and economic diversification.”

“Botswana is a great destination for business thanks to its political

and economic stability.”

Positioning Botswana as top international business base

Vincent T. Seretse urges foreign investors to look into opportunities in Botswana. He says, “Botswana is a great destination for business thanks to its political and economic stability. Botswana also has no exchange controls and is rated the least-corrupt country in Africa. Our government provides financial assistance to potential investors through entities such as Botswana Develop-ment Corporation, and we are creating special industrial zones for export-oriented companies.” He adds, “We want to position Botswana as a top international business location like Singapore, Malaysia and the Scandinavian countries.”

Foreign investors who create jobs are especially welcome. At the opening ceremony for Malaysia’s Pasdec Automo-tive Technologies (PAT) plant, which recently relocated from South Africa to Lobatse, Botswana, Vincent T. Seretse commented, “The Botswana government’s top development priority is job creation, so I am pleased that

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25

Business & Investment Opportunties

1

Thereafter the company acquired the most innovative product license for the Enviroloo Dry Composting Toilet from South Africa. Moemedi Dijeng, Managing Director, explains, “Daisy Loo is capable and interested in completing more projects for the government of Botswana as well as accommodating the waste-manage-ment needs of businesses operating in the Botswana market. Daisy Loo is a trustworthy partner.” Providing the highest-quality waste-management solutions at affordable prices has been Daisy Loo’s mission for almost 25 years.

The company has implemented the latest technologies and serves as a benchmark in its sector. Moemedi Dijeng antici-pates strong growth for Daisy Loo in Botswana. He explains, “Botswana is facing challenges with handling growing amounts of clinical, toxic and other kinds of complex waste, and the country also needs to develop sorting and recycling facilities. Daisy Loo’s experience and capabilities make it the best and most reliable partner to lead Botswana’s recycling and waste-management revolution.”

Daisy Loo welcomes international partnerships. Moemedi Dijeng concludes, “For a reliable partner in the recycling fi eld, we can offer the best possible supervision of waste-management projects along with the latest technologies and the highest standards of quality.”

Daisy Loo Botswana (Pty) LtdPlot 51570 Phakalane, Gaborone

Private Bag B059, Bontleng, Gaborone Tel.: +267 395 9361, Fax: +267 3972221

[email protected]

Leading Botswana’s Waste-Management

RevolutionDaisy Loo has been providing world-class waste-management solutions in Botswana since 1990. Initially through a USAID funded project on behalf of Gaborone City Council, Daisy Loo undertook a fi rst privately operated municipal waste management service in Botswana.

Moemedi Dijeng, Managing Director

Sector

this PAT project will create 500 jobs in its first phase.” He added, “Botswana is currently establishing institu-tions that will train students in the skills they need to make them an indispensable part of the mainstream workforce.”

“We want to position Botswana as a top

international business location like Singapore, Malaysia and the Scandinavian countries.”

Another focus for Vincent T. Seretse is Botswana’s integra-tion into the SADC region. He represented Botswana at the SADC Extraordinary Summit held in Zimbabwe on April 29 to discuss the SADC Industrialisation Strategy. Reporting on the Summit, Vincent T. Seretse said, “The new strategy focuses on member states improving their economies, investing in technology, deepening regional integration, increasing regional trade and exports, and creating jobs. More importantly, the strategy calls for raising the average SADC GDP growth rate from the current 4% to 7%. In addition, the industrialisation strategy is aligned with Agenda 2063, which aims to optimise the use of Africa’s resources for the benefi t of all Africans.”

Vincent T. Seretse is also promoting entrepreneurship among the people of Botswana and strongly supports the government’s programmes to empower and create jobs for all members of Botswana’s population, including women and young people. Addressing the people of Botswana, he says, “You should be willing to take chances, be innovative, make and follow your own path and not just follow the well-trodden one. Chart your own course and destiny and be the person you were meant to be.”


26

Botswana is Open for Business Since independence in 1966, Botswana’s economy has centred upon mining, tourism and agriculture. Diamond trading has driven economic progress and been the main source of the country’s wealth. The global economic crisis exposed an overreliance upon diamond exports, reenergising on-going

efforts to achieve a diversified economy.

Aerial view of the city of Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana

Economic slump and recovery

The global economic crisis had a signifi cant impact upon Botswana as it experienced reduced demand for diamonds and ecotourism. The resulting negative growth fi gures for GDP and the fi scal defi cit experienced in 2009 brought into focus the country’s narrow export base and the continued need for economic diversifi cation.

Despite posting poor economic results in 2009, Botswana was able to bounce back in subsequent years with budget surpluses and positive GDP fi gures. These positive results

were made possible by a recovery in the demand for diamonds and increases in economic activity related to tourism.

Adding value, creating employment

Recent moves to consolidate Botswana’s dominance of global diamond production have seen an expansion in diamond cutting and polishing activities with the launch of the diamond trading company. Engagement in these activi-ties puts an end to the export of rough diamonds for pro-cessing abroad and increases the marketable value of the

© Derejeb | Dreamstime.com© Derejeb | Dreamstime.com

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27

Business & Investment OpportuntiesSector

precious stones sold by Botswana. In addition it provides an important boost for local business and creates jobs.

Foreign Direct Investment

Attempts to increase the scope of the Botswana economy have been made through Foreign Direct Investment. During the 1990s, major investment was attracted from American companies and Hyundai operated a car assembly plant from 1994 to 2000.

American investment in Botswana is currently at low levels, although it is growing. Major American companies currently participating in the Botswana economy through direct invest-ment include H. J. Heinz and AON Corporation. Other big names such as Kentucky Fried Chicken and Remax are pen-etrating Botswana markets using the franchise business model.

Despite the challenges faced by Botswana in the economic arena, such as small market size and its landlocked location, it continues to be one of the best opportunities in the develop-ing world. Testimony to this status is the existence of the 90 member strong American Business Council, which accepts membership from American-affi liated companies.

The success story of the fi nancial services sector refl ects the eagerness of the Botswana government to welcome foreign investment and facilitate its access through policy and legal measures. A combination of a lack of foreign exchange controls, low corporate tax (15%), no limitations on foreign company ownership and a moderate infl ation rate has helped to boost growth in fi nancial services. The Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE) is one of the best performing stock exchanges in Africa and its continuing success has seen it grow to become the third largest on the continent.

Botswana has strong trading links with neighbouring countries and is a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Not only do these organisations facili-tate trade between African nations, but they also provide valuable collective bargaining power in negotiations with major trading blocs. SACU and SADC membership has

helped Botswana participate in collective negotiations to suc-cessfully establish trade agreements with the USA, Mercosur and the European Union.

Manufacturing is a sector that provides opportunities to increase diversifi cation of the general economy. However, it has faced major challenges in the form of a lack of skilled labour and persistent problems with electricity and water supply.

The skills gap can be solved in the short-term through the acquisition of appropriately qualifi ed expatriate labour. However, this approach does not support long-term economic growth and attempts are being made by the government to improve the quality and relevance of basic education and vocational/technical skills training. Education is key to a sus-tainable economic future for Botswana and plays a central role in strategic plans (Vision 2016 and National Develop-ment Plan 10).

An estimated 70% of Botswana’s electricity is imported from South Africa. Almost all of domestic electricity generation is provided by one plant: the Morupule Power Station near Palapye in the South East of the country. The government is tackling the risk connected with current electricity supply through its plans to expand the Morupule power station, as well as encouraging foreign investment to build a new 4,000 megawatt power station.

Effective economic management

The recent re-election of President Ian Khama enables Botswana to continue building upon political and economic success. Through its macroeconomic policy the government has demonstrated its ability to effectively limit spending and control infl ation. It is committed to the market economy and monetary policy supports increased economic activity through the reduction of the costs related to business borrowing. Botswana’s consistent record of good economic governance saw the country ranked as Africa’s least corrupt country in 2004. Additionally, the World Economic Forum has rated Botswana as one of the two most competitive nations in Africa.


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Ministry Helping to Improve Workforce and Create Jobs

The Ministry of Labour and Home Aff airs oversees all issues relating to employment in Botswana and also handles the country’s National Register, a listing of citizens aged 16 and older. Hon. Minister Edwin Batshu discusses his ministry’s tasks and goals.

Hon. Edwin Batshu, Minister of Labour and Home Aff airs

European Times: What are some of your ministry’s current projects?

Hon. Edwin Batshu: We have three major projects underway. One is to better inform Botswana’s citizens about the advantages of a knowledge-based society, a goal in the country’s Vision 2016 programme. Another important project is to update the National Register, including adding people born before 1980 and relaxing penalties for non-registration in order to encourage more people to register. We have also mobilised teams to register people in rural areas. A third priority this year is to improve labour relations as well as cooperation between the public and private sectors.

European Times: What are some recent initiatives designed to upgrade Botswana’s workforce?

Hon. Edwin Batshu: Botswana has made tremendous progress in establishing universities, specialised schools and training programmes to improve the skills of the country’s workers. Our Immigration Act allows for bringing workers with skills into the country, but Botswana’s “localisation” policies encourage employers to hire locally in order to empower more Batswana. The National Productivity Centre was established to help install a work ethic in the local popu-lation. We are determined to prevent the economy from stag-nating and we are working hard to keep skilled Batswana in the country.

European Times: What are some new developments concerning the immigration of expat workers?

Hon. Edwin Batshu: The Ministry of Labour, along with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, drafted the Investment Facilitation Law to simplify the process of bringing expat workers into the country. Botswa-na’s point-based system for immigrants is designed to encourage the entry of people with skills the economy needs most. Prospective immigrants must score at least 60% on the immigration test.

European Times: What is the ministry doing to bring more of Botswana’s young people and women into the workforce?

Hon. Edwin Batshu: Botswana’s affirmative-action programme has helped empower women for the past decade and the government recently adopted a national policy on gender equality to step up the pace of this effort. Youth empowerment is a top priority for Bots-wana’s President, and the government has established a number of programmes to educate and train young Batswana, even those without a secondary-school education, so that they can find jobs. Our goal is to empower all Batswana.

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Oabona M. Kgengwenyane, Managing Director, says, “InnoLead was created to spur the government and private sector in Botswana to strategise and execute their business ventures effec-tively.” InnoLead’s services are focused on Corporate Strategy, Project Man-agement Consulting, and Corporate Training. The company works mainly with Blue Chip enterprises but also serves the government of Botswana, with a particularly strong presence in Botswana’s mining sector. “InnoLead delivers positive results that propel clients to come back for more. We offer win-win partnerships with our clients,” Oabona M. Kgengwenyane points out. The company’s customers include Debswana, BCL Mine, Diamond Trading Company Botswana and many other.Building on its success in Botswana, InnoLead aims to expand into Zambia, Namibia and Zimbabwe, focusing on serving mining companies as well as organisations involved in infrastructure and construction projects by adding value to every client company and helping take the company’s business to a higher level. Defi ning InnoLead’s competitive edge, Oabona M. Kgeng-wenyane says, “Our company’s project-management style, vigour and ability to tailor an approach to any client and make it highly relevant in terms of case studies have positioned InnoLead as a leader in consulting services. InnoLead prompts clients to optimise their full potential and become competitive in the increasingly uncertain business environment.”

InnoleadUnit 2, Plot 140, Kgale Terrace

Gaborone International Finance Park, GaboroneTel.: +267 390 9102, [email protected]

[email protected], www.innolead.co.bw

Consulting Leader with World-class Standards

Plans Expansion InnoLead Consulting, founded in 2001, plays a major role in boosting Botswana’s economic development by capacitating clients to improve their project-management and executive skills.

Oabona Kgengwenyane, Managing Director

1

Yvonne Chilume explains, “We are ready to accom-modate the needs of large corporations coming to Botswana and we would like to partner with EU envi-ronmental organisations. In fact, thanks to our expertise in many areas, particu-larly environmental affairs, Chilume and Company offers the best legal services in the Southern African region. Chilume and Company represents excellence in Botswana.” The fi rm is well known for its personalised approach to every client.

Looking to the future, Yvonne Chilume welcomes the chance to expand her fi rm’s reach by serving more international clients and by confronting complex legal issues. She says, “We are ready to embrace change. We have the knowledge to overcome challenges, and we are always prepared, organised and ready to represent every one of our clients. The Botswana market is small, so at Chilume and Company, we want to spread our wings.”

Sector

Chilume and CompanyPlot 130, Nkwe Square, Unit 1

Gaborone International Finance ParkPO Box 60778, Gaborone

Tel.:+267 391 6310, +267 713 25456, +267 723 [email protected], [email protected]

Dynamic Law Firm Provides World-Class

Legal SupportChilume and Company provides international-stand-ard legal services to clients in Botswana and beyond. The medium-sized law fi rm, headed by Managing Partner Yvonne Kose Chilume, has positioned itself as a reliable partner for foreign investors and companies entering or already operating in Botswana.

Yvonne Chilume, Managing Partner



30

Botswana Work Force is Key to Continuing Economic Development

The high uptake of education and training in Botswana has transformed the workforce into an increasingly important contributor to national economic advantage. The government’s vision and planning has developed a high commitment to investment in knowledge and skills development. This stance is key to the achievement of a diversifi ed economy, which minimises risk and is sustainable over the long term.

Improved uptake in basic education

Botswana has made signifi cant progress in the area of education since its independence in 1966. At the time there were few university graduates in the country and small numbers of the population attended secondary school. Over the intervening years, consistent government investment has seen a complete turnaround. Botswana has achieved high levels

of primary and secondary school attendance. As a consequence the literacy rate among citizens between 15 and 24 years of age has rocketed from an estimated 69% in 1991 to 95% in 2010.

There are ten years of compulsory education starting at the age of six. Primary school lasts for seven years and secondary school fi ve years. Early school leavers move into vocational training in preparation for working life.

Quality education and training infrastructure

In addition to primary and secondary schools, the educational structure of Botswana consists of 30 vocational and technical training centres, four teacher-training colleges, two colleges of education and one university (University of Botswana). A second public university, the Botswana International Uni-versity of Science and Technology, is under construction. Moreover, there is a burgeoning private university sector.

Growth of the university sector is encouraging as advanced knowledge and technical skills are required if the country is going to be able to change the long-term emphasis of the economy from commodity to high technology markets. A larger graduate labour pool will also help Botswana to reduce its dependence on expatriates for skilled labour.

Commitment to continuing educational achievement

Botswana is committed to high investment in education, spending reaching more than 25% of total government budget expenditure. The government views education as central to future economic growth and diversifi cation, its key role refl ected in the Vision 2016 and National Develop-ment10 documents.

Despite the high level of success enjoyed by Botswana in the area of education, it is conscious of the need to avoid compla-cency. The government regularly takes advice upon progress in education and skills development. A recent World Bank Group study supported the government’s approach stating, “Education is instrumental to sustainable development in Botswana.”

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1

Botswana’s Most Trusted Search and Selection Professionals

Established in 1992, HRMC is the most trusted search and selection consultancy company, specializing in recruiting professional and managerial personnel in Botswana.

Stuart White, Managing Director

Working both locally and internationally, this umbrella group consists of independent companies offering superb services. Within these high-end headhunting services, the company manages the overall process, delivering specialist input, advice and support at any stage of the recruitment process.

Being with the client from the fi rst moment of starting a business and every step thereafter

Customer service, professionalism and integrity are HRMC’s core values. Tireless work refl ects these values. HRMC grounds its strategy on the principle that every person is

unique. The partnerships it develops with the job seekers and the employers refl ect this uniqueness. The customers, whether it is a job seeker or an employer, are led through the whole process, experiencing top class service from a genuinely committed and highly competent team.

Unique service to employers for over 20 years

HRMC has a successful tradition of assisting employers in search and selection tailored to the employer’s needs and concepts. As a trusted partner, HRMC offers the most up-to-date pool of professional talent, which enables recommend-ing to their clients the best available candidates, within the shortest time frame. Depending on the clients and their needs, with the collaboration of its sister company, HRMC Talent, HRMC offers either a transparent or entirely discreet local and international search, getting the best possible results.

As HRMC’s Managing Director Stuart White explains, “The biggest clients come from the private sector. They are mul-tinational companies looking to recruit for their branches in Botswana. We are the ideal partner for them. We are continu-ously looking for a competent and well-skilled work force. The main competitors come from outside the country, but we offer a very niche product. By constantly innovating and giving outstanding customer service, we have managed to differen-tiate ourselves from the competition. We have built a small, excellent team, which knows the market, has a great network, knows the clients and does things in a smart way. Finding talent is incredibly hard. We have an outstanding team that accomplishes that, by combining international standards with local knowledge to fi nd the right people for the right jobs. We have a well-established network that helps us locate the right opportunities and connect the right people for every job.”

HRMCUnit 5, Kgale Terrace (opposite Game City)

Private Bag BR198, Gaborone Tel.: +267 395 1640

[email protected]

Recruitment


32

FDI to Drive Economic Diversifi cation

As an FDI choice, Botswana defi nitely has what it takes. Botswana is the offi cial headquarters of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a market of around 200 million people. It has a long history of political stability and is Africa’s oldest democracy. It has low crime rates, a well-established rule of law, and a stellar record on fi ghting corruption; in fact, Transparency International ranks Botswana the least-corrupt country in Africa.

A- credit rating from S&P

Added to all these advantages, Botswana has established impres-sive macroeconomic fundamentals and has earned an enviable A- credit rating from Standard & Poor’s. In May 2015, the inter-national ratings agency downgraded several African countries’ scores but maintained Botswana’s A-, the highest rating among the 13 African countries surveyed in the S&P report.

Underpinned by its strong minerals sector, Botswana has been achieving some of the highest GDP growth rates in the world since its independence in 1966 and is expected to record around 4.5% growth this year, according to the IMF’s recent World Economic Outlook report. The government of Botswana predicts a 4.9% increase in GDP for 2015.

In fact, Botswana’s economy has been so healthy for so long that attracting foreign investors in non-mining sectors has not been a priority for the government. That has changed. Drawing more FDI in diverse sectors and enhancing the capacity and global competitiveness of Botswana’s local companies were the two main issues discussed at the Biennial National Business Conference held in Gaborone in November 2014.

The conference, organised by employers’ association BOCCIM, took a close look at what Botswana needs to do to keep its economy thriving when it shifts away from reliance on the diamond industry. Addressing participants, Botswana’s President Seretse Khama Ian Khama said, “FDI plays an important role in our economic development strategy because of the multiplier effect it has on job creation and the transfer of intellectual capital and technology. In addition, it contributes to other important objectives such as economic diversifi cation and industrialisation. The government of Botswana intends to leave no stone unturned to ensure that Botswana becomes one of the top destinations in Africa for global investors.”

Also speaking at the conference, Mark Cutifani, CEO of Anglo-American PLC, commented that Botswana should retain its leading role in the global diamonds sector while also boosting growth in other sectors. He said, “Botswana has increasingly become part of the wider economic, political and reputational context that shapes the global diamond-mining industry, sym-bolised by the new Diamond Trading Centre in Gaborone. As Botswana works to diversify the economy beyond diamonds, we know that it cannot do this alone. Botswana needs to attract FDI, offer equitable returns to all parties and build confi dence in its investment potential to the people of Botswana. Anglo-American and De Beers are wholeheartedly committed to building upon our existing partnership with the government and people of Botswana as they progress on this journey.”

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Moving beyond diamonds

The stakes are high for Botswana. GDP growth declined from 9.3% in 2013 to around 4.4% last year, according to Statistics Botswana, mainly as a result of signifi cantly reduced output by the minerals sector and negative results by the water and electricity sectors, both of which were plagued by shortages. Of course, with 4.4% growth, Botswana is still outpacing most global economies.

Nevertheless, the government is being proactive. Presenting the 2015-2016 budget to the National Assembly in February

this year, Minister of Finance and Development Planning Kenneth Matambo said that Botswana’s 2015 GDP growth will actually be driven by non-mining sectors, including trade, the hospitality industry, fi nance and banking, and social and personal services.

Niche services, including security services for individuals and companies, are among Botswana’s new growth sectors. World-class security-services providers now offer a wide range of support in Botswana, from private bodyguards to physical and cyber security. Both public- and private-sector organisations are beefi ng up their security, creating opportunities for manu-facturers of security equipment as well as services companies. For example, the Botswana Unifi ed Revenue Service (BURS) recently announced a tender for additional x-ray-container and baggage-scanner equipment as well as consultancy support concerning tracking and tracing taxable products.

Attractions for investors

To reach its long-term diversifi cation goals, the govern-ment has stepped up the pace of making Botswana more investor-friendly. In 2012, the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) was established to serve as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs and an essential partner for foreign investors. In its fi rst year of operations, the BITC attracted

www.aluvium.co.bw


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© Antonella865 | Dreamstime.com

BWP698.97 million (€64.4 million) in FDI, exceeding its target of BWP600 million (€55.4 million) by 16.4%. At the BOCCIM conference last November, BITC acting CEO Letsebe Sejoe reported that Botswana now has 47 projects in the pipeline which should draw investment of around BWP4.7 billion (€434.5 million) and create 4,075 jobs.

The government will continue to support FDI as a source of new jobs and has vowed to streamline red tape for investors. In May this year during a visit to the Flo-tek manufactur-ing facility in Lobatse, Edwin Batshu, Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, commented, “Around 150,000 Batswana are unemployed and the country needs investors to assist in providing new jobs. The government cannot stand in the way of investors who are on an economic growth path. Botswana is where it is today because of investors.”

Botswana’s advantages for investors include no foreign-exchange controls or restrictions on capital outfl ows from fi nancial institutions as well as a fl oating exchange rate for the pula; stable infl ation; and relatively low taxation. Botswana also has well-developed ICT, energy and transport infra-structure; world-class institutions guaranteeing a stable and safe business climate; strong legal protection for investors; a solid record in enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency;

access to credit; a capital market which is among the most sophisticated in Africa; ease in registering property; a high-net-worth domestic market; good labour relations; skilled, English-speaking human resources and a literacy rate of over 84%; and excellent quality of life.

Trade agreements give privileged access to African, EU and US markets

Trade-oriented companies can benefi t from Botswana’s regional and international trade agreements. These allow for duty-free and quota-free access to the EU and, through the US-Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, to the US market; duty-free access to South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland; and preferential access to 14 Southern African markets.

Botswana has invested extensively in its transport infra-structure and continues to launch ambitious new projects. The national airline, Air Botswana, and private charter companies offer domestic and regional air service, while Botswana Railways operates Gabcon, Gaborone’s container terminal. Botswana’s other container terminals are Francon in Francistown, a dry port in Selebi-Phikwe and in Namibia at Walvis Bay.

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The country’s network of over 20,000 km of roads includes the Trans-Kalahari Highway connecting Gaborone and Windhoek (Namibia), a strategic link in the Maputo-Walvis Bay Economic Corridor. Over 600 km of major rail lines connect Botswana to South Africa and Zimbabwe, and three branch lines serving mining operations cover 250 km.

Promoting investment in targeted sectors

Botswana actively welcomes investment in all sectors but is focussing on promoting manufacturing, tourism and its infra-structure, the “knowledge economy”, and fi nancial services. The BITC also highlights investment options in agriculture, education, energy, healthcare, ICT, mining, transport infra-structure and logistics. In the agriculture sector, for example, the BITC notes opportunities in producing cereals, pork, honey, small livestock, vegetables, fruits and dairy products.

The government has created several incentives for investors in targeted sectors. Incentives for investment in manufacturing projects, for example, include duty-free imports of necessary machinery and equipment; no sales tax on imported raw materials to be used for export products; and various tax holidays. Investors in fi nancial services certifi ed by the International Financial Services Centre can count on a lower corporate tax rate (15%), exemption from withholding taxes, credits for withholding taxes levied elsewhere, and access to Botswana’s double-taxation treaty network.

Boosting exports and creating jobs

Promising manufacturing niches include textiles and garments, tanneries, diamond-cutting and polishing, jewellery, glass, engineering products, printing and publish-

ing, plastics and ceramics. In the fi nancial sector, banking and fi nancial services, brokerages and trading, insurance, investment consulting, and the fl otation of unit trusts, money-market funds, equity funds and retirement funds all have strong growth prospects.

To add to its investment appeal, Botswana is privatis-ing a number of state-owned enterprises. Minister of Finance Ontefetse Kenneth Matambo recently reported that privatisation is moving forward and will include both outright sales of public assets as well as outsourc-ing non-core public services. He also noted that the pri-vatisation of Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTCL), originally set for November 2014, is at an advanced stage and that an initial IPO should be announced this year, although shares will only be available to citizens of Botswana.

© Danghel | Dreamstime.com

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The company, launched with the support of the enterprise-development initiative Tokafala, specialises in manufacturing high-quality, personalised linens and other products for the hospitality industry, from sheets, towels and robes to room accessories, amenities and beverages.

Managing Director Tecla Evans explains, “At Glam Collec-tions, we understand that hotels’ success depends a great deal on room ambiance, which is why we not only sell linen and towels but go the extra mile to share our ideas about decor.” She wants to expand Glam Collections by 10% through upgrading machinery and employing skilled technical personnel, and she welcomes partnerships with European companies.

Glam CollectionsPlot 61048, Block 8, Gaborone

PO Box 45557, Riverwalk, GaboroneTel.: +267 318 4915

[email protected], www.glamcollections.co.bw

Linens and More for the Hospitality Industry

Glam Collections demonstrates the potential of Botswana’s dynamic female entrepreneurs.


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Sector

Impex Fasteners & Tools Ltd.Plot 987, Mogoditshane Main Road

Tel.: +267 395 1392/[email protected], www.impex.co.bw

Reliable Local Manufacturer Aims to

Expand RegionallyImpex Fasteners & Tools Ltd., founded in Botswana in 1989 as the country’s fi rst manufacturer of fasteners, has grown steadily and has earned a strong reputation as a leading supplier of fasteners, tools and industrial spare parts for the mining, construction and other sectors.

The company is working to position itself as Botswana’s largest and most reliable supplier of competitively priced mining supplies.

Headquartered in Mogoditshane, the Impex Group has opened branches in Francistown and Broadhurst to ensure convenient, effi cient service for its clients throughout the country. CEO Yusuf Rossenkahn explains, “Since its inception, the Impex Group has stood for technical expertise, competitive pricing and excellent customer care at every level, from the initial order to delivery and comprehensive after-sales support.”

The Impex Group now aims to expand regionally. Yusuf Rossenkahn points out, “Botswana has a strategic position in the SADC market and this region needs more technologies and investment from Europe.” A dynamic entrepreneur, he also aims to diversify the family-owned company into other sectors, including renewable energy, tourism, water systems and real estate. He concludes, “Impex is ready to partner with companies and investors in Europe. Impex offers the necessary resources and local knowledge for a partnership that can bring high returns.”

High-profi le international partnershipsIn a sign of investor confi dence in BTCL and in Botswana, Vodafone recently signed a non-equity partnership agreement with Botswana’s telecom provider through which the two companies will jointly offer a range of products and services to corporate and individual customers. The deal will benefi t Vodafone’s multinational clientele through adding Botswana to their existing contracts for managed services.

“This strategic partnership with BTCL will enable us to expand the reach of our products and services within Africa and extends our footprint to 55 markets worldwide. It will also deliver enhanced roaming benefi ts for BTCL’s consumer and multinational corporate customers,” comments Vodafone Partner Markets CEO Stefano Gastaut. Paul Taylor, BTCL’s Managing Director, adds, “We are delighted to have entered into the non-equity strategic partnership with a global player of Vodafone’s standing. The partnership will allow us to better differen-tiate against competition, delivering innovative commu-nications solutions for the benefi t of our customers and visitors to Botswana. Vodafone, on the other hand, will draw on BTCL’s extensive network coverage.”

Botswana welcomes more global partnerships like these. As Anglo-American PLC’s Mark Cutifani noted at the recent BOCCIM conference, “For Botswana, the next step is to invite the world to meet and get to know you. Open up to global markets and be attractive to invest-ment. Fully explore this country’s potential for business opportunities beyond your borders. Think about what your neighbours around you are doing, and have the courage to act and hold onto your convictions. Through-out your history as a nation, you have shown that you have the will, the capability and the experience to succeed.”

© Christine Langer-püschel | Dreamstime.com

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Finance &Consulting

• An Investment Oasis

• World-Class Financial Services for All

• Bankers Association: a Channel to Support Botswana’s Banking Sector

• New Regulations for Fast-Growing Insurance Industry

“Botswana offers a good investment climate in terms of a competitive

business environment, stable macroeconomic development, and no

exchange controls.”Honourable Kenneth Matambo, Minister of Finance

and Development Planning


38

An Investment Oasis

Botswana is a top-rated investment destination. Honourable Kenneth Matambo, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, discusses the country’s investment climate and opportunities thereof.

European Times: What would you say about Botswana as an investment destination?

Hon. Kenneth Matambo: Botswana offers a good invest-ment climate in terms of a competitive business environ-ment, stable macroeconomic development, and no exchange controls. There is also exchange rate stability, prudent monetary policy, competent economic management, ease of doing business and great tax incentives. We ensure the rule of law and contract enforcement. The country is ranked among the best for investor protection. We have effi cient public service, an educated workforce, good industrial relations and non-militant trade unions.

European Times: Are your state-owned organisa-tions open for investment partnerships?

Hon. Kenneth Matambo: Botswana Development Cor-

poration (BDC), the state investment arm, is always looking for potential partners to invest in Botswana. It operates as a venture capital fi nancier, providing equity, debt, structured and property fi nancing.

There are opportunities to partner with Botswana Power Corpo-ration (BPC) in power generation, transmission and distribution. Investors could come in as independent power producers (IPPs) and enter into power purchase agreement (PPA) with BPC.

European Times: Are there any specifi c incentives for investors in Botswana/fi nancial services?

Hon. Kenneth Matambo: Specifi c incentives for fi nancial services and other companies include International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)-accredited companies pay just 15% income tax and are exempted from withholding tax on interest, dividends, management fees and royalties paid to non-residents. Capital gains tax and disposal of shares are also tax-exempt for these companies. They also have access to Botswana’s 200% tax training rebate.There are other incentives, such as: the Sunset clause removed for IFSC-accredited companies; no foreign exchange controls; corporate tax at 22%; corporate tax is only 15% for manufacturing companies; Zero corporate tax under Devel-opment Approval Order (PA/holiday time period at the dis-cretion of Minister) and others. Investors also have access to our expanding Double Taxation Avoidance Treaty network.

European Times: What message do you have for potential investors?

Hon. Kenneth Matambo: Botswana has been consistently ranked high for investment. For example, New York Univer-sity’s Altman’s Baseline Profi tability Index ranked the country as the world’s second most attractive investment destination.As the only African country with an A-rating by both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s, Botswana is a top quality economy for investment from around the world.Furthermore, being the Southern African Development Community (SADC) headquarters, Botswana is a major gateway to the market of over 230 million people. The country also has duty-free access to the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) market, coupled with duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market.

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Finance & Consulting

1

Globally Oriented, Locally Relevant Asset-Management Specialist

Fleming Asset Management Botswana, founded in 1994 from a business launched in 1987, was the country’s fi rst independent asset-management enterprise. Today, the dynamic company has operations in Canada (Quebec), Australia (Perth) and the Cayman Islands and manages more than P12 billion (€922 million) in funds. Peter van Riet-Lowe, CEO

In all its markets, Fleming Asset Manage-ment offers a full range of world-class asset-management and investment-advi-sory services. In Botswana, Fleming Asset Management is widely recognised as the country’s most successful asset-manage-ment and investment-services specialist.

Founder and CEO Peter van Riet-Lowe explains, “Fleming Asset Management delivers consistent, risk-adjusted returns for our clients. We are rooted in Botswana and are committed to developing the country’s capacity and skills. Fleming Asset Manage-ment Botswana has a skilled and experi-enced team in Gaborone, and has made substantial investments in the company’s

process and operational capabilities.”

Thanks to its success in Botswana and in its international divisions, Fleming Asset Management is both “globally oriented and locally relevant,” Peter van Riet-Lowe points out. The company’s mission is to continue to be the preferred provider of asset-management and investment services in Botswana and in its other markets.

Expanding in Europe

Fleming Asset Management is currently planning to expand in Europe, where its new joint venture

will be licensed this fi nancial year and regulated by the UK’s fi nancial-ser-vices authority. “We already operate in Europe and are looking to set up an offi ce there by July 2015,” Peter van Riet-Lowe explains. While expanding internationally, Fleming Asset Man-agement will also maintain its indus-try-leading role in Botswana, where the economy is growing by around 4.5% per year, almost double South Africa’s 2.8% average GDP growth rate. Fleming is currently involved in a project to build a new luxury hotel in Botswana.

Peter van Riet-Lowe is bullish on Botswana. He explains that the Fleming logo is a kukara (pelican), a bird found in Botswana’s wetlands. He says, “The kukara is a prudent creature which plans ahead, catching and keeping its fi sh in the large pouch under its bill to feed itself and its young. The pouch ensures that it has a far better return for its efforts than those birds that merely use their beak to catch single fi sh. The cornerstone of Fleming Asset Management’s investment endeavours is to work towards optimal long-term returns. At Fleming Asset Management, we believe that, by emulating the success of the kukara, we will achieve long-term prosperity for our clients, our communities and ourselves.”

Fleming Asset Management Botswana (Pty) Ltd

Plot 67978, Mokolwane HouseFairgrounds, Gaborone

P.O. Box 2111Tel.: +267 395 9379

fl eming@fl eming.co.bw www.fl emingbotswana.com


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World-Class Financial Services for All

Botswana’s fi nancial sector is one of the strongest in Africa and includes world-class services-providers as well as sophisticated capital markets. It has also earned high marks for accessibility to bank loans and lines of credit. Effi ciently overseen by the Bank of Botswana and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the fi nancial sector benefi ts from Botswana’s sound macroeconomic fundamentals.

Building on this strong foundation, Botswana is focussing on continuing to improve its fi nancial institutions and on promoting inclusive banking. These measures are needed as Botswana transitions from a middle-income to a higher-income country even as it diversifi es its economy away from diamonds.

In May this year, Matthew Wright, Deputy Director of the Bank of Botswana’s Monetary and Financial Stability Division, explained, “An agenda focussed on economic development should promote inclusive growth; the pursuit

of inclusive growth fosters greater social cohesion, which enhances effective marshalling of available resources. For this to be achieved, however, it is crucial that measures to bring about inclusiveness are closely aligned with considera-tions of economic effi ciency as well as coherence and consist-ent application of policies.”

Enforcing world-class standards

The Bank of Botswana has proven its commitment to enforcing high standards. According to the central bank’s 2014 annual report, four banks applied for licenses last year to operate as commercial banks in Botswana, and of these banks, two were refused licenses, one had its application deferred, and one was granted conditional approval. Meanwhile two established commercial banks voluntarily surrendered their banking licenses in 2014, reducing the total number of licensed commercial banks in Botswana to 11. Botswana’s Banking Act requires commercial banks to keep at least 10% of their assets in cash or near-cash local instruments to meet short-term depositor obligations.

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Finance & ConsultingSector

1

The organisation is committed to signifi cantly improving services to Botswana’s taxpayers while also combating tax evasion and maintaining international standards in all its processes.

Since BURS’ establishment, Botswana has experienced signifi cant growth in tax and customs revenues. For example, in 2013/14, the revenue collec-tion grew by 7.2% whilst in the previous year it grew by 22.6%.

Streamlined tax payments

To improve the VAT-payments process, BURS recently revised Botswana’s VAT regulations, including increasing the VAT registration threshold. In order to facilitate tax compli-ance, the organisation has also launched innovative e-services for tax and VAT payments and is educating the public about taxation. “BURS must create the right environment for tax compliance,” K.R. Morris, Commissioner General points out.

In a partnership with the Botswana Trade and Investment Centre (BITC), BURS is providing ‘one-stop-shop’ tax informa-tion for investors. K.R. Morris explains, “Investors should know that they can count on BURS to give them all the relevant tax information they need to make the right investment decisions.”

Sector

Botswana Unifi ed Revenue Service (BURS)Plot 53976, Kudumatse Drive, Private Bag 0013, GaboroneTel.: +267 363 8000, Toll Free 17649, www.burs.org.bw

K.R. Morris, Commissioner General

Innovative Revenue Service Has Impressive

Track RecordCollecting revenues, facilitating legitimate trade and managing the borders for the development and security of Botswana is the important mission of the Botswana Unifi ed Revenue Service (BURS), which handles the collection of taxes and customs duties for Botswana’s government.

Boosting banking access

As Botswana continues to strengthen its banking sector, it is making progress in boosting banking inclusion. In 2012, the World Bank’s Global Findex Database study of banking access worldwide found that only 30% of Botswana’s adult population had bank accounts. This year, the second edition of the study showed that 52% of Botswana’s adult popula-tion now has bank accounts. The average in Sub-Saharan Africa is 32%, while the global average is 62%.

According to the study, the rapid growth in fi nancial inclusion in Botswana is partly the result of mobile services, such as MyZaka and Orange Money, which have provided more people with fl exible banking access. The study also showed, however, that most new banking-users in Botswana opened accounts at “brick and mortar” banks. The Bank of Botswana says that this is the result of expanded bank networks along with growth in mobile and Internet banking.

To support banking inclusion, in January 2014 the Bank of Botswana imposed a two-year moratorium on increases in bank charges and fees for services like Internet and mobile banking as well as ATM withdrawals. The country’s three biggest banks (Barclays, First National Bank and Standard Chartered) recently reported that their non-interest incomes have risen despite the moratorium.

Another challenge for Botswana’s banks is the current liquidity squeeze, which prompted the Bank of Botswana to halve the primary reserve requirement for banks to 5% in April this year in order to unlock funds for loans. As Botswa-na’s banks cope with the country’s slower GDP growth and tighter liquidity, they are putting more effort into attracting new customers among the remaining 48% of the population without bank accounts.

Botswana has fully liberalised its fi nancial-services sector and welcomes investment by solid foreign banks as well as by companies providing insurance; leasing fi nance; asset management; stock brokerage; treasury services; Pan-Afri-can investment funds; business-process outsourcing and call centres; and other services. The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre is ready to assist fi nancial-services providers take advantage of high-potential opportunities in Botswana.


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Bankers Association: a Channel to Support Botswana’s Banking Sector

Presenting a unifi ed voice for the nation’s private sector banks to raise and discuss issues of common interest with Botswana’s government and public, the Bankers’ Association of Botswana is active across a wide range of issues. The European Times spoke with Bankers’ Association of Botswana CEO Oabile Mabusa to learn about the organisation’s activities, current banking industry conditions and trends.

Oabile Mabusa, CEO Bankers’ Association

European Times: To begin, could you please tell us about the Bankers’ Association’s origins and development?

Oabile Mabusa: The Bankers’ Asso-ciation of Botswana has been around for more than 20 years; however, it wasn’t until 2012 that our member banks decided to establish a dedicated offi ce. Today, our organisation has established vital links

and an effective network for managing relations with the central bank, govern-ment, other internal and external stake-holders and, more broadly, the public.

European Times: What are the association’s overarching goals, and how does it go about realising them?

Oabile Mabusa: We are actively engaged in lobbying government and the public sector across a range of strategic issues. The major role the association plays is as a channel for leveraging the government constructively in support of commercial banks’ common interests, specifi cally the promotion of market-friendly policies and reforms that are conducive to growth. In our role as custodian of the Botswana Automated Clearing House, we work to ensure the effi cient functioning of the interbank payment system on a continuing basis.

The association engages stakeholders across the government sector and works to assure there is harmony and construc-tive co-existence between the private and public sectors. In this regard, another important area of focus for us – especially at a time when there is an observed mis-alignment between the reality of banking business and general stakeholder percep-tions about banks – is promoting public awareness about banking and fi nance.

One way in which the Bankers’ Association of Botswana fosters fi nancial education and awareness is through the confl ict resolution role (resolving disputes between banks and their customers) which is performed by the industry-sponsored Bank Adjudicator.

European Times: Botswana’s Central Bank has enacted a two-year moratorium on increases in bank tariffs. What challenges are banks dealing with as a result?

Oabile Mabusa: As can be expected, the impact of the moratorium on the banks has been negative. It has directly constrained the ability of banks to recoup the investments made in modernising and improving their operations, as well as their growth potential, thus forcing them to fund more of their operating costs out of interest income. There has been a direct dampening effect on bank revenues and profi tability. A natural tension of perspectives has emerged between banks and regulators around this development, leading to the develop-ment of a new engagement agenda for constructive dialogue and resolution.

European Times: How would you like to see Botswana’s banking sector develop over the next two to three years?

Oabile Mabusa: Banks will, in their business models, look to developing the market from the ground up, constantly challenging current balance sheet diversi-fi cation models with the view to growing the business cake through the develop-ment of emerging enterprise. That will include exploring new avenues for greater economic opportunity and diversity in partnership with regulation and policy as essential enablers. In addition, I see Bots-wana’s domestic banking sector innovat-ing more value propositions to address the challenges posed by fi nancial exclusion and low fi nancial literacy.

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New Regulations for Fast-Growing Insurance

IndustryBotswana has developed a small but expanding insurance sector dominated by the life-insurance segment, which is expected to account for around 70% of premiums issued this year. Botswana’s insurance market is set to grow rapidly as the country’s per capita income and life expectancy continue to rise. An aging population and increasing awareness of the advisability of insurance coverage are other factors set to spur on the development of Botswana’s insurance market.

Life-insurance segment to dominate marketAnalysts predict that life insurance will continue to account for most insurance premiums sold in Botswana over the coming fi ve years and should achieve a 74% market share by 2019. Property insurance is currently the largest category in the non-life segment, accounting for around half of gross premiums, followed by motor insurance with a share of around one third. Recent growth in the non-life segment has been supported mainly by diamond exports.

Botswana’s insurance market is proving to be very profi table for key players. Botswana’s biggest insurance enter-prise, Botswana Life Insurance Limited (BLIL), reports that it registered a 15% rise in operating profi ts in 2014 to reach BWP317.5 million (around €29 million). Over the same period, BLIL’s premium income grew by 6%.

Barclays is one example of a global banking group targeting the high-poten-tial African insurance market. Barclays Africa has established life-insurance operations in South Africa, Mozam-bique and Zambia as well as Botswana

and recently launched Barclays Life Insurance Kenya to spearhead the fi rm’s expansion into East Africa.

Meanwhile, Botswana’s fi nancial-ser-vices enterprises are premiering new insurance products as local demand increases. Standard Chartered Bank Botswana and Botswana Insurance Company (BIC) recently formed a partnership aimed at providing the bank’s clients with general insurance products.

Standard Chartered CEO Moatlhodi Lekaukau notes that the bank was

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Sector

the first in Botswana to offer “bancassurance”, though which a bank partners with an insurance company to develop new insurance products and distribute them to clients. He says, “Bancassurance in Standard Chartered has evolved to ensure that the distribution partnership with Botswana Insurance Company (BIC) provides our esteemed clients with a selection of general insurance offerings that touch on the protection of their assets when they may not necessarily be in a position to do so.”

With the new bill, Botswana’s government

is demonstrating its commitment to establishing the right foundations

for a world-class insurance industry.

BIC Managing Director Johann Claasen adds, “We strongly believe this partnership will help us deliver our commitment to our society, shareholders and regulators.” The new “ban-cassurance” solutions include insurance for vehicles, homes, credit and debit cards, fi re and other damage to businesses, and goods in transit.

New Insurance Industry Bill

The government of Botswana has strengthened its super-vision of the insurance sector through the Insurance Industry Bill which Ontefetse Kenneth Matambo, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, presented to the National Assembly in April this year. The bill establishes a separate set of regulations for the insurance sector, which was previously governed by the Non-Banking Financial Institutions Regulatory Act. All provisions relating to the insurance industry from that

act have been transferred to the new bill, which replaces Botswana’s Insurance Industry Act of 1987.

The new bill covers the procedures for licensing, governance and regulation of all insurers, reinsurers, insurance brokers, insurance agents and representatives operating in Botswana, and for other matters relevant to the insurance industry. Kenneth Matambo explained to legislators that one of the bill’s objectives was to update penalties for infractions, since these penalties had remained unchanged for over 10 years. The new bill includes penalties for unauthorised destruc-tion of documents and prevention of compliance with new regulations. Under the terms of the bill, all insurance acquired by Botswana residents or resident companies must be placed with Botswana insurers and reinsurers, unless the regula-tory authority issues an exemption for a particular class of insurance. If a class of insurance is not available from a Botswana insurer or reinsurer, an insurance broker may place that insurance with a non-resident insurer, given regulatory approval. If a Botswana resident or resident company wishes to establish a policy with an insurer not licensed under the bill, the policy must be set up through the offices of a Botswana-based licensed insurance broker.

The bill was drafted after extensive consultation with stakeholders. As the minister pointed out to the National Assembly, “Throughout the Southern African Develop-ment Community, insurance regulators have moved away from or are moving away from compliance-based supervi-sion to risk-based supervision. This means that the ‘one size fi ts all’ style of supervision is becoming a thing of the past, and this is good. Although a bit painful at the onset, once up and running, even regulated entities appreciate risk-based supervision.”

Minister Matambo added that the new bill seeks to address gaps in earlier legislation and ensure transparency in the reg-ulatory process. With the new bill, Botswana’s government is demonstrating its commitment to establishing the right foun-dations for a world-class insurance industry.

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Energy & Mining

• The Coal Reality of Energy Security and Export

• Meeting the Challenges of Fuelling the Future

• Rich Mining Resources beyond Diamonds

• Strong Advocate for the Mining Industry

“The new energy policy will provide a policy framework to guide effectiveness and sustainability in energy planning,

development and provision.”Hon. Kitso Mokaila, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals,

Energy, and Water Resources


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The Coal Reality of Energy Security and Export

Honourable Onkokame Kitso Mokaila, Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, discusses exploiting Botswana’s huge coal reserves for the country’s energy security and export - all to be done in an environmentally sustainable manner.

European Times: How do you plan to monetise Botswana’s coal?

Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila: Botswana has approximately 212 billion tonnes of coal reserves, a level very suitable for thermal energy production and power plants. We have four core purposes for coal production: power generation for domestic use, power generation for export, coal to get coal to liquid and coal for export.

European Times: When would liquid coal production be imple-mented for Botswana, and are you seeking foreign assistance for the production of liquid coal?

Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila: The necessary studies are being done currently and we are in discussions with various potential partners. We won’t be reinventing the wheel; we are learning from the experience of other countries

that have done this before. We are sourcing the best technology, and assessing how successful potential partners have been in this area as well what their environmental management and competencies are.

European Times: Have you assessed potential environmental impact of coal production in Botswana - espe-cially on game reserves?

Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila: We intend to remain a low carbon economy. I visited IEA headquarters in France (the clean coal unit) to under-stand what successes and experience they have. We have had a representation from the UK. We know of producing clean coal through carbon capture to almost 90% - similar to renewable. When we go to tender there will be a great emphasis on effi ciently managing this aspect.

It is not just about exporting coal; we

want do it in the best environmentally sustainable manner and ensure that our carbon footprint stays low. Currently there is no coal production within game reserves, but in the event that such dis-coveries are made, economical, strict environmental protocols will be followed to minimize any potential impacts.

European Times: Do you have any plans for rural electrifi cation and subsidising the energy consump-tion of rural households?

Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila: Yes, Government has a rural electrifi -cation programme of which 78% of villages have been electrifi ed. Individual households are assisted through the national electrifi cation standard cost connection, which is a subsidized scheme for individuals to connect power at P5 000.00 instead of the full cost.

European Times: Any message to investors about Botswana?

Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila: We have achieved phenomenal growth - from being one of the 24 poorest countries in the world at independence to becoming a middle income country within 50 years. As a growing economy, there are more investment opportunities. Botswana remains open for investment because we have the desire to grow more. A warm welcome awaits investors.

www.sosolar.co.bw

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Global Energy Group Total Plans to Make a Big Footprint in Botswana

Invest in Africa’s energy

Ntsuku Lekalakala, Managing Director of Total Botswana, says, “Total is present throughout Southern Africa and the Group has developed an aggressive growth strategy to move into African countries. While other major petroleum companies are divesting their interests in Southern Africa, the Total Group has made a commitment to investing even more in the future of Africa’s energy.”

Total Botswana is a wholly owned subsidiary of Total South Africa and ultimately a subsidiary of the Total Group, with a depot in Gaborone, service stations, and commercial opera-tions all over the country.

The Total Group is in partnership with Sun Power which makes it the second largest solar company in the world. “Today, Total considers itself an energy company and sig-nifi cant research and development are currently being done as renewable energy is part of the future for Total Group,” Ntsuku Lekalakala explains.

Preferred supplier for Southern Africa’s mining sector

Total is the preferred supplier to some of the top mining companies throughout Africa and the world, operational in 40 countries in over 300 mines. Total Mining Solutions offer unique services and is committed to safety, innovation, envi-ronment, expertise, logistics and services

Botswana is one of the key target markets for Total and the company has made a long-term commitment to the country of Botswana and its people as it looks forward to fuelling growth.

Total Botswana (Pty) LtdPlot 22010, Kgomokasitwa Road

Industrial Sites, Gaborone West, GaboroneTel.: +267 395 6673

www.total.co.za

“The international petrochemical company Total aims to double its African operations

by 2017”, Ntsuku Lekalakala points out.


48

Meeting the Challenges of Fuelling the Future

Providing adequate energy to fuel a growing economy is a crucial issue for Botswana. In May this year, national power utility Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) announced that it was anticipating more power-supply challenges next winter as a result of low power generation, high demand and problems at the Morupule B power station. Botswana, with a current peak national energy demand of around 600 MW, relies heavily on imported energy from Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia via the Southern African Power Pool.

Developing domestic energy production and world-class power-distribution infrastructure is essential as Botswana pursues its drive to become a higher-income country, and the government is well aware that attracting FDI in energy projects is key to achieving this goal.

The Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources is drafting a comprehensive new energy policy set to be imple-mented this year; it is expected to outline investment opportu-nities in the energy sector, particularly in renewable energies in line with the Southern African Development Community’s policies on green energy. Kitso Mokaila, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals, Energy, and Water Resources, comments, “The new energy policy will provide a policy framework to guide effectiveness and sustainability in energy planning, develop-ment and provision. Renewable-energy objectives and strate-gies will form part of the core of this policy.”

Renewable-energy potential

Botswana has just begun to develop its renewable-energy capacity. Projects include a partnership with Japan to cultivate a plant to be used as a source of biodiesel, a biodiesel facility in Lobatse with a capacity to produce one million litres per year,

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Energy & MiningSector

the Botswana Innovation Hub’s CleanTech centre for renew-able-energy research launched in a partnership with Sweden, and a few biogas and solar-energy installations. Potential “green” energy projects include transforming municipal waste into power and capitalising on Botswana’s 3,200 hours of sunshine per year to develop solar-energy plants.

In August 2014, the government of Botswana invited inter-national energy-sector leaders to the country’s fi rst renewable-energy conference. Participants included the World Bank Group, the African Development Bank, the EU and the Development Bank for Southern Africa. The conference covered the challenges of developing Botswana’s solar potential, including upgrading the regulatory environment, supporting fi nancing mechanisms and implementing policies to encourage investment.

Joseph Kapika, Senior Energy Specialist at the World Bank Group, noted at the conference, “While Botswana is endowed with 66% of Africa’s coal resources and has ambitious plans to exploit them for both domestic and export use, there are com-pelling reasons to be thinking strategically about bringing in renewables, both on-grid and as part of the country’s off-grid program. Though the share of renewable energy globally has remained fl at, wind and solar are growing rapidly.” He added that the World Bank is ready to help Botswana exploit its solar, wind and other renewable-energy resources.

Coal-fuelled power plants

Meanwhile, new projects aim to make the best use of oil and coal to help fi ll Botswana’s power gap. The government established state-owned Botswana Oil (BOL) in October 2014 to ensure the security of Botswana’s fuel supplies, facilitate economic empow-erment in the petroleum sector and manage strategic petroleum stocks. The company also acquires oil on behalf of the gov-ernment. Botswana Oil recently announced it was looking for global partners with expertise in developing coal-to-liquids projects, including a poly-generation power plant.

In another recent development, global player APR Energy has signed a contract with Botswana Power Corporation to provide 35 MW of new power generation over a two-year period. APR will install and operate a power plant next to

BPC’s existing 70 MW generating facility outside Francis-town, Botswana’s second-largest city. APR expects to begin production by the end of September 2015. The plant will feature diesel power modules that have been redeployed from APR Energy’s former project in Libya.

The project builds on a relationship that began in 2009 when APR created a 70 MW solution for BPC to supplement electricity being imported from neighbouring countries; APR sold this facility to BPC in 2014. “We are honoured to have been selected again by BPC, as it is a refl ection of our commitment to operational excellence and BPC’s satis-faction with the services we have provided during our years of working together,” says APR CEO Laurence Anderson.

Regional cooperation

The Southern African Power Pool aims to alleviate the region’s power shortages by facilitating energy-sharing, but Charles Siwawa, CEO of Botswana’s Chamber of Mines, points out that balancing energy supplies and demand throughout SADC requires even stronger regional cooperation. He says, “The power industry ought to have strong linkages that will have no political boundaries. Projects should be initiated that will solve power issues for the near and medium term. In the long term, these challenges will perhaps have been met, but in the interim, the lack of adequate power will have serious negative impacts on regional industry. The solution does not lie with one country, but rather in various states working together.”


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Rich Mining Resources beyond Diamonds

Botswana is famous all over the world as the international hub for the diamonds industry, but the country’s minerals wealth goes well beyond diamonds. Botswana’s mining resources also include coal, copper, nickel, methane and more, and the government is actively stepping up the pace of exploring for and exploiting these resources as it diversifi es the national economy beyond the diamonds sector.

In fact, a recent report by market analysts BMI Research predicts that while diamonds will dominate Botswa-na’s mining activities up to 2018, coal production is set to accelerate strongly over the coming three years. The report cites Anglo American, Exxaro, African Energy and CIC Energy as companies likely to spearhead this growth. Coal for power

The Chamber of Mines, the profes-sional organisation representing the mining industry in Botswana, par-ticularly advocates exploiting the country’s coal resources as a source of power not only domestically but also in neighbouring countries. Using Botswana’s coal as an energy source could help solve the region’s chronic energy shortages, which are expected

to get even more severe in the coming years.

At the recent African Utility Week conference, Charles Siwawa, CEO of the Chamber of Mines, pointed out, “Botswana has indicated reserves of some 212 billion tonnes of coal. Currently, Morupule mine is the only deposit mined, supplying Morupule Power Station, BCL Smelter and Botswana Ash. The vast majority of Botswana’s coal resources remain undeveloped. The defi cit in power supply currently being experienced in Southern Africa provides a good opportunity for new independent power producers (IPPs) to use coal to generate power for domestic use and export. One such project in Botswana is the Mmamabula IPP.”

According to the Botswana Invest-ment and Trade Centre (BITC), Botswana could mine around 75 million tonnes of coal for power gen-eration per year, which could support the production of around 15 GW of power for domestic and regional consumption. Botswana has already stepped up its coal production from an average of around 1 million tonnes per year for over 30 years to 3 million tonnes in 2013.

A Chamber of Mines study suggests that Botswana has the potential to develop around 24 new coal mines, particularly in the Mmamabula and Morupule coal-mining areas. Attrac-tions for investing in Botswana’s coal include abundant and easily accessi-

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Sector

ble resources and strong demand for coal to be used for power production in Botswana and beyond, along with facilitated energy distribution via the Southern African Power Pool.

Botswana Metals Limited, founded in 2007 and headquar-tered in Kew, Australia, is playing a leading role in develop-ing Botswana’s minerals resources. The company is involved in the exploration and mining of base and precious metals throughout Botswana, including nickel, copper, platinum, gold, diamonds and uranium. Botswana Metals has acquired around 2,800 sq km of exploration tenements between Bot-swana’s nickel-producing mines of Selebi Phikwe and Tati Nickel.

In 2014, Botswana Metals conducted 39 drill holes at Bot-swana’s Maibele North site and reported that the site has an estimated 2.38 million tonnes of exploitable ore containing nickel, copper, platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium and gold. Botswana Metals is partnering with mining and smelting enterprise BCL Ltd. for the Maibele North project. BCL, founded in Botswana in 1956, is the second-largest private-sector employer in the country, with a labour force of over 4,200.

Outstanding investment opportunities in mining

The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) high-lights a wide range of opportunities in the local mining industry in addition to projects involving diamonds and coal. One possibility with signifi cant potential would be a domestic refi nery to process Botswana’s copper and nickel produced at the BCL mine.

As the BITC points out, the Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies ranks Botswana the preferred mining and minerals investment destination in Africa. Botswana has implemented a rigorous regu-latory environment for the mining sector. Companies launching mining operations in Botswana must obtain

both a mineral-exploration license and a mining license or be a contractor for a licensed company. Applicants for mining licenses must also include a plan for rehabilitat-ing the land where the mine will be located once mining operations have ended.

Botswana’s mining industry has already made impressive progress in both technological development and social responsibility. Charles Siwawa of the Chamber of Mines explains, “What has really impressed me has been how technological advances have been adopted and in turn developed in Botswana, before going on to be replicated with great success in other parts of Africa. I have also taken huge pride in Botswana’s increasing support for local people and communities through corporate social investment. Debswana Diamond Company, for example, was one of the fi rst companies in the world to actively enrol all its employees into HIV/Aids medication pro-grammes, free of charge. Many other businesses have since followed suit and I think this has helped communi-ties in general. It also helps to paint a positive picture of the mining companies in Botswana.”


52

Strong Advocate for the Mining Industry

Botswana Chamber of Mines represents the country’s high-potential mining industry. CEO Charles Siwawa discusses the Chamber’s activities as well as recent trends in Botswana’s mining sector and opportunities for foreign investors in mining projects.

Charles Siwawa, CEO Botswana Chamber of Mines

European Times: Why was the Chamber of Mines established and what are its main goals?

Charles Siwawa: The Botswana Chamber of Mines serves the interests of the mining industry in the country. As CEO, my job is to engage with the government, non-government organisations and other stakeholders to ensure the needs of the industry are catered for. BCM is the face of Botswana’s mining companies and one of the Chamber’s aims is to ensure that Botswana’s regulatory environment supports the mining sector; amendments to some of Botswana’s legisla-tion have already been made thanks to the Chamber’s efforts.

European Times: How can a company become a member of the Chamber of Mines?

Charles Siwawa: A company must have a mineral-explo-ration license and/or a mining license or be a contractor for such a company. With 30 members under its umbrella, the Chamber also demands that mining companies applying for a mining license must have a plan for rehabilitating the land once the project is fi nished. Each mining company is required to create funds that will be used for this rehabilita-tion once mining operations have ceased.

European Times: Botswana is well known for its diamonds. What other kind of mining resources have potential?

Charles Siwawa: Botswana has many mining resources besides diamonds. Coal, copper and coal bed methane, in that order, have the strongest potential, but Botswana also has nickel and other exploitable mining resources such as iron ore, uranium and silver. Coal has particularly strong growth potential. Companies can export raw coal, use coal for power generation, or convert coal to a liquid form such as petroleum products. The SADC region needs to develop effi cient power-distribution systems and Botswana’s coal can play a role in this. The government of Botswana supports the Chamber of Mine’s position on coal. Cop-per-refi ning is another mining segment with strong growth prospects in Botswana. There are studies currently ongoing to determine the full potential of undertaking this project of further benefi ciation of base metals. The Chamber of Mines strongly supports foreign investment in Botswana’s mining industry and wants to position Botswana as a mining hub.

European Times: What is your personal message about mining in Botswana?

Charles Siwawa: Botswana remains one of Africa’s most desirable locations for FDI in mining, and I would encourage any investors out there to take a look at the many oppor-tunities that are available within the country. They can be confi dent that their investments in Botswana will be safe and productive over the long term.

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Transport & ICT

• Robust Transport Industry and State-of-the-Art ICT Services

• Transforming Botswana into Digital Economy

“It is very important that we jealously guard the safety, security and resilience of cyberspace, so that we can enjoy its

socio-economic benefi ts.”Hon. Tshenolo Mabeo, Minister of Transport and

Communications


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Robust Transport Industry and State-of-the-Art ICT Services

The Ministry of Transport and Communications is making sure that Botswana has the infrastructure it needs to support its fast-growing economy. Honourable Tshenolo Mabeo, Minister, explains that his country is developing “a robust transport industry which will not only provide economic benefi ts to operators but also joy and pride to users.

Hon. Tshenolo Mabeo, Minister of Transport and Communications

I call upon all of us to re-examine our roles and channel our resources towards active realisation of the Vision 2016 pillar of making Botswana a safe and secure nation. The Ministry of Transport and Communications has drafted an integrated transport policy whose approval will revolutionise the transport sector.”

One key initiative underway is by national carrier Air Botswana, which has launched a fi ve-year business plan to turn itself into an economically and commercially sustainable airline. Improving on-time performance is one of the plan’s objectives, and by February this year, Air Botswana had already boosted its on-time record by 10 percentage points compared to 2014, to reach an impressive 89%. Hon. Tshenolo Mabeo points out, “As a result

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Transport & ICT

1

Gabz FMPrivate Bag B0 319, Gaborone, Botswana

2nd Floor, Plot 64516, Showgrounds Close, GaboroneTel.: +267 31 70 905

[email protected]@gabzfm.co.bw

FM

Popular Gaborone Radio Station Serves the Entire Country

Gabz FM, one of the two oldest radio stations in Gaborone, has earned a loyal following. As a private enterprise, the station made major investments to get up and running, but now it covers all of Botswana and serves all the country’s ethnic groups. Lesego Komanyane, CEO, says, “Gabz FM has always been a credible radio station. Our major product is content.”

The station features radio shows, advertising, awareness campaigns, fundraising efforts and more. Continuing to develop new services, Gabz FM plans a road show around the country next year to increase awareness of its offerings, and it will release a telephone app for listeners. Lesego Komanyane points out, “We have made a huge investment in implementing the latest technologies which can accommodate the most complex contemporary radio tasks.”

The station’s advertising clients include the government of Botswana, international and local companies, and non-profi ts (who are offered a special discount). Lesego Komanyane explains, “Our focus at the moment is small and medium-sized enterprises, because they are the backbone of the Botswana economy. Gabz FM can tai-lor-make an advertising package to suit any company’s particular needs. Gabz FM is an independent radio station which always adheres to the highest international standards.”

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of Air Botswana’s new rationalised schedule, an aircraft is always on standby to ensure effi cient recovery, maximised maintenance opportunities, reduced operating costs and increased profi tability.”

Enhancing Internet access

In the communications sector, Hon. Tshenolo Mabeo strongly supports the BoFiNet project as a major factor in achieving Botswana’s ICT goals. He says, “The Ministry of Transport and Communications has been unwavering in its support for BoFiNet’s efforts to enhance connectivity in Botswana and between Botswana and the world. Higher broadband penetra-tion drives economic growth and helps nations achieve social goals, such as improved education and healthcare. It also enables citizens and the business community to access government services and information as effi ciently and effectively as possible.”

The ministry is driving forward Botswana’s e-government initia-tive, which received a big boost recently when Orange Botswana launched a 4G network. As Hon. Tshenolo Mabeo notes, “The introduction of 4G, with its faster Internet and more universal access, fi ts with the government of Botswana’s e-government strategy and helps Botswana attain its Vision 2016 ICT targets.”

“Open access and non-discriminatory principles allow communities to freely

communicate without any fear in cyberspace and to access global markets.”

As connection speeds get faster, the Ministry of Transport and Communications is putting a high priority on both cyber security and universal Internet access. As the minister points out, “It is very important that we jealously guard the safety, security and resilience of cyberspace, so that we can enjoy its socio-economic benefi ts.” He adds, “Open access and non-discriminatory prin-ciples allow communities to freely communicate without any fear in cyberspace and to access global markets.”


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Transforming Botswana into Digital Economy

Botswana’s national ICT development strategy, Maitlamo, has defi nitely made a diff erence. In 1996, Botswana had zero mobile-telephone subscribers; in March 2015, it had more than 3.2 million. In addition, Botswana now has a fi bre-optic backbone reaching most communities, and it is connected to the world via the high-bandwidth East African Submarine System (EASSy) through Namibia and the West Africa Cable System (WACS) through South Africa. Botswana has also strengthened its regulatory environment for ICT.

The ICT sector remains a top priority for Botswana as it drives forward its ambitious economic-development goals. In May this year, the country’s Vice President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, commented, “Botswana must tap into the power of ICT and develop explicit solutions aimed at transforming its socio-economic landscape.”

Regional ICT hubThe government also wants to position Botswana as a regional centre for ICT. Assistant Minister of Presidential Affairs Phillip Makgalemele, speaking at a recent e-gov-ernment workshop in Gaborone, said, “The government of Botswana is committed to establishing the country as a regional ICT hub, and this will have a lasting social, cultural, political and economic impact on our people.”

Implementing cutting-edge e-government services is another priority. Phillip Makgalemele notes, “In the not-too-distant future, the government of Botswana will be able to leverage online platforms to provide public services and interact with individuals. We have invested in a system where people will access services through a variety of means – computers, tablets and smart phones – and at any time. In the next few months, we will be developing more e-services for the launch of the new portal for public use.”

While Botswana has made great progress in ICT, many chal-lenges remain. Aaron Nyelesi, Deputy Director of Corporate Communications and Relations at Botswana Communica-tions Regulatory Authority, points out, “A lack of electricity, low penetration of personal computers, low ICT literacy, an ICT network which still does not reach all communities, and prices for ICT services which are not affordable for many members of the population are challenges which are slowing the pace of ICT development in Botswana.”

To help cope with the challenges, in 2012 the government established Botswana Fibre Networks Ltd. (BoFiNet), a public wholesale provider of national and international telecom infrastructure. BoFiNet’s mandate is to provide and operate world-class ICT infrastructure which will enhance Botswana’s connectivity and economic growth. BoFiNet serves licensed public telecom operators, licensed value-added network-ser-vices providers, and international ICT operators.

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Transport & ICTSector

BoFiNet’s Wholesale WiFi and Fibre-to-the-XOn May 28, 2015, BoFiNet launched two new projects that are expected to improve Internet access and connectivity for operators and the business community across the country as well as boost e-commerce. The projects, Wholesale WiFi and Fibre-to-the-X (FTTx), will deploy fi bre networks and WiFi hotpots in seven strategic locations to serve around 600 sites, including hospitals, schools and hotels. The seven locations are Gaborone, Mahalapye, Palapye, Serowe, Francistown, Maun and Kasane.

BoFiNet Technical Executive Aldrin Sivako explains, “The fi bre network will form the baseline and will serve as a key enabler for broadband connectivity to business and government facili-ties. In addition, BoFiNet is deploying wholesale public WiFi services to be used for Internet access by the general public. The Fibre-to-the-X connectivity and WiFi hotspots shall inevi-tably provide direct benefi ts to facility owners, tenants and retail consumers.”Next BoFiNet plans to launch the Fibre-to-Home project to improve connectivity for individual users.

Promoting innovation

Forward-thinking ICT projects like these refl ect Botswa-na’s commitment to innovation. Alan Boshwaen, CEO of Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH), the country’s technology centre, explains, “BIH is promoting and supporting innova-tion in the science and technology arena. This innovation is very crucial to our national competitiveness. The overall competitiveness picture of Botswana is driven by factors such as governance and institutions, where we are a bit stronger, but there is a gap in ICT, particularly in the private sector and among individuals. In utilising new technology and

harnessing it, Botswana can improve productivity to create globally competitive products and services.”

Reaching these targets means attracting more investment in ICT, and Botswana’s new Science and Technology Park, now under construction and scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2016, is designed to draw investors as well as enhance Botswana’s appeal as an ICT hub. The govern-ment has created tax incentives and streamlined work and residence permits for innovation-oriented companies looking to set up shop in the new park.

The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) high-lights a number of exciting investment opportunities in the ICT sector, including BIH’s cyber-city project. This initiative is expected to streamline connections between international ICT companies and R&D institutes and Botswana’s public and private sectors.

Botswana welcomes ICT investment. As Thilo Naicker, Managing Director of Digital Experience in Gaborone Airport Junction, explains, “Botswana has the right ICT infrastructure as well as about 15,000 to 20,000 unemployed ICT graduates ready to transform this country into a digital economy.”


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Cutting-Edge Technologies Transforming Botswana

Empire Synergy is transforming Botswana by off ering cutting-edge systems by SMART Technologies.

Owner Peter Mooketsane explains, “Canada-based SMART Technologies Corporation is known around the world as the supplier of the premier technological systems for the corporate, government and education market segments. As SMART Technologies’ only licensed reseller in Botswana, Empire Synergy is the only company with the proper training to handle all our customer’s needs, from installation to repairs and maintenance.”

SMART Technologies products have a wide range of appli-cations and are compatible with any operating system, including phone apps. In schools, teachers can use SMART Technologies systems in all kinds of ways, for example to show children close-up, 3D images of things they have never seen before. “Of course, teachers need to be trained in using this technology, and Empire Synergy is the only place in Botswana providing licensed training programmes in SMART systems,” Peter Mooketsane points out.

International-standard education through technologyEmpire Synergy even offers the SMART Exchange, where teachers can access over 75,000 resources. A teacher in Botswana can log on to the system, download lessons from a teacher in the UK, adapt them to local needs, and thus bring international-standard education to Botswana’s students. In one “showcase school”, Empire Synergy has equipped 34 out of 38 classrooms with SMART Technologies systems. Peter Mooketsane explains, “Empire Synergy supports Minister of Education Unity Dow’s goal of making Botswana’s schools second to none. The govern-ment of Botswana has an opportunity to get the education system in this country right, and Empire Synergy is here to help.”

Thanks to Empire Synergy, many of Botswana’s top public- and private-sector organisations are now using state-of-the-art SMART Boards and other SMART systems. Satisfi ed customers include several government ministries, the First National Bank, BTC, the Botswana International Uni-versity of Science and Technology and BOCARA. Peter Mooketsane says, “The University of Botswana, espe-cially it’s Department of Medicine, and the Accountancy College could also greatly benefi t from SMART Technolo-gies, including SMART distance-learning technology. The possible applications of SMART systems are endless.” Peter Mooketsane has ambitious goals for Empire Synergy. He says, “We are on the move! Our new, larger showroom will display our products and show customers exactly what SMART Technol-ogy systems can do. Over three million SMART boards are being used worldwide by over 30 million teachers and professionals. As the only licensed reseller in Botswana, Empire Synergy now plans to expand into the South African market. Empire Synergy is a local brand that stands for high performance.”

Empire SynergyPlot 106, Moshaweng House, Unit 2

Khaekholo Ward, Tlokweng Village - PO Box 2056, GaboroneTel.: +267 392 8427

[email protected] - www.empiresynergy.co.bw

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Tourism

• Conserving a Sustainable Future for Botswana

• A Country of Contrasts and Beckoning Beauty

• Top Places to Visit

“There is no other country in Southern Africa that can provide a comparable

experience of varied natural wilderness combined with abundant wildlife.”

Honourable Tshekedi Khama,Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism


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Conserving a Sustainable Future for Botswana

The Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, the Honourable Tshekedi Khama, talks about the progress made by Botswana in the area of conservation and underlines how investment will benefit local communities.

European Times: How much success has Botswana enjoyed in the fi ght against wildlife poaching?

Hon. Tshekedi Khama: Sometimes we are very, very suc-cessful. I have to say that we have been more successful than our neighbours and this is because our leadership has the will to support such an initiative. A lot of our resources come from central government coffers, but I also regularly meet with different countries and organisations to look for assistance. Our anti-poacher initiatives have focussed upon education. We are educating Botswana’s population to understand the reasons why they should not poach.

European Times: Could you give an example of how the success of anti-poacher initiatives has affected wildlife?

Hon. Tshekedi Khama: Botswana has the highest population of elephants in the world at around 200,000 elephants. Many of these elephants have migrated from surrounding countries, where they have encountered difficulties. We act as custodians of elephants that are not necessarily from our country and host them in a safe ecosystem.

European Times: Have conservation efforts been recognised?

Hon. Tshekedi Khama: UNESCO recently listed Botswana’s Okavango Delta as the new 1,000th world heritage site. The Okavango Delta is world-famous for the variety of water birds that it attracts. This is the second site to gain heritage status in the country, the fi rst being the Tsodilo Hills, where in excess of 3,500 rock paintings can be found.

European Times: How does the government plan to help local communities through tourism?

Hon. Tshekedi Khama: We have a community-based natural resource management policy, whereby rural commu-nities derive a livelihood from concessioners (investors). The opportunity to earn income from natural resources manage-ment and tourism development enables the diversifi cation of the rural economy and promotes local infrastructure devel-opment. This program has worked very well and we are keen to take it further.

European Times: Why should investors be inter-ested in the Botswana tourism sector?

Hon. Tshekedi Khama: There is no other country in Southern Africa that can provide a comparable experience of varied natural wilderness combined with abundant wildlife. The way the country manages the environment and supports ecotourism is unique. As far as tourism investment in this country is concerned, we are open for business.

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Car-Hire Specialist Making Every Minute Count

“Because every minute counts.” Bidvest Car Rental’s new motto says it all. This car-hire enterprise diff erentiates itself from others in its fi eld through a commitment to exemplary on-time customer support.

Bidvest Car Rental may be a new name, but behind the brand are years of world-class car-hire services. Bidvest success-fully operated Budget Car Rental in Southern Africa for 10 years beginning in 2004, but decided not to renew its agreement with the global Avis-Budget Group but instead to do business under its own Bidvest Car Rental brand as of March 1, 2015.

CEO Paulette McGhee explains that only the name has changed for Bidvest; the company’s existing infrastructure, management and team will remain in place. She says, “This has been a smooth transition. Our staff – including the senior management-team members,

who have been with the Budget brand for, on average, 17 years – have fully supported the move, and the feedback from customers has been positive. At the moment, it is about getting the basics right: understanding our customers’ needs, their journey and experience.” Defi ning the Bidvest difference, she adds, “People do not buy from brands. They buy from people. So, it all boils down to customer service.”

Bidvest Car RentalGaborone Downtown, First Floor, Unit 4, Broadhurst Industrial, Kubu Road, Gaborone

Tel.: +267 390 2030, [email protected] Seretse Khama International Airport

Tel.: +267 390 3477, [email protected]

New brand name for well-established enterpriseBidvest Car Rental operates a network of 120 offi ces throughout Botswana, South Africa and Namibia and employs around 850 people. Bidvest has a cutting-edge fl eet of over 13,500 economy, luxury, speciality and commercial vehicles. Its specialised offerings include chauffeur-driven vehicles, chartered coaches seating from 15 to 59 passengers, services for wheelchair customers, transfers, and special plans for corporate customers and tour operators, among many other options. Bidvest Car Rental’s signature Bidvest Door2Door Transfers include a professional chauffeur, a choice of a luxury vehicle and a service tailored to each customer’s individual itinerary.As the former operator of Budget Car Rental, which entered Southern Africa 46 years ago, Bidvest Car Rental has had a wealth of experience serving local and international customers. Paulette McGhee points out, “The Bidvest Car Rental brand is a new entity in the crowded car-rental category, but not a new brand in terms of the Southern African business. Our new brand position, ‘Because every minute counts’, shows that our people know that whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, every minute of your journey is important to you, and we give you our commitment that at Bidvest Car Rental you will be attended to promptly and in a helpful manner.”

Paulette McGhee, CEO

Tourism


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© Dmitry Pichugin | Dreamstime.com

Botswana’s bountiful splendour includes its cultural diversity, wildlife, safaris, land formations, vegetation, wilderness, and food with spectacular tourist attractions such as the Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park, Mak-gadikgadi and Nxai Pans and Mababe Depression.

Counting on tourism

Unsurprisingly, tourism is a big income earner for the country. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Botswana’s economy was 3.2% of total GDP in 2013, and was forecast to rise by 7.6% in 2014, and delivering an average annual rise of 5.8% from 2014 to 2024.

The total contribution of tourism to the country’s GDP was BWP14,172.1 million, representing 8.4% of GDP in 2013. It was forecast to rise by 8.1% in 2014, and a further rise by 6.1% per annum to BWP27,573.7million (10.2% of GDP) in 2024.

In 2013 tourism directly supported 31,000 jobs (4.6% of total employment). This was expected to rise by 2.5% in 2014. Tourism is forecast to account for 41,000 jobs directly by 2024, an estimated increase of 2.6% per annum over ten years.

In 2013, the total contribution of tourism to employment was 9.9% of total employment (67,000 jobs). This was expected to increase by 4.4% in 2014 to 70,000 jobs and grow by 2.4% per annum to 89,000 jobs in 2024 (11.3% of total).

Visitor exports, a key component of the direct contribution of travel and tourism, generated BWP8,968.4 million (10.9% of total exports) in 2013. This was forecast to grow by 8.3% in 2014, and a further 4.7% per annum from 2014-2024, to BWP15,357.8 million in 2024 (14.5% of total visitor exports).

The country was expected to attract 2,594,000 international tourist arrivals in 2014. This is forecast to total 3,900,000 by 2024, generating an estimated expenditure of BWP15,357.8 million, an increase of 4.7% per annum.

A Country of Contrasts and Beckoning Beauty

Chobe River

Quite rightly, Botswana can boast as a country of contrasts and beckoning beauty with a plethora of delightful tourist destinations and varied holiday experiences - a true holiday paradise past the platitudes of marketing.

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© Michael Baynes | Dreamstime.com

Tourism investment in the country was BWP1,846.9 million in 2013, or 7.6% of total investment. It was expected to rise by 8.4% in 2014, and rise further by 4.5% per annum to BWP3,111.6 million in 2024 (8.1% of total tourism investment).

Tourism’s share of total national investment estimated to rise from 7.8% in 2014 to 8.1% in 2024.

With its ideal investment climate, Botswana’s tourism sector is set to attract further investment to improve its rather inad-equate travel and tourism infrastructure.

Things to do

Botswana has a buffet of destinations, attractions and activi-ties to choose from. There is so much to do when visiting: self-drive Safari in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, game drives in Central Kalahari, scenic fl ights in Moremi, take in the sights and birdsongs and indulge in bird watching in Okavango and Chobe, hop into a Mokoro ride for a unique dug-out canoe experience of nature in the Okavango Delta, horse riding in Northern Tuli Game Reserve, KTP Khaa Wilderness Trail, or be pampered on a Chobe River cruise.

Wildlife viewing

Botswana is a haven of beautiful fl ora and fauna with a huge variety of wildlife for viewing in various safari parks and game reserves.

Game viewing is best from May to October, when the animals concentrate near rivers, pools and waterholes.

The chances of spotting lions are better just after sunrise than at other times. In summer, most animals tend to lie down and be shielded from the heat of the day; as such it is recommended to set out on drives early mornings and late

afternoons. Elephants, though, are wide awake and active in and around the rivers in the hotter hours.

Arts and Crafts

Botswana has an attractive variety of arts and crafts sold in shops and safari camps.

Basketry: Botswana baskets are some of the fi nest in Africa, and certainly the best in southern Africa.

Pottery: rural women make beautiful earthenware pottery to use as well as sell. Some of the products are decorated with engaging elaborate designs.

Weaving: unique hand-woven tapestries, carpets, bed-spreads, cushion covers, napkins, runners, jackets and coats are woven from karakul wool. Designs mostly depict rural scenes, animals and geometric patterns.

Woodcarving: mophane wood is used to produce jewellery as well as animal and human fi gurines.

Bone-carving: this is a relatively new craft in Botswana. It was introduced and taught to ivory carvers following the worldwide ban on the sale of ivory products. With this new trade, they produce elegant, fi nely crafted jewellery and stat-uettes, which interestingly have the look and feel of real ivory.Jewellery: jewellery made of beads, ceramics, stones and malachite are produced in several local cottage industries.

Bushmen crafts: bushmen and their culture have long been of peculiar curiosity to many. Now, their hunting sets, fi re-making sticks, beaded jewellery and belts, leather items and musical instruments are sold to tourists.

Botswana’s tourism offering is memorably enjoyable.

Tourism


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The Majestic Five Brandthe African Feel within GaboroneProud owner and founder of the Majestic Five Group, Ivica Puskas has now become an expert in the hospitality sector. After being in the construction industry for many years, Ivica Puskas felt that it was time to aim at his all-time love: hospitality.

His journey began in the fi rst town of Botswana, Lobatse, where after being part of different activities in the construc-tion industry, the owner felt it was time to head towards what he has always been passionate about: combining his knowledge of construction with the dedication to others.

Therefore, in 1999, the self-made man moved to own his very fi rst, 11 rooms lodge, the “Rest Inn.” This new enter-prise taught Ivica Puskas a lot on the hospitality sector and gave him the incentive to expand and continue his lifelong dream of hosting guests from all around the world.

In 2002, focusing on the capital city, Ivica Puskas seized the opportunity to invest in Gaborone. Using his construction background, he began to build a new hotel from scratch. However, this did not scare him the least, on the contrary: “I was looking forward to expanding in Gaborone and when the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t think twice,” he explains. This is when Big Five Lodge was created in 2004. Since then, the group has expanded to fi ve different properties in total,

including the Majestic Five Hotel in Palapye and the Big Valley Game Lodge located only an hour away from Gaborone.

The Big Five Lodge

The Big Five Lodge, located in the heart of Gaborone, opened its doors in 2004, making it the only specialty lodge in the region. Offering a total of 87 individual chalets, as well as a conference room hosting up to 450 people and catering for all sorts of events, Big Five lodge is now the biggest lodge of Gaborone.

Staying at Big Five Lodge, guests are able to sense the African Feel that the places gives, as well as the different experience that the group looks to portray in each hotel of the brand.

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Tourism

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As of 2015 the Big Five Lodge is proud to have a new man-agement structure. The Lodge is able to cater to international business clients that are looking for a quiet retreat in the capital, as well as tourists looking for a stop during their road trips and looking for an authentic experience in the capital of Botswana.

Majestic Five Hotel

After running the Big Five Lodge for four years, the idea to expand started to form in the owner’s mind. This is when the group found a land in Palapye in 2008 and opened the Majestic Five Hotel. With 168 rooms, as well as nine self-catering apart-ments, Majestic Five Hotel is today the third largest hotel in Botswana. Situated in the secluded and tranquil environment that is Palapye, this hotel has catered for corporate clients since 2012, due to its central and strategic position.

Not only does the hotel stand out by its unique architecture designed entirely by the owner, but also by its swimming pool and lush surroundings – the most important aspect being the enormous contrast between the small town village and the high-end, upscale standard that the hotel offers. Lost in nature, Majestic Five Hotel offers the quiet and peaceful environment that its clients come looking for.

Future plans

Although each hotel has its own distinguished feel, the Majestic Five Group makes sure that each property stays true to the brand’s atmosphere. Therefore, guests will always fi nd good service, good food and clean rooms, as well as swimming pools and the Oh-So-Recognisable African Feel in each hotel and lodge of the Majestic Five.

Keeping in mind to “offer an alternative to the traditional hotels, and pleasing the customers”, Majestic Five Group is proud to say that their concept of Specialty Lodge has been “copied, but never equalled”.

Today, Majestic Five Group and its owner Ivica Puskas are known to be the Pioneers of Lodges, a strong contributor to the Touristic economy within Botswana, as well as a con-tributor of Botswana’s image and awareness worldwide.

Ivica Puskas now passing on his passion for the hospitality sector to his son, Romeo, currently Assistant Director of the Majestic Five Hotel in Palapye following training in Swit-zerland’s fi nest hospitality and hotelier sector, worldwide renowned, therefore ensuring the tradition of quality and service, already established by the Majestic Five brand.

Majestic Five HotelA1 Highway, Palapye, Tel.: +267 492 1222

reserve@majesticfi ve.co.bw, www.majesticfi ve.co.bw

Father and son work hand in hand in order to stay on top of the market, please international and local guests visiting their hotels, and always innovate. Romeo says, “I have learned a lot from my father’s ambition and determination, and I am ready to apply this to the family business as well”.

Big Valley Game Lodge – the eco tourism you have been looking for

Big Valley Game Lodge is Majestic Five Group’s most recent and most exciting project yet. Keeping in mind the idea of pleasing the clientele and offering an alternative to tradi-tional hotels, the owner designed his fi fth hotel of the group just an hour away from Gaborone.

The hotel aims to combine high-level accommodations, as well as a 3x3 square kilometre of bush, where more than 700 wild animals can wander freely.

Guests going to Big Valley Game Lodge will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds, being entertained with game drives during the day, and living a unique Boma experience at night. Moreover, what makes the lodge so unique and excep-tional is that it is fed on solar energy power, therefore creating an electrically sustainable property each night.

Activities at Big Valley Game Lodge will range from the tradi-tional Game Drives, where guests will be able to see giraffes, kudus, ostriches, impala, leopards, hyenas, a wild selection of birds, but where tourists will also be able to use the camping site, go fi shing, but also camel and horse riding.

Today, Big Valley Game Lodge has 21 rooms, out of which 7 are executive bedrooms, always focusing on mixing peaceful and up to standard accommodation with traditional fl ora and fauna.

The concept of Game Lodge that the owner of Majestic Five Hotel introduced is the fi rst one to see the light in Botswana – it will however not be the last one. Indeed, Ivica Puskas is full of ideas for the future. Among the projects fl ourishing in his mind, is a Majestic Delta Lodge in Maun, overlooking the river, as well as a Big Chobe River Lodge in Kasane. These projects should see the light in the upcoming years, therefore expanding the Majestic Five Brand and heritage throughout the four corners of the country.


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Top Places to Visit

Botswana is a country with many tourist attractions to explore and enjoy. From the city to the countryside, there are top places to visit.

Okavango delta

© Gleb Ivanov | Dreamstime.com

Bahurutshe Cultural VillageThe village is a recreation of Hurutshe village life and culture offering rondavels accommodation, arts, crafts, dancing, and local cuisine.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve This is the largest game reserve in Southern Africa, and the world’s second largest wildlife reserve, measuring 52,800sq km.

Large herds of springbok and gemsbok, as well as wildebeest, hartebeest, eland and giraffe could be seen grazing in the grasslands that stretch into the verdant horizon.

The reserve was originally established in 1961 as a San haven for their hunter-gatherer life.

The Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is a world-class tourist destination, and one of the world’s largest inland deltas, encompassing an area of 2,023,590 ha.

It is a beautiful blend of dry lands and wetlands, featuring extensive waterways, swamps, fl oodplains, marshlands, rivers, fl ooded and dry grasslands, riverine forests of palms, islands and lagoons. The delta is an oasis in a country dominated by desert, and is part of the large geographical area containing Moremi Game Reserve, Chobe National Park, Makgadik-gadi and Nxai Pans and Mababe Depression.

With its uniquely impressive geography and wildlife, the Okavango Delta was listed as the 1000th world heritage site by UNESCO in 2014.

The delta’s habitats, safari parks, plains, wilderness and woodlands teem with wildlife as wide and varied as the landscape. The Okavango Delta is home to some of the world’s most endangered species of animals such as bat-eared fox, African wild dog, buffalo, hippopotamus, white and black rhinoceros, cheetah, leopard, lion, elephant, gemsboks, giraffe, zebra - all offer a 21st century refl ection of the Garden of Eden.

Botswana’s birds are as beautiful as the country itself. And the Okavango Delta has fl ocks of numerous species.

Mokoro Ride in Okavango Delta

The Mokoro is a common type of canoe used to get around in the shallow waters of the Okavango Delta. The oarsman stands in the stern and pushes it with a long pole. It is an exciting ride on water with lovely views.

Chobe National Park

This park’s greatest attraction is the beautiful Chobe River, which supports the largest diversity and concentration of wildlife in Botswana.

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Chobe River in Chobe National Park in northern Botswana.

© Steve Allen | Dreamstime.com

The park covers about 11,700sq km, featuring fl oodplains, swamps and woodland. It was established in 1968.

The Chobe riverfront is most famous for its large herds of elephants and cape buffalo, which during the dry winter months converge upon the river to quench their thirst. Large herds of elephants can be seen thumping their way to the river to drink, bathe, play and, quite frankly, make a splash.

Other animals often in view are waterbuck, lechwe, puku (which could be seen only in this part of Botswana), giraffe, kudu, roan and sable, impala, warthog, bushbuck, monkeys and baboons, lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals.

The park can also be well enjoyed by a river cruise, with hippos, crocodiles and a bevy of water birds delivering awesome sights and sounds.

Gcwihaba Caves and Aha Hills

The caves are an amazing underground labyrinth of caverns and pits, linked passages, formations of stalagmite and stalactite, and beautifully coloured fl owstones that look like waterfalls of rock.

Curious, beautiful fl ora and fauna have been recorded at Gcwihaba. These include the Namaqua fi g, the endemic aloe, tent tortoises, barking geckos, Ruepel’s parrot (also unique to this region) and barn owls which live in the caves.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by foraging peoples thousands of years ago. Late Stone Age tools, burnt ostrich eggshells, animal bones, even a fossilised primate skull, have been discovered in the region. Indeed, the caves hold important clues to the way prehistoric peoples related to their environments.

Aerial viewsAerial views can be enjoyed during scenic fl ights over the Moremi with herds of buffaloes and other wildlife trekking the plains and gathering at watering holes.

Safari in the Kalahari

Botswana is one of the most sought after safari countries in Africa with many diverse areas from deserts to lush delta grasslands to forests, and a range of animal and bird species to be seen on game drives. There are many parks, reserves and private concessions open to game drives.

For the best safari experience, it is recommended that three or more different regions are visited, with two-three nights stay per location. Wet and dry camps could be combined in the Okavango, guided mobile-tented safari taken deep into the bush, or lodge stays and mobile safaris combined.

Oodi Weavers

This is a weaving cottage factory with a long-established international reputation for its fi ne, artistic and beautiful products. A Swedish-initiated cooperative (started in 1973) in Oodi village, the weavers – mostly women who now fully own the cooperative – produce hand-woven wall hangings, tapestries, runners, napkins, cushion covers, jackets, and bedspreads. The wool is hand-woven and hand-dyed. Most designs depict rural scenes, animals and geometric patterns.

Custom pieces can be ordered and/or regular products purchased from the factory shop.


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Sector

Chobe Marina LodgePlot 21306 President Drive, Kasane

Tel.: +267 625 2221 / +267 625 [email protected], www.chobemarinalodge.com

Ideal Base for Exploring Chobe National Park

Chobe Marina Lodge is the ideal base for exploring Botswana’s spectacular Chobe National Park and game sanctuary.

Bernard Magano, General Manager, points out, “Chobe Marina Lodge, with a beautiful riverfront location, provides a wonderful combination of luxury accommodations and an authentic experience of Botswana’s wildlife and nature.”

The lodge features picturesque thatched-roof architecture, lush gardens and a choice of accommodations: studios, suites or individual chalets. Guests can enjoy two restaurants: the gourmet Commissioners, serving creative meals à la carte, and Mokoros, which specialises in delicious breakfasts, light lunches and snacks. Amenities at the lodge include two bars, a spa, a state-of-the-art conference venue and an outdoor pool. Chobe Marina Lodge also offers popular all-inclusive packages, safaris to view abundant local game, boat cruises, fi shing adventures, sunset cruises to Sududu Island, and day trips to Victoria Falls.

Bernard Magano welcomes corporate and individual travel-lers to experience everything that Chobe Marina Lodge has to offer. He concludes, “Chobe Marina Lodge is surrounded by spectacular natural wonders, and we truly enjoy introducing our guests to this environment that we have been blessed with. The lodge has the best possible riverside location, and our service standards complement the full experience for our visitors.”

Sector

Tlotlo Hotel and Conference CentrePlot 11683, End of Block 5, Gaborone

PO Box 201439, GaboroneTel.: +267 393 5020

Email address: [email protected]: www.tlotlohotel.co.bw

Tlotlo: Peaceful Retreat Close to the City Centre

Tlotlo Hotel and Conference Centre, situated just ten minutes outside the city centre, off ers more than expected.

Indeed, having just opened in 2012, Tlotlo not only offers seven state-of-the-art Conference Centres, but has recently opened 84 hotel rooms, as well as two restaurants with capacity to serve up to 250 guests.

Additionally, Tlotlo also has two pools, one of them being exclusively for the guests of the hotel. Antonia Majinda, one of the owners of Tlotlo adds, “We are opening an entertain-ment centre soon for our middle to upper class guests, who are looking for a peaceful retreat after their busy day. It will include an executive lounge, an interior and exterior bar, as well as showcasing local and regional artists and bands.”

Today, Tlotlo is attending to local, as well as international clients in their facility, offering an excellent service, with newly renovated and spacious rooms. Despite the vicinity to the city centre, Tlotlo offers a peaceful and quiet environ-ment to its guests, as well as providing a shuttle service, not only from the airport to the hotel, but also to any destination, such as malls and restaurants. Antonia Majinda concluded: “Come to Tlotlo, and you will be in good hands.”

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Pioneering Chauffeur Service Growing Rapidly

Rosewell Chauff eurs pioneered international-standard chauff eured car-hire services in Botswana. Sukoluhle Mafi ka, Managing Director, explains, “We train our staff to meet international chauff eur standards.

Our high-quality luxury vehicles, pro-fessional drivers and top-notch service have earned Rosewell Chauffeurs a very strong image in Botswana. The company was founded in 2013, but it has already won a reputation as the number one transport option for executive trav-ellers in Gaborone.”

The company provides chauffeured car-hire services for international and local executives, transport for VIP visitors, transfers between hotels and business venues, transport during special nights out, and services for all kinds of special events, including weddings and inter-national meetings. Rosewell Chauffeurs works with several hotels in Gaborone and specialises in serving business visitors

to Botswana. Many of its clients have come to Botswana to do business in Gabo-rone’s Diamond Technology Park and the Diamond Trading Company, and the high security that Rosewell Chauffeurs guar-antees is particularly important for these customers. Rosewell has implemented a cutting-edge tracking system to ensure both security and reliable transport. The company even offers refreshments in the vehicle as a special amenity.

Expanding throughout the country

Now Sukoluhle Mafi ka is looking to expand Rosewell Chauffeurs throughout the country and she is open to interna-

tional partnerships. She says, “We provide service that matches the highest inter-national standards, and we welcome the chance to work with more companies and partners in Botswana and worldwide. A partnership with Rosewell Chauffeurs will defi nitely be a win-win for both sides.” Rosewell Chauffeurs offers a convenient online payment and booking system so that international travellers can make res-ervations for the company’s services even before they arrive in Botswana. Rosewell Chauffeurs also provides transfer services and personalised customer support. “We always obtain the itinerary of the customer in advance and then advice whether transfer or chauffeur service is the better choice to suit the customer’s needs,” Sukoluhle Mafi ka points out.

Sukoluhle Mafi ka anticipates continued strong growth for Rosewell Chauf-feurs as Botswana’s economy develops. She concludes, “Rosewell Chauffeurs is here to serve Botswana and to help raise standards in the country. Rosewell Chauffeurs emerged from the need and demand for high-quality transportation options in Gaborone. Today, Rosewell Chauffeurs is truly the preferred means of transport in Botswana’s capital city, and we look forward to establishing win-win partnerships with corporations in Botswana and on the international level. Here at Rosewell Chauffeurs, our competitive edge is excellence.”

Rosewell Chauff eursPeermont Grand Palm Hotel, Gaborone

Tel.: +267 363 7790+267 775 03333

bookings@rosewellchauff eurs.co.bw rosewellchauff eurs.co.bw


70

Dishes of Delight and the Infl uence of European Cuisine

Botswana food is a culinary curiosity of local dishes, and the infl uence of European cuisine. And then, of course, fast food restaurants dish out the usual takeaways, and greasy spoons render delightsome local delicacies.

Porridge dishesBogobe is porridge cooked by pouring sorghum, maize or millet fl our into boiling water and stirring it into a semi-soft paste, and then left to cook slowly.

Ting is fermented sorghum or maize meal porridge. It is usually made lighter with milk, and sugar added if served for breakfast. A heavier version of ting is eaten with meat and sometimes with vegetables for lunch or dinner.

Bogobe is also cooked with sour milk, lerotse (melon), or with a combination of sour milk and lerotse.

Dikgobe/Lehata. This dish is a mixture of beans cooked with maize or sorghum or processed maize. Other ingredients are salt, a bit of fat or oil. It can be eaten with fresh milk or meat dishes.

Meat dishes

Botswana is famous for its abundant variety of good quality meat. Hence meat dishes abound, including seswaa (made of beef, goat meat, chicken or lamb); serobe (cooked with thoroughly-washed

and boiled mixture of tripe, intestines, lungs, other innards of cow, goat or sheep and trotters of the latter two animals, if included), segwapa (biltong) and barbecue beef. Another favourite is Magatla (oxtail casserole). Oxtail is boiled with tomatoes, onions, tomato puree, freshly-ground pepper, garlic and salt.

Chicken, like elsewhere in the world, is a staple in Botswana. But traditionally-reared chicken is consid-ered tastier, and thus preferred to commer-cial poultry chicken. Cooking chicken on

open fi re in a three-legged aluminium pot is believed to taste best. It is cooked with water and salt, or with chilli added.

Traditional chicken is cooked for visitors to demonstrate honourable hospitality.

The infl uence of European cuisine

Botswana’s bread dishes are European-infl uenced local staples. The most common ones are matemekwane (dumplings), mmasekuku (bread baked over burning fi rewood), diphaphatha (fl at cakes), and magwinya (fat cakes).

Barbeques are common on special occasions. Afrikaans dishes like Vetkoek (deep fried dough cut in half and fi lled with curried mince) are also enjoyed locally.

Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, salads and soups can be enjoyed in some hotels/lodges and restaurants.

[email protected]

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Rhapsody’s: a New Experience of Fine Dining

Started with passion for foodRhapsody’s Restaurant, situated at Airport Junction Mall, is the product of Paul Champane’s passion to open a restaurant, after graduating from the University of Miami, Florida. Having just opened three years ago, Rhapsody’s is quickly becoming the safe alternative to hotel restaurants, by offering luxury amenities to its guests.

Indeed, Paul Champane, owner of the South African franchise, was able to witness the city’s turn of events and foresee the need to cater to an upper-class clientele, right in the centre of Gaborone. Paul says, “I want to change the defi nition of fi ne dining and offer a diversifi cation of the places where you can fi nd it.”

Offering a varied and on-point menuToday, Rhapsody’s aims to cater to business and corporate clients, consid-ering the growing demand for luxury services in Botswana. Always looking to please its customers, Paul Champane and Rhapsody’s are focusing on an entirely new lunch menu, aimed at offering the highest quality of dishes, however remaining in between the corporate lunch hours.

Moreover, even though it’s a South African franchise, Rhapsody’s aims to support the local economy by sourcing its ingredients in the country. On top of that, each and every meal is cooked from scratch, therefore placing taste and quality fi rst.

The most popular dishes at Rhapso-dy’s are the mushroom rump steak, the chicken espetada and various exquisite sushi dishes, made in the utmost tradition by using Scottish salmon, instead of Norwegian. However, Paul Champane points out that “Rhapsody’s caters to all tastes, all sorts of people. There will be something on the menu to please each person coming to Rhapsody’s – this is the image that I want to carry and portray.”

Catering for the Diamond City Hub

Considering the growing demand for high-end restaurants, Rhapsody’s is now levelling to European standards and is looking to cater ever more towards a corporate clientele. Paul Champane states, “We are willing and able to cater for these international clients and business people alike. We provide the best ambiance, dining and drinks expe-rience in Gaborone.”

Having a combination of excellent food and ambiance at Rhapsody’s, Paul Champane is proud to say that the restaurant now offers “the best of both worlds.” He concludes: “Busi-nessmen and women come in and meet people in the same circles and are able to mingle.”

Rhapsody’s RestaurantShop N°45, Airport Junction Mall,

GaboroneTel.: +267 71 328 623

[email protected]

Plot 17401, Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, Gaborone, P.O. Box 790, Gaborone, Tel.: +267 3913093, [email protected], www.avis.co.za

AVIS “We Try Harder”

Avis Rent a Car - the number one car rental company by PMR Africa(voted consecutively for the last seven years)

■ providing quality service and effi cient transport solutions to visitors and residents countrywide

■ available in Gaborone, Maun, Kasane and Francistown

■ easily accessible for locals and travellers

■ offering both car rental and full maintenance leasing solutions

■ 220 vehicles available for renting and managing over 850 fi nanced fl eet vehicles

■ largest fl eet offering of all car rental companies in Botswana

■ an international online reservations system allowing people to book a vehicle from anywhere in the world

The European Times - Botswana 2

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Transcript of The European Times - Botswana 2