06 Jul 2014

Government is in the process of establishing Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Parliament has been told.

Responding to a question, Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Dorcas Makgato–Malesu said there is “a significant progress” with regard to the establishment of SEZs. She said a comprehensive study was conducted in 2012 to identify economically viable SEZ sites across Botswana. She told the House that to date eight sites have been earmarked, adding that for now, the Shoshong constituency is not one of them.

She said the sites include Sir Seretse Khama International Airport and Fairgrounds in Gaborone, Lobatse, Selibe Phikwe, Pandamatenga, Palapye, Francistown and Tuli Block. “The ministry will continue to assess other areas on a case by case basis,” she said. Minister Makgato – Malesu was responding to a question that was asked by Shoshong MP, Mr Phillip Makgalemele.

Mr Makgalemele had asked the minister to state progress she has made in establishing economic hubs in Botswana. He also wanted the minister to state whether any economic hubs are earmarked for the Shoshong constituency and justification for the decision. ENDS