10 Mar 2015

One of this year’s Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) kick-start beneficiaries says the P208 017 grant money he received would help him expand his concrete placing company.

Mr Tiro Magowe, who employs 24 workers, is one of the 11 youths out of a total of 50 whose businesses received financial enhancement recently at the 11th KBL KickStart Awards.

The 29-year-old, who specialises in concrete floors for industrial buildings, water retaining structures like dams, concrete tanks, airport apron slabs and all concrete ancillary works, said the money he received from Botswana’s main beverage brewer would be used to buy equipment and improve the company.

Mr Magowe, who is based in Gaborone and is currently doing the expansion of Kasane International Airport apron slabs (where airplanes park), said he would not be tempted by youthful exuberance to squander the funds.

“This money has come at a time when I was looking forward to grow and develop my business, as a means to add value and quality at projects I envisage to undertake in future. Above all I do not want to compromise the standards,” said the proud young entrepreneur.

The energetic Mr Magowe, who is a civil engineer by profession, said he was the owner of Pick-Up Services, which started business in 2013 and his first major client was Kalcon Pty. 

Speaking at the event, KBL corporate affairs director, Ms Ticky Pule said the themes of sustainable development, enterprise development, prosperity and inclusive growth are all integral parts of their business’ long-term sustainability as they help to create jobs and wealth within communities in Botswana.

She said at the heart of their strategy for building prosperity, lies their commitment and focus to support the role small businesses play in generating economic growth and reducing poverty in the country. 

“This is why creating innovative possibilities such as Kickstart that help the youth take ownership of their future and spurning them to action is such a compelling and vibrant outcome. Eleven years on, Kickstart still remains relevant and impactful. ENDS