18 Mar 2015

Assistant Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Sadique Kebonang, says he has not been aware that CNA book and Stationary retailer does not sell local periodicals and books.

Responding to a question in Parliament, Mr Kebonang said after being made aware of the aforementioned observation,the ministry engaged CNA who informed them that since setting up in Botswana, CNA and its sister companies had been run from South Africa.

He said all the processes were being administered and managed by their South African counterparts. 

The company had recently localised most of its processes, including procurement, which would enable support for procurement of local products and services, he added.

Mr Kebonang said government had put in place a new initiative that compels procurement of locally manufactured goods and services which include stationary as well as published and printed goods.

The assistant minister stated that the new directive had been put in place after it was observed that procuring entities still lagged behind with procuring locally manufactured goods and services. 

He said it also aimed at increasing procurement of locally manufactured goods and services with a view to promoting the development of local industries and reducing the import bill. 

MP for Selebi Phikwe West, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse had asked the minister if he was aware that CNA book and retailer shops do not sell local periodicals and books, and if so, why given that other retailers from South Africa like Exclusive Books sell local periodicals and books.

Mr Keorapetse also wanted to know if the minister was aware of other companies operating in Botswana that were shunning local products. ENDS