15 Mar 2016

The Permanent Secretary to the President, Mr Carter Morupisi says Batswana have the responsibility to stimulate the economy, but that  civil servants are key role players in making the objective realised.

Addressing civil servants at the Selebi-Phikwe Town Hall recently, he said the long-term goals of the stimulus programme were consistent with the nations long-term vision as well as the governments roadmap for a more prosperous and productive future. 

He said targeted areas to stimulate the economy include agriculture production, tourism, manufacturing, infrastructure development, reskilling of youth  and the establishment of economic zones.

He explained that special economic zones were geographically distinct  areas that were suitable for certain economic activities. 

He gave an example of the Selebi-Phikwe region as a special economic zone. He said the main focus on Selebi-Phikwe was to diversify the economy of the town,  and to reduce its reliance  on BCL Mine. He said one of the ways to realise the goal was the implementation of  the mine’s Polaris II strategy with more attention on mineral beneficiation. 

He said through the Polaris II strategy, Pula Steel Manufacturing Plant was set up.   

He also said horticulture and agro business were some the economic activities taking place in the area to help boost the economy of the region. He explained that a vegetable processing plant has been setup in the mining town to process vegetables from farmers in the region. “These are some examples taking place in Selebi Phikwe region to help diversify and boost the economy,” he said.

Mr Morupisi told civil servants in the mining town to familiarise themselves with all projects taking place in the area. He said they should take the responsibility to monitor the progress of the projects. Ends