31 Mar 2016

Mr Mogomotsi Gaebepe who is famously known for designing an aircraft in Kasane is currently struggling to grow his business due to lack of land.

Having recently purchased a helicopter for scenic viewing, Gaebepe had dreams of owning an aircraft factory to build bigger jets.

“My goal of building a six seater jet is still there but there is no land where I can build an aircraft factory, or where I can be able to train other aspiring pilots,” he said adding that “I really wish the government would help me acquire a permanent land where I can settle and grow my business.”

Mr Gaebepe whose business is currently running based on a temporary state land under a two-year contract says the land is affecting his business and limiting his growth as he is not allowed to make any developments on the area.

The 37 year old says the support he is getting from the government and Batswana really motivates him in growing his business and aiming higher as it clearly shows that they appreciate him.

He also said the market in Kasane is growing as compared to when he started, as he now sometimes receives 20 customers at a time unlike before when he used to receive only four.

Though his helicopter is noisy, he has not received any complaints from the community. Some lodges like Mowana safari lodge bring their customers for a ride in his helicopter as a way of showing support which has inspired him to aspire to work with as many lodges as possible.

Mr Gaebepe is expanding his business by offering a variety of services like flight rides, transfers, photography and animal capturing.

He says ever since designing his aircraft he has managed to achieve a lot through the help of the government and he is forever grateful for the support he is getting.

“I managed to get a certified standard aircraft which I am using for business, a pilot licence which I did not have, now specializing in helicopters and thanks to the government I now have qualifications in engineering,” he said adding that he wished to own an aeroplane to help fight poaching and also employ the youth as his way of giving back to the community. he added.

Mr Gaebepe said after his self made airplane desert wolf crashed he has been repairing it, and he wishes to donate it to one of the museums one day as a way of giving back to the community and motivating other young people who have the same dream as his. ENDS