05 Dec 2016

Government is in the process of developing a mixed use Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Selebi Phikwe as part of its economic development initiatives, President Lieutenant General Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama explained on Monday (December 5).

Delivering the 2016 State-of-the-Nation Address on Monday (December 5), President Khama stated that a Board has been appointed for the Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZA) and has already engaged a technical advisor for rollout of the zones.

“Priority is now being given to the development of the mixed use Special Economic Zone at Selebi Phikwe,” President Khama explained in Parliament.

The President further pointed that Selebi Phikwe Economic Diversification Unit (SPEDU) is engaged in additional projects, including facilitation of land allocation to several private businesses, to assist in diversifying of the economy in the region.

“SPEDU has engaged with communities in the region to resuscitate and support development projects in such areas as piggery, fish farming through co-operatives and development trusts. SPEDU is also facilitating the establishment of a Regional Chamber of Commerce and the development of the strategy to incorporate the SMME’s into the mainstream economy in partnership with Business Botswana,” he said.On other issues concerning economic development, President Khama said government was employing sector specific strategies to promote local industries.

He said a law to restrict importation of salt in small quantities has been introduced under this arrangement to promote market access for locally packaged salt. “Since its commencement two salt packaging companies have been established. Restrictions on the exportation of scrap metal are also in place to improve accessibility by local metal foundries,” he said.

The President also stated that more enterprises are expected to be created when the process to issue licenses under the Gambling Authority for casinos, sports betting and the national lottery takes effect. ENDS