12 Jun 2019

Botswana regards scientific and technical knowledge as the main driver of economic diversification and sustainable development.

Speaking at the 17th Botswana Resource Sector conference in Gaborone, Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security, Mr Eric Molale said, “we are excited at the introduction of new mining technologies in existing and upcoming mines such as the Khoemacau Copper project and Lucara Diamonds Botswana”.

He said these projects should endeavour to impart skills among citizens.

He further noted that government had placed beneficiation as one of the key areas of focus to create employment opportunities for citizens and generate value in the economy through development of new industries.

The minister said particular focus was on diamonds because they were intended to develop a vibrant cutting and polishing industry as well as jewellery manufacturing.

“Other strategies for economic diversification were derived from beneficiation of base metals, re-focusing our exploration of solar power storage battery minerals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese and rare earth minerals, to take advantage of the emerging markets of electric vehicles and other renewable energy technologies utilizing battery storage,” stated Mr Molale.

 “With Vision 2016 now behind us, the Vision 2036 average rate of growth target is set at six percent,” noted Mr Molale adding that all eyes would be on the mineral resources sector to play a leading role in assisting the country to achieve the Vision’s target.

Minister Molale indicated that all should play an active and supportive role in ensuring fulfilment of the four pillars of the vision.

He said government continued to put in place initiatives aimed at propelling the country’s drive to wean itself off the middle income trap and become a high income country by 2036. 

 

Mr Molale said government had a mandate to enhance the social and economic wellbeing of Batswana. ENDS