21 Aug 2019

Contrary to some mischievous allegations on social media, government is not paying visiting American businessman Steve Harvey any money.

According to a press release issued by Government Communications, the visit by the American comedian, television host, producer, radio personality, actor and author follows his expression of interest to promote the creative industry in Botswana.

Steve Harvey’s interest in Botswana follows his visit to the Diamond Conference women summit during the Diamond week in Gaborone last year, subsequent to which he met President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi and expressed interest to visit Botswana again to explore opportunities for investment in the creative industry to promote the youth of Botswana to participate in the business.

Mr Harvey of Harvey Corporation, which is in the creative industry, also offered to invite other investor friends for potential investment opportunities. 

He has brought with him some prospective investors on the exploratory tour with him. President Masisi extended the invitation to Mr Steve Harvey at no fee or cost to the Government of Botswana. 

The invitation is in accordance with normal international protocol when an investor of Steve Harvey’s stature wishes to visit a country. 

Furthermore, the President has extended conventional courtesies to Mr Harvey including meeting and appearing with the American celebrity at a live town hall networking session featuring Steve Harvey this morning at the University of Botswana Indoor Arena.

The youth, in particular, have reacted enthusiastically to the invitation to participate in the town hall networking session. Registration has reached the maximum target of five thousand in Gaborone only.

The President will continue to welcome prospective investors who react positively to Botswana’s international efforts to woe investment to the country. 

Such investors are not paid to explore business in Botswana. ENDS