27 Aug 2013

Minister of Trade and Industry has assured investors that government would continue to work on improving the business environment to enable them to thrive.

Speaking at the Zambezi Motors mechanical workshop launch over the weekend, Minister Dorcas Makgato-Malesu said there was need to celebrate the Zambezi Motors brand and take pride in its work as one of the few local businesses that have proven themselves to their clients.

Ms Makgato-Malesu also said her ministry was mandated to ensure that doing business in Botswana was flawless as possible to reduce operating costs.  “Creation of sustainable industries is part of my ministry’s mandate,” she added.

She also commended the Zambezi Motors proprietor for being a visionary who came a long way in business.  Again, she said the fact that the business saw it fitting to open a branch in Francistown, would assist government in its economic diversification drive and also contribute to regional integration by serving clients in neighbouring countries.

The minister highlighted that with the construction of the Kazungula Bridge, Zambezi Motors stood a good chance of benefiting a lot and that would lead to its growth and expansion.

On other issues, she explained that the presence of ministers from as far as Malawi at the launch showed the significance with which they viewed Zambezi Motors. In addition, she said the company was also doing well as it promoted export development by directly creating linkages.

That, she noted, would assist government reduce the import bill and attract more foreign direct investment to the country.

Furthermore, she said Zambezi Motors had created employment for Batswana and was also involved in wealth creation through its citizen economic empowerment. She added that the company was an example of a brand that could be sustained and a good model of entrepreneurship development.

Zambezi Motors managing director, Mr Ishmael Nshakashogwe thanked Batswana, the business community and government for the support they afforded his company over the years. Mr Nshakashogwe also assured everyone that Zambezi Motors would remain committed to providing expected technical backup service to its clients.

“We have come a long way but remained focused in the provision of quality service,” he said. He also emphasised that his company would strive to do even better thus urged stakeholders to continue with their support.

On other issues, he said their business was continuing its response to assist in regional integration. Notwithstanding, he was concerned that in many instances, locals were not regarded as investors. Zambezi Motors is a dealership for MAN and VW brands. ENDS