05 Nov 2013

Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Dorcas Makgato-Malesu, has commended Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) for its  contribution to the economy.

Speaking during the soft-drinks and alcohol manufacturing company’s launch of a Polyethylene Terephthylene (PET) Blow-moulding manufacturing facility, Ms Makgato- Malesu said KBL continues to play an important role in employment creation. KBL launched the PET facility, which uses modern technology plastic packaging, at its Soft Drinks Plant in Broadhurst, Gaborone on November 5.

“It makes me proud as a minister entrusted with both the creation of wealth and employment in the country to see companies setting up and expanding their operations in the country. I understand that KBL employs 890 Batswana, therefore contributing significantly to employment generation and improvement of the welfare of Batswana as a responsible corporate citizen,” Ms Makgato-Malesu said.

She said the innovation heralds advanced knowledge-based innovations to Botswana that also serves to reduce the import bill and improve self-sufficiency in economic sectors. Ms Makgato-Malesu said Botswana was able to move five places up in the global competitiveness index rankings partly because of promotion and development of sustainable industries by companies such as KBL.

“These companies continue to push the frontier when it comes to innovation and sustainable development,” she said. She praised KBL for continuing to improve its business operations, saying the company would reap immense benefits from its investment on the PET facility.

The minister said PET offers modern convenience and innovation as it is a shatterproof and safe packaging option that is easy to store, carry, clean up and re-seal.KBL managing director, Mr Johan de Kok said manufacturers like KBL prefers to use PET plastic to package products because of its safety, thermostability and versatility. Ends