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21 May 2023

It is the intention of government to ensure that local businesses thrive and grow in both the international and regional market.

 That, government will achieve by  promoting an export led economy through securing markets in the international space.

Addressing Boteti West business community in Rakops recently, Vice Presidenr Slumber Tsogwane said government put a restriction on the importation of certain vegetables and school uniform to enable growth of local businesses.

He said it was government’s role to facilitate businesses and provide an environment for them to thrive.

“We want to see businesses that have been formed as a result of value chain development,” stated Mr Tsogwane.

He encouraged them to come up with products made from natural resources such as drinks and skin care products because consumers preferred organic products as opposed to products made using chemicals.

Mr Tsogwane said by introducing the Economic Inclusion Act, government wanted Batswana in lowest earning bracket to be catered for. 

“We want to see our youth from rural areas participating in Forbes Under 30 Summit,” stated Mr Tsogwane, adding that the youth faced challenges such as high rentals.

He said there were 35 online services provided by government and parastatal organisations that businesses should make use of.

Boteti West business community chairperson, Ms Ernie Engliton complained about frequent power outages and proposed that businesses be compensated for damages resulting from power cuts. Ms Engliton queried that local tenders were awarded to people from outside Boteti who went to the extent of bringing labourers with them and said such ought to be addressed.

She complained about late payments to suppliers and harsh bye-law inspections as well as low prices by unlicensed businesses. ends