28 Jan 2024

SPEDU has been commended for its instrumental role in facilitating the establishment of Pipe World, a company specialising in the production of PVC and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes in Selebi Phikwe.

During the official opening of the Pipe World project at Selebi Phikwe, Assistant Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Beauty Manake, announced that SPEDU successfully guided the company in obtaining all necessary compliance documents and approvals, enabling the company to commence its operations.

She said allocation of a 3.2-hectare plot was part of the support extended to the investors to set up their factory.  Ms Manake also highlighted the project’s role in creating 70 job opportunities during its construction phase, with current employment of 20 individuals and a projected increase to 100 jobs once fully operational.

Emphasising the local investment, she noted that the company had locally sourced P40 million from two local financing institutions, a testament to the readiness of local financial bodies to support viable business proposals. The assistant minister expressed confidence in the company’s potential to contribute significantly to technology and skills transfer within the local community.

The products manufactured by Pipe World (Pty) Ltd, including sewer lines, electrical works, potable water conveyance, and irrigation systems, were expected to have a significant impact on the construction industry, she said.

Ms Manake urged the company to engage in comprehensive social responsibility initiatives and involve the local business community, particularly small and medium enterprises, in their operations. She also called upon various stakeholders to support companies establishing themselves in the region, saying the collective effort required to procure from local manufacturers and build local capacity.

Acknowledging the contributions of other entities such as Selebi Phikwe Town Council, Department of Environmental Affairs, Department of Lands, Botswana Power Corporation, and Water Utilities, Ms Manake expressed gratitude for their guidance in facilitating the investor’s journey to success.

Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, the MP for Selebi Phikwe West, stressed the importance of respecting labour laws, health and safety regulations, and maintaining a safe working environment. He also encouraged the company to engage in corporate social investment, including the awarding of scholarships and supporting local businesses in Selebi Phikwe.

The Mayor of Selebi Phikwe Town Council, Mr Lucas Modimana, commended the government’s initiative in facilitating land allocation for businesses interested in investing in Selebi Phikwe, demonstrating a commitment to creating employment opportunities and enhancing the business environment in the region.

Hor her part, Ms Hongtao Yu, the Chairperson of Pipe World, thanked the Ministry of Trade and Industry and SPEDU for their support, noting that the company’s inception was driven by the increasing demand for high-quality PVC and HDPE pipes in the country.

She highlighted the company’s P40 million investment to establish a large-scale factory, including the completion of the first phase with a warehouse covering 2000 square meters and four production lines.

The company manufactures a range of pipes, including 40mm to 50mm U-PVC pressure pipes for water supply and drainage systems, mine pipes, agricultural irrigation, and electricity. ENDS