16 Jun 2024

Procurement of local products and services as well as introduction of Statutory Instruments are pivotal government initiatives in pursuit of economic diversification and reduced import dependency, says Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mmusi Kgafela.

Speaking at the 27th Metlhala ya Khumo stakeholder engagement in Ramotswa on Friday, the minister said it should, however, be noted that Statutory Instruments were a temporary measure meant to cushion industries for growth.

Therefore, he said they would have to be dealt away with at some point.

Mr Kgafela said government’s role was primarily facilitative, committed to creating an enabling environment for the agricultural sector’s growth and development.

He said Temo Letlotlo Programme was one collaborative effort spanning ministries, State-owned Enterprises, and the private sector, focusing on boosting food security through a productivity-output reward system in agriculture.

Mr Kgafela said government also had initiatives like Chema Chema Fund to promote financial inclusion and growth for informal SMMEs through short-term loans.
“Botswana also embraces global trade agreements like the African Free Trade Area Agreement,” he said and urged all to educate themselves and capitalise on the services provided by the ministry and its parastatals.

In his remarks, Ramotswa MP Mr Lefoko Moagi thanked the trade ministry for bringing services closer to the people especially within his constituency.

He said Metlhala ya Khumo initiative served the government’s mandate as it was in line with Vision 2036.

“The effects of an initiative like this one will lead to more uptake of government services by the community,” said Mr Moagi who is also Minister of Minerals and Energy.

He appealed to Batswana to fully utilise government’s newly launched programmes to boost the country’s economy.

Mr Moagi also encouraged his constituents to come up with industrial and manufacturing centered businesses as the value chain from those would stimulate employment creation.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Gideon Mmolawa said events like Metlhala ya Khumo foster innovation, job creation and growth of small businesses.

“The forum provides a platform for producers or manufacturers to engage with buyers for possible procurement of their products or services,” he said Mr Mmolawa said such initiatives allowed government to source valuable feedback for policy refinement and industry expansion.

The event was supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Minerals and Energy together with LEA and CEDA and other parastatals showcasing different programmes designed to uplift informal sector and arable farmers to stimulate income generation and employment opportunities. Ends