16 Sep 2024

The construction of a meat value addition and secondary processing plants by Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) is a significant milestone in the country’s development.

Speaking at the ground breaking ceremony for the two facilities in Lobatse recently, Minister of Entrepreneurship, Mr Karabo Gare said the plants would be the largest meat production and leather tanning centres in Botswana.

Mr Gare pointed out that the projects were aligned to government’s policy of promoting value chain development, employment creation and entrepreneurship.

He said the tannery and secondary processing plants would contribute and serve as critical elements of the town’s industrial growth.

 He stated that Lobatse residents and those from surrounding areas would benefit from the value chain extension initiatives.

He noted that the two plants would open doors for future advancements and to strengthen the country’s position in global beef markets.

Mr Gare said the plants would incorporate state-of-art technology and best practices to minimise their ecological footprint.

He urged the project teams and contractors to do a professional and desirable job, adding that they should deliver the plants per specifications, within budget and the contracted timelines.

BMC Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Tsheboeng said the new meat value addition and secondary processing plants would enhance the value of BMC’s products through advanced processing techniques.

 He said the 3 000 square metre facility would empower BMC to diversify its offering and to deliver premium, value added products for both the local and international market.

 He noted that the company would have the capacity to produce 100 metric cube tonnes at full production, adding that products such as ECCO canned foods, pouched beef cuts, cured meats such as biltong, sausages and polony would be produced.

Mr Tsheboeng said the revitalised tannery would process hides to the wet blue stage and that it would be a sustainable and dependable market for leather products.

He said the Lobatse leather park would attract investors to further process the wet blue leather into finished goods such as shoes, bags, jackets and car seats. Ends