09 Oct 2024

Government continues to invest in innovative projects such as smart grids and sustainable transport networks with the aim to reduce the carbon footprint.

The  Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mmusi Kgafela expressed the sentiments  at the opening of the 2024 Transport and Energy Summit on Tuesday, and noted that the investments were about laying the foundation for a robust economy that could withstand global challenges and uncertainties.

He said the country must prioritise the development of energy efficient technologies that would drive the country’s economy. He added that innovation was at the heart of progress, hence the need to foster an environment that supported research and development in emerging technologies.

 Minister Kgafela said since the world was evolving rapidly, the approach to transport and energy must also be quick. He urged Batswana to embrace the change and invest in innovations that would define the future of mobility and energy efficiency.

The event was held under the theme: Energising progress: Advancing transport and energy solutions for Botswana’s growth. As such, Mr Kgafela said it was aligned to the nation’s journey towards sustainable economic development, observing that the  synergy between transport and energy was a powerful engine for economic growth. 

“As we explore the pathways to a sustainable future, we must emphasise how advancements in one sector can create ripple effects in another,” he said.

He said integrating renewable energy into the transport sector could reduce costs, enhance efficiency and contribute to environmental protection. 

“By harnessing our abundant solar resources we can power electric vehicles and transform Botswana into a leader in clean transport solutions,” he said.

Furthermore, the minister said there was a need to create a supportive regulatory framework that encouraged private sector investment and facilitated the transition to greener technologies. 

The minister added that by simplifying regulations and incentivising investments, the country would ensure that businesses were equipped to meet the challenges of a changing world while fostering a competitive edge on the global stage.

He said the economic implications of advancing the transportation and energy sectors were profound and could lead to job creation, increased competitiveness and improved quality of life for citizens.

However, he said as the country championed the changes, Batswana must keep their eyes on the economic benefits that accompanied sustainable practices and reinforced the country’s  position in the global economy.

He said the country’s commitment to sustainability and climate goals was unwavering, and that improvements in transport and energy systems would be pivotal in achieving both national and international environmental targets. 

“Together we can create a sustainable future that prioritises the health of our planet and the well-being of future generations,” he said.

Mr Kgafela also called for collaboration, saying the challenges faced in the transport and energy sectors required a united front. He added that it was important to share knowledge, resources and expertise in order to develop comprehensive strategies that would propel the nation forward.

He also said collaboration and commitment would drive sustainable growth for the country.  “Together we can energise progress and pave the way for a brighter and greener future,” he said. ENDs