03 Feb 2014

The Vice President, Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe has commended the Selebi Phikwe Diversification Unit (SPEDU), BCL mine and BOCCIM for working together to diversify economy of the Selebi Phikwe region.

Dr Kedikilwe said the three organisations strategies would help small micro and medium enterprises, promote agriculture and boost the business sector in the region. Dr Kedikilwe was speaking during a SPEDU business forum at Makhubu Club on January 31.

The forum was attended by the Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, Mr Shaw Kgathi, representatives from SPEDU, BOCCIM, BCL mine, dikgosi, councillors, senior government officials and various business organisations.

Dr Kedikilwe said the three organisations were in the process of setting up a chamber of commerce in Selebi Phikwe which would revamp the business sector. He said the chamber would also be responsible for creating a strong sustainable economic base for the region.

Dr Kedikilwe also noted that an upgraded road linking Francistown to Selebi Phikwe via Matsiloje and Robelela would reduce the distance travelled by motorists.

He said the route would have the potential to promote economic growth in the region. He added that the road from Robelela was a gateway to Bobonong and tourist destinations such as the Tuli and Mashatu Game Reserve. Dr Kedikilwe also noted that the route that passes through Robelela from Francistiown to Selebi Phikwe could be used to transport mineral ores from Matsiloje and other mines in the north for smelting at the BCL mine.

He added that the route was shorter, less costly and more convenient than the A1 road that passes through Serule. He commended BCL mine for coming up with the Polaris II initiative aimed at diversifying mine operations to extend the lifespan of the mine.

Vice President Kedikile said the SPEDU strategy of setting up a horticultural processing and packaging plant would promote agriculture and create employment for Batswana. SPEDU also has a number of projects earmarked for the region such as the expansion of the Selebi Phikwe airport, setting up a fish hatchery plant in Mmadinare and the building of lodges around the Dikgathong and Letsibogo dams to promote tourism. ENDS