29 Jun 2026

The meat industry stands to benefit from expanded access to international markets through Halal certification, Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Major General Pius Mokgware said during a certificate award ceremony for young Batswana in Gaborone recently.

Addressing attendees and graduates of training programmes offered by the Gaborone Halal Certification and Islamic Institute (GHCII), Major General Mokgware encouraged Batswana involved in the beef and poultry industries to pursue Halal certification to unlock new business opportunities and broaden market access.

He said discussions leading to the initiative began in January and described the transition as challenging, given that Batswana largely regard themselves as a Christian community. 

However, he stressed that Halal certification presented economic opportunities that could be embraced by all citizens.

Major General Mokgware said Batswana could participate meaningfully in the Halal-certified meat industry and benefit from growing demand for Halal products. 

He added that Botswana could leverage the GHCII to reach wider markets and urged businesses to seek certification, noting that consumers who require Halal-certified products are unable to purchase from suppliers lacking the necessary accreditation.

The minister also called on the institute to expand its operations to other parts of the country to enable more people to participate in the sector. 

He stressed the importance of developing local Halal certification expertise rather than relying on specialists from outside the country.

Congratulating the certificate recipients, he urged them to uphold professional standards and avoid cutting corners. 

He also encouraged meat processors to take advantage of the opportunities created by Halal certification.

GHCII chairman Mr Muhammad Musaddiq said the institute’s objective was to create opportunities for young people through specialised training.

He said the programmes provide participants with opportunities to learn from industry players involved in slaughtering and exporting meat products. 

With proper guidance and skills development, he said, young people can become active participants in the industry and contribute to the national economy. ENDS