SPEDU together with the office of the District Commissioner hosted a Stakeholder Engagement Meeting with the Minister of State President, Honourable Moeti Mohwasa - marking a key milestone in driving industrial growth and economic transformation in the SPEDU Region.
Mr. Ronnie Phuthego, Technical Advisor to the SPEDU CEO, delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Acting CEO Mr. Othata Batsetswe. He highlighted that the gathering represented a pivotal moment in the SPEDU Region's industrial development, marking a significant shift from administrative oversight to a proactive driver of economic growth, aligned with the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme.
Mr. Phuthego noted significant progress under SPEDU’s new strategic direction, including the 30% Statutory Instrument, which is at an advanced stage awaiting the Minister of Finance’s signature; efforts to address energy constraints in collaboration with the Ministry of Minerals and Energy, BERA, and BPC; inclusion of the Land Servicing Project in NDP 12 to facilitate ease of doing business; and initiatives to enhance market access through a Supply Chain and Export Readiness Programme linked to AFCFTA, EPA, and AGOA.
He also highlighted the establishment of a Project Facilitation Fund (PFF) to assist businesses with compliance and tooling, activation of a BWP 25 million resuscitation fund with CEDA and LEA, and the development of a supplier corridor with Debswana CEEP and other mines. He concluded by urging stakeholders to share capacity data, identify export-ready products, and maintain quality standards.
In his address The Minister for State President, honourable Moeti Mohwasa emphasized accountability and timelines, directing that: SPEDU convene a meeting to discuss the Reservation Scheme as a matter of urgency and he committed to engaging the Minister of Finance to ensure the signing of the 30% Statutory Instrument. He further instructed SPEDU to meet with CEDA and BDC to discuss financial issues and for investors to be supported under the Project Facilitation Fund (PFF). The Minister announced that he will return for a follow-up visit to assess progress and outcomes of the agreed action items. He commended the collaboration between SPEDU and the District Commissioner’s Office and encouraged continued coordination to support investor growth in the SPEDU region.
Mr. Joseph Itlhobogeng, Chairperson of the Manufacturers Association (MAS) in the SPEDU Region, closed the meeting by commending the collaboration and commended SPEDU for its proactive initiatives, noting that manufacturers are optimistic about the region’s renewed industrial direction and upcoming opportunities.
SPEDU continues to champion collaboration, innovation, and sustainable industrial growth for the transformation of the SPEDU Region.