18 Jun 2023

Toyota Desert Race (TDR) has the potential to significantly contribute to Botswana’s economy.

“It is the government’s aim to create business avenues for Batswana and this event and similar ones serve that purpose,” said the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Philda Kereng in an interview during Toyota Gazoo 1000 Desert race activation in Jwaneng Saturday.

Kereng said different businesses that would be providing various products and services during the race would benefit a lot and some would continue operating even after the event.

“These kinds of opportunities make it a bit easier for Botswana to realise new business ideas. Some farm owners in the area will be providing accommodation and they have some animals that Batswana would like to see as well as such activities as horse racing and riding.

People will definitely come back to such establishments after the race,” she said.
Kereng said during their consultations in preparations for the event, she stressed the need for local people to benefit economically, adding that she was satisfied considering the number of business licenses issued for them to trade.

The minister was delighted to see that Batswana were happy that TDR was back after a two-year hiatus.

She urged Batswana to come in large numbers, further expressing satisfaction with safety measures put in place. However, Minister Kereng appealed to Batswana to enjoy responsibility, highlighting the need to avoid drink and driving.

“Spectators should take it upon themselves to guard jealously against losing their lives,” she said.

For her part, Botswana Motorsport vice president, Roseline Mamaloukos said the purpose of the activation was to sensitise the nation about the biggest motor sport in the country, which was left with a few days to start.

She assured the nation that they were well prepared to deliver a bigger and better event, noting that motor sport was a family oriented sport, hence the need for families to come in large numbers.

“I urge you to come and support local riders as it is evident that there is lot of local talent in motor sport,” she said. Mamaloukos noted that motor sport was a dangerous sport, hence safety should come first so that no lives were lost.

Mabutsane District Council’s public relations officer, Ms Matlhogonono Moremedi said her office was well prepared for the event as the route passed through most of the villages in the district.

Toyota Gazoo 1000 Desert Race will start on Friday and end on Sunday. Ends