25 Sep 2024

The re-launch of the P280 million Lobatse Clay Works (LCW) plant is a sign that government is steadfast in its efforts to industrialise the country, says Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mmusi Kgafela.

Speaking at the re-launch of LCW in Lobatse on Tuesday, Mr Kgafela said the event was an indication that government was in a race to enhance, grow and diversify the economy of Botswana.

The company ceased operating in 2017 due to old, warn out plant and poor work ethic.

Mr Kgafela said with high quality products produced at LCW, over reliance on imports would significantly be reduced.

He said the move would also boost value chain development, which would work well for economies like Botswana.

Also, Mr Kgafela said the re-launch would not only benefit and give workers of LCW economic independence but also the community and the country at large.

The company currently has employed around 140 individuals with 70 per cent of them being Lobatse natives and when fully operational 240 workers will be employed.

However, Mr Kgafela said with sophisticated machinery used at LCW, he was optimistic that there would also be positive outcomes such as skills transfer, adding that he also believed that the company would represent industrial excellence.

He applauded Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) for partnering with LCW for amongst other things to create jobs and transform the country through strategic investment.

He said BDC had in the past assisted other industries such as real estate, aviation and tourism.

Mr Kgafela called for mindset change, saying it was clear that poor work ethic was one of the things that had led LCW closure.

Earlier on the caretaker CEO of LCW, Ms Boitshwarelo Lebang-Kgetse concurred with the minister that the re-launch marked a significant milestone for Botswana.

She said the re-launch was a sign of resilience, growth and transformation. ENDS