BDC boosts Botash beneficiation strategy

Botash has signed an agreement with Botswana Development Company (BDC) focusing on investment, impact assessment, and the beneficiation of Botash products. 

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is aimed at boosting revenue from the processed mineral and serves as the foundation for future contracts between the two entities. 

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Sowa Town, Botash Managing Director, Kangangwani Phatshwane explained that the aim of the MoU is to provide the terms for the parties’ envisioned relationship and provide a cornerstone and structure for any possibly impending binding contracts between the parties.  

Areas of joint activity include collaboration on proposal ideation, collaboration on the execution of Botash products beneficiation projects and other such activities that may be mutually agreed upon by the parties.

“This MoU will commence from today and shall remain in force for an initial period of five (5) years subject to renewal for any agreed period(s) by mutual consent of the parties,” said Phatchwane. 

Botash shall prepare and provide feasibility studies of research and development in beneficiation opportunities for areas of focus as determined by Botash from time to time, produce business cases for the beneficiation of natural sodium and related products and any other responsibility that can reasonably be expected of Botash.

“As per our “double in five” strategy, Botash is focused on expanding production of soda ash and fine salt, alongside developing a salt beneficiation plan. This partnership is integral to our concerted efforts in achieving our expansion goals,” said Phatshwane. He added; “We appreciate this collaboration and believe the new venture will notably boost Botswana’s economic growth and advance Botash’s diversification plans.”  

The MoU is also seen as marking a significant milestone in Botswana’s journey towards economic diversification and sustainability.

In his remarks, BDC Managing Director Cross Kgosidiile underscored the pivotal role of partnerships in driving success. He emphasised BDC’s commitment to fostering collaboration for mutual growth and sustainable development.  Kgosidiile noted that beyond immediate benefits to Botash, “our collaboration aims to catalyse broader economic growth and diversification within Botswana, enhancing Botash capabilities and market competitiveness.” 

The scope of the MOU encompasses various collaborative activities, including proposal ideation, execution of beneficiation projects, and other mutually agreed initiatives. Together, BDC and BOTASH will work towards enhancing Botswana’s export capacity through sustainable production of natural sodium and related products.

Aligned with Botswana’s Vision 2036, which aims to transition the country to a High-Income economy, BDC’s strategy focuses on industrialisation, job creation, and sustainability. The strategic partnership with BOTASH significantly contributes to Botswana’s economic development, driving progress towards a prosperous future.

The alliance underscores the commitment of both parties to Botswana’s economic prosperity, highlighting their pivotal role in realising the nation’s vision for a dynamic, resilient economy.

“BOTASH acknowledges that there is need for expansion regarding the beneficiation of products from the mine,” remarked deputy permanent secretary in the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Seipati Olweny.

“We aim to move beyond reliance on traditional industries and explore new avenues that harness the full potential of our natural resources,”  she said.

Through the signing of the MoU, Olweny said, “We stand at the cusp of achieving this vision by exploring mineral beneficiation opportunities, particularly concerning Botash products.” 

She said mineral beneficiation is not merely about processing raw materials; it is about unlocking their full value, infusing innovation, technology, and expertise into the process, transforming these resources into high-value products that resonate in domestic and international markets. 

“But achieving this is not a solitary journey. It calls for strategic alliances-partnerships, such as this one, that will bring together the strengths of BDC and Botash. These partnerships are the bedrock upon which our success in mineral beneficiation will be built,” said Olweny.  She said this partnership is indispensable as it brings forth diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives. Olweny said it is through these alliances that we can leverage cutting-edge technology, innovation, and best practices to optimise the beneficiation 

“I further believe that it will create pathways for sustainable practices, ethical mining, and community engagement—all vital components of our shared responsibility towards the environment and society,” said Olweny.

Furthermore, she said, this partnership extends beyond what we hope to achieve as the parties here present. 

“It necessitates collaboration with the government, aligning policies, and providing essential support to catalyse the growth of the manufacturing sector. I hope that today is one of the many steps we will take to harness the power of strategic partnerships and embark on this journey of mineral beneficiation together,” said Olweny. 

Botash is a 50/50 joint venture between the Botswana government and a South African chemical firm, Chlor-Alkali Holdings Limited. Chlor- Alkali is owned by Investec Limited.