On 21 April 2023, Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) launched “53 Hours of Community Service,” a community service initiative to commemorate its 53 years of existence.
In doing so, staff identified innovative, inclusive, relevant and impactful projects to execute across different villages in Botswana.
As Botswana’s investment agency driving commercial and industrial transformation in the economy, the Corporation fervently believes that an important aspect of moving Botswana forward resides in the significant contribution toward communities within which it operates.
BDC’s Corporate Social Responsibility mandate is focused on initiatives that:
- Promote and support entrepreneurship;
- Support inclusion of people living with disabilities;
- Promote and expose local talent through music, arts and cultural activities;
- As well as any benevolent activities that the Corporation deems impactful.
As BDC continues on the path of economic integration, it is increasingly expected to contribute not only to wealth generation but also to solving some of the country’s pressing challenges. The main aim of the initiative is therefore to encourage BDC staff to give back to the community by spending at least 53 hours of their time supporting communities in need.
Said Boitshwarelo Lebang-Kgetse, BDC Head of Corporate Affairs and Chairperson of the CSR Committee: “Active employee engagement in CSR activities holds immense significance in the modern business landscape for several compelling reasons. “As BDC embarks on its journey of economic integration, the imperative to go beyond profit generation and actively participate in addressing societal challenges becomes paramount.
“The shift in expectations towards businesses assumes a more holistic role where organisations are not only responsible for their financial success but also for their impact on the communities they operate within.” In alignment with the Corporation’s mandate, it is also BDC’s responsibility to build sustainable community relationships and investments and to contribute to citizen development and empowerment. Driving sustainability and longevity, especially for programmes that support vulnerable communities, shall continue to be a priority for action.
