Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) has launched two major projects: the revitalisation of its old tannery and the construction of a new meat value addition and secondary processing plant.
These projects, part of the Commission’s 2022/25 Meriting Strategy, are expected to cost a collective P350 million.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, BMC CEO David Tsheboeng highlighted the significance of these developments. He noted that the projects are “mission critical” to both the survival of BMC and the future sustainability of Botswana’s beef and meat sector.
“For decades, BMC has been a cornerstone of Botswana’s economy, delivering high-quality beef to international markets. However, as the global meat market evolves, so must we,” said Tsheboeng. He emphasised the need for diversification and innovation to remain competitive in the global market.
The new Meat Value Addition & Secondary Processing Plant will allow BMC to enhance its product offerings through advanced processing techniques. This 3,000 sqm state-of-the-art facility will enable BMC to produce value-added products for both local and international markets.
“This facility is crucial for securing the long-term sustainability and profitability of the beef sector,” Tsheboeng said, adding that the plant will help BMC increase its global competitiveness and create income opportunities for local farmers and entrepreneurs. The facility will have the capacity to produce up to 100 metric tonnes of value-added and processed meats, such as canned foods, retail-pouched beef cuts, biltong, sausages, and polony. The plant has been allocated P230 million for its construction and commissioning.
In addition to the meat processing plant, BMC is revitalising its tannery to process hides into wet-blue leather, creating a dependable market for leather products in Botswana. This project will open up a new leather ecosystem and value chain within the country.
“The tannery revitalisation lays the foundation for the Lobatse Meat & Leather Park, which will attract investors to further process wet-blue leather into finished goods such as shoes, bags, jackets, and car seats,” said Tsheboeng. A budget of P120 million has been allocated to this project.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Entrepreneurship Karabo Gare commended the projects, noting that they align with his Ministry’s mandate to promote value chain development, employment creation, and entrepreneurship in Botswana.
“These projects propel BMC to pioneer a meat value chain from our home soil, akin to renowned multinationals,” Gare said. He further highlighted that the revitalisation of the tannery and the new processing plant will serve as cornerstones for Botswana’s enterprise growth and strengthen the country’s position in the global market.
Gare reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable benefits for local producers selling cattle to BMC, as well as promoting environmental responsibility in the operation of the new plants.
“Our vision for these plants goes beyond mere production. We are committed to ensuring they operate with the highest standards of environmental responsibility, incorporating state-of-the-art technology to minimise their ecological footprint,” he said.
