Business Botswana has reportedly initiated discussions with the government regarding the contentious Development Manager (DM) model, which has already cost the country millions of Pula.
According to a stakeholder engagement brief from Business Botswana, the organisation’s President, Neo Nwako, recently led a delegation to meet with the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Noah Salakae. The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to address the challenges associated with implementing the DM model.
The document highlights that Business Botswana has maintained continuous dialogue with the government about the model’s shortcomings and areas of concern. The DM model, which aims to streamline and modernise infrastructure development in Botswana, has faced criticism for delays and escalating costs.
Business Botswana notes that the meeting also served to reinforce collaboration between the private sector and the government, particularly in the Construction, Engineering, and Transport sectors. The discussion centered on the critical role these sectors play in facilitating economic growth.
Nwako emphasised the organisation’s ongoing commitment to working with the government to improve the ease of doing business in Botswana. He expressed optimism that the issues faced by various sectors would be effectively addressed, paving the way for a more conducive environment for private sector growth.
The stakeholder brief also reveals that the Chairperson of the transport sector, Batsile Nwako, informed the Minister about the challenges the sector has been facing due to the prolonged delay of the Transport Act. This Act has the potential to transform the country’s transportation landscape and contribute to economic growth. Nwako reiterated that the Act’s implementation should be prioritised, as it aligns with Botswana’s long-term vision to develop a modern and efficient transport sector that can support the country’s growing business ecosystem.
Other sector chairpersons shared their visions for their respective sectors and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the government to address challenges and improve operational efficiencies. During the meeting, each chairperson provided a comprehensive overview of their sector’s current state, identifying key challenges and outlining strategies for future development.
In response, the document states that Minister Salakae assured the delegation of the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to fostering partnerships with the private sector. He emphasised that the Ministry’s mandate is inherently linked to the success of the private sector, noting that a thriving business environment is essential for driving economic growth.
Furthermore, the brief indicates that the Minister acknowledged the challenges surrounding the Development Model and assured Nwako that the government is fully aware of its concerns. He committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure the effective facilitation of the private sector.
