An aerial view of the Karowe open-pit mine in Botswana, illustrating the country’s mining sector and its role in economic development. Photo: Karowe Mine

NNA News - Botswana’s government is calling for greater economic benefits from the mining sector, focusing on skills development, economic diversification, and transport infrastructure to expand opportunities for citizens beyond mineral extraction.

Minister for State President, Defence and Security Moeti Mohwasa made the remarks on Tuesday while officially opening the three-day Botswana Mining Show at the Gaborone International Convention Centre. He said the country’s mineral resources should contribute to sustainable economic opportunities, improved livelihoods and broader national development. “We must invest in skills development, equip communities with opportunities beyond mining, diversify our economy, and improve the livelihoods of those living in mining areas,” Mohwasa told the media.

He said the benefits of mineral wealth should be measured by their impact on citizens, not just the resources extracted. “Our mineral wealth must translate into sustainable opportunities, inclusive growth, and lasting prosperity for our citizens,” he said.

“The true measure of our mineral wealth is not only what we extract from the ground, but how we transform the lives of our people,” Mohwasa added.

The emphasis on citizen empowerment comes as Botswana seeks to strengthen the links between mining, local businesses, employment and economic diversification. Mineral beneficiation, which involves processing minerals to add value before they are sold, can create opportunities for manufacturing, specialised services and skilled employment.

Transport infrastructure was also highlighted as an important part of the country’s mining and industrial development strategy. Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Letlhogonolo Barongwang said connecting mineral production to markets and industry would be important to the country’s next phase of economic growth. “Our next phase of growth will not be measured only by what we extract from the ground, but by how efficiently we connect what we extract to markets, to industry, and to our people,” Barongwang told the media.

He said the government aimed to transform Botswana from a landlocked country into a “landlinked” economy, using transport infrastructure to support mining development, citizen empowerment and regional trade. More efficient transport networks can reduce the cost of moving minerals to markets and strengthen connections between producers and regional trading partners.

The mining sector remains important to Botswana’s economy, making diversification a significant policy priority. Expanding local participation and developing industries linked to mineral production could help broaden the economic benefits generated by the country’s natural resources, although the results will depend on investment, implementation and access to markets.

The Botswana Mining Show, running from 27 to 29 October, brings together industry representatives to discuss exploration, investment, partnerships and opportunities for sustainable growth. The government’s stated priority is to ensure that mining contributes not only to production and exports but also to skills development, stronger local businesses and improved livelihoods for communities across the country.