The Botswana Exporters and Manufacturers Association (BEMA) has urged the government to provide more support for local manufacturing companies. According to BEMA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mantlha Sankoloba, the association is concerned about the limited opportunities available for manufacturing firms in the country and is calling for intervention to strengthen the sector.
Sankoloba emphasized the importance of prioritizing local manufacturers, noting that their growth is crucial for economic development, job creation, and reducing reliance on imports. She highlighted that many local manufacturers face challenges such as lack of funding, limited access to markets, and inadequate policy support, which hinder their ability to compete effectively.
To address these challenges, BEMA has taken the initiative to collect data on all manufacturing companies in Botswana. This effort aims to create a comprehensive database detailing the types of products manufactured locally, the number of employees in each company, and the specific needs of these businesses. Sankoloba explained that this data would help in identifying the right kind of support required for each company, whether it be financial assistance, policy reforms, or market access opportunities.
She further urged the government to consider policies that encourage the consumption of locally made products and promote export opportunities for Botswana’s manufacturers. According to her, supporting local industries will not only boost the economy but also enhance Botswana’s competitiveness in regional and international markets.
BEMA remains committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that the manufacturing sector thrives and contributes significantly to the country’s economic growth. The association believes that with the right support, local manufacturers can scale up production, create more employment, and drive sustainable industrial development.
