The Projects Magazine

𝗣𝟮𝟲𝟬 𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗚𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗘 - 𝗦𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗣𝗔 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗝𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 Ongoing works of the Gumare - Sepopa road captured by our drone pilot yesterday. Awarded to Bango Trading at a cost of more than P260 Million, the works entail shoulder re-instatement and widening, asphalt overlay and cold recycling from Gumare to Sepopa including Junction access roads of Etsha 1, 6, 13 and Ikoga. Most of the access roads are under construction at the moment with some already completed. Such as the Nxamasere T junction also pictured below. 📷BashiKikia@TheProjects©

Botswana Banks donate 12 Vehicles to Botswana Police for cash in transit escort. 📷FNBB

𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗠𝗢𝗔𝗚𝗜 𝗟𝗔𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗦𝗛𝗔𝗞𝗔𝗪𝗘 𝟭𝗠𝗪 𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗔𝗥 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗧 - Plant now officially into commercial operation Today, Minister of Minerals and Energy Lefoko Maxwell Moagi officiated at the launch of the Shakawe 1MW solar plant, an independent power production renewable energy project under the Integrated Resource Plan. Delivered by Sturdee Energy, the Shakawe and Bobonong solar PV projects are the first among 12 small-scale grid-tied solar PV projects to be commissioned. Shakawe and Bobonong will contribute a combined 4 megawatts out of the 36 megawatts to be generated from 12 sites in various locations, including Maun, Kasane, Ghanzi, Lobatse, Molepolole, Serowe, Tutume, Tsabong, Kang, and Charleshill. Sturdee Energy is expected to generate over 10,000 MWh of electricity in their first year of operations. Under the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with national utility BPC in 2021, the electricity produced by these solar plants will be sold exclusively to BPC for a period of 25 years. The Shakawe 1MW solar project created 284 temporary jobs for citizens during its construction period. At the launch, Minister Moagi revealed that 48.6% of engineering and procurement costs and 86.9% of installation costs were awarded to Batswana. Currently, the project employs 12 citizens as it enters the operational phase. 📷 BashiKikia/TheProjects©

[Watch] Highlights from The Future of Mining Summit. Lucara Botswana Karowe Diamond Mine General Manager Johane Mchive shares his thoughts about the summit and touches on Karowe's exceptional record of historic diamond recoveries and exciting future inthe horizon.

𝗕𝗜𝗧𝗖 𝗖𝗔𝗝𝗢𝗟𝗘𝗦 𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗪𝗘𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗢 𝗕𝗢𝗧𝗦𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗔 - Schweppes is exploring local citrus fruit processing Botswana Investment & Trade Centre (BITC), the country's leading investment promotion agency, is actively collaborating with various stakeholders to attract investors and companies to Botswana, aiming to boost local economic diversification and industrialization. In line with its mandate to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), BITC has conducted several missions to Zimbabwe, working closely with the Botswana High Commission there. These efforts have resulted in interest from various Zimbabwean companies looking to expand into Botswana as a gateway to the African market and the free trade agreement. One such company is Schweppes Holdings Africa Limited, renowned for its beverage brands such as Mazoe and Minute Maid, as well as its fruit processing operations. Schweppes is considering expanding into Botswana by integrating into the agriculture sector through citrus production and the establishment of a fruit processing plant. BITC is collaborating with multiple stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture, to facilitate the project's development and ensure it generates employment opportunities for Batswana. #InvestInBotswana Botswana Investment and Trade Centre

𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 𝗘𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗣𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗕𝗨𝗜𝗟𝗗 𝗢𝗙 𝗔𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗔’𝘀 𝗕𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟 Today, Barloworld Equipment handed over this earth moving machine to Debswana Jwaneng Mine , marking the successful completion of a project to rebuild Africa’s largest shovel. The project was accomplished on schedule, within 120 days (4 months of continuous effort), adhering to the highest safety and quality standards. This overhaul will extend the machine's operational life by an additional 8-10 years. This marks the second overhaul in Jwaneng; the first was completed in 2022 and was notable as Africa’s inaugural de-decking exercise.

𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗟𝗛𝗔𝗞𝗔𝗡𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗔𝗥 & 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗝𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 & 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟳 Botswana is on track to achieve an electricity surplus by 2026, according to Minister of Minerals and Energy Lefoko Moagi. During a site visit to the Letlhakane Solar and Wind Projects last week, Minister Moagi provided updates on the progress and potential impact of these initiatives. The projects, which include a 100MW Solar PV plant and a 100MW Wind farm, are set to contribute significantly to Botswana's energy surplus and position the country as a net exporter of electricity. Minister Moagi emphasized that Botswana is in discussions with regional partners, including Namibia, to sell the excess energy. Moagi urged the project managers to accelerate the timelines, noting that the process should not be overly complicated given the experience with existing solar projects in Jwaneng and Mmadinare. "Speed is of the essence while also adhering to documented processes," he said. He also highlighted that increasing the wattage of these projects will support Botswana’s goal of reducing carbon emissions by 30% by 2030 and by 50% by 2036. The 100MW Wind project is scheduled to begin commercial operations in 2027, with procurement set to start in 2025 following wind resource mapping. Mukani Thapelo, Project Manager at PEDU, reported that the current wind speed is 7 meters per second. The wind farm's first coordinate point is located 12 kilometers from the Debswana substation along Mmatshumu Road, approximately one kilometer off the main road. The site covers an area of 10 km by 10 km and is considered the richest wind area in the country, a fact corroborated by local residents. Validation of the wind resource data will be conducted by an independent consultant and is expected to take 24 months. Land acquisition for the wind project is ongoing, with coordinates available. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies are also planned. For the 100MW Solar PV project, commercial operations are slated for 2026. The project will cover 195 hectares, with an Independent Power Producer set to sublease land from BPC. Feasibility and EIA studies for this project have already been completed.

𝗕𝗢𝗧𝗦𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗔 𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗢𝗡 𝗕𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗨𝗡𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗪𝗘𝗔𝗟𝗧𝗛 • Botswana has been mining only 4 minerals out of 76 available underneath For over 60 years, Botswana has been a global leader in diamond mining, earning a reputation for being one of the most stable and resource-rich countries in Africa. Yet, despite this success, the country has only scratched the surface of its vast mineral wealth. According to Cisco Mashabila, the CEO of the Botswana Geoscience Institute (BGI), Botswana is sitting on a treasure trove of over 70 untapped minerals, many of which are critical to the global economy. Speaking at The Future of Mining Summit, held in Gaborone on the 12th and 13th of June at Boipuso Hall, Mashabila called on prospectors and explorers to seize the opportunities that lie beneath Botswana’s soil. "For over 60 Botswana has mined just four minerals: diamonds, copper, nickel, and coal," Mashabila said. "This is despite the fact that, there are over 70 other minerals available underneath the surface in Botswana. The time has come for us to explore these resources." Mashabila's said Botswana's untapped mineral wealth could contribute to meeting the growing global demand for various minerals, particularly copper. Copper is an essential component in electrical equipment, construction, and renewable energy technologies. As the world transitions to cleaner energy and electric vehicles, the demand for copper is expected to soar. "We have resources that can meet the demand for copper," Mashabila said. "The question is, how do we exploit them? The world needs copper, and Botswana has plenty of it. It’s now up to prospectors and explorers to go out there, dig, and help meet the global demand." As global economies shift towards green technologies and digital infrastructure, the demand for critical minerals is rising. "The demand for critical minerals is driving European countries to Africa," Mashabila explained. "Botswana, alongside the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia, is among the top destinations for these resources. However, what sets us apart is the blessing of abundance that Botswana possesses.” Many of these critical minerals are still in the exploration stage in Botswana, but Mashabila sees this as an opportunity. "This is where the real opportunity lies," he said. "Those interested in these minerals should come to Botswana, find these rare and critical resources, and bring them into production. There is an unlimited opportunity here." However, Mashabila was candid about the challenges facing Botswana’s mining sector, particularly the need for funding to support exploration. "While we have more than 1,000 active licenses for prospecting, funding remains a big constraint," he said. "For exploration to happen at the scale required, we need more investment. This is a critical area that must be addressed to unlock the full potential of our mineral wealth."

𝗨𝗩 𝗕𝗢𝗧𝗦𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗔 | 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗨𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗗 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗩𝗘𝗛𝗜𝗖𝗟𝗘𝗦 𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗕𝗢𝗧𝗦𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗔 Nestled in the industrial area of Francistown, Botswana’s second city, lies a hidden gem—UV Botswana. This 100% Botswana-owned company has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing robust, reliable, and cost-effective underground utility vehicles for the mining industry since 2005. UV Botswana began with low-profile 4-tonne vehicles, quickly capturing the regional market and supplying mines in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Building on this success, the company boldly introduced the powerful 8-tonne range, perfectly suited for conventional mining operations. . The company's vehicles are not only making waves in Southern Africa but have also found their way to distant markets, including India, Russia, and Germany. Despite the diverse geographical spread, Zimbabwe and South Africa remain the largest markets for UV Botswana's products.Additionally, UV Botswana has forged strategic partnerships in Australia and the USA, further extending its global footprint. UV Botswana maintains a focused yet effective production strategy, with approximately 40 cars rolling off the production line each year. Presently, around 350 vehicles are actively running, showcasing the company's ability to meet and sustain market demand. The production process is meticulous, with each machine requiring an estimated 12 to 14 weeks for delivery, ensuring high standards and quality control. Looking ahead, UV Botswana is exploring the electrification of its vehicles. The company is collaborating with a Canadian firm to develop an electric bus, marking its foray into the electric vehicle (EV) sector. This move aligns with global trends towards sustainable transportation and underscores UV Botswana's commitment to innovation. In addition to its electrification efforts, UV Botswana is preparing for a new vehicle release in 2025. This upcoming model is expected to further solidify the company's position in the market and meet the evolving demands of consumers. Last Thursday, a team from Debswana—the largest mining company in the country—visited UV Botswana’s facility. The delegation was led by Moleko Majaha, Head of Engineering & Asset Management, and Wanatsha Moakufi, Head of the Citizen Economic Empowerment Program (CEEP). The purpose of the visit was to explore potential opportunities for collaboration and partnership as Debswana’s Jwaneng Mine transitions to underground operations. Debswana’s CEEP strategy has evolved to focus on local manufacturing of goods that were previously deemed unfeasible to produce in Botswana. The company is currently developing a comprehensive business case aimed at establishing a Repairs, Maintenance & Rebuild Centre here in Botswana.

𝗣𝟱𝟬𝟬 𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗝𝗘𝗖𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗙𝗬 𝟭𝟭𝟮 𝗥𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗩𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗜𝗡 𝗞𝗛𝗪𝗘𝗘 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 | 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 The Ministry of Minerals and Energy in collaboration with Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has successfully launched the 112 Villages Rural Electrification Project today in Khwee. The wind's of change have blown in the Boteti East Village as it is the first of 20 villages to be added to the national Power grid. The Minister of Minerals and Energy, Lefoko Moagi emphasised that electricity is a lifeline and is essential for the country's targeted 6% GDP growth by 2036. "Electrifying Khwee is a step towards food security as it provides an avenue for agriculture which is needed to propell the country forward." He went on that the project is no small task as it will cost the government P210 million for 20 villages which are not on the grid. It will also cost an additional P286 million for 92 villages which will be getting an extension. The Minister cautioned the residents to be vigilant of potential vandalism of the power lines and to report any to local authorities. When giving the background of the project,BPC CEO, David Kgoboko highlighted that of the 565 villages targeted, 462 will be electrified when August comes to an end, resulting in 82.4% of Botswana having electricity. In a bid to support local businesses, Kgoboko noted that there are 60 local contractors who have come on board to complete the project. The project consultant,Tawanda Baliki of Geoflux revealed that the project will be 33kv , 63km long and will have a substation. He mentioned that the scope of work is such that there are 4 phases, each with a separate contractor to facilitate a swift completion of the project. Baliki ensured that the project will be done just in time for Christmas. Filled with gratitude, the village Kgosi, Meshack Tseleng expressed that this change will significantly improve the lives of residents. He went on that the primary school will see an improvement in PSLE results. " Our students will now be tech savvy. The introduction of computers, phones and TV sets will introduce a new world of learning. Furthermore, Tseleng said gone are the days of relying on fire for Energy, additionally their food items will be preserved because of refrigeration.