The Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) on the 12 September 2024 had a ground-breaking ceremony for two major projects: the development of a new meat value addition and secondary processing plant, and the revitalisation of its tannery. This milestone highlights BMC’s commitment to advancing Botswana’s beef industry, ensuring it remains competitive and sustainable in the evolving global meat market. The event, held in Lobatse and officiated by the Minister of Entrepreneurship, Honourable Karabo S. Gare, saw participation from key stakeholders, including government
officials, local executives, media representatives, and the Lobatse community.
As part of BMC’s strategic initiative, the new meat value addition and secondary processing plant will enhance the value of beef products through advanced processing techniques. This will enable BMC to offer a diversified range of high-quality meat products to both local and international markets. Speaking at the event, BMC Chief Executive Officer, Mr. David Tsheboeng, said, “Breaking ground on this project represents a bold step toward expanding our processing capabilities. Not only will this increase the profitability of the beef industry, but it will also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in our communities.” The value addition and secondary processing plant will produce processed beef products such as a variety of canned beef, pouched, smoked and cooked products. The plant will start off with a minimum of 10 new products that will be available in the local and regional markets.
In addition, the revitalisation of the tannery plant is a key component of this transformation. The upgraded tannery will process hides to the blue leather stage, creating new opportunities for value-added exports. This will contribute to the development of Botswana’s Lobatse Special Economic Zone (SEZ), where additional investors will be encouraged to further process wet blue leather into finished goods such as shoes, bags, car seats, and jackets. This is aligned with the government’s Reset Agenda – Priority No. 4 “Value Chains Development”, which leverages state-owned enterprises as anchors for value chain development, enabling the private-sector.
Mr. Tsheboeng emphasised the broader implications of the tannery revitalisation: “This investment goes beyond infrastructure. It sets the foundation for Botswana to become a major player in the leather industry. By revitalising the tannery, we are positioning ourselves for long-term global competitiveness and sustainable economic growth.” The tannery project includes the establishment of an on-site effluent treatment plant to meet wastewater treatment quality standards, ensuring environmental sustainability.
This ground-breaking ceremony marks a pivotal step in BMC’s commitment to sustainable development and industrialisation. By leveraging advanced technologies and collaboration with key stakeholders, BMC is setting the stage for a robust future in the beef and leather sectors. These projects are expected to boost job creation, increase export potential, and align with Botswana’s broader goals of industrialisation and economic diversification.
This transformative project is yet another example of BMC’s leadership in driving Botswana’s economic growth and creating lasting value for local communities. The Commission is confident that these initiatives will position Botswana as a leader in both the global meat and leather industries.
Botswana Meat Commission Breaks Ground on New Meat Value Addition Plant and Revitalised Tannery