Puma Energy empowers citizen fuel retailer
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Wednesday April 9, 2025 06:00
The company last week expanded its citizen empowerment efforts with the launch of its 45th service station at Luke House in Molepolole. The leading global downstream energy business has placed the facility under the management of Lamont Loeto, a local retailer who progressed through Puma Energy Botswana’s graduate training programme. The company’s Project Maatlafatsa initiative aims to provide more opportunities for Batswana in fuel retail, with plans to expand the programme to include training, mentorship, and financial support for aspiring retailers.
Loeto, who joined the company two years ago, underwent training that included secondment to Puma Energy offices in other African countries. Now serving as a Retail Territory Manager, the Luke House service station is his first project in this role. Puma Energy Managing Director, Tendai Mwewa, said the company is focused on increasing citizen participation in the energy sector. “A key component of Project Maatlafatsa’s mission is to invest in young Batswana’s growth and upskilling,” she said. “This initiative is designed to create opportunities for local entrepreneurs and equip them with the necessary skills to manage and grow fuel retail businesses.” Directors stated that beyond providing fuel, the fuel company service stations, create employment and business opportunities for local suppliers and entrepreneurs. The service station is built on a piece of land owned by Kgosi Sebele and it is anticipated it will contribute to local economic development. Sebele, a senior member of the Bakwena tribe, said the investment would benefit the community by creating jobs and increasing access to essential services.
“The Molepolole community is greatly benefiting from the job opportunities provided by Puma Energy Botswana’s three service stations, along with their other offerings and partnerships. “Given the high rates of youth unemployment, it is encouraging to see private sector investment that contributes to job creation,” he said. Beyond business operations, Puma Energy Botswana also announced a P25, 000 donation to Anne-Stine, a non-profit organisation supporting children with disabilities. The funds will be used to purchase a treatment bed for physiotherapy, a physiotherapy bike and a trampoline. “This donation will go towards rehabilitation services for children with disabilities, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, speech impairments, and Down’s Syndrome,” said Motlhomi, a representative from Anne-Stine. Kgosi Sebele added that the continued private sector investment plays a role in economic development. “With continued collaboration and investment, Puma Energy Botswana is not only creating jobs but also fostering a sense of community pride and empowerment,” he said.
For his part, Puma Energy Africa CEO, Ben Ouattara emphasised the company’s role in fostering economic inclusion. “As we aim for growth, we intend to invest in more service stations, enhancing our retail and commercial offerings by partnering with convenience stores and quick-service restaurants,” he said. Puma Energy Botswana cited research indicating that one job in the fuel retail sector supports four households. Based on local demographic data, the company estimates that the Luke House station will benefit around 100 households in Molepolole. Puma Energy Managing Director added such investments align with the government’s broader objectives. “During a recent business discussion, President Duma Boko emphasised the need for private sector involvement in economic development. As a company, we are committed to expanding our business to support national efforts to reduce unemployment,” Mwewa added. Puma Energy Botswana has stated that it will continue focusing on sustainability and citizen participation in the energy sector.