Vivo Energy drives Jwaneng retail boom
Kabelo Boranabi | Wednesday March 18, 2026 06:00
Jwaneng’s retail and service landscape got a major boost last Thursday with the launch of a new integrated Shell service station, developed by MSDM Group (Pty) Ltd in partnership with Vivo Energy Botswana. The facility combines fuel, convenience retail, and fast food under one roof, featuring a Pick n Pay Go store and a fully digital KFC restaurant.
MSDM Group chair Bathusi Brown described the station as one of the company’s flagship developments.
“This station represents a long-held dream and a strong commitment to this community,” he said, noting that partnering with Vivo Energy brought a globally recognised fuel brand whilst keeping the development locally rooted.
Arnaud Guichard, Executive Vice President for Retail and Commercial at Vivo Energy, emphasised the company’s confidence in Botswana’s stability and long-term potential.
“We are transforming fuel stations into modern retail destinations that combine convenience, comfort, and quality. Our partnerships with Pick n Pay Go and KFC allow customers to fuel up, enjoy quality food, shop essentials, and take a mini break in a safe, welcoming environment,” he said.
Guichard highlighted the broader economic impact: each new site contributes to job creation, skills development, and stronger local supply chains, from retail management and food service to logistics and customer experience.
Hans Paulsen, Executive Vice President for East Africa at Vivo Energy, praised government and local leadership for creating an enabling environment for investment.
“Local guidance taught us we couldn’t just serve the highway – we had to serve the community. It delayed construction slightly, but opening this station to the community makes it stronger and more meaningful,” he said. Paulsen also underlined Shell’s 126-year commitment to Botswana, noting that the company is here “through good times and challenging times, and we look forward to many more successes together.”
Pick n Pay Botswana Managing Director Leon Delange highlighted the retailer’s plans for national expansion and support for local producers, whilst KFC Botswana CEO Chris Wheatley celebrated the Jwaneng outlet as the brand’s 21st in the country. The restaurant has created around 30 direct jobs and supports a broader supply chain involving local farmers and suppliers meeting global standards. Ronica Ntsimako, Mayor of Jwaneng, welcomed the development, saying it provides job opportunities and signals that the town is ready to diversify beyond diamond mining.