'BEDIA, IFSC merger to boost trade and investment

Having missed opportunities for statutory consideration last year, the inter-ministerial task force managing the merger hopes to secure Cabinet and Parliamentary endorsement this year. IFSC Board Chairperson, James Kamyuka, says the merger will position Botswana as competitive in the international environment for the promotion of investment and trade.

"It is envisaged that subject to Cabinet and Parliament approvals, the merged entity, together with the advanced sets of laws and other related key reforms, will be in place in 2011 to advance Botswana's position as a highly attractive investment destination and business domicile for the rest of sub-Saharan Africa," Kamyuka says in the IFSC Annual Report for 2010. "Going by the current timelines of the merger, the 2009/10 annual report may mark the last reporting year of the IFSC as a stand-alone company."