Gov�t eyes commercial production of bio-fuels
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Government is looking at diversifying sources of fuel PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
Speaking recently during a renewable energy dialogue between Botswana and Italy, the Ministry of Minerals Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security’s advisor, Freddie Motlhatlhedi said the findings of the research would be used to scale up and commercialise the production of bio-fuels in the country through the cultivation of small to medium scale commercial Jatropha plantations.
“The findings of the research would be used to commercialise the production of bio-fuels in the country as well as breeding and evaluation of high yield and stress tolerant Jatropha varieties,” he said.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...