The mineral-rich nation is making efforts to reposition herself from a resource-exporting economy to a competitive industrial and manufacturing hub. This strategic shift was reinforced at a recent Second Metallurgy Hub Consultative Forum held in Selebi-Phikwe, which underscored Botswana’s determination to unlock value from its mineral wealth through beneficiation, industrialisation and innovation-led growth. Assistant Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Baratiwa Mathoothe, said the country possesses significant strategic minerals, including copper, nickel, manganese, graphite, cobalt and lithium-linked resources. “These materials are critical inputs in battery technologies, electric vehicle systems, and clean energy infrastructure, positioning Botswana favourably within the global energy transition,” he said when speaking at the forum on Friday.
The event, which builds on earlier engagements held in October 2025 under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of Metallurgy for Electric Vehicle and Parts Manufacturing,” produced key outcomes that continue to guide Botswana’s industrial agenda. Central to these outcomes is the establishment of a fully integrated Metallurgical and Electric Mobility Hub anchored in Selebi-Phikwe. Mathoothe added that the vision goes beyond raw mineral extraction and envisions a complete industrial ecosystem where Botswana processes minerals, manufactures components, assembles vehicles, develops battery systems, trains technical expertise, commercialises innovation, and exports high-value products to regional and global markets.
