Volume 62 Issue 20-May-June 2025 : Feature

Their vision, dedication and collaborative spirit as Bakwena, together with stakeholders has set in motion a journey toward sustainable prosperity through the Kweneng Economic Summit.
Held at Ga-MmaKgosi, under the theme: Kweneng Rising: Advancing Economic Development for a sustainable future, the summit stirs path for a society where living conditions and resources meet human needs without undermining planetary integrity-sustainable development.
An initiative of the Office of the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kweneng South in collaboration with Market Players,  the high-level impact forum brought together key economic development stakeholders comprising local authorities, captains of industry, policymakers and the local community to discuss strategies for driving economic growth while ensuring sustainable development in the Kweneng District.
Discussions focused on the district economic opportunities, sustainable business practices, youth and entrepreneurship, public-private partnerships and infrastructure development and innovation.
The summit sought to encourage discussion, promote action and build a sustainable future for the district bordering Gaborone City, Botswana’s main economic hub.
Defining the theme and objectives, Molepolole South MP, Mr Shima Monageng said they encouraged data driven discussions on where the district stood economically, socially and structurally.
He was of the view that the themes aligned with the growing demand for transparent strategic planning and actionable solutions.
“We are not talking about a summit, which will not only end in pictures, but a summit that will result in a five year action plan, which will be the blue print for Kweneng to reinforce a shared responsibility for the district,” Mr Monageng said.  The primary objectives of the occasion, he noted, was to inform, encourage and inspire action by providing a comprehensive overview of the district’s current economic condition and future opportunities.
He explained they wanted all stakeholders to walk away with a shared understanding and clear vision of where the summit was heading.   
The five year action plan that they settled to, would guide developers, investors and show them as leaders of the district where they are and where they should go.
Others desired ideas, he pointed out, was to increase alignment on policy priorities on economic development goal, emphasizing the momentum for partnerships and investments.
Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa described the occasion as a landmark, a testament summit to what people could achieve when leadership and partners converge for the greater good.  
Mr Mohwasa said the gathering was to reflect on Kweneng District progress and ignite a vision that positioned the district as a catalyst for the nation’s economic renaissance.
He explained his ministry’s role was to ensure that the government national priorities align with the aspirations of every district, including Kweneng.
 “Kweneng, with its vibrant communities and strategic location, is central to our vision of a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Botswana. Under the TNDP, Kweneng has made remarkable strides,” Mr Mohoswa said.
The Constituency Community Programme (CCP), he specified, had delivered over 332 projects since 2017, with 114 projects in progress since 2022/23, focusing on internal roads that enhanced connectivity and stimulated local economies.
He noted the results of the projects had empowered local artisans and businesses, creating jobs and fostering two-community ownership.
 “Kweneng is more than a district. It is a symbol of Botswana’s potential. Let this summit be a turning point, where we commit to a future of shared prosperity, innovation, and sustainability. As we usually say, Tshwaragano ke maatla! -Unity is strength,” he added.
The Assistant Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Mr Baratiwa Mathoothe reminded delegates that by reimagining entrepreneurship, they could transform the
“With a growing population, proximity to markets in Gaborone and potential in agriculture, tourism and renewable energy, Kweneng is ready to rise. By reimagining entrepreneurship, we can transform the countries peri-urban areas into engines of opportunity and prosperity,” he pointed out. 
Mr Mathoothe called upon entrepreneurs to embrace innovation; seek training; and collaborate ideas, as the action would shape the future of Kweneng.
He urged all to work together, saying the community should support locally made products, development partners join in building entrepreneurial ecosystem and public officers implement policies that empower people. 
“This can lead to Kweneng turning into a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable growth, ”he said. ENDS
 

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