Citizen enterprises have received a boost following an agreement struck between Debswana and CEDA to facilitate participation in the diamond mining company’s supply chain and diversification ventures.
This comes after the two entities signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening citizen enterprise development, local procurement, industrialisation and Botswana’s broader economic diversification agenda.
Under the agreement, CEDA will provide financing and business development support to qualifying Debswana suppliers and beneficiaries of the miner’s Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme (CEEP).
The partnership combines Debswana’s economic footprint, operational expertise, supply chain and ability to create anchor demand with CEDA’s experience in financing, developing, and supporting citizen-owned enterprises.
Together, the organisations will identify, assess and support commercially viable businesses through financing, supplier development, capacity building and mentorship.
CEDA Caretaker Chief Executive Officer, Khalala Mokefane said the MoU represents a shared commitment to grow citizen-owned enterprises that deliver lasting economic participation and local value retention.
“Through this partnership, CEDA will be able to finance qualifying Debswana suppliers and CEEP beneficiaries, helping them build the capacity required to secure opportunities, deliver competitively, and develop sustainable businesses,” he added.
Beyond supplier financing, the partnership will explore opportunities to develop industries beyond diamond mining, particularly in mining towns and surrounding communities.
Areas of focus may include mining, manufacturing, processing, logistics, infrastructure, manufacturing, innovation, and other services that can deepen local value chains, increase domestic value addition, and create sustainable employment.
For his part, Debswana Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Motsomi said their ambition is to support the development of industries that create jobs, promote citizen participation, strengthen local enterprises, and drive innovation across multiple sectors of the economy.
“By combining Debswana’s experience, networks, and operational capabilities with CEDA’s expertise in enterprise development and financing, we have an opportunity to unlock far greater impact than either organisation could achieve independently.”
In addition, CEDA and Debswana will explore opportunities to mobilise financial and technical resources from development finance institutions, multilateral organisations, private investors, and other strategic partners.
Implementation of the MoU will be overseen by a Joint Steering Committee comprising representatives from both institutions. Progress will be measured against outcomes including employment creation, citizen enterprise participation, local procurement, business sustainability and contribution to economic diversification.
Through this partnership, CEDA and Debswana reaffirm their shared commitment to building competitive citizen enterprises, strengthening Botswana’s productive capacity, and ensuring that major economic value chains create sustainable opportunities for Batswana.