Digging for diversity in diamond rich Botswana

Known as a “quasi government institution”, the innovation hub is described on its website as part of the state’s “national strategic goal for the diversification of the country’s economy… set up to support new ventures and existing companies.”

Modisar is a productivity software application that can be installed on a farmer’s computer or laptop, and allows the farmer to capture information about his or her farm faster.

Mr Gaotingwe explains: “We are trying to say, ‘look you can make money off livestock farming, only if you do it the right way’.

“So we have built Modisar, and it allows farmers to keep records of his farm assets. Then it allows farmers to know more about livestock diseases.”

Although criticised for being reactive as opposed to proactive, the government has implemented a number of policies, strategies and incentive schemes to encourage diversification.

An Economic Diversifiation Drive (EDD), for example, has been implemented to strengthen the private sector.

The EDD plans to leverage the government’s purchasing power, estimated at $2.1bn (£1.3bn) per annum, to stimulate local production and consumption by buying from locally based manufacturers and service providers.

Linah Mohohlo also explains that government has also begun exploring diversification options with in mining sector.

“You are now seeing other minerals, such as coal, uranium, copper, nickel coming on-stream,” says Ms Mohohlo.

Despite facing obstacles, with the right long-term developmental strategies, Botswana has huge potential to diversify.