- invests P1 billion in Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme
To unlock potential in citizen owned businesses and also to diversify the country’s economy, Morupule Coal Mine has invested P1 billion through its Citizen Economic Empowerment Programme (CEEP).
Morupule Coal Mine Chief Executive Officer, Edwin Elias said investment of such a magnitude in their flagship programme is a reflection of the mine’s belief that national progress is achieved when local businesses are supported.
“Our CEEP serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth and industrial self-reliance. National progress is achieved when local enterprises are given tools and opportunities to thrive. Morupule Coal Mine stands firm in its commitment to unlocking local potential, empowering people, enabling businesses and energizing the action’s path toward sustainable growth and prosperity,” said Elias at the Business Botswana Annual Gala dinner held in Francistown on Saturday.
The gala dinner which is a signature networking event was held under the theme “unlocking local potential.” The annual event also recognizes, celebrates resilience and innovation in Botswana’s private sector in the northern region.
Elias said across the country countless Batswana who are empowered through initiatives such as Morupule Coal Mine’s CEEP continue to leave their mark in the country’s economy.
“Our country is rich not only in minerals and resources like coal and diamonds, but in talent, creativity and the unshakeable determination of its people. Every business represented here tonight, from the smallest start up to the largest corporation have a role to play in unlocking in the Northern region’s potential. Whether through local sourcing, youth employment, innovation or sustainability, we all have a shared responsibility to build the Botswana we envision,” emphasised Elias.
Elias who leads one of the safest and more efficient mining operations globally urged the private sector not to be limited by pessimism or complacency but to explore global and domestic landscapes which are filled with opportunity even though they are challenging.
“As we continue to advocate for a more competitive investor friendly and inclusive economy, we must remember that the private sector is not merely an observer of progress but it is in fact the driver of it,” continued Elias.
Elias went on to say that as the mine invests in education, entrepreneurship, digital transformation and infrastructure, they are also investing in local potential. “When we support local industries from agriculture to manufacturing, from mining to technology we are shaping a legacy of self-reliance,” pointed out Elias.
