Gaborone: Botswana is set to introduce a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) near the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport outside Gaborone, where the relocated Diamond Trading Company would be the “anchor enterprise”, according to news reports.
Royal HaskoningDHV would be responsible for the masterplan review in a joint venture with the company’s local branch.
Namibia Economist reports that the special economic zone authority would provide an “investor-friendly” business environment for both domestic and foreign investors.
Eight strategic areas across Botswana had been identified for promoting the development of a variety of industries that would lead to the diversification of the economy through public sector, private sector and public-private partnerships.
The economic zone would house the country’s diamond trading hub, which was established to coordinate economic activity in the diamond sector, administering beneficiation in rough and polished diamond trading, the cutting and polishing industry, jewellery manufacturing, and secondary trading of rough and polished diamonds.
“The special economic zone at the airport is an exciting six-month project that is planned to be completed by the end of August 2017 and fits in well with our goal to help develop business and job opportunities on our continent,” said Royal HaskoningDHV director strategic business development for transport and planning in Africa, Manfred Uken.
“It also complements the work we are already carrying out at the Aerotropolis for King Shaka International Airport in Durban, South Africa.”
