As part of the policy dialogue activities implemented by UNIDO ITPO Italy in favour of Botswana, as follow-up of the meeting held 14th September 2021, UNIDO ITPO Italy invited and facilitated the participation of Honorable Molebatsi Shimane Molebatsi, Assistant Minister of Ministry of Trade and Industry of Botswana, to the World Manufacturing Forum 2021. Hon. Molebatsi participated with a speech in the panel “Green Policies for a Sustainable Shift in Manufacturing” held on 21st October 2021, focusing on recent green policies adopted in the country. 

In response to the progress made so far by Botswana, the Assistant Minister explained that policies on industrialisation are finally adopting an integrative approach that commits industries on their own responsibility in relations with their environmental risk and mitigation prior to being licensed. Hon. Molebatsi explained that the Parliament had recently approved special policies seeking to promote climate action activities, thus demonstrating once again the country’s commitment to international agreements on climate change and, additionally, that the government had come up with conducive policies to support adoption of clean technology and the use of renewable energy. 

In closing, Hon. Molebatsi acknowledged that Botswana, being a developing economy, has made efforts to adopt green policies; however, these efforts are still not adequate. Hence, he invited developed economies and stakeholders to consider collaborating with the Botswanan government in its effort to develop a circular economy. Botswana has abundance of natural resources that are yet to be used in respect with the environment, also with the support of private investors, to achieve sustainable industrialisation and prosperity for all.