13 June 2026
The Minister of Minerals and Energy, Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, has commended Botswana Ash (Botash) for its stable operations and commitment to sustainable growth during her official visit to the mine on 12 June 2026.
During the visit, the Minister received an overview of the company’s business performance and operational challenges from Assistant Managing Director, Othusitse Seokamo.
Seokamo highlighted that in 2025, the mine produced over 91,000 tonnes of Fine Salt, one of Botash’s premium salt products. He attributed this achievement to significant reinvestment in business operations and infrastructure aimed at increasing production capacity and operational efficiency. He further noted that the company is well-positioned for long-term sustainability, citing operational efficiencies and the mine’s power-generating turbine, which is currently undergoing maintenance and is expected to be back in operation by the end of August 2026.
Minister Kenewendo also applauded Botash for its impactful and development-focused Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, particularly its proactive efforts to expand electricity access within its areas of operation. She emphasised the critical role that mining companies play in driving infrastructure development beyond their core business activities, noting that strategic grid extensions and off-grid solutions are key to achieving the Government’s ambition of universal electricity access.
“These are more impactful, intentional, development-focused CSR projects that the Ministry is very supportive of,” said Minister Kenewendo.
“We can demonstrate that where we invest in electricity and access to infrastructure, we create opportunities for sustainable development.”
She cited several initiatives currently being implemented across the sector, including the funding of 8 kilometre and 16 kilometre electricity grid extensions, investment in high voltage 66kV transmission lines to enhance corridor stability, and the deployment of mini grid and off-grid solutions in areas where connection to the national grid is not feasible.
According to the Minister, these initiatives align with the Government’s broader agenda of transformative development and progressive community investment as championed by the Presidency. As a key shareholder in Botswana Ash, the Government remains committed to supporting the long-term sustainability, growth, and competitiveness of the operation.
The Minister and her delegation later toured the processing plant and mining operations, gaining first-hand insight into the scale of production, technological efficiencies, and the unique operating environment of the Sowa Spit.
Source: Ministry of Minerals & Energy – MME via Facebook
