Letlhakane, Botswana – 26 June 2025

Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB) proudly took centre stage as the main sponsor of the 10th edition of the Voorslag Boteti Mining and Agriculture Expo, held in Letlhakane under the theme “Harvesting Earth’s Wealth by Cultivating Growth and Extracting Value.”

The milestone event, which drew record-breaking livestock registrations and hundreds of stakeholders from both the mining and agriculture sectors, celebrated a decade of visionary growth, community empowerment, and strong collaboration between industries vital to Botswana’s economy.

Driving Innovation Through Education and Inclusion

The Assistant Minister of Child Welfare and Basic Education and Member of Parliament for Tati West, Hon. Justin Hunyepa, officiated at the Prize Giving Ceremony, delivering an inspiring keynote address. He commended Botswana’s bold shift from STEM to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education a transformation recently endorsed by SADC Member States.

Hon. Hunyepa emphasised the need to integrate mining and agriculture into the national curriculum to cultivate an appreciation for these sectors among young learners.

“There is no dull child. It is often the curriculum that is dull,” he remarked, reinforcing the importance of inclusive, talent-driven education wanting nurtures creativity and innovation.

He further applauded the Expo organisers, particularly Ms. Tlotlo Gaobinelwe, for creating a platform that identifies and develops young talent, preparing them for an industrialised and knowledge-based economy.

MDCB’s Vision: Integrating Mining, Agriculture, and Community Empowerment

Representing MDCB at the official opening ceremony, Ms. Esther Norris, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer delivered keynote remarks. She underscored MDCB’s role as Botswana’s mineral investment arm, dedicated to unlocking value from the country’s resources through ethical, responsible, and inclusive practices.

“Mining is not just about what we take from the ground it is about how we ethically source our minerals, responsibly mine them, and use that wealth to uplift the lives of our people,” Ms. Norris stated.

She went on to highlight MDCB’s vision for synergy between mining and agriculture, promoting integrated development models where rehabilitated mining land can be converted into productive farmland a strategy that supports local food security, diversification, and sustainable livelihoods.

Strong Presence and Community Engagement

MDCB’s presence at the Expo was symbolised by a vibrant, custom-designed exhibition stall, which became one of the event’s main attractions. Led by Loren Mphee and Langa Khumalo, the MDCB team including Esther Norris, Bradley Kgwabi, Blessed Seretse, and Mphoentle Sebina who engaged attendees on the company’s investment portfolio, mandate, and developmental initiatives.

A Decade of Impact and Collaboration

As the Voorslag Expo marked its 10th anniversary, the event not only celebrated the achievements of the past decade but also reinforced the shared vision of sustainable growth and local empowerment. The collaboration between mining and agriculture showcased at the Expo demonstrated how cross-sectoral partnerships can advance Botswana’s socio-economic development agenda.

Investing in a Sustainable Future

MDCB’s participation reflects its enduring commitment to fostering inclusive growth, supporting community-led initiatives, and driving Botswana’s transformation through responsible mining and strategic partnerships.

As the company continues to invest in Botswana’s people and resources, MDCB remains steadfast in the mission to create sustainable value, empower communities, and build a prosperous future for generations to come.

About Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB):

Minerals Development Company Botswana (Pty) Ltd is an investment holding company wholly owned and established by the Government of Botswana to grow, optimise and diversify the Government’s mining and mineral investment portfolio with a view to generating attractive financial returns and contribute to Botswana’s financial security. MDCB also provides advisory services (commercial and technical) to the Government and facilitates the development of the Botswana’s mining and minerals sector. As part of its mandate the company also houses the Government Diamond Valuation (GDV) function responsible for negotiating best prices for the country’s diamonds and deriving optimum value thereof, for the benefit of Batswana. 

For More Information
Website: www.mdcb.co.bw 
Email: info@mdcb.co.bw 
Phone: +267 3810 300