Botswana’s Mining Investment Arm Charts Bold Path Toward Financial Sovereignty and Global Competitiveness

Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB) has unveiled an ambitious target to grow its investment portfolio to US$1 billion by 2030, positioning itself as a unicorn enterprise and one of Botswana’s largest contributors to national revenue.

Speaking at a recent media engagement, MDCB Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Matome Tsholetsa Malema, emphasized the company’s strategic roadmap to achieve financial self-sufficiency by 2028, with the goal of consistently paying dividends to its sole shareholder—the Government of Botswana.

Current Portfolio and Strategic Focus

MDCB currently manages a diversified portfolio that generates revenue of P1.6 billion annually, with a market value of P7.1 billion, comprising key assets such as:

• De Beers (15% government stake)
• Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) – 100% ownership
• Minergy Coal – Convertible debt position
• BCL Mine – Full ownership (under liquidation)

The company’s investment strategy spans local, regional, and global markets, with a strong emphasis on acquiring new assets, diversifying into critical minerals, and enhancing value addition across the mining value chain. 

MDCB In Numbers

• Aggregate Book Value of Investments: BWP 7.1Bn
• Market Value of Investments: BWP 19.4 Bn
• Commodities Produced by Investees: 4
• Number of countries in which portfolio companies have significant mining operations: 4
• Group Revenue ¬ BWP1.6 Bn
• Direct Employees of Portfoolio Companies: +20,900
• Current Pipeline of investment over the next two years: 1-2Bn

ESG and National Impact

MDCB’s growth ambitions are firmly anchored in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Mr. Malema reiterated that every investment decision is guided by sustainability, community impact, and long-term economic value.

“Our purpose is to build a sustainable Botswana and contribute immensely to economic growth by creating jobs and wealth for the government,” said Malema. “We are on course to be a unicorn company.”

Vision for 2030

By 2030, MDCB aims to:

• Become a globally competitive mining and minerals investment company
• Expand into strategic minerals such as lithium, copper, nickel, and rare earths
• Establish Botswana as a regional hub for ethical and future-ready mining
• Deliver consistent commercial returns and dividends to the government

Chief Investment Officer, Mr. Modise Mokone, added that MDCB is actively seeking new opportunities to grow its portfolio and solidify its role as a leading investor in Botswana’s economy