Shaping Botswana Through Minerals

Our History

Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB) has a rich history rooted in Botswana’s journey to harness its mineral wealth for sustainable development. Established as a strategic investment arm of the Government of Botswana, MDCB has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s mining sector and driving socio-economic growth.

Origins and Establishment

The Birth of MDCB 

MDCB was established in 2009 and incorporated in 2012 as a state-owned enterprise with a mandate to hold and manage mining and minerals assets on behalf of the Government of Botswana. The creation of MDCB marked a strategic shift in Botswana’s approach to mineral resource management, focusing on maximising value and ensuring long-term benefits for the nation.

The Company Mandate:

  • Grow, Optimise, and Diversify the Mining and Minerals Portfolio.
  • Provide Advisory Services-Commercial and Technical Mining, to the Government.
  • Facilitate Development of the Local Mining and Minerals Sector.
  • Contribute to the Socio-Economic Development of Botswana.

2009-2012 - Early Years: Building the Foundation

Strategic Asset Transfers

In its early years, MDCB focused on acquiring and managing strategic mining assets, including stakes in key projects such as Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) and BCL Limited. These asset transfers laid the foundation for MDCB’s portfolio and established its role as a key player in Botswana’s mining sector.

Highlights:

  • Wholly owns Morupule Coal Mine, which contributes to the energy security of Botswana.
  • Responsible for the management of BCL Limited, a major copper-nickel producer.
  • Commenced provision of advisory services to the Government of Botswana on mining and minerals-related matters.

2013–2018 - Expansion and Diversification

Growing the Portfolio

MDCB expanded its portfolio during this period, diversifying into new commodities and exploring untapped mineral resources. The company also strengthened its role as a strategic advisor to the government, contributing to policy development and sector growth.

Highlights:

  • Providing Technical and Commercial Mining Advisory services to the Government of Botswana on De Beers and its associated companies.
  • Providing startup capital for the implementation of Minergy's Masama Coal Mine.

2019-Present - Modern Era: Responsible Investing

A Focus on Responsible Investing

MDCB has prioritised responsible investing, ensuring that every decision balances sustainable growth, etihical governance and long-term value creation for Batswana.

Highlights:

  • Provided commerical and technical advisory for the Botash acquisition.
  • Undertook the Renewable Energy - Battery Minerals Market Study that aims to position Botswana as a key player in the global clean energy transition.
  • Contributed to the review of the Mines and Minerals Act of Botswana.

MDCB Today

Today, MDCB is a leading player in Botswana's mining sector, with a diverse portfolio of assets and a strong commitment to sustainability. The company continues to:

  •  

    Grow, Optimise, and Diversify the Mining and Minerals Portfolio.

  •  

    Provide Advisory Services-Commercial and Technical Mining, to the Government.

  •  

    Facilitate Development of the Local Mining and Minerals Sector.

  •  

    Contribute to the Socio-Economic Development of Botswana.

Our Legacy

Building on Botswana's proud history of harnessing its mineral endowmnet for national development, MDCB's legacy is to steward these resources through responsible investment, creating enduring value and opportunity for generations to come.