The High Commission of India organised a business-cum-cultural event on 15th June 2019 in Francistown, focussing on the relations between State of Gujarat and Botswana, especially in diamond industry and investment in Botswana. In order to boost bilateral relations further, this event was planned keeping in view the idea of promoting the Indian States’ outreach into the external world and highlighting the special linkages the State of Gujarat has developed with Botswana diamond industry.
The event was organised in association with local Gujarati community and was attended by more than 300 participants, including CEOs/representatives of more than 12 Botswana and Indian companies.
Hon. Assistant Minister for Youth Empowerment, Sports and Culture Development Mr. Philip Dikgang Makgalemele graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered the keynote address.
Hon. Assistant Minster said, celebrating Gujarat Day in Botswana is meant to enhance Botswana-India relations as well as to create awareness among the Botswana business community about investment and networking opportunities available in India, particularly in the diamond industry. Praising Botswana’s close and healthy diamond trading relationship with India over the years, he informed that among 19 diamond manufacturing companies which operate in Botswana, about 8 companies of Indian origin play significant role in local youth employment. Appreciating the long mercantile tradition of the State of Gujarat and Gujarati community, he said that Botswana’s diamond sector is mainly dominated by the Gujarati community due to their culture of international trade.
Prominent PIO and MD of Adansonia Hotel Mr. Praful Jog said that Indian companies have collectively invested heavily into Botswana economy and they employ up to 10,000 local citizens. Most of these companies belong to Gujaratis, such as the motor magnate Satar Dada; Motovac’s Harshad Patel and many others, he added.
High Commissioner of India to Botswana Dr. Rajesh Ranjan briefly touched about the progress achieved so far by the State of Gujarat, its contribution to Indian economy, the infrastructure facilities and policy framework available in Gujarat for investments.
The local Gujarati community presented a cultural show which included Gujarati dance performance.
The occasion is well-received in Botswana and this platform has geared a goodwill momentum among the Indian and other business community members and has also encouraged participation of more and more Indian companies in the Global Expo Botswana scheduled from 6-9 August 2019.
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