Africa-Press – Botswana. How Botash is powering the country’s chemical industry and regional trade.
Established in 1988 and commencing production in 1991, Botswana Ash (PTY) LTD—better known as Botash—has become a cornerstone of Botswana’s industrial landscape.
“From its base on the vast Sua Pan, Botash extracts and processes natural brines into soda ash (sodium carbonate), a high-value industrial input, and salt (sodium chloride), widely used across various sectors, supplying critical industries across nine Southern African countries,” says Acting Managing Director Othusitse Seokamo. Essential Inputs for Southern Africa’s Economy
Botash’s products are embedded in everyday life. Soda ash is vital in glass manufacturing, steel processing, detergents, and water treatment. Botash’s high-purity salts support food production, PVC piping, and the manufacture of chlorine and caustic soda, key to clean drinking water and sanitation. Sustainability Meets Social Impact
“Botash is as committed to people, community, and sport development. The company invests heavily in education, sports development, and local supplier empowerment, having partnered with the UNDP to develop SMMEs,” Seokamo explains. “Since 2019, Botash has supported 24 citizen-owned businesses, with two now turning over more than P20 million (US$1.44 million) annually. Procurement through this initiative has grown from P2.3 million (US$165,500) to P49 million (US$3.52 million) in 2024.”
Despite operating in a fragile ecological environment, Botash exemplifies harmony between industry and nature. The company holds ISO certifications in quality, environment, and occupational health and safety, and has adopted the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) standards to guide responsible operations.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Chemical Industrialization
“Botash is positioning itself as a catalyst for Botswana’s next industrial chapter,” says Seokamo. Over the next five years, Botash plans to double soda ash and fine salt production, launch new products like sulphate of potash (a premium fertilizer), and develop a Chemical Special Economic Zone in Sowa Town. These efforts will deepen value addition, boost exports, and support food security.
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