BMC Lobatse Tannery Revitalisation Nears Completion

BMC Lobatse Tannery Revitalisation Nears Completion. The Botswana Meat Commission (BMC)’s Lobatse Tannery Project, a state-of-the-art infrastructure development worth P218 million, is progressing steadily and is on track for completion in September 2026.

According to Lobatse Mayor Mr. Mosimanegape Ganakgomo, the project currently stands at 94 percent completion and represents a significant investment in Botswana’s drive toward industrialisation, value addition, and economic diversification.

The revitalisation includes the refurbishment of the tannery to process hides and the construction of an effluent treatment plant, marking a major step in upgrading Botswana’s industrial base. The tannery, which halted operations in 2006 due to environmental non-conformance, is undergoing extensive regeneration led by Colic Construction Development Company at a cost of over P212 million, with Pinagare Engineers serving as consultants for an additional P5 million.

Mr. Emerias Belay, site agent for Colic Construction, confirmed that the project is well on course. He noted that the tannery will have the capacity to process 1,200 hides per day, positioning it as a key player in Botswana’s leather value chain. Belay added that the company has employed 180 workers, including youth, and is actively facilitating skills transfer to local employees.

The Lobatse Tannery Project is expected to stimulate economic activity in the region, create employment opportunities, and enhance Botswana’s competitiveness in the leather industry. By integrating modern infrastructure and environmental compliance measures, the project underscores the country’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth.

As completion nears, stakeholders view the tannery as a catalyst for regional economic development, offering new opportunities for local communities and strengthening Botswana’s position in global value chains.