On 10th October 2024, Botswana Oil Limited (BOL) celebrated and launched the Road Loading and Offloading Gantry, marking the completion of the first phase of the Francistown Fuel Depot Expansion Project that began in October 2022.
Once the expansion is complete, the depot will be Botswana’s largest petroleum storage facility. The current capacity is 38 million litres, and an additional 60 million litres is under construction as part of the second phase.
The launch was officiated by the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Honourable Lefoko Maxwell Moagi, highlighting BOL’s mandate to ensure the security of the national petroleum supply. The project aims not only to improve storage capabilities but also to mitigate against global geo political and economic challenges affecting the oil supply chain across the world.
During the ceremony, Kgosi Pepukai Makambe of Monarch expressed his excitement, noting his involvement in the project's groundbreaking ceremony. He emphasized the Government’s commitment to national development, stating that the expansion will help reduce social, geopolitical, and economic pressures on petroleum products imports. Furthermore, he highlighted the project’s positive impact on the local community, creating jobs and facilitating opportunities for youth and local businesses.
In his remarks, the CEO Mr Meshack Tshekedi outlined the challenges faced by Botswana as a landlocked country that imports all its petroleum products. He shared that the original depots, built in 1979, were insufficient for the growing demand, leading to the need for an upgrade and expansion. Currently, the Francistown depot serves about 38% of the national petroleum demand and is strategically located for imports from Mozambique via Zimbabwe.
Phase 1 of the project, which includes essential facilities such as guard houses, bund walls, and a security building, has already been completed at a cost of approximately P219 million. The second phase will introduce significant infrastructure, including new storage tanks, an administrative building, a workshop with a fuel testing laboratory, and enhanced rail and road loading facilities.
The Hon. Minister Moagi stressed the necessity for expanding the storage facilities to maintain a strategic reserve that could support the economy for up to 90 days in the event of supply disruptions. He highlighted the findings of a comprehensive feasibility study initiated in 2008, which recognized the need for expanded storage and diversification of supply routes to reduce dependency on South African refineries.
The Francistown expansion project has been delivered in two phases, with contracts awarded to various contractors, ensuring local involvement and employment. So far, 452 jobs have been created, significantly benefiting Batswana and local businesses.
The engagement of citizen contractors has been a priority, with over P213 million spent on local firms, fostering skills transfer and economic empowerment.
As the event concluded, the Minister expressed pride in the new gantry, the largest of its kind in Botswana, symbolizing the tangible benefits of Botswana Oil's strategic initiatives. This facility will play a crucial role in achieving the Government’s 90% import mandate, setting the stage for future growth in Botswana’s petroleum industry.
In his closing remarks, Mayor Godisang Radisigo highlighted the alignment of the current project with the Vision 2022 Strategy, which aims to transform Francistown and foster investment partnerships.
He reflected on the strong relationship with Botswana Oil Limited, emphasizing shared goals for the City's development and diversification.
The Mayor congratulated the Ministry and Botswana Oil Management on the 90% Import Mandate, viewing it as a transformative initiative for the economy and the community. He expressed hope that it would create more meaningful opportunities for youth and reduce unemployment.
He thanked the Honourable Minister for his visionary leadership and urged residents to prepare to take advantage of new business opportunities, collaborate with partners, and contribute to the City's growth.
The Francistown Depot Expansion Project represents a critical investment in Botswana's energy security and economic resilience, reinforcing BOL's commitment to a reliable supply of petroleum products and the development of local capacities.
The event was live on Facebook, visit the live recording for more.