IFSC, professional firms sign MoU
21-03-2012

By Emmanuel Rapowa

GABORONE - The Botswana International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 11 professional service firms to market Botswana globally. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Gaborone, IFSC acting chief executive officer, Mr Letsebe Sejoe said the firms assist in the attraction and retention of investors through the provision of professional services. 

He said global partnerships in business and investments are vital for the private sector to excel as they signal commitment and willingness to participate in economic development initiatives. Mr Sejoe said this will ensure that the private sector plays the lead role in the promotion of the financial centre. He further said they expect to achieve acceleration in the growth of the IFSC and vastly increase the rate at which companies register in it to quickly reach critical mass.
 
The chairperson of Turnstone Group, Mr Heinrich Odendaal, one of the companies that signed a partnership said professional service firms will play a leading role in promoting Botswana as a preferred investment destination. He said they provide the personal contact with investors and are recognised and empowered to market the Botswana IFSC framework.

Mr Odendaal said they will also assist applicant companies to successfully secure Botswana IFSC certification, while assisting certified companies to successfully manage themselves in Botswana. He further said they will benefit Botswana by creating employment opportunities, marketing the Brand Botswana internationally, retaining intellectual capital, liquidity in banks, universities and tourism. BOPA