BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY MEDIA FOR AFRICA

Botswana launches tech and innovation policy

Botswana launches tech and innovation policy
By Andrew Maramwidze
24 Aug 2012

Botswana has launched a research, science, technology and innovation (RSTI) policy that is expected to spur on national investment in research and development in the ICT sector.

“Through this policy, the Botswana Government commits to partner with stakeholders to build national capacity for coordinated research, science, technology and innovation development to grow the economy and exploit opportunities in the global markets,” minister of infrastructure, science and technology, Johnie Swartz, said.

Crafted with help from Japan and UNESCO, government says implementation of the policy has started.

“The Directorate will monitor the implementation of funded research projects, develop and implement strategies and mechanisms for technology diffusion, uptake and transfer. It will also maintain comprehensive RSTI data and information management system to inform decision making,” Swartz said.

The minister added that the policy is planned to integrate science and technology into all sectors of the economy and bring cohesion in the presently fragmented research activities so that technology development, innovation and knowledge can drive the national socio-economic growth to transform Botswana into a globally competitive country.

Swartz further challenged the industry and trade to seek partnerships that would attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and in the process harness imported technologies and build capacity for research and development.

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