BDC launches ’53 hours of Community Service’
Botswana Development Corporation has launched a community service initiative to commemorate the 53 years of existence dubbed ’53 hours of Community Service’.
In doing so, BDC staff members have since identified innovative, inclusive, relevant, and impactful projects, to execute across different villages in Botswana. As the country’s investment agency driving commercial and industrial transformation in the economy, ‘the Corporation fervently believes that an important aspect of moving Botswana forward resides in the significant contribution toward communities within which it operates’
The corporation’s Corporate Social Responsibility mandate is focused on initiatives that include among others, promotion and support entrepreneurship, inclusion of people living with disabilities, promotion and exposition of local talent through music, arts and cultural activities, among others. BDC is increasingly expected to contribute not only to wealth generation but also to solve some of the country's pressing challenges. The main aim of the initiative is therefore to encourage BDC staff to give back to the community by spending at least 53 hours of their time, supporting communities in need.
“Active employee engagement in CSR activities holds immense significance in the modern business landscape for several compelling reasons. As BDC embarks on its journey of economic integration, the imperative to go beyond profit generation and actively participate in addressing societal challenges becomes paramount. The shift in expectations towards businesses assumes a more holistic role, where organisations are not only responsible for their financial success but also for their impact on the communities they operate within,” said Boitshwarelo Lebang-Kgetse, BDC Head: Corporate Affairs and Chairperson of the CSR Committee.
‘In alignment with the Corporation's mandate, it is also BDC’s responsibility to build sustainable community relationships and investments; and to contribute towards citizen development and empowerment. Driving sustainability and longevity, especially for programmes which support vulnerable communities, shall continue to be a priority for action’