Transforming Botswana’s Petroleum Landscape: A Conversation with Botswana Oil CEO Meshack Tshekedi

As Botswana Oil Limited (BOL) embarks on an ambitious transformation to secure the nation’s energy future, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Meshack Tshekedi stands at the helm, driving critical projects and expansions. In this exclusive interview, Tshekedi delves into the challenges and opportunities of leading a company in transformation, the importance of building a skilled workforce, and how the petroleum sector can fuel Botswana’s economy.

Q: Leading a company through transformation must require a unique approach. What do you think it takes to drive that kind of change?

To lead a company through trans- formation, it takes an incredible amount of drive and energy. It’s essential to spend time and effort understanding the specific projects and requirements to lead transformation successfully. Execution and successful implementation don’t just happen—they’re the results of a deliberate approach. One of my top priorities is to rally and inspire our team, making sure everyone’s aligned and motivated.

Q: You mentioned the team, how does the workforce contribute to BOL’s transformation?

The workforce is absolutely crucial. A skilled workforce not only understands what needs to be done but how to do it autonomously, generating ideas and contributing to our success. One key initiative I’ve instituted here in Botswana is project marketing.

By ensuring that each project is accurately scoped, scheduled, and tracked, we gain the foresight to address challenges before they become roadblocks. This structured approach empowers our team to respond effectively to any problems.

Q: Botswana Oil has grown significantly. What’s the current state of infrastructure, and what plans are in place for expansion?

With our expanding mandate and responsibilities, infrastructure development is a core part of our strategy to ensure fuel security. We’re enhancing our Francistown Depot capacity from 38 million to 60 million liters, secur- ing fuel for 60 days in the Northern Consumption Envelope, mainly supplied from Mozambique.

Additionally, the upcoming Ghanzi depot, with a capacity of 60 million liters, will serve western Botswana with a similar 60-day reserve, fueled from Ghanzi. Gaborone’s depot remains vital as it supplies fuel from South Africa. The Tshele Hills project, currently in development through the Ministry, will house 187 million liters for the Southern Envelope, providing another 60-day cover. These projects collectively reinforce our supply chain, ensuring stability across the country.

Q: What does the future of the petroleum sector look like for Botswana, and how will it impact the national economy?

The future is bright. Our impor- tation mandate has positioned us to channel investment back into Botswana, driving economic activity and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs. This transformation will attract new investments and foreign capital. Notably, the Coal-to-Liquids project, which we are currently seeking a private investor for, represents a significant opportunity.

With a target investment of around P60- 80 billion, this initiative could catalyze the creation of a petrochemical industry, generating a powerful multiplier effect for Botswana’s industrialization.

Q: Finally, what’s the difference between being a CEO and being a dad?

Oddly enough, they’re more similar than one might think. Both roles require a balance of responsibility and the softer side of leadership—whether that’s nurturing potential in my children or fostering growth and independence among my team. Just as I strive to create a thriving environment for my family, I aim to do the same at BOL, empowering each indi- vidual to excel in their own right.

Meshack Tshekedi’s leadership is more than transformative; it’s visionary, ensuring that BOL continues to play a vital role in Botswana’s sustainable growth. With infrastructure developments and initiatives poised to boost the economy, Tshekedi’s efforts symbolize a promising new era for Botswana Oil and the nation’s energy sector.