The UN procurement volume currently at US$29.6 billion, presents a substantial marketplace for local entrepreneurs from a wide range of sectors to leverage from.
Speaking at a two-day UN business seminar at the University of Botswana on November 20, Botswanas Ambassador to the UN, Dr Gladys Mokhawa said the international institution procured goods and services worth close to US$30 billion annually.
She said the seminar was intended to equip the local business community and consultants with appropriate information on the UN procurement system.
She said the recent annual statistical report indicated that Botswanas share was around US$8.43 million and that it placed the country at 147 out of 193 countries in suppliers by volume. She added that there was ample room for increasing Botswanas share hence the seminar.
She said greater participation in the UN procurement system would allow local companies and professionals to make money from the provision of goods and services.
She added that given the UNs work on peace and security, human rights and sustainable development across the world, local companies goods and services would also contribute to the well-being of humanity
Dr Mokhawa also said the seminar was in line with government key priorities as espoused by Vision 2036.
She added that one of the key goals of the vision was to attain a high-income economy that was driven by a globally competitive private sector.
Consultancy, she said, was also aligned with the aspirations to build a knowledge-based economy.
A UN procurement officer, Mr Kouassi Ekon said it all begins with registering at the UN global marketplace and keeping abreast of expressions of interest.
He said it was important for local businesses to know the winning strategy for each solicitation and to study the conditions before bidding.
He said their procurement was focused on engaging vendors from developing countries and economies in transition.
Mr Ekon also said they prioritised women owned businesses, disability inclusive suppliers and specific industry categories.
He highlighted that in 2022 top commodities procured from Botswana included lodging and conference services, real estate, food and catering, ICT and transportation.