Botswana's minister of investment Bogolo Joy Kenewendo tells Adrienne Klasa how the country's moves to diversify its mineral-rich economy will open up a swathe of opportunities

Diamond giant De Beers is building on its long-standing relationship with Botswana by investing in sales and professional training centres in the country. 

The mayor of the Botswanan capital of Gaborone tells fDi that the city is keen to exploit its expertise in diamond cutting and argibusiness.

Political stability and thriving minerals and metals sectors have made Botswana stand out over the past few decades when compared to its southern African neighbours. And while an over-reliance on its diamond trade and worries over power shortages loom large, the country's attractiveness to investors remains strong.

Free zones are often seen as a cure-all remedy to the problems developing economies encounter when trying to attract FDI. However, the reality is that such projects need careful planning and long-term support if they are to fulfil such wishes, as Barbara Njau discovers.