Nestled in Francistown’s industrial area, UV Botswana, a 100% Botswana-owned company, has been a leader in designing and manufacturing durable, cost-effective underground utility vehicles for the mining industry since 2005.
Starting with 4-tonne low-profile vehicles, UV Botswana quickly captured regional markets, supplying mines in South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Building on this success, the company introduced a powerful 8-tonne range, ideal for conventional mining operations.
While UV Botswana’s vehicles have reached global markets, including India, Russia, and Germany, Zimbabwe and South Africa remain its largest customers. The company has also forged strategic partnerships in Australia and the USA, further expanding its international reach.
With a focused production strategy, UV Botswana rolls out about 40 vehicles per year, with approximately 350 of its machines currently in operation.
The meticulous production process ensures each vehicle meets high standards, taking around 12 to 14 weeks from order to delivery.
In line with global sustainability trends, UV Botswana is now exploring the electrification of its vehicles. The company is working with a Canadian partner to develop an electric bus, marking its entry into the electric vehicle (EV) sector.
This initiative reflects UV Botswana’s commitment to innovation and positions it at the forefront of the transition to sustainable transportation.
Additionally, UV Botswana is set to release a new vehicle model in 2025, which is expected to strengthen its market position and meet evolving industry demands.
Recently, a team from Debswana, Botswana’s largest mining company, visited UV Botswana’s facility to explore potential collaboration as Debswana’s Jwaneng Mine shifts to underground operations.
Led by Moleko Majaha, Head of Engineering & Asset Management, and Wanatsha Moakufi, Head of the Citizen Economic Empowerment Program (CEEP), the visit aligned with Debswana’s strategy to promote local manufacturing and develop a Repairs, Maintenance & Rebuild Centre in Botswana.
