At least 17 firms express interest to operate Botswana national airline

At least 17 companies have expressed an interest in operating Air Botswana as the govt embarks on its latest drive to privatise loss-making state companies. The transport department invited expressions of interest last month, saying it was open to proposals on various forms of privatisation of the national airline including joint ventures, ownership, franchising and concessions. "At least 17 companies have expressed interest but for now I cannot say who they are or what model of privatisation did they propose," Transport minister Kitso Mokaila said Thursday. He added: "We have roped in IATA to help us assess them with the intention of getting the one that has the most suitable model for Botswana. From there we will then go to tender." <br/>