Botswana’s promising mining sector – as well as exciting infrastructural developments – have had easy access to top class dewatering pumps through Mitchell Equipment Hire’s distributorship agreement with Johannesburg-based Integrated Pump Technology.
The distributorship agreement, concluded in 2024, opened the way for even greater penetration of high quality Grindex and Godwin pumps into this growing market. According to Jordan Marsh, Managing Director of Integrated Pump Technology, there is also scope for Faggiolati pumps in the wastewater sector.
“Our Grindex range of submersible dewatering, sludge and slurry pumps represent world class quality and performance, and we know this brand is already well regarded in Botswana,” says Marsh. “Godwin diesel driven dewatering pumps also make an important contribution to mining, including the unique challenge of dewatering in deeper mines.”
The success of the two companies’ relationship is based on Integrated Pump Technology’s strong service-oriented philosophy – which aligns closely with Mitchell Equipment Hire’s established footprint and reputation in Botswana. Marius Weber, Managing Director of Mitchell Equipment Hire, explains that the company’s headquarters in Gaborone are supplemented by its strategically located branch network.
“In addition to our presence in the mining areas of the country – at Letlhakane and Orapa – we also have a base in Botswana’s copper belt where mining developments are expanding considerably,” says Weber. “The presence of our people and resources in all the main mining regions of Botswana means we can provide the high level of support that customers deserve.”
Marsh highlights that Integrated Pump Technology prioritises the in-country status of its distributors, as local presence and proximity to customers is always a vital consideration – with a firm footprint and access to key players in the mining market.
Mitchell Equipment Hire is a member of a large group of companies in Botswana that is focused on equipment supply and support – from compressors and graders to generators and excavators. According to Weber, the heritage of this group dates back over two decades, giving it a strong foundation in the local industry. Its fleet of equipment has grown steadily, leading the company to offer a complete solution which today extends from dewatering pumps to crane hire.
“We have already invested extensive resources into marketing the range of pumps available to us through the Integrated Pump Technology distributorship,” he explains. “This includes the appointment of personnel who will focus on this range and build our footprint.”
A key person in promoting these pumping solutions is Kyle Riggs, Business Development Manager for Mitchell Equipment Hire, who points out that Grindex has been a well-known brand in Botswana for 10 to 15 years. The integrity of this brand, says Riggs, underpins the customer relationships that are now being strengthened in this market.
“Our relationships with engineers on mines, for instance, have been built over many years, and they know they can rely on us for support and service,” he says. “We have also introduced additional value offerings such as smart sensors, electrical panels and assessments – a full solution around a pump that ensures reliability and performance.”
Marsh expects a great future from the partnership, built on the regional and international reputation of pump ranges like Grindex and Godwin.
“We have done a great deal of groundwork to introduce our product range and train customers on these pumps,” he says. “What differentiates us is our after-sales service drive, which we can leverage strongly in collaboration with Mitchell Equipment Hire in Botswana.”
Weber agrees, noting there have already been a number of substantial orders placed on the strength of the customer service being offered – and which existing customers have come to trust.
“We have already secured contracts for pumping equipment over competitors in the field,” he says. “We believe these purchasing decisions are strongly based on the level of support we can offer which will ensure these quality products will perform to expectation over their lifespans.”
