Mass Media News

Author: Daily News

  • Parliament Enacts 17 Bills To Support Development Agenda

    Parliament Enacts 17 Bills To Support Development Agenda

    Government has marked a significant legislative milestone after passing 17 bills and three key national policies during the recently adjourned session of the 13th Parliament, a major acceleration of the national transformative agenda.

    In the endeavour to put in place an effective legislative and policy framework to support the execution of such an agenda, the 17 bills from the 13th Parliament were passed into Acts of Parliament and will only become laws once assented to by the President, as provided for in Section 87 of the Constitution.

    Briefing the media on Monday, Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa, stated that the meeting also passed three government policies, reflecting significant progress from the first meeting, which only passed six government bills.

    Minister Mohwasa noted that it was the government’s commitment to continuously review and renew laws and policies to ensure that they remained relevant to the national development agenda, as well as emerging regional and international issues that required adjustment if the country was to become a well-respected nation.

    “As the Umbrella for Democratic Change government, we have embarked on the important task of reviewing existing laws to promote inclusive growth and quality lives which was the overall theme of the UDC’s 2024 election manifesto,” Mr Mohwasa said.

    He stated that the government would, in reviewing existing laws or policies, never lose sight of the human rights-focused agenda of the UDC government.

    Mr Mohwasa further noted that the passing of the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Bill No. 14 of 2025) was one of the milestone government achievements in line with nurturing human rights advocacy.

    Of the 66 legislators in attendance on the day, 50 voted in favour, while 15 voted against and one MP did not participate in the voting exercise.

    Gazetted in July 2025, the Bill sought to amend the Constitution to remove constitutional jurisdiction from the High Court, providing a specialised court for constitutional interpretation and the validity of laws. The Bill also sought to amend the Constitution in order to establish a Constitutional Court as part of the country’s judicial system and final arbiter on constitutional matters, aiming to protect fundamental rights and strengthen judicial checks.

    With the country currently operating on a budget deficit, Mr Mohwasa noted that it was equally important for Parliament to pass the second reading of the Stock, Bonds and Treasury Bill (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (Bill No. 2 of 2026), which aimed to amend Section 20 of the Stock, Bonds and Treasury Bills Act of 2005 by raising the statutory ceiling on outstanding public debt and government-guaranteed debt from 40 to 60 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    He said Parliament also adopted the National Youth Policy 2026-2036 and its Implementation Plan, a defining step forward for young people which was also testament of the government’s full intent to transform the livelihoods of the youth.

    The National Youth Policy 2026-2036 aims to address that which had not worked for young people in past policies and aligned itself with National Vision 2036, National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12 and the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP).

    The framework is anchored on five strategic pillars with strong emphasis on digital transformation and economic inclusion, by integrating STEAM and TVET education with AI and innovation, the policy would prepare youth for a future dominated by technology while simultaneously fostering entrepreneurial skills and global competitiveness.

    Minister Mohwasa further stated that Parliament also adopted the Revised National Policy on Rural Development as well as the National Agricultural Policy of 2025.

    Regarding private members’ motions, he stated that 25 motions were submitted for consideration, of which four were negated, three were adopted, while the debate on two motions was not concluded at the time Parliament adjourned on April 17. He indicated that of 447 questions submitted, 293 were noticed while 281 were answered.

  • On Your Marks! Set…

    On Your Marks! Set…

    In just two days, the heavy silence that precedes a gunshot will settle over the track, followed by the rhythmic pulse that every sprinter knows by heart – “On your marks, get set, go!”

    On May 2-3, Botswana becomes the epicentre of the track and field world. The Debswana World Athletics Relays will see athletes from 40 different nations descend upon the capital, all hunting for podium finishes. But while the world watches the clock, the local crowd will be watching their own and it awaits the roar of the Blue, Black and White as Botswana braces for the Relays glory.

    In international athletics, the home crowd is often cited as the invisible teammate. Normally, during these competitions, the host team receives a deafening wave of cheers that their competitors simply cannot match. The burning question remaining is, is Team Botswana ready to channel that energy into a state of frenzy?

    The pressure is immense, but the camp remains a fortress of calm.

    For star sprinter Letsile Tebogo, the mission is that the team has spent their time sharpening their skills in the quiet of Boteti, away from the noise of the city.

    “I think we are ready to fight for our country,” Tebogo said, his focus unshakable. “Preparations have been going well… we asked the management to minimise meetings because, during race week, we need to focus. If there were queries, we left them in Boteti.”

    His teammates share that quiet confidence. Bhekimpilo Eppie noted that the team is ready to deliver, while Obakeng Kameruka emphasised that the time for talking is over.

    “The coaches have done their part. What is left is for us to execute what we have been doing at training… we have to step up and deliver,” Kameruka said.

    Behind the scenes, the preparation has been a gruelling journey from Letlhakane to the capital. Coach Justice Dipeba has been monitoring every stride, particularly looking at the transition from the FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix held this past Sunday.

    “The focus is where we wanted it. We had athletes competing on Sunday and saw some good times, but we will finish up this week by focusing strictly on speed,” Dipeba said.

    Ensuring those ‘speed machines’ remain operational is the team physiotherapist, Clement Gaothuse.

    Gaothuse’s report is the one every fan wanted to hear, that the squad is at full strength. “The team is fit and injury-free. We can see the fire in them,” he confirmed.

    As we approach the final countdown, the baton exchanges have been drilled, the lactic acid has been endured and the mental barriers have been broken. The athletes are locked in, the morale is high and the stage is set.

    Expectation is hanging heavy over the National Stadium and the University of Botswana stadium.

    Thousands will gather to see if the local heroes can turn home-field advantage into gold-medal reality.

    Preparations are complete. The training is done. Now, it is over to you, Mr Starter.

  • Govt makes progress in Tshephi Case

    Govt makes progress in Tshephi Case

    Minister for State President, Defense and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa has assured the nation that thorough investigations have commenced and are being handled with the seriousness they deserve in the death involving 13-year-old Retshephile Setso of Sehithwa.

    Addressing concerns raised by the nation and ‘Justice for Tshepi’ petitioners, Mr Mohwasa revealed that the matter had now been referred to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), indicating that it had reached an advanced stage in the legal process.

    According to the Minister, authorities were working diligently to ensure that all aspects of the case were carefully examined and that justice was served.

    Mr Mohwasa also provided a clear timeline, expressing confidence that the process would be concluded before May 15.

    He emphasised government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that the public would be updated once investigations were complete.

    He said ‘Tshepi’ was only 13-years-old, with a promising future ahead.

    Although no legal process could restore that life, Mr Mohwasa said accountability must be pursued for the sake of the family, the community and the nation.

    Mr Mohwasa also acknowledged and commended citizens who gathered to demand justice for ‘Tshepi’, saying their actions reflected a collective responsibility to protect every Motswana child.

    He recognised the voices of activists, community members and concerned citizens who had continued to call for accountability and safer communities.

    He described their efforts as a demonstration of unity and commitment to justice.

    On April 9, protesters marched to submit a petition to Parliament, demanding action from the police commissioner, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and other authorities on the death of Tshepi, who died on May 17, 2025.

  • Airport Police Hangar handover June

    Airport Police Hangar handover June

    The long-awaited Botswana Police Service air hangar at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport is expected to be handed over in June after more than five years since construction began.

    Work on the facility officially started in January 2021 and was originally slated for completion within 52 weeks, by January 2022. However, the project faced multiple setbacks and is currently 97 per cent complete.

    The project includes a command block, aircraft maintenance facilities and other ancillary structures. Total expenditure to date stands at P46,247,066. The initial budget was P45,455,130, while the final estimated cost is P54,916,629, an increase of about 29 per cent.

    Botswana Housing Corporation Chief Operations Officer Professor Selinah Busang said the project was commissioned during the COVID-19 era, which contributed substantially to the delay. 

    “Cash flows, procurement challenges, material cost escalations and general logistical challenges experienced during the COVID-19 era are some of the factors significantly attributed to the overall substantial delay of the project,” Prof Busang said during a tour of the facility.

    She added that logistical hurdles in securing travel permits and visas for skilled professionals, including international consultants, also slowed progress. Worker absenteeism due to sick leave further contributed to loss of production time.

    Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa said government was intensifying project monitoring to ensure timely delivery of national investments.

    “These tours are one of the few approaches we use to push for the timely delivery of government projects. Despite the challenges experienced causing the delay of this particular project, this oversight strategy will ensure future projects are delivered on time,” Mr Mohwasa said.

    Once complete, the more than 2 400 square metre structure, plus ancillary buildings measuring around 230 square metre, will have capacity to house about 20 helicopters.

    Besides the clear-span structure designed for maximum flexibility in maneuvering aircraft, the facility includes offices, workshops, parts storage, locker rooms and a spacious gym.

  • DPP prioritises national interest cases

    DPP prioritises national interest cases

    The Directorate of Public Prosecutions  (DPP)  has prioritised cases of national interest, a move its Director, Mr Kgosietsile Ngakayage says has helped address the country’s economic strain caused by widespread corruption.

    Addressing a press briefing in Gaborone on April 21, Mr Ngakayagae stressed that provided case dockets were submitted, no distinctions would be made, and all those involved would be held accountable, whether they were political leaders, senior public officers, or ministers.

    Furthermore, he urged those in government to shun corruption, warning that no one would be immune from prosecution.

    Meanwhile, information from the DPP indicates that from April last year to April this year, more than P50 million in cash was recovered as proceeds of crime, including funds linked to contractual disputes. 

    Of this amount, P17 million was recovered from Ecoplexus, with recovery efforts reported to be progressing well.

    In addition, the DPP cautioned Batswana against participating in pyramid schemes, noting that, aside from incurring financial losses, individuals would also be committing a criminal offense punishable by law.

    Turning to matters of public safety, Mr Ngakayage said that cases of rape and defilement involving minors would not be withdrawn. 

    He expressed concern over victims of gender-based violence who withdraw cases, making it difficult for the DPP to secure justice, a situation that has, in some instances, resulted in deaths.

    He further noted that societal pressure was among the reasons complainants withdraw cases, often after considerable effort by investigating officers and the completion of procedural processes.

    Also he attributed the collapse of some cases to a lack of witnesses.

    In the ongoing effort to combat gender-based violence, Mr Ngakayagae said the DPP would engage traditional leaders.

    On other matters, he revealed that there was a backlog of cases dating back as far as 22 years. He also highlighted challenges hindering progress, including a shortage of human resources and transport.

    Additionally, DPP Assistant Director Mr Mmapatsi Tshimologo reported that, for the past five years, 1 077 cases of rape have been concluded, while 1 568 remain ongoing. 

    Over the same period, 261 murder cases were concluded, with 936 still ongoing, while for defilement, 845 cases have been concluded and 1 094 remain in progress.

  • Boko Opens Zimbabwe Global Exhibition

    Boko Opens Zimbabwe Global Exhibition

    President Advocate Duma Boko will on April 23, officially open the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo.

    Hot on the heels of undertaking a three-day state visit to Harare on April 22, President Boko will further cement stronger political and economic relations between the two countries at an event that undoubtedly defines Botswana and Zimbabwe’s economic future.

    President Boko arrives in Bulawayo from Harare where he undertook a state visit and co-chaired the fifth session of the Botswana-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Zhemu Soda said President Boko’s attendance highlighted the growing importance for regional investment and export promotion.

    He said President Boko’s visit comes at a time when Botswana and Zimbabwe were experiencing a notable improvement in bilateral relations as evidenced by a number of agreements and high level interaction between the two nations.

    President Boko’s participation marks a new chapter in Botswana and Zimbabwe’s relations, reinforcing the idea that exhibitions could serve as bridges of diplomacy.

    His presence is expected to inject momentum into bilateral relations, paving way for stronger collaborations in trade, investment and industrial development.

    The ZITF opened earlier this week with a strong international presence and Botswana exhibitors at this year’s exhibition are expected to use the platform to unlock strategic investment opportunities.

    The trade expo offers an opportunity to showcase investment potential, strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations and facilitate meaningful dialogue between governments, business and the diplomatic community.

    The exhibition has attracted close to 500 direct exhibitors with about 46 from 29 countries including Botswana, Belgium, China, European Union, Belarus and Denmark, among others.

    The country’s premier trade showcase runs until Saturday and brings together international businesses under one platform.

    Held under the theme: Connected Economies, Competitive Industries, the trade fair has been seen as testament to the region’s re-engagement policy of translating diplomacy into tangible economic benefits.

    The theme resonates with the growing push across Africa to link economies, enhance productivity and create resilient cross-border value chains.

    Zimbabwe has strategised through inviting Heads of States to officiate at ZITF as a hallmark of its diplomatic outreach.

    Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo presided over last year’s edition while Kenya’s President William Ruto opened the preceding one.

    With a strong international participation, high level diplomatic engagements and a clear focus on economic cooperation, the trade fair begun on a high note reaffirming its status as a premier gateway for trade, investment and global partnerships.

  • Sebego Back Home After FIFA meeting

    Sebego Back Home After FIFA meeting

    FIFA’s Appeal Committee member, Tebogo Sebego is back home after attending FIFA judicial bodies plenary sessions 2026, which was held in Miami, USA from April 16-17.

    Sebego said in an interview that the programme covered the current disciplinary and ethics case law and some important recent developments that were meant to quip members with decision making process.

    The presentations for FIFA administration emphasised on safe guarding as part of the programme that FIFA was looking into.

    Sebego said they also looked into the recent disciplinary committee, which focused on the ethical behaviour, misconduct by teams, clubs and officials.

    He said they also discussed issues of misappropriation of funds and what the disciplinary code said about such behaviour.

    Sebego said they also discussed cases that had been heard at Court of Arbitration for Sport.

    “So, we were literally doing a preparatory work for the FIFA world Cup, and also for the role that they perform on daily basis as FIFA judicial bodies,” he said.

  • Manchester…Here Comes Kgaudi

    Manchester…Here Comes Kgaudi

    The Tsabong community gathered in large numbers at the kgotla to bid a heartfelt farewell to Kesego Kgaudi, who departs tomorrow for Manchester, England to further her coaching career.

    Kgaudi, founder and coach of Makgabaneng Football Club, popularly known as Makgabz City, has distinguished herself nationally after being selected by President Advocate Duma Boko as the only female coach among a group of seven.

    The coaches are set to undergo an intensive training course aimed at enhancing their technical expertise, strengthening their respective clubs, and contributing to the development of football in Botswana.

    Born and raised in Tsabong, the 38-year-old developed her passion for football on the village’s open fields, where she first discovered her talent as a goalkeeper.

    She later transitioned into coaching, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth and community development. She holds a Preliminary Certificate in Coaching, with a focus on grassroots football development.

    Speaking at the farewell event, Kgalagadi South MP, Tokyo Modise, commended Kgaudi for her achievement, emphasising that her selection was based purely on merit.

    He expressed confidence that her accomplishment would inspire young people, particularly women, across the country. He further noted that he had known Kgaudi since primary school and attested to her discipline, dedication and passion for the sport.

    Botswana Football Association (BFA) National Technical Development Officer, Barodi Ngwako, highlighted the evolving nature of football. She said while the sport was once perceived as exclusively for men, it is now more accurately described as male-dominated, with increasing opportunities for women.

    She emphasised the role of sport in addressing social challenges, noting that football platforms are used to educate young people about issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, teenage pregnancy and HIV/AIDS.

    “We use football to address challenges that negatively impact the lives of youth,” she said.

    Women and Sports Botswana (WASBO) Kgalagadi Regional chairperson, Magdeline Shadikong, described Kgaudi as a resilient and patient leader committed to uplifting others through sport.

    “Remember that you are carrying more than bags, you carry our dreams, strength and hope,” she said.

    In her remarks, Kgaudi expressed gratitude to the Tsabong community for their unwavering support.

     She acknowledged the women who organised the farewell and everyone who contributed, saying their encouragement had played a crucial role in her journey.

    Her participation in the prestigious coaching course at Old Trafford marks a significant milestone, not only for her career but also for the Tsabong District.

    The achievement reflects growing recognition of local talent and serves as an inspiration to aspiring coaches and athletes across Botswana. 

  • Boko Rallies Party Around Faith And Unity

    Boko Rallies Party Around Faith And Unity

    he Botswana National Front (BNF) marked its 60th anniversary in style on Saturday night, with President Advocate Duma Boko using the gala dinner to deliver a candid and forward-looking address centred on unity, economic reform and faith in the country’s future.

    The commemorative event brought together party members, diplomats, investors and stakeholders to celebrate six decades of a movement that President Boko said was born out of a failed attempt to unify factions within the Botswana People’s Party.

    That failure, he explained, led to the formation of the BNF as a broad-based platform to unite peasants, workers, farmers, small traders, business people and the poorest in society under a common democratic programme.

    Paying tribute to the party’s founding figures, including Dr Kenneth Koma and Mr Otsweletse Moupo, the President said their sacrifices and resilience during difficult periods laid a solid foundation for the current leadership.

    “They led the party during its most trying times. Where we are today is because of their sacrifices,” he said.

    Reflecting on the party’s political journey, President Boko highlighted the formation and evolution of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), noting that despite internal tensions and setbacks, the BNF remained steadfast.

    “We remained undeterred. We kept our shape and our dignity,” he said.

    At the heart of his address was a strong emphasis on leadership driven by faith, which he described as the ability to envision progress beyond present challenges.

    “You cannot lead if you don’t have faith,” President Boko said, urging members to remain focused on long-term goals despite current economic pressures.

    Turning to the economy, the President acknowledged the country’s heavy reliance on diamonds, which he said accounted for about 80 per cent of revenue, warning that declining performance in the sector had created significant fiscal constraints.

    “The country does not have the revenue it used to have and yet it must function,” he said, describing Botswana’s ability to remain stable under such pressure as ‘a miracle.’

    He stressed the urgent need to diversify the economy by attracting investment, reforming bureaucratic processes and accelerating project implementation. Lengthy procurement systems and institutional inefficiencies, he noted, continued to delay critical developments.

    President Boko cited large-scale infrastructure projects such as the proposed Trans-Kalahari rail line as key opportunities for job creation, estimating that each kilometre of railway constructed could generate up to 50 jobs during the construction phase.

    “Why are we wasting time when these jobs are available?” he asked, calling for decisive action to fast-track such initiatives.

    The President also advocated for a shift towards production-based empowerment, discouraging dependency on government tenders and encouraging citizens to engage in agriculture and value addition. He pointed to the planned national school feeding programme as a ready market for local producers.

    “Our people must produce. There is already a market,” he said.

    He further underscored the importance of cooperatives as a policy direction to empower communities, create jobs and reduce reliance on government support.

    On governance, President Boko reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law, transparency and institutional reform, while cautioning against arbitrary dismissals of public servants without due process.

    Meanwhile, BNF secretary general, Mr Stephen Modise, described the anniversary as a historic milestone, noting that for the first time in its 60-year history, the party celebrated as part of the governing movement of the great republic.

    “For 60 years, the BNF has been the clarion call for the marginalised,” he said, adding that the party continued to draw inspiration from its founding vision of a united front for social justice.

    Mr Modise said the celebration was not only about reflection but also recommitment to building a “new Botswana” anchored on equality, prosperity and cohesion.

    As the evening concluded, the secretary general emphasised that the message from the BNF leadership was clear, the struggle that began in Mochudi in 1965 continues, now with the added responsibility of governance and delivering tangible change for Batswana. BOPA

  • Surge in medicine dispensary as SKMTH transitions to public hospital

    The pharmacy at Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital (SKMTH) is currently facing an increase in patient numbers, dispensing medication to between 250 and 300 patients daily.

    This surge comes in the wake of a decision by the Minister of Health, Dr Stephen Modise, who announced last week that SKMTH would operate as a public hospital effective immediately, aimed at enhancing services and alleviating congestion at Princess Marina Hospital.

    In his then address, Dr Modise confirmed that both pharmacy and laboratory support services would commence operations at SKMTH and Princess Marina Hospital starting February 2.

    On February 5, members of the media visited SKMTH and were informed that although some medication shortages persist, the overall situation is steadily improving.

    “We are seeing quite a number of patients visiting the facility, and we are able to assist them with medication,” said SKMTH pharmacist, Tshepho Kgabontle.

    Mr Kgabontle noted that the pharmacy’s situation was improving daily, forecasting that soon, medication currently unavailable would be accessible.

    However, some delays in dispensing medication have been attributed to administrative processes.

    When items arrive from the Central Medical Stores, they must first be logged into the system before patients can receive them.

    “That process sometimes means we receive the medication, but it would not be ready immediately,” Mr Kgabontle explained.

    The current patient load marks a sharp rise compared to previous weeks. Before the establishment of the public health authority, the pharmacy averaged approximately 50 patients per day.

    The surge is attributed to several factors, including the redeployment of clinics previously operating in Marina to SKMTH, resulting in influx from surrounding clinics and facilities.

    “We do have other patients coming from outside SKMTH, and we assist them as well,” Mr Kgabontle added.

    Despite the pressure on services, he indicated that the pharmacy was managing to dispense a majority of the required medications. While precise stock figures were not available, he reported that many patients arrived with chronic prescriptions containing multiple items.

    “In most cases, we are able to provide more than 60 percent of the prescribed medications,” he remarked