Author: Daily News

  • Kgosi Seretse o Kopa Morafe go Rotloetsa Mophato

    Kgosi Seretse o Kopa Morafe go Rotloetsa Mophato

    Bangwato ba rotloeditswe go amogela tsosoloso ya mephato.

    Se se builwe ke mothusa kgosi ya Bangwato, Kgosi Seretse Peter Khama kwa phuthegong ya kgotla kwa Mahalapye ka Labotlhano.

    Kgosi Seretse o tlhalositse fa Kgosi Khama IV a tla bolotsa mephato e le mene Motsheganong a tlhola letsatsi, mme o gorosiwe a tlhola gararo.

    Ka jalo, Kgosi Seretse mephato e tla akaretsa batho ba ba tshotsweng mogare ga dingwaga tsa 1991 le 2010. Mme o rotloeditse botlhe ba ba nang le keletso ya go ya mophatong,go ikwadisa kwa dikgotleng mo dikgaolong tsa gammangwato.

    Kgosi Khama a re mephato e tla bolotswa e le mene ka gore go tsere sebaka go sa bolotswe mophato ka mabaka a a rileng. A re ka tshwanelo mephato e siana ka dingwaga di le tlhano a tlhalosa fa maikaelelo e le go tsosolosa ngwao le go bopa setshaba.

    Mongwe wa baeteledipele ba thulaganyo ya mephato, Rre Martin Seretse o kopile batsadi go rotloetsa bana ba bone go ya mophatong.

    O kopile batsadi gore ba neela bana mefago le di dirisiwa tse dingwe, mme o gateletse gore ba banang le dingwaga tse di kwa morago, mme le bone ba a letlellwa go ya mophato o o tlaa bololang. 

    A re ba laleditse ba sepodise, baruti, bogakolodi le ba tshidilo maikutlo le ba-na-le-seabe ka kakaretso go tla tsaya karolo kwa tirong eo. 

    Monni mongwe wa Mahalapye, Rre Basimolodi Maute a re pele mephato e ne e sa bolotswe fela, ka go ne go nale thulaganyo e e faphegileng.

    Mme Phillipine Mokubung ene o kopile Kgosi Seretseg gore ba gagamatse kgang ya dinako tsa diphitlho gore di dirwe phakela thata. Mme Mokubung gape o supile matshwenyego ka kapari ya bomme kwa dintsho a kopa gore go rotloediwe banana ka go tlotla loso. 

  • Safflower e Bogadi Bogaufi

    Safflower e Bogadi Bogaufi

    Fa go na le sejalo se se tshwanetseng go rotloediwa ke Safflower ka se na le bokgoni jwa go itshwarelela mo maemo a bosa a a sa iketlang, gape se ditiriso dintsi e bile se le bogadi bo gaufi.

    Seno se boletswe bosheng kwa Mahetlwe ke Moitseanape wa tsa temo kwa sekolong sa ithutela dithuto tsa Temo-thuo sa Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), Professor Vallantino Emongor. Prof. Emongor a re Safflower e ka dirisiwa ka mekgwa e farologanyeng, jaaka go dira mafura a apayang, ditlolo, dipilisi, tee le dijo tsa leruo 

    O tlhalositse gore mo bekeng tse nne go ya kwa go tse thataro, matlhare a Safflower a ka dirisiwa jaaka morogo, medi e ka omisiwa ebo e silwa go dira molemo fa dithunya tsa teng di thusa go laola malwetse a tshwanang le jwa sukiri, madi a matona, a amanang le pelo le go thuba bothole mo mading a mmele.

    Prof. Emongor a re go botlhokwa go inaakanya le temo ya Safflower ka gore ke motswedi wa go dira dikgwebo ka go farologana tse di ka tokafatsang itsholelo ya malwapa. O kaile fa ekere ele nngwe ya temo ya Safflower e ntsha thobo ya ditone tse nne tsa peo e ka dirang dipoelo tsa P1.2 million.

    O supile fa go le botlhokwa gore balemi ba ikopanye ka gantsi go rekisa kwa ntle ga lefatshe go batla selekanyo se se kwa godimo sa dithoto. A re mo bogompienong lefatshe la Amerika le batla go rekisitswa ole ya safflower ka US$30 litara ka jalo go tlama balemi gore ba ikopanye go fitlhelela selekanyo se se batlegang.

    Fa a tlaleletsa mafoko a ga Prof Emorgor, Rre Bamphitlhi Tiroesele, le ene a tswa kwa BUAN a re mahura a safflower a na le tatso ee rileng, lenko le le boleng, dikotla gape boleng jwa yone bo tshwana le jwa mahura a motlhware (olive oil)

    Rre Tiroesele a re mahura a Safflower ga a gatsele, a ka dirisiwa go apaya, go nowa, go fokotsa mmele gape a siametse pelo. A re karolo nngwe le nngwe ya Safflower e mosola, a tlatsa ka gore moroko o o salang fa go tlhotlhiwa mahura wa jewa.

    Rre Tiroesele a re o ka dirisiwa jaaka sejo sa go fitlhola, a tlatsa ka gore gape o na le menontshane e e kwa godimo fa o dirisiwa jaaka sejo sa diphologolo. A re morago ga go photlha, letlhaka la safflower le ka dirisiwa jaaka sejo sa diphologolo. 

    “Go ka se nne le lehuma fa re ka fetola megopolo ya rona,” ga tlhalosa Rre Tiroesele.

    Mogolwane wa ofisi ya temothuo mo kgaolong ya Kweneng, Mme Motlakatlala Thukwi o tlhalositse fa maikaelelo magolo e le go tsibosa balemi ka temo ya Safflower, go rotloetsa balemi go dira temo e le kgwebo le go tsaa malebela mo mo baleming ba bangwe. A re balemi ba tshwanetse go itse metlhale ya go somarela thobo, gore ba kgone go nna le peo e tla dirisiwang mo pakeng ya temo e latelang.

    Molemi wa Mahetlwe gape e le mogwebi wa tse di dirilweng ka Safflower, Rre James Taunyane o ne a dirisa letsatsi le go supegetsa balemi ba bangwe tiriso ya Safflower ka go farologana. Rre Taunyane o ne ruta balemi ba Mahetlwe go tlhotlha mahura go tswa mo peong ya Safflower le go ba supegetsa tse a di dirang ka Safflower. 

    O tlhalositse gore tse a di dirang ka Safflower di tlhomamisitswe boleng ke lephata la dipatlisiso la National Agricultural Research and Development Institute le go tlhomamisa gore di ka dirisiwa ke setshaba. Rre Taunyane o kopile balemi go tshwaragana gore ba kgone go gola.

  • Chain Reaction Hosts Maiden Cycling Race

    Chain Reaction Hosts Maiden Cycling Race

    A cycling company, Chain Reaction will host its maiden cycling race dubbed the Kgatleng Mountain Bike (MTB) challenge.
    The event scheduled for April 11 in the Kgatleng District will serve as a catalyst to the local cycling scene, which had shown low activity following the COVID pandemic.
    “After working closely with the cycling community through our tours and rentals, we felt a responsibility to step into the race organising space and provide a platform for riders to compete, connect and grow,” said Ofentse Gaesi of Chain Reaction.
    Gaesi said the Kgatleng MTB challenge race was more than just a race, but a celebration of the rugged beauty of the Kgatleng District as well as promotion of cycling culture and healthy lifestyle across the country.
    With their knowledge and expertise of local and regional race standards, Chain Reaction promises to deliver an expertly curated route starting from Rasesa, weaving through Rasesa and Pilane before crossing under the A1 to Tshele Hills and back to finish point.
    The race with route distances of 60km, 40km as well as 30km is inclusive of elites, weekend warriors and beginners’ categories.
    “Our move into event management marks a major milestone, from humble beginning as a rental company,” said Gaesi adding that the company remained open to strategic partnerships with organisations looking to support health, wellness and local sports development.
    Registration for the Kgatleng MTB Challenge race is available online at www.ticketlinc.co.bw as well as at BK Cycles and D&G Cycles.
    Registration fee is P100 across all route distances.

  • Kgatleng Registers 349 for Child Support Grant

    Kgatleng Registers 349 for Child Support Grant

    Kgatleng District Council has to date registered 349 child support grant beneficiaries.
    The programme qualifies children who have not reached 12 months by April, must be a citizen of Botswana and possess a registered birth certificate and the primary giver must have resided in the district for at least six months prior to application.
    Addressing a full council meeting recently, council chairperson, Mr Thabo Komane said the child grant was expected to commence payment this month, following a registration exercise that began on February 18.
    Mr Komane said payment would be facilitated through the Social Benefits Payment and Reconciliation System.
    “This is a transformative development for vulnerable families across our district” he said.
    On other issues, Mr Komane told meeting that council’s effort to ramp up income streams was bearing fruit.
    In that regard, he said trade licence collections, revenue officer deployments, and the October 2025 auction generated P78,100 as well as ongoing commercialisation of market stalls that contribute to a stronger own-source revenue base.
    Furthermore, he said council’s Public-Private Partnership framework continued to attract investment citing that the P1 million pledge from Business Botswana through the Private Sector Disaster Response Fund.
    He said the funds earmarked for sewage line connections for 50 households along the Notwane Riverfront in Mochudi was a compelling example of what partnership could achieve.
    He said financial evaluation of tenders had been completed, and 16 of the 50 target households had already been identified.
    Furthermore, he said council had been informed that the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure had secured funds for the reconstruction of the Mmamashia-Modipane Road, currently at pre-contract stage with tender documents under final vetting.
    “Construction is anticipated to commence in the next financial year and will stimulate economic diversification, improve connectivity to South Africa via Tlokweng and Sikwane Border Posts, and create significant employment opportunities for our people,” he said.
    Mr Komane also said the Modipane-Mabalane Road construction had been delayed by a court order.
    “We are urgently engaging the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure to provide short-term solutions while the legal process is being resolved,” he said.
    In the agriculture space, he said for the 2025/2026 ploughing season, 5 505 farmers were registered compared to 5 148 in the previous season, and that 1 617.28 hectares were planted under the Lemang Dijo Programme.
    However he said, the long dry spell from January to February affected standing crops.
    “Consequently, this may result in a decline in production this season. Our thoughts remain with the farming families who are impacted,” he said.

  • Tshepo ‘Talk Talk’ Motlhabankwe Passes on

    Tshepo ‘Talk Talk’ Motlhabankwe Passes on

    Tributes from former teammates and fans have started to pour in for former Zebras defender Tshepo ‘Talk Talk’ Motlhabankwe who has passed on at the age of 46.

    One of Botswana’s football legend, Motlhabankwe, enjoyed play at both club and national level. 

    With a career spanning nearly two decades, his career can be traced from, Extension Gunners, Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Township Rollers. He was also a coach, respected for his mentorship skills. Motlhabankwe’s efforts were also instrumental in qualifying the national team for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

    A tribute from Township Rollers highlights Motlhabankwe’s distinct leadership and dedication, which made him one of the greatest players Botswana has ever produced. 

    “On and off the pitch, he inspired teammates, fans and the next generations.” 

    Joel Mogorosi also paid tribute to one of the country’s football heroes.

    “Tiago mortar my broe, the best right back defender and midfielder of all the time for our generation…” he said on his Facebook page.

    Botswana Football Association president, Tariq Babitseng also extended condolences to the Motlhabankwe family and the football community.

    In a press release, he noted that Motlhabankwe’s contribution to the game would remain etched in the history of Botswana football.

    “In honour of his legacy, we kindly request that all matches played across the country observe a moment of silence prior to kick-off, Babitseng said in a press statement. 

  • Athletes Pull Off Showstopper Performance

    Athletes Pull Off Showstopper Performance

    When the country’s elite athletes are on track, the clock does not stand a chance. This emerged during the three day Orange Botswana Athletics National Championships where athletes pushed boundaries of human endurance and speed to clock new record.

    The championships, held at the National Stadium had been so far the highlight of the local athletics calendar.

    The 400 meters world champion, Collen Kebinatshipi was among the exceptional performers, producing a World Lead of 9.89 seconds in 100 meters, which was also a Stadium Record. Another highlight was in the 110 hurdles, where Kemorena Tisang clocked a new National Record of 13.81 seconds.

    An icing on the cake was when two U20 athletes, Same Mhutsiwa clocked 24.29 seconds and Jack Newman recorded of 21.16 seconds in 200 meters, both qualifying for the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships scheduled for August 5 to 9 at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon, United States.

    Even though Botswana is well known for its strength and dominance in the 400 meters, the 2026 championships has demystified the notion after a brilliance performance in the 200 meters senior men. Prince Selepe won a closely contested event in by 20.08 seconds, closely followed by Justice Oratile and Kevin Lobatlamang with 20.22 seconds, and 20.40 seconds respectively.

    Coach Chilume Ntshwarang of Jwaneng Athletics and national team said the nationals were extra ordinary as athletes gave their all. “We have also seen good times in the 400 meters women final with more than three athletes recording Personal Best Times, and I am very happy with my team’s performance,” he said.

    Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26 national team coach, Mogomotsi Otsetswe also commended athletes for doing well across all the events. “We have athletes who can now compete in the 4×100, 4×100 mixed and 4×400 meters in both men and women categories. I know the world will be focusing on our 4×400 men’s relays but we have a clear message for them, we have solid teams,” he said.

    The event title sponsor, Orange Botswana was equally happy with overall standard of the event. Public Relations and Communications manager, Tebogo Nadisah said Orange Botswana was proud to stand behind the event as the title sponsor.

    Nadisah said their role went beyond branding, as it was about supporting platforms that brought people together, celebrated talent and created opportunities.

    “Orange is no stranger to the world of sport. Over the years, our brand has consistently backed platforms and talent that reflect the country’s spirit of excellence and ambition. This includes its partnership with Olympic Gold medalist Letsile Tebogo, whose achievements on the global stage continue to inspire new generations of athletes,” she said.

  • Ministry and Transport Association Commit to Dialogue

    Ministry and Transport Association Commit to Dialogue

    The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, together with the Botswana Transport Association, are committed to constructive dialogue and finding solutions that serve the interests of commuters, operators, and the broader transport sector, says a joint press statement from the two parties.

    According to the press statement, both the ministry and the association engaged in ongoing negotiations, which have been marked by mutual respect and a shared determination to develop strong recommendations that will improve service delivery and sustainability.

    The ministry and association expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and continued support as they work together toward outcomes that benefit the public and strengthen the transport industry. This comes after disputed transport fares  that Botswana Bus Operators Association (BOBAB) did not agree with.

    The tussle headed to court where the Gaborone High dismissed with cost the BOBAB urgent application on Saturday, which challenged the government’s reversal of the previously announced increase of public transport fares, ruling that the government acted within its powers.

    The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure informed the public through a press statement that the high court of Botswana has dismissed an application brought by the association challenging the recent fare adjustment published in Government Gazette Notice No. 309 of 2026.

    As a result, the release says shared taxi will be P10 per passenger per trip, special taxi: P36 per trip while the mini-bus (local transport) will be charged P9 per trip. According to the release longs distance (bitumen road) will be charged 0.38 thebe per km and Long distance (gravel/sandy road is charged 0.41 thebe per km.

  • President Undertakes Working Visits to France and Spain

    President Undertakes Working Visits to France and Spain

    President Advocate Duma Boko has departed for France and Spain to attend the One Health Summit on April 7, which coincides with World Health Day. The summit, hosted by the France, will bring together global leaders, scientists, and stakeholders to discuss human, animal, plant, and ecosystem health, focusing on shared health threats.

    The One Health Summit aims to promote action-oriented multilateralism, accelerate One Health commitments, and develop solutions to strengthen health and surveillance systems.

    Key topics include zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, sustainable food systems, and pollution exposure. In addition, President Boko will engage on bilateral talks with his counterpart, President Emmanuel Macron of France, and engage business leaders on trade and investment opportunities in Botswana.

    The President will proceed to Spain on April 9, where he will advance Botswana’s economic diplomacy drive and further enhance bilateral cooperation between Botswana and Spain. President Boko will also hold talks with Spain Prime Minister Mr Pedro Sanchez Perez-Castejon.

    President Boko is accompanied by Ministers Dr Phenyo Butale, Dr Stephen Modise, and Dr Edwin Dikoloti, among other senior government officials.

  • Govt Cushions Citizens Against Fuel Prices

    Govt Cushions Citizens Against Fuel Prices

    The government has taken a decision to introduce measures to cushion citizens from the rise in the cost of fuel caused by external factors, primarily the Middle East conflict.

    Addressing the nation on Thursday, President Advocate Duma Boko said government understood that Batswana were concerned about the recent fuel and transportation price increase and the likelihood of food costs also rising as a consequence.

    President Boko announced that fuel as well as security of supply levies were suspended for six months.

    “These levies, charged at 245.5 thebe per litre for petrol and 239.5 thebe per litre for diesel, are suspended to cushion motorists and consumers from the rising fuel costs.”

    The government has also decided to reduce work trips undertaken in the civil service for a duration of three months, apart from essential services.

     Furthermore, President Boko said government would monitor retailers to ensure that they did not increase the prices of essential goods in a manner disproportionate to the rise in fuel costs.

    Therefore, he urged the nation to be united in this period where the country faced the challenge of an economic downturn induced by reduced diamond sales in the global market as well as rising fuel costs caused by the Middle East crisis. 

  • Mokgware Condemns Church Factions

    Mokgware Condemns Church Factions

    The Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, has expressed concerns regarding the prevalence of factionalism within various church communities.

    Mr Mokgware said during the commemoration of Easter at Seven Rainbow Church of God in Selebi-Phikwe that divisions within the church were often driven by greed and the desire to exploit churches for personal gain.

    He thus condemned the divisive trend, explaining its detrimental impact on the unity and harmony that should characterise religious organisations, and called for collective action among church leaders and congregants to address internal conflicts.

    Major General Mokgware called for reconciliation during church conflicts to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all members.

    “Greed-driven factionalism did not only undermine the core values of faith but also crippled the essential purpose of our religious organisations,” Mokgware stressed, adding that churches should be sanctuaries of hope and unity, not battlegrounds for personal ambition. Also, Maj. Gen. Mokgware encouraged the church to develop mentorship programmes to raise and guide young leaders, ensuring they uphold the values of integrity and humility.

    The church, he stated further, must continuously take proactive steps in addressing social issues, including anger, violence, and gender-based violence that continue to affect communities.

    Mr Mokgware acknowledged the various challenges that church leaders encountered, particularly welfare issues, which affected the operations of the church. 

    He explained the need to address these difficulties by exploring alternative income-generating strategies rather than relying on offerings collected during services.

    Meanwhile, at the Seven White Angels Church in Zion, the Minister of State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa stated that the church served as a sanctuary for healing and a space where individuals can uplift one another.

    He shared reflections about his own experiences, explaining how he has come to understand that God was always capable of providing hope and strength, even in the most challenging times. 

    Mr Mohwasa reassured the congregants that trusting in God’s timing is crucial, particularly when one finds themselves at their lowest. 

    His message resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the power of faith and the comfort that can be found in relying on a higher purpose.