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  • Lobatse projects progressing well

    Lobatse projects progressing well

    Key projects in Lobatse, which include, the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) New Meat Value Addition and Secondary Processing Plant and the BMC Tannery Revitalisation Project are progressing well.

    Touring the projects, Lobatse Member of Parliament, Mr Kamal Jacobs, appreciated that
    the New Meat Value Addition and Secondary Processing Plant, which would replace the current cannery (ECCO) plant built in 1978, was well on track and had engaged locals.

    The project was awarded to China Jiansu at an amount of over P218 million.

    Also, he toured the Lobatse Tannery Revitalisation Project done by Colic Construction Development Company at over P212 million.

    It involves refurbishment of the tannery to process hides.

    Mr Jacobs said over 200 Batswana had been employed under the two projects.

  • GU Bag Gaborone Derby Bragging Rights

    GU Bag Gaborone Derby Bragging Rights

    Gaborone United on Saturday afternoon won the capital city bragging rights, as the Reds put their old nemesis, Township Rollers to the sword with a 3-1 triumph in the FNB Premiership at the Royal Aria Stadium in Tlokweng.
    A Mpho Kgaswane brace and a spectacular Ibrohim Youssouf volley gave the Reds the Gaborone Derby victory, in an evenly matched contest separated by GU being clinical in front ot goal.
    GU were ahead thorough Kgaswane as early as the 10thminute, setting the tone for an afternoon of glory for the Red half of town.
    Rollers still made a contest of it. The Blues managed to pose a threat with attacking forays on the right sided channels, Lemogang Maswena’s overlapping play getting a few balls into the GU danger zone.
    But Popa were let down by being lacklustre and indecisive whenever they got the ball into the opposition box.
    On the stroke of half time, it would be GU striking again, Ibrohim Youssouf controlling with his chest then scoring a stunning volley on the turn, handing the Reds a 2-0 half time lead.
    In the 48th minute, Rollers showed attacking intent and scored through youngster Kago Sesinyi, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and setting up a mouthwatering second half.
    The two sides played a high tempo match as Rollers sought the equaliser while GU looked for a cushion third.
    GU left back Mothusi Johnson hit the upright with a well taken free kick with 15 minutes to spare.
    A minute before time, Rollers won a free kick on the GU side of the field. As the Blues tried to take a quick free kick, GU intercepted play and in counter attacking transition play, Kgaswane scored past Kabelo Dambe.
    That 89th minute goal sent GU fans into wild celebrations as the Reds emerged 3-1 winners.
    GU end the FNB Premiership first round unbeaten, top of the log with 39 points from 15 matches. ENDS

  • Farmers are counting their losses, and Dr Dikoloti promises help

    Farmers are counting their losses, and Dr Dikoloti promises help

    Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture, on Friday, engaged both Pandamatenga commercial and subsistence farmers to appreciate damages caused by the recent heavy downpours.

    Over 8 000 hectares of crops from sorghum sunflower maize, onion, tomatoes were affected.

    Dr Dikoloti assured farmers that they would be assisted accordingly after assessments on damages were completed as he had brought along a company that specialised in agricultural insurance.

    He acknowledged that the rain had negatively impacted farmers, as they would have to wait weeks before resuming operations.

    He however commended farmers for their resilience and hard work in ensuring that Batswana were well-fed over the years.

    Pandamatenga Commercial Farmers committee executive member, Mr Ryan Neal revealed that while the assessment was still ongoing, all farmers in the area were affected as their farms were still submerged in water.

    Mr Neal also expressed the need for an insurance company and all relevant stakeholders to expedite assessments so that farmers would return to their farms.

    Their hope, as farmers, he said was to rebuild and replant to produce a bountiful harvest like last season

  • Francistown New Adventure Awaits

    Francistown New Adventure Awaits

    Nestled between Gerald Estate and Shashemooke, a wildlife park spanning approximately 19 kilometres is set to become Francistown’s latest hotspot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
    The Francistown Education Park, established by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, will introduce a unique blend of adventure and wildlife experiences, setting it apart from other parks in the country.
    For athletes, the park’s bush walk and marathon trails offer an unparalleled experience.
    Imagine running through a lush landscape surrounded by zebras, kudus and wildbeest, with birds chirping in the distance. That is exactly what awaits participants in the park’s upcoming marathons.
    “I have run in several marathons, but this one is going to be a game-changer. The scenery is breathtaking, and the fact that I will be running alongside wildlife makes it even more exciting. It is like being part of a real-life National Geographic Channel,” said a local athlete with the Francistown Athletics Club, Rose ‘Myguel’ Ditihalo.
    The park’s bush walk trail takes participants on a five-kilometre journey through the heart of the wildlife reserve, offering a chance to get up close with animals. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fuelled experience, the marathon trail stretches 10 kilometres, winding through the park’s rugged terrain.
    “As an athlete, it is exhilarating to run in a park full of animals. You have to be aware of your surroundings, but it is also incredibly freeing. The animals themselves seem to be enjoying the show too, I have seen zebras alongside the trail, completely unfazed by the runners,” Ditihalo added.
    The park’s unique activities are designed to promote eco-tourism and diversify Botswana’s tourism sector, which has traditionally focused on wildlife viewing.
    “We want to show the world that there is more to Botswana than just wildlife,” said the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Wynter Mmolotsi, recently when addressing a Francistown special full council meeting.
    He said the park was just the beginning, adding that the new administration planned to develop more innovative tourism products showcasing the country’s natural beauty.
    “The park will form part of Francistown’s city tourism attractions and encourage visitors to stay longer in the city,” he said.
    Meanwhile, a paddock has been demarcated, fenced and gated. Within it, a boma has been erected to hold incoming wildlife for acclimatisation purposes.
    Stocking of the park has commenced, with impalas and zebras already introduced. Elands and ostriches are expected to arrive in the near future.
    Principal Wildlife Officer, Tabona Nyakane said the Big Five would not be introduced due to safety reasons. However, giraffes would be introduced in future, the current challenge being the lack of suitable equipment for their transportation.
    He said the animals were sourced from the Gaborone Game Reserve, with expectations that other reserves such as Sowa, Orapa and Jwaneng would donate wildlife to boost the park’s population.
    Some of the ongoing developments include construction of a gatehouse, which is almost complete, and grading of game-drive routes.
    Nyakane explained that the park’s ultimate goal was to provide hands-on experiential learning, boost community development and foster environmental stewardship by transforming green spaces into dynamic learning environments for students, communities and tourists.
    He said the current developments were partial, as funds for full development were still awaiting disbursement.
    Upon full operation, activities such as educational facilities, game drives, camping and chalet-style lodging will be introduced.
    However, challenges have emerged, with some animals dying due to stress and difficulties adapting to the new environment.
    “We have already lost five impalas due to stress and other complications. Some sustained serious injuries after fighting in transport trucks and later died,” said Senior Game Warden, Emmanuel Jeremiah.
    He added that one impala bull with a stomach wound was receiving treatment and was in a stable and promising condition.
    As the park prepares to welcome its first visitors, residents are eager to experience the new attraction.
    “It is about time we had something like this in Francistown. I cannot wait to take my kids on the bush walk and see the animals up close,” said resident Masego Motingwa.
    The park is expected to boost local tourism, create jobs and generate revenue for the community.
    With its unique blend of adventure and wildlife, the Francistown Education Park is poised to become a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. 

  • Kwele Aims to Restore Pageantry Dignity

    Kwele Aims to Restore Pageantry Dignity

    What was supposed to be the pinnacle of her career, representing Botswana at the 2020 Miss Philanthropic pageant in Abuja, Nigeria, turned into a nightmare for the then 23-year-old. Despite promises of full sponsorship, organisers abruptly cut off communication, leaving Kwele stranded in Gaborone, far from her home in Maun.
    “It was a huge disappointment that I will never forget. Imagine how Batswana, who had supported me and were rooting for me, felt. I asked the organisers to release an apology statement because it was their fault, but they never did,” she said
    The pain was so palpable that Kwele nearly walked away from pageantry forever. Instead, she chose resilience.
    Channelling her frustration into a mission for change, she founded The Dignified Pageantry, a platform designed to promote modesty, empowerment and, above all, professionalism.
    “With this project, I want to rectify the mistakes I experienced and bring dignity back to the industry,” she explained.
    The inaugural edition of the pageant is set to take place in Maun on October 23, opening its doors to young women from across the country. By hosting the event in the north, Kwele aims to solve a major barrier for local talent.
    “We have immense talent in the north, but many girls miss auditions in Gaborone because of the high travel costs,” she noted.
    Themed, Crowning Dignity, Celebrating Botswana’s Tourism Hub, Maun, the event serves to empower women and revive a tourism sector still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
    The 10 selected finalists will participate in a specialised boot camp, where they will tour Maun premier attraction sites, explore and promote local cuisine as well as undergo intensive preparation for the grand finale.
    Beyond logistics, Kwele, a professional makeup artist and a psychiatric and mental health nurse at Jubilee Hospital, is on a mission to dismantle societal prejudices. She is firm in her stance that beauty pageantry is an inclusive space.
    “In beauty pageantry, there are no physical attribute qualifications,” she stated, addressing the stereotype that pageants are only for specific body types.
    As a devoted Christian, she also faces scrutiny from religious circles. “Beauty pageantry is for everyone. It is about passion and I won’t throw away my passion just because of my faith,” she added.
    With a growing presence on her Facebook page, The Dignified Queen, and sponsors beginning to sign on, Kwele is optimistic about the future.
    Her five-year plan includes expanding auditions to every corner of Botswana and ensure that no girl is left behind due to her location.
    Kwele’s journey is a demonstration of the power of determination. She has successfully transformed a moment of personal heartbreak into a movement that promises to empower the next generation of Batswana women.

  • GU Galaxy share spoils

    GU Galaxy share spoils

    Premier League pacesetters Gaborone United (GU) and second-placed Jwaneng Galaxy played out a goalless draw on Wednesday night at the UB Stadium, a thrilling spectacle despite the lack of goals.

    A crowd packed to the rafters as the two title contenders locked horns, witnessing an enthralling contest that unfortunately lacked the final touch in front of goal.

    GU adopted a cautious approach, with man of the match Lebogang Ditsele dictating play from a deep-lying midfield role. The Reds preferred patient build-ups from the back, retaining possession in midfield with only occasional forward forays.

    Galaxy showed greater attacking intent but were let down by Lesotho international winger Neo Mokhachane, an otherwise skilful player whose tendency to hold on to the ball too long slowed down attacks and allowed the GU defence time to recover.

    The visitors attacked mainly from the wings. While Mokhachane’s right flank proved less effective, Kgotso Radithongwa was a constant threat on the left, repeatedly troubling GU right-back Alford Velaphi.

    Early in the contest, GU’s tricky youngster Omphile “Pist” Ramoagi attempted to break the deadlock, but Galaxy goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko was equal to the task.

    Midway through a first half of scant opportunities, GU goalkeeper Thabo Motswagole threw his body on the line alongside his defenders to block a series of Galaxy shots during a goalmouth scramble.

    At the other end, Galaxy’s Manda Nonto was cautioned for a challenge as GU attempted to break through the visitors’ defensive lines.

    Towards the break, Phoko went down to pull a save off of Ditsele as the match went into recess goalless.

    Both technical teams made tactical substitutions in the second half to introduce fresh legs. GU brought on Godfrey Tauyatswala and Obry Amseb for Sheikh Sesay and Omphile Ramoagi, while Galaxy introduced Onkabetse Makgantai and Dynamo Fredericks in place of Thabang Sesinyi and Nongo.

    Late in the match, Omaatla Kebatho tried his luck from distance, but his ambitious effort sailed just over the crossbar.

    GU remained top of the log with 36 points from 14 games, while Galaxy stayed second on 33 points from the same number of matches.

    Unbeaten GU now face traditional city rivals Township Rollers in a mouth-watering Gaborone Derby at Royal Aria Stadium in Tlokweng on Saturday in the pick of the weekend fixtures as the first round draws to a conclusion

  • Boko meets Cuba and France ambassadors

    Boko meets Cuba and France ambassadors

    Botswana and Cuba aim to deepen cordial relations, with President Advocate Duma Boko expressing appreciation for Cuba’s support, particularly in healthcare.

    During a courtesy call by outgoing Cuban Ambassador Orlando Alvarez, President Boko hailed Cuba as a key partner, not just for Botswana, but for Southern African states like Namibia and Angola.

    Ambassador Alvarez assured President Boko of Cuba’s commitment to collaborate with Botswana in areas like agriculture, education, and health.  He said Cuba was keen on sharing expertise in irrigation, animal bio-technology, and veterinary medicine, among others.

    The same day, French Ambassador Valerie Baraban also met President Boko, discussing bilateral relations in defence, security, environment, and cultural exchange. 

  • Youth Centres undergo transformation

    Youth Centres undergo transformation

    Botswana Youth Centres are being re-imagined as engines of opportunity, shifting from recreational spaces to integrated development hubs that equip young people with skills, confidence and pathways to economic independence. This transformation is at the heart of renewed government efforts to invest in the country’s youth, whose potential will shape Botswana’s future.

    On January 20, Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs together with  Lucara Botswana signed of a  five-year partnership through Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at translating policy into community impact.

    The  MoU covers digital skills, entrepreneurship, Information and Communication Technology, sports and arts.

    Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs said youth centres must no longer be places where young people simply pass time but should be places where futures are built.

    The move comes against a demographic backdrop in which citizens aged 18 to 35 make up 30 per cent of the population, according to the 2022 Housing and Population Census. Minister Chombo noted that this youthful demographic presents both an opportunity and a responsibility that could not be ignored.

    Traditionally viewed as venues for sport and leisure, youth centres across Botswana will now be repositioned as safe, inclusive spaces that provide life skills, training and support. The planned refurbishment and construction of youth centres, particularly in marginalised communities, will strengthen programmes focused on entrepreneurship, employability and innovation, enabling young people to turn ideas and talent into sustainable livelihoods.

    Ms Chombo also emphasised the need for youth development to be understood through a gender lens. Census data shows that Botswana’s population remains skewed towards females, with a sex ratio of 95 males to 100 females. In addition, 44.5 per cent of households are headed by women, many supporting larger families.

    “These realities demand development interventions that are inclusive, gender-responsive and socially grounded,” she said.

    In Botswana, she said being the third most populated village, Molepolole was highlighted as a key beneficiary of the initiative. With a population of 74 719 and an estimated 22 415 residents, she said Molepolole fell within the youth age group.

    “The envisaged youth centre in the village is expected to support young people navigating the transition from education to employment. The facility will offer leadership development, career guidance, social skills training and psychosocial support, while promoting positive relationships and community engagement,” she added. 

    Additionally, Ms Chombo said youth mental and emotional well-being would be central to programming, ‘with mentorship and counselling services providing support amid mounting social and economic pressures’.

    Ms Chombo said youth empowerment was closely linked to national security and social cohesion. When young people are meaningfully engaged, they become agents of peace, reform and innovation.

    Lucara Botswana managing director, Ms Naseem Lahri expressed delight that Lucara Botswana remained committed to delivering lasting and sustainable benefits to communities in its areas of operation. 

    “This is an impactful strategic partnership. I see a lot of impact coming out of this MoU, as a lasting value and it will reflect our commitment interms of what we bring for the youth in an impactful manner,” she added.

    The MoU is meant to facilitate and develop a framework for cooperation in youth and gender empowerment and development to advance and accelerate efforts toward youth and gender empowerment and development.

    Furthermore, the cooperation, in the context of the MoU, also includes partnership in the construction and commissioning of state of the art facility for operational spaces, capacity building, digital skills, counselling services, entrepreneurship, Information and Communication Technology, sports and arts

  • Heavy Rains Destroy Crops in Pandamatenga

    Heavy Rains Destroy Crops in Pandamatenga

    The ongoing heavy downpours in Pandamatenga have submerged farms destroying a total of 8 082 hectares of crops from sorghum sunflower maize, onion, tomatoes.

    In an interview, Pandamatenga Commercial Farmers Association executive member, Mr Ryan Neal said on Wednesday, their area received 200mm of rain coupled with storms, an occurrence he labelled one in a hundred years.

    He said most farms were affected due to inadequate drainage, which left crops submerged in water.

    He said the state of the farms was dire, rendering access to assess the damages difficult.

    “The next few days are quite crucial if the rain continues, then many crops will be completely written off.”

  • Bogosi Pillar of National Unity and Governance

    Bogosi Pillar of National Unity and Governance

    Vice president and minister of finance, mr ndaba gaolathe, has reaffirmed government’s respect for the country’s traditional leadership, describing ntlo ya dikgosi as a vital pillar of national unity, cultural preservation and democratic stability.

    Addressing dikgosi during a sitting in gaborone on january 22, mr gaolathe emphasised that the counsel of traditional leaders, grounded in lived experience and custom, remained essential in shaping principled leadership and sound governance.

    He praised dikgosi for serving as the custodians of the nation’s moral compass, bridging the gap between botswana’s rich heritage and modern democratic systems.

    “progress without heritage is fragile and leadership without wisdom is hollow,” mr gaolathe said, adding that the nation’s enduring stability was anchored in the noble traditions upheld by bogosi.

    The engagement marked a significant milestone in the working relationship between the finance ministry and ntlo ya dikgosi, building on their inaugural meeting in palapye in january last year.

    Mr gaolathe commended the members for their focus on key national briefings, including the national development plan 12, bonno national housing programme, updates on national health insurance and foot and mouth disease as well as the forensic audits and industrial court matters.

    “these engagements will deepen the understanding of government programmes and strengthen the quality of your advisory role to parliament,” he said.

    On institutional matters, mr gaolathe acknowledged submissions regarding the conditions of service for dikgosi. He said he was confident that ongoing dialogue would yield practical solutions to improve service delivery and member well-being.

    He also highlighted the recent consultation between ntlo ya dikgosi and president advocate duma boko regarding the proposed constitutional court.

    He said such interaction was a landmark moment in reinforcing the relationship between traditional and elected leadership.

    In his closing remarks, mr gaolathe urged dikgosi to remain steadfast in their roles as a unifying force, promoting social cohesion and justice through the customary courts to ensure continued nation-building.