news.thevoicebw.com TROUBLED SOUL: TO VOTE FOR increase ofMembers unprecedented that asudden and insult’ allegations “an dismissedas has Mokgweetsi Masisi PRESIDENT MY MOTION BRIBE MPS BRIBE MPS MASISI DENIES10PERCENTMPSSALARYMASISI HIKEWAS ABRIBE Selaledi

I DIDN’T I DIDN’T Public Emergency months of State hissix to support was abribeforthem percent onTuesday basic salaries by 10 of Parliament’s LOCKDOWN that itwas aninsultto Wednesday, Masisisaid Parliamentdinary on Or theExtra lines of The Voice ontheside clusive interviewwith (SOPE)motion. SUICIDE IN Speaking inanex - - - by abribe. on would beinfluenced decision theMPsagree suggest that whatever TURN TO PAGE 2 SPEAKS FOR ITSELF April 10, 2020 V1142 P8.50 Friday Ic VAT) (Incl

PAGESEE 2 2 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 MASISI DENIES 10 PERCENT MPS SALARY HIKE WAS A BRIBE FROM PAGE ONE Kablay explained as he went cepting the 10 percent salary on to rubbish allegations that increment they changed their “That’s an insult to our his palms were greased to vote minds. They were definitely MPS. When did we start to use in support of the proposed six bought to vote for what Ma- public funds to entice people months SOPE. sisi wants,” said the concerned to vote in a particular way? According to an opposi- MP who said as opposition Mps We did agree two years back to tion MP who didn’t want to be they were shocked and caught negotiate public servants sala- named, the salary increment off guard by the generous ges- ries. Was that a bribe? Asked issue was sprung up on them ture because they were told the president. on Tuesday at the General As- at the last seating of parlia- He made his remarks in the sembly held at Boipuso hall in ment that issues of members’ middle of an interview in which the middle of COVID 19 discus- wellness will be shelved indefi- this publication was quizzing sions. “ It was a bribe to the nitely because of budgetary Botswana Democratic Party BDP backbench. They knew constraints brought about by (BDP) Chief Whip, Liakat we were going to disagree with Covid-19. Kablay about his 10 percent SOPE so they needed their “Both Minister of the Fi- LATE: Selaledi increment on the P39 000 basic back bench,” said the MP nance and Morwaeneg were clear monthly salary. Inside sources further re- before that there was no money Kablay confirmed that a vealed that the 10 percent was to increase MPs salries when they motion was discussed by the an ambush as from nowhere needed to raise P500 million to house in the last seating of the minister of presidential fight covid 19, so we were shocked parliament to allow MPs to use Affairs, Governance and Pub- that it was the same Morwaeng government vehicles to tour lic Administration, Kabo Mor- who came up with the 10percent their constituencies instead of waeng stood up and asked for increase this week.” their private cars. permission to brief the house On Thursday evening after SUICIDE IN “The opposition MPs were on something unrelated to co- three days of heated debate, at the forefront of that motion. vid-19 only for him to announce parliament approved a motion They vehemently argued that the increment with immediate to extend his current 21- day they needed assistance with effect. SOPE to six months in the fight government vehicles but in- “We had lobbied the BDP against COVID 19. stead government has decided backbench and they had agreed Botswana has so far regis- to vote with us against the six tered 13 cases of Covid- 19 with LOCKDOWN to give us a 10 percent incre- ment as travel/ car allowance,” months SOPE but after ac- one death. Popular activist overdoses at home BY SHARON MATHALA ing in my head so much lately. I thought going back on my meds Terrified at the thought of would be helpful but even with numbed emotions, I still stay in being stuck in doors for the my head. Trust that the isolation next 28 days, in the early isn’t helping because yes that just hours of Thursday 2 April - a means ample time for me to be in day before Botswana was my head and it sucks coz my sup- due to go into lockdown – port system isn’t as strong as I’d wish it would be.” 23-year-old Kutlwano Selaledi Six hours later, Selaledi’s last took their own life. message reads simply, “I’m sorry.” Selaledi, who was a gender They died soon after. non-conformist, meaning they Tributes have since been pour- did not regard themselves as ei- ing in on social media for the pop- ther male or female, is said to ular activist. The Lesbians, Gays have overdosed on their depres- and Bisexuals of Botswana (LE- sion medication at their home in GABIBO) organisation, to which Palapye. Selaledi was closely associated, They were buried this Wednes- took to Facebook to offer their day in a quiet ceremony at their own heartfelt condolence. home village of Gabane. “Bubbly was an activists, a Described by friends and col- friend, family, confidante, lover leagues as a hero and lover of and a hero. We will always and for- life, Selaledi, an unemployed law ever remember you and we know graduate from the University of that you are in a better place and Botswana, was said to have been that all the Earthly burdens have For subscription battling with depression for some been lifted from your shoulders. time You are and always will be a true It seems their fragile men- shining star,” reads part of the tal state could not handle the message. CALL: Tebogo thought of four weeks of extreme Warning that depressed people social distancing and the loneli- will be especially vulnerable dur- ness this would involve. ing lockdown, a close associate of GABORONE According to a source close to the deceased, who wished not to the family, Selaledi, nicknamed be named, urged the government Tel: (+267) 316 1585 • Fax: (+267) 393 2822 Bubbly for their friendly nature, to intervene. FRANCISTOWN was found unconscious by their “Government should consider housemate. They were immedi- looking into depression patients Tel: (+267) 241 6621 • Fax: (+267) 241 6693 ately rushed to hospital but certi- and how they are going to help fied dead upon arrival. them. I don’t know how but I fore- “They overdosed on their de- see a lot of incidents like this.” pression pills. Selaledi had been Meanwhile, confirming the sad suffering from depression but did incident, Palapye Station Com- not show any signs of wanting to mander, Beggar Nawa told The take their life prior to the inci- Voice, “We received a report of sui- dent. They were as bubbly as their cide of a 23-year-old. We don’t have name,” insisted an insider. any other details on the matter as news.thevoicebw.com thevoicebw thevoicebw Giving an insight into the it is still fresh.” crippling psychological torment Efforts to get a comment from raging inside them, on the day the deceased’s family proved fu- P O Box 40415, Gaborone, Botswana. Unit 4, Plot 142, Gaborone International Finance Park they died, at 00:36 in the morning, tile at the time of going to press. P O Box 336, Francistown, Botswana Selaledi posted on Facebook: Selaledi’s Aunt shared that she “Much as I try to deny it, sui- was already at the farm and could cidal thoughts have been linger- not talk. news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 3A

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news.thevoicebw.com SPEAKS FOR ITSELF 4 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 OPPOSITION PARTIES SPEAK OUT AGAINST SOPE

DUMELANG SALESHANDO WYNTER MMOLOTSI PRESIDENT MASISI

BY DANIEL CHIDA “ This would be a move by ordinary times, which require our people crying for help. The ASAP, to ramp up testing even the BDP to channel public funds stringent measures to protect promised assistance hasn’t on people with no evident symp- into their coffers to prepare for people and the economic in- reached them. toms. People should be encour- OPPOSITION parties have the 2024 elections campaign,” terest of the country from the aged to go to the nearest health unanimously rejected said Saleshando, adding that effects of the coronavirus pan- 2. PPEs facility upon experiencing even President Mokgweetsi Masisi cannot be trusted with demic. the mildest symptoms. Masisi’s bid to be given a six months of rule by decree be- Provide adequate Person- six months long State of cause some of his relatives are al Protective Equipment for 4. Public space disinfection already alleged to have benefit- public Emergency (SOPE) to health workers such nurses, ed from dubious tenders during WHAT NEEDS doctors and others in sanitation Public health officials at -lo fight Covid-19. the 21 day SOPE the country is and cleaning services as well as cal Government level must im- In an extra ordinary meet- currently under. our security Sector. No health mediately commence a cam- ing of parliament on Wednesday, Concurring with the Vice TO BE DONE worker or any Motswana should paign of mass public spaces Members of parliament debated President of the Umbrella for be infected because of lack of disinfection. Let see parks, the motion, “That this Honour- Democratic Change was Wynter UDC RECOMMENDATIONS personal protective equipment streets, malls etc being sprayed able House resolves to endorse Mmolotsi of Alliance for Pro- with disinfectants. the State of Public Emergency gressives who also added that 1. Economic Stimulus/Relief, 3. Accelerated and as declared by His Excellency there was no need for the six Jobs and Social Safety Nets 5. Tracing the President of the Republic of months SOPE. aggressive testing Botswana and that it should last Mmolotsi was however of the campaigns About management of the There should be a team dedi- for a period of six (6) months. idea that the President has pow- P2 billion Relief Fund and the cated to tracking the past move- Rejecting the motion, Lead- ers to keep on increasing the 21 WHO has advised govern- funds it has allocated to fight ments of confirmed cases, and er of Opposition, Dumelang days as and when the situation ments to test, test and test. COVI-19. We call prudent man- such information be published Saleshando argued that instead calls for it. South Korea, New Zealand and agement of public funds. Pe- Via a special dedicated mobile of six months the President “At any time when the Presi- South Korea, Singapore and riodic reports of the Auditor application or on all government should go with the 28 days that dent feels SOPE has elapsed he Germany have already demon- General reveal wasteful expen- social media platform, this will run concurrently with the ex- can declare another 21 days if strated that accelerated test- diture and impropriety. There help the general public that treme social distancing also the Assessment Task Team ad- ing helps in curbing the spread. shouldn’t be a debate on wheth- might have been in contact with known as lockdown that is cur- vises him to do so until such a MOH should assist private medi- er after the fight there should the confirmed case, to come for- rently in place. time that we have contained the cal laboratories to build capac- be an economic stimulus or not. ward. It can also help all essen- “Something sinister is be- disease,” Mmolotsi said. ity to test for COVID-19, to aug- Government must save jobs by tial service workers currently hind the request for the six He also argued that the dura- ment the current effort. Seeing saving businesses, particularly on duty to avoid areas where a months of ruling alone by the tion of the extension of SOPE as a lot of Batswana Spread small businesses owned by na- positive case has been. This can president. I suspect there will be could be determined by the situ- throughout the country upon tive black Batswana. Those who be done by using mobile tech- looting of public funds through ation on the ground because as announcement of the SOE and survive through plaiting hair, nology and usage of debit/credit the awarding of tenders in a du- for now there is no need to call the Lockdown, efforts should shaving at salons, selling veg- payment information. Of course bious manner.” Saleshando said. for six months. be made to capacitate Medical gies and paraphernalia, or those publication of such information The Leader of opposition “We can only arrive at the laboratories outside Gaborone who are ordinarily informally will reveal the identity of the further expressed fears that six months if the situation ASAP, to avoid cases of samples self-employed, have no income person that has tested positive during the six months SOPE, if dictates and we should arrive being sent to Gaborone. South and may be killed by hunger but this will help a lot in speedy granted, only businesses linked there through 21 days SOPE at a Korea has already produced and starvation before COVID-19. tracking and isolation and stop- to the ruling Botswana Demo- time,” explained Mmolotsi. commercially available test These people must be assisted; ping further spread. cratic party would benefit from Calling for SOPE Masisi had kits to speed up the testing cam- we are inundated with calls of government relief funds. argued that people live in extra paign; these must be procured news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 5 MAJWE MINING FORCE EMPOYEES TO SIGN UNPAID LEAVES BY PORTIA MLILO outbreak. They were also paid leaves. told that next month they “We were against their Despite the Minister would be automatically put decision but we had no on unpaid leave. choice because it is difficult of Employment, Labour Addressing the media to find a job. Our union tried Productivity and Skills on Sunday, Minister Balopi to negotiate with manage- Development Mpho said he was disturbed by the ment but the decision was Balopi’s stern warning news that some companies final. It was not negotiable for companies to have retrenched staff while and as they were address- some had decided not to ing us, busses were ready to avoid flouting labour pay employees’ salaries this take us to our homes. It was laws during covid 19 month. He also announced a verbal address, no written IN MEETING: Majwe Mining lockdown, Majwe Mining government wage subsidies, communication was sent employees has forced employees to loan guarantees and tax to us and we were told let- go on unpaid leaves. concessions to deal with ef- ters would be sent through fects of the pandemic. union leadership. We really here to extreme social distancing At a meeting addressed Speaking to The Voice don’t know how we are go- as per the President’s decision,” by the company director, in an interview, one of Ma- ing to deal with the situa- he said the employees were notified jwe Mining employees who tion because we have bills Efforts to reach Majwe Min- that this month they will preferred not to be named to pay and half salaries will ing Director of Communications be paid half salaries since for fear of victimization not be enough. This is not and Public Relations Archibald there will be no production said that last Thursday our fault, we are available Ngakayagae for a comment failed DENYING: Saleshando for 21 days due to COVID-19 they were forced to sign un- to work but we have to ad- as his phone rang unanswered. SALESHANDO DENIES SABOTAGE CLAIMS Accused of calling for opposition leaders to boycott Masisi meeting

BY DANIEL CHIDA The confusion over Umbrella for Democratic Bank From Change’s (UDC) no show at President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s Monday meeting with opposition party leaders has been further clouded by accusations that UDC Vice President Dumelang Saleshando attempted Home to sabotage the meeting. Although he denies it, on Sunday night Sale- shando is said to have contacted opposition lead- ers and urged them to boycott the meeting, ar- ranged to discuss how best to stop Covid-19 from spreading in Botswana. Despite being the leader of the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), Saleshando’s invitation was rescinded on the basis his party is part of the Umbrella and thus could not be invited sepa- rately. The Maun West legislator reportedly reacted Get things done via our to the snub by calling Alliance for Progressives (AP) President Ndaba Gaolathe, who is currently in South Africa, and requesting his support in re- jecting the invitation. digital banking platforms Ndaba is said to have the conferred with his vice, Wynter Mmolotsi as he was standing in on AP’s behalf. It seems Mmolotsi then dissuaded from the comfort of Ndaba against such action. Adding further fuel to the ‘he said, she said’ saga, in an exclusive interview with The Voice, your home Mmolotsi maintained that indeed Saleshando contacted him. “His main concern was that as a leader he deserved an invitation too and if not invited we should also not attend. We didn’t think it would be a good idea to miss such an opportunity since we didn’t know what the president had for us,” ex- plained the Francistown South Member of Par- liament (MP). Mmolotsi further claimed that since the gen- eral elections, his party have not engaged the UDC on any working relations. Similarly, the President of Botswana Patri- otic Front (BPF), Biggie Butale confirmed hav- ing talks with Saleshando prior to the meeting Cellphone Online Stanbic Bank Instant Money but stressed it had nothing to do with a proposed Banking Banking App boycott. “He was complaining of ill treatment and being overlooked over other leaders,” explained Butale. However, Saleshando dismissed ever plot- ting a boycott or even contacting an opposition #StayHome #ProtectBotswana leader, and insisted ‘it was all lies’. When quizzed For more information, please contact Customer Care Center at +267 3987801 further he ignored the questions. In the end Monday’s three-hour meeting went ahead without any UDC representative with the Umbrella claiming their President Duma Boko was never invited. This was met with a counter-claim from the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) who insisted every effort was made to contact Boko. 6 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 WAME MOLEFHE [email protected] ON WRITING @wamewriting closing and bought the 12 that he had on the shelves, as well as the 100 he had in the storeroom. They had been ordered them in 2011 when it seemed like the strike that was going on in the capital city would threaten the peace and tranquility of Tsala- nang village. So, the story of the uncle who spent most of his days at One More Bar will have to wait. All bars are closed. He is home, A Plotian who was finally eating life unsatisfiedTwist reader demanded to for his kind of storyline… struggling with a condition Mind in lockdown, senses that some call dioris. Not sure in quarantine, words at a in his home village following his know who killed Thuso. Not every The whisper became a real- retirement, the owner of A&A ending has to be neat and tidy, af- ity. what its English equivalent it. distance, out of reach. General Dealer and Takeaway ter all. Soon, the proprietor of A&A The month end gatherings of This column, barely six and the firefire pastor. And then there was Thuso’s General Dealer and Takeaway the characters, Rre Moeng and months old has already gone sev- Then the idea came to in- expectant girlfriend, or maybe complained loudly to anyone friends, who would usually be eral mutations. In the beginning troduce a little intrigue, so the she wasn’t really a girlfriend? who cared to listen about how sat on the stoep of A&As Gen- its focus was writing: writing column went the route of a who- Thuso’s sexual orientation came disastrous a lockdown would be eral Dealer and TakeAway are tips, the writing craft, an odd dunit. There was a murder of a in to question—briefly. Whatev- on his business. And after much on hold. On the door handle book review-- but that became a young man—unsolved. Thuso met er the case, her family came to complaining, he somehow man- of the store hangs a sign that little tedious. his demise in a way that was not tell Thuso’s mother of the im- aged to get his shop listed as one reads CLOSED until further A few pieces of creative non- clearly explained. The ending minent birth of a baby. This was that supplied essentials. He was notice. fiction, flash fiction followed. left the mystery unresolved. Not comforting news to Mma Thuso. pleased when his stock of soap The only people who are safe Then came a few weeks of a all murders are solved, after all. She would have a grandchild to ran out. He quickly restarted are Thuso’s newborn and his novella in flash: short stories It seemed that Thuso’s killer got remind her of her beloved son. * his little factory that once pro- mother. They are being kept in- (very short stories) set in a fic- away with a dastardly deed. There It was on or around this time duced household disinfectant. doors by the new grandmother tional village that could be read was mention of a certain farmer that the sceptre of the disease In no time he was supplying the who brooks no nonsense. Even in a single sitting that carried called Snyman. Pictures of him called Corona was whispered. nearest town with hand sani- MmaThuso has not been al- on the next week. Welcome to in a compromising position were Still a whisper, flying in from a tiser. He got away with adding a lowed to see her new grandson. Tsalanang in 2020 introduced the found, but nothing came of that. place no one in Tsalanang had little stone to the usual price. It They are under lockdown—the fictional village of Tsalanang. It It was, in the language of writ- ever heard of: Wuhan, China. Far was, he justified this heartless- traditional one that has kept led in a few characters—the kind ing, a red herring. He appeared away. Far, far away. ness, a case of supply and de- newborns safe since time im- of people one encounters in ev- to be a villain in the making --a The plan for one of the resi- mand. He was thrilled when his memorial. eryday life. People going about totally unsavoury character. He dents of Tsalanang to open a nine-year old stock of whips was And the rest of Tsalanang the business of living. There was surely the killer…. But, that store that sold goods sourced bought. The owner of the local patiently waits out the 28 day were characters such as old would have been too predictable, from China was put on hold. security company marched into lockdown. Braces. Prays—that man RreMoeng, the octogenar- so the story ended. Unsolved. An Maybe this wasn’t a good time the shop one evening, just before it will only be 28 days. PERMITS, PANDEMIC AND PRESSURE! North West swamped with stampede for permits

BY FRANCINAH BAAITSE stand the state of emergency In total, Thololwane said they that we are in. They seem not to process at least ten permits every take this virus with the serious- hour. NORTH West District ness it needs!” he stressed. “We encourage people to Commissioner (DC) and Thololwane told The Voice he stay at home and call us only Veterinary Offices in Maun was shocked at some of the re- when there is need, in an emer- this week faced the daunting quests people were making for gency situation that involves an task of issuing temporary permits. animal’s health,” he concluded “Some of the explanations are gravely. movement permits to its ridiculous. They want permits so Similarly, North West DC, residents. that they can go and milk their Keolopile Leipego revealed they With President Mokgweetsi livestock. Some want to take die- have processed over 1, 000 permits Masisi declaring a 28-day lock- sel to the farm!” said the exasper- since the lockdown was called. down, which came into effect on ated officer, adding he does not “Some of them want to be Friday, it seems Ngamilanders understand why so many people given permits to visit their have already got itchy feet and did not complete such chores be- boyfriends or just go to the are desperate to leave their fore the lockdown was called. cattle-post for no pressing homes. “They were given ample time cause!” exclaimed a visibly frus- As coronavirus spreads like to do so!” he noted. trated Leipego, who reiterated wildfire around the world – as of “It is so worrisome because Tholowane’s advice for the public Thursday evening over one-and- some of the people who are de- to stay home whenever possible. a-half million people had caught manding permits include vulner- The DC complained that his the virus with 90, 000 fatalities – able groups like the elderly,” Tho- office is overcrowded, adding Maun’s Principal Veterinary Of- lolwane added. there is ‘not a single minute’ that ficer, Dr Thololwane warned the The vet advised members of passes without them working on public they were risking their the public to call their offices in permit or addressing issues re- lives by leaving their homes un- advance to request a permit to lated to such. necessarily. avoid having to queue for hours “People don’t seem to under- when they arrive. CONCERNED: Thololwane news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 010.04.2020 THE VOICE 7 TIME TO CLEAN THE CITY! town back in December, piping Itekeng ward Councillor Lesego Kwamabala to F/town Mayor the post by 12 votes to 11. Turning his attention to the virus, which to date has claimed over 80, 000 lives around the world, Radisigo stressed finds potential that although his city is yet to register a confirmed case of Covid-19, he is well aware of the dangers that lie ahead. amid Covid-19 Five days after the country went into lockdown, the Major voiced his concern BY KABELO DIPHOLO at the growing number of people intent on leaving their homes. FRANCISTOWN Mayor, Godisang “Too many people are treating this lockdown as a public holiday. To them, Radisigo is determined to find it’s just business as usual! The situation the potential amid the pandemic seemed to be under control last Friday threatening to bring the modern when the lockdown began; I think people world to its knees. were scared and took it seriously. How- Speaking exclusively to The Voice on ever, after realising they were free to Tuesday, Radisigo revealed that together go to the shops and other things, they with the Town Clerk, they have discussed threw caution out the window,” lamented possible measures to ensure the city is Radisigo, who warned the second city’s secure and in a position to fight back citizens this will likely lead to stricter against Covid-19. measures being enforced. “I had suggested to him that since the Currently, if found in violation of the streets are empty, it is the best opportu- Extreme Social Distance Regulations, nity to clean Francistown. We have to get members of the public face a possible P5, rid of some of the abandoned structures 000 fine or six months imprisonment - or littered around the city, which have be- even both! come breeding areas for rats. “The number of people I see on the “It is also our wish to fumigate the street is disturbing and this may force city streets but as you might be aware the state’s hand to come up with more there’s no budget for that. I think it’s one stringent measures. We’ve been given a of the reasons the President wants six window that allows us to go shopping for OPTIMISTIC: F/town Mayor Godisang Radisigo months of State Emergency so that such essentials but now this freedom is being decisions can be easily taken,” surmised abused. If we’re not afraid of this virus, have resorted to using ungazetted roads with soap. It’s that simple!” Radisigo re- Radisigo. what exactly is going to scare us to stay to get to their destination which is coun- iterated. “We are in a really tough state, but in our homes?” he demanded rhetorically. terproductive,” he added, noting the dis- The Mayor further dismissed recent we can use this opportunity to clean our The Mayor also bemoaned the large ease was generally a simple one to defeat reports trending on social media about city, revamp the waiting room at the groups of people who queue at the Dis- if dealt with sensibly. Francistown being declared a ‘red zone’. bus rank so that we have a new and fresh trict Commissioner’s Office to apply for “But our attitude towards it is going “We’ve never received an official -an Francistown after Covid-19,” said the special permits to leave their homes. to make it impossible to control. People nouncement on that. Until we do I’d treat man who was elected Mayor of Francis- “Those who are denied these permits should stay home and wash their hands that as fake news,” he maintained. Transact up to P30k with Orange Money

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30k Transact up to P30,000 per month 8 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 FRANCISTOWN ROTARY CLUB DONATES TO 50 FAMILIES BY KABELO DIPHOLO vendors who operated in these streets to bring food to their loved. The Rotary Club of “These people had depen- Francistown has become dents, who are now facing star- FOOD FOR THOUGHT: F-Town Rotary Club President Lawlor handing over to Mayor Radisigo the first organisation in vation because their usual pro- viders are no longer bringing in the second city to heed people who need immediate President Mokgweetsi anything,” stressed Makgarapa, whose organistation has a proud help,” she said. Masisi’s call to help local history of donating to worthy For his part, Francistown government in the fight causes in Francistown since its Mayor Godisang Radisigo said against Covid-19. establishment in 1988. he was greatly humbled by club’s generosity and for taking In a short ceremony on Tues- She further revealed that in the initiative to help feed those day morning, the non-profit or- total they spent P14, 756.17 on worst affected by the lockdown. ganisation donated food ham- the hampers, which includes “This is a first of its kind pers worth over P14, 000, which mealie-meal, flour, coffee, sugar, in Francistown. I hope this is a will be distributed to 50 needy cooking oil, rice, dish-wash and sign of good things to come!” families scattered around the a hand-wash. Putting a slight dampen- city. “I’d however urge council er on the feel good occasion, During the handover, at to distribute these hampers to Radisigo admitted he was grow- Francistown Civic Centre, Rota- the people who desperately need ing increasingly concerned at ry Club representative Gaolape them as soon as possible!” she the careless attitude displayed Florence Makgarapa explained finished. by some Batswana towards Co- they wanted to help those who Putting Makgarapa’s wor- vid-19. earn a livelihood hustling on ries to rest, in her Vote of He warned that gestures the city’s streets but now have Thanks, Chairperson of Social such as the Rotary Club’s would no source of income due to the Services Committee, Jenamiso amount to nothing if people GENEROUS: Food hampers 28-day lockdown. Mojaki assured the Rotary Club do not observe the health tips “I’m referring to ladies that the food hampers would be given by the Ministry of Health safety of our kids by not sending pose them to the virus,” reiter- who sold airtime on the city’s distributed immediately to the and Wellness. them to shops or asking them to ated Radisigo. streets, those who relied on deserving families. “We need to safeguard the perform chores that might ex- daily piece jobs and the many “We already have a list of

BY KABELO DIPHOLO

Tribal leaders in the Kalanga villages of Makaleng, Matenge, Nshagashogwe and Sebina are fighting a losing battle SAVING SHASHE RIVER against illegal sand miners, whose reckless activities are threatening the very existence Illegal sand mining threatens of the iconic Shashe and Nyamambisi rivers. Shashe River is a major left bank tributary of the Limpopo iconic river’s existence River in Zimbabwe rising north- west of Francistown. BALD PATCH: Vegetation While its flow lasts only a few growing in the river days, it contributes 12.2 percent of the annual run-off of the Lim- popo Basin. Its tributaries include Simukwe, Thuli, Tati and Ramokg- webana rivers. The river is dammed near Francistown at Shashe Dam and near the village of Robelela at Dikgatlhong Dam. Shashe Dam supplies Francistown and neigh- bouring villages, while Dikgatl- hong, with a capacity of 400 million cubic metres, supplies the south of the country. Kgosi Shathani Sebina of Se- bina village, some 58km north of Francistown, is worried that if no action is taken the river will soon be counted among the many en- dangered rivers across the world. According to a global research, in total almost two-thirds of the world’s long rivers have been modi- TYRE TRACKS: Evidence of illegal sand mining fied, with some of the world’s lon- pend on them for irrigation. ter. All gest, including the Nile and the Rio This problem started last year the sand Grande (North America) now clas- around July when we saw an in- that ing. will be guided by laid down regu- sified as ‘endangered’. The research flux of trucks that ferried sand stores “We’ve lations,” he said. explains that this puts a strain on from the river. We were, however, water called the Meanwhile, police in the area water resources, destroys ecosys- made aware by the Department is being culprits and confirmed that illegal sand min- tems and threatens human health. of Mines that no one has been li- shipped out!” had a word with ing is a serious problem around It is a trend that Kgosi Sebina censed to mine in this are,” she lamented Kgo- them, but now Sebina and Nshagashogwe. is well aware off and is determined explained. si Sebina, her fi- they’ve resorted to Assistant Superintendent to stop. During the tour, the three ery mood not helped mining at night. If we’re Amos Kurusa of Tutume Po- “Our immediate threat here is tribal leaders led The Voice to by the relentless midday not careful, this river will one lice Station told The Voice they illegal sand mining,” she stressed eight prime mining spots, where sun. day run dry,” warned Sebina, arrested a man on 30th March during a tour of both Nyamambisi the culprits have left deep cra- The tribal leader called on whose sentiments were echoed around the Nshagashogwe min- and Shashe rivers last week. ters and both rivers in urgent the Department of Mines to in- by Kgosi Mathambo. ing spot. Accompanied by two other need of rehabilitation. tervene and stop the trend be- “If no action is taken, Shashe “A certain Tapiwa Thipe, 37, Headmen, Kgosi Manuel Matham- “We have stretches where fore further damage is done. and Nyamambisi will soon be was found mining sand around bo and Kgosi Boyce Bagai, Sebina there’s no sand at all and vegeta- She also suggested that Vil- dead rivers. The law has to be 1900hrs using a Volvo Tipper said the rampant illegal mining tion is growing in the middle of lage Development Committees enforced and applicable min- Truck. He was arrested and fined has turned the two rivers into ‘life- the river due to this careless and in the affected villages could ing licences issued to those who P2,000,” revealed the top cop. less canals’ in less than a year. illegal mining. People with gar- be the custodians of the riv- have shown interest in mining It is a start but, as Kgosi Se- “This has impacted on the dens on the riverbanks have been ers, opining that perhaps they sand here. This will make it easy bina is quick to note, there is livelihoods of the people who de- hard hit because there’s no wa- should be in charge of sand min- to monitor as the licence holder still a long way to go! MAKINGnews.thevoicebw.com THE MOSTFRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 9 “This week every day think of that which you have to be grateful OF LOCKDOWN for!” you, do not worry about your life…Can at 7:30pm. BTV as we will discuss how of today. any one of you by worrying add a single exactly to SEEK FIRST GOD’S Righ- Ashley Thaba is a popular author, hour to your life?...But seek first his teousness in MARRIAGE! You will learn motivational speaker and media per- kingdom and his righteousness, and all practical tips on what it looks like to sonality. You can view some of her work these things will be given to you as well. put God first in marriage AND you will on her YouTube channel: Ashley Thaba. BY ASHLEY THABA Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, get the joy of listening to Percy sing! You can buy two of her books, Dive In for tomorrow will worry about itself. You don’t want to miss it! and Conquering the Giants, on Amazon Each day has enough trouble of its own.” May you find joy in the trial and or Exclusive Books. You can email her at Matthew 6:25-27&33-34 train your mind to focus on that which [email protected] or follow her on With the Corona spreading and wreaking Please watch this coming Sunday is good so that you can enjoy the beauty Facebook at: Talking with the Thabas havoc on the entire world – shutting down economies, forcing families into lock down, and killing thousands of innocent people –many are only looking at the negative. It is hard to NOT do that when the world is coming crashing down in a way that has never been seen before in many of PRESS RELEASE our lifetimes. However, they say every dark cloud has a silver lining. I would like to encourage you… no actually let me challenge you. This week every day think of BancABC Donates P100, 000.00 to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) that which you have to be grateful for. Let me give a few examples to get it started. Relief Fund I always feel I am so busy I don’t have time to get proper rest. I am grateful now that Botswana, the country I live in, is in total lock down I will finally catch up hopefully on YEARS of lack of sleep! I always feel like my schedule is too busy Gaborone: BancABC, on 1st April 2020, donated P100, 000.00 to the Botswana to spend quality time with God. I absolutely love Coronavirus (COVID-19) Relief Fund, in a bid to contribute to the relief efforts of when I get a few hours to read my Bible and medi- tate on God’s word and listen to what He is saying the Government of Botswana to help to fight the Coronavirus pandemic. to me and allow Him to refresh my soul, but in my busy schedule those times of solitude and reflec- tion which strengthen my character and build my inner strength are not easy to come by. I am hop- BancABC Managing Director, Kgotso Bannalotlhe said, “The safety and health of ing now I will be able to discipline myself to have our employees, clients and indeed the nation at large, is our highest priority. We those times every day. So many days my children ask me to do something with them such as: play are hopeful that our contribution, as well as others, will relief Government of some a game, read a book, build a tower, let them paint my nails as they play salon, etc. My busy sched- of the financial strain that comes with a situation such as one we are in now, ule doesn’t allow me to say yes as much as I want. allowing for more focus on managing the spread, and ultimately, the eradication of Frequently, in the hustle and bustle, I make these self-goals saying “this weekend I am going to make this disease”. sure I read a book with my daughter.” Then that weekend comes and some urgent thing comes up and the self-goal goes out the window. I am look- Upon receiving the contribution from BancABC, Head of the National Disaster Office, ing forward to being able to finally fulfill some of those goals and really connect with my children Moagi Baleseng, added, “We would like to thank BancABC for their contribution. and build some beautiful memories. Speaking of children, another goal I have is to Together with other others, this donation will go a long way in meeting the basic be able to train them to be independent respon- sible adults, but let’s get real. It takes WORK to needs and psychosocial support to those affected by the novel Coronavirus.” train kids and many times it is easier to do the job myself rather than get the kids to do it. I am excited to finally have the time to really sit there In conclusion, Bannalotlhe said BancABC will continue its efforts to practice and train them to properly mop floors, wipe counters, water the garden without leaving holes enhanced hygiene protocols at all BancABC branches and premises, to reduce where they blast the dirt with the hose pipe, cook the risk of transmission, and also urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and a variety of meals, and wash the dishes without leaving traces of food all over. Another thing we continue to practice good hygiene during this challenging time. LOVE doing with our children is having “quiet times” with them. We set the timer for 30 min- utes and each of my kids gets a devotional book For more information, please contact: of some sort or the Bible. We have a family “quiet time” where each child and Percy and I read our Bibles/ devotional book for 30 minutes. No one is allowed to talk. If they do, 5 minutes is added Polelo Kilner to the timer. At the end of the 30 minutes, we all share what God taught us and what we learned Country Head of Marketing & Communications during that time and end it all off praying God BancABC Botswana will help us apply what we learned. We LOVE do- ing these! When I get her to be quiet, even my 7 Tel: +267 3674321 year old likes these times! All 5 of us sitting in a room simultaneously reading and learning and Mobile: +267 72800416 then sharing fresh insights encouraging one an- Email: [email protected] other – DREAMY! Yet, you guessed it – we rarely have the time to do them! Again, silver lining to literally being on lock down – we should have the time to do these more often! Web: www.bancabc.com Lest you think it is all serious here, I am also looking forward to turning on music and danc- ing with the kids and Percy, staying up late play- ing family games and watching movies. I know this is a serious disease with awful consequences which have destroyed many lives. I could focus on that fact only and probably be overwhelmed with stress right now and worry about if and when it will hit my family. But, here’s the thing – me worrying about that won’t prevent that day from coming. It will just rob me of the day God has given me today to REST, enjoy my family, and finally do some of the things I have been wanting to do for a while anyway. Let me confess that I am tempted to worry and stress, but God’s word is leading me in a different direction. Every time worry feels my mind, God gently whispers, “Therefore I tell 10 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020

Kgabo Moleofi Mooboletso Moleofi Motinki Mmoloke STAY AWAY FROM MY MAN Teacher takes cleaner to court for marriage wrecking

BY GOFAONE KOOGOTSITSE down and if I catch her all hell Moleofi went on to explain phone and let her know that she Meanwhile Mmoloke did not will break loose!,” said the vis- that she then responded to was caught. deny asking for assistance from A stressed out wife in ibly angry woman shaking her Mmokele as if she were Kgabo Giving his testimony in court Kgabo. She claimed she treated head from side to side as she left and carried on a conversation the accused 58-year-old husband, him like a brother and a neigh- Molepolole went into Covid- the court. with her for a while. Kgabo Moleof flatly denied hav- bour because they grew up to- 19 lockdown an angry Heartbroken, Moleofi had “ In one one of the messages ing an affair with Mmokele whom gether. She however promised woman after Mogoditshane dragged Motinki Mmoloke, 50, an I sent her, I asked her, ‘a nna go he said he only knew and related to stay away from him going for- customary court ruled that office cleaner at Lesedi Primary tilwe ke wa metsi? (Am I your to as a neighbour and a childhood ward. she had failed to prove her School to court for wrecking her designated water provider) She friend. Chief Keabetswe Dihutso marriage to Kgabo Moleofi. She responded by saying, ‘Intsh- “The other time while I was ruled that Moleofi had failed marriage wrecking case alleged that Mmoloke had born warele rra Jehofa o tla nthusa a at the lands my wife phoned and to prove her case of marriage against her love rival. illegitimate children with her mpha monna ka tla ka tswa mo as soon as I answered she said, “ wrecking and warned Mmoloke Following the court ruling husband. banneng ba batho,” (Forgive me Your testicles” and then went on to stay away from another wom- last week, the stunned 57-year- Moleofi had told the court sir, God shall provide me with a to warn me to stay away from an’s husband. old Mogoditshane Primary that she became suspicious that husband so that I stay away from Mmoloke and go to the lands After ruling Mooboletso who School teacher, Mooboletso Mo- her husband was cheating with people’s husbands),” said Moleofi where I already was. I reported was not impressed with how the leofi, oblivious of the looming Mmokele when she found incrim- before she told the court that she this incident to the police and matter was settled before court lockdown vowed to track her inating messages on his phone then lost her cool and insulted they cautioned her,” Kgabo said. said she is going to track the two husband and his alleged mistress sometime in February, 2018. Mmokele. The court further heard of lovers and concluded saying “ My until she catches them to prove “Mmoloke had sent a message “ I said to her, “ O mpapa* how Moleofi had once requested home has turned sour, I am sleep- her case. to my husband asking him to (your vagina) and she replied, for counselling from a marriage ing alone, I should never ever “ My home has become sour, hurry up and bring her water be- ‘Yes sir, you know it.” counsellor who tried to reconcile catch them, if I can catch her!,” I sleep alone, I should never ever cause she had gone without any At this point the angry wife the fighting couple without much she said shaking the head before catch them! I will hunt them for a whole week,” she said then called Mmokele from her success. leaving the court. news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 11 RED CROSS GET GREEN READY: Mukokomani LIGHT FOR CONTACT TRACING BY PORTIA MLILO

With the country going into lockdown last Friday in a bid to stop the spread of Covid-19, Botswana Red Cross have announced they are assisting the government with contact tracing. Speaking exclusively to The Voice, Red Cross CEO Kutlwano Mukokomani explained this in- volves tracking down anyone who may have come into contact with one of the country’s six (as of Wednesday afternoon) confirmed Covid-19 cases after they started exhibiting symptoms of the virus. Although he would not disclose the exact amount, Mukokomani confirmed they have since traced, tested and quarantined a number of such individuals. “Our mandate prioritizes areas where health resources and credible health information are limited,” he said, adding his organisation has 10, 000 trained volunteers scattered around Bo- tswana. “When someone tests positive, we get infor- mation on the people he/she came into contact with from health professionals attending the pa- tient. Then we trace them. Our advantage is that we have volunteers across the country and they can assist if other suspects travelled to other ar- eas.” Emphasising the readiness of their volun- teers, the Red Cross honcho proudly told The Voice, “Our volunteers are trained in first aid ser- vices, safer access, Risk Reduction Techniques. They are also trained in camp management so they will be helping at quarantine sites to make sure logistics are done properly. In Shakawe we started with information dissemination about this virus and precautions.” Mukokomani further revealed they have re- ceived protective clothing from the Internation- al Federation of the Red Cross and International Committee of the Red Cross to ensure their vol- unteers’ safety. “We also got funding from our international partners to ensure we augment the Ministry of Health’s efforts to contain the spread of Co- vid-19,” he continued. According to Mukokomani, arrangements have also been made with the Ministry to pro- vide tents should the virus take hold and the quarantine areas become full. 12 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 news.thevoicebw.com VOICE MONEY FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 1A GABORONE WEATHER 10 FRI 11 SAT 12 SUN

THIS DAY 1938 Franklin Roosevelt appeals to Hitler for peace IN On this day in 1938, President Franklin Roosevelt writes to German Chancellor, Adolf Hitler, regarding HISTORY the threat of war in Europe. TEMP: 28° 14° TEMP: 30° 15° TEMP: 33° 17°

Business Briefs MOBILE GIANTS OUTLINE Stanbic cuts digital banking fees STANBIC Bank Botswana has in line COVID-19 STRATEGIES with recommendations by Bank of Botswana (BoB) to encourage the use of digital platforms to reduce movement of customers during the period of extreme social distancing took a step to reduce its digital banking channel fee by 25 percent. The move comes after the bank also an- nounced that it is effecting a three months loan repayment holiday for its customers in order to alleviate the strain on its custom- ers during these trying times. Volume of imported electricity up BOTSWANA continues to import more electricity from outside the country to ORANGE CEO: Benon BTC CEO: Masunga MASCOM CEO: Makhwade-Seboni augment local demand. Figures from state data collecting agen- cy, Statistics Botswana show that during the last quarter of 2019, the physical volume of imported electricity increased by 4.1 per- Blame poor connectivity on increased traffic cent. Compared with the quarter before, elec- tricity importation shows an increase of 5.3 BY KABELO ADAMSON in the traffic from business to residen- sponse to the disruption caused by the tial areas.” killer virus, Mascom has come up with Percent and the increase is said to have been necessitated by the need to augment domes- AFTER admitting to being Benon further explained that Or- interventions, including increasing ange is currently facing issues with ra- network capacity and digital self-ser- tic production. caught ‘slightly off-guard’ by dio access network and national trans- vice channels. the Covid-19 lockdown, local missions. “Mascom is proceeding system- telecommunications companies However, he stressed his company is atically to address elements in our BBS financials due are working hard to make up for working on the problem and are confi- networks so as to cater for the situa- their sluggish start. dent of finding a solution soon. tion. Given the rise in demand for the end of April Meanwhile, Orange has increased network and online solutions, we have Addressing members of the me- its mobile money limit from P4, 000 to substantially increased our network dia this week, the mobile operators FOLLOWING an extended period of P30, 000 as a way of supporting custom- capacity throughout the country,” she - among them Mascom, Orange and delay in publishing the financial ers during these uncertain and trying announced, adding the company has Botswana Telecommunication Corpo- results BBS Limited has notified its times. doubled its popular My Social bundles ration Limited (BTC) – outlined their For her part, Mascom Wireless daily limit usage from 200MB to 400MB. shareholders that the audit for the strategies to cope with the lockdown, CEO, Dzene Makhwade-Seboni con- Speaking on behalf of the third of period ended December 2018 has currently set to last until 30 April. ceded that Covid-19 has brought with it the three mobile giants, BTC Manag- This comes after thousands of us- been concluded. challenges they never anticipated. ing Director, Anthony Masunga said ers across the country complained The bank says once the audit and other “Traffic, both data and voice, have they have invested over P500 million in of poor connection for both data and processes have been concluded, the finan- in many cases doubled compared to the upgrading their infrastructure, with voice services since the lockdown be- cials will be circulated to shareholders same period last year. There is a signifi- the investment primarily focused on gan last Friday. through electronic platforms and print me- cant shift in peak hours. Additionally improving its broadband. Outlining some of the troubles dia by end of April. there is heavy shift in usage, from busi- Unlike its competitors, BTC, the they have experienced, Orange CEO In addition, BBS has informed its share- ness areas and sites to residential ar- only locally listed telecommunica- Dr. Patrick Benon said, “As we speak, holders that preparation to commence the eas,” she highlighted, noting that since tions company, has received good re- the challenge we are facing is that audit for the period ended December 2019 the outbreak of the pandemic many views in terms of network stability some of the technical equipment is has commenced. have been working from home. in the first days of extreme social dis- saturated because of the increase in Seboni also revealed that in re- tancing. the traffic, but also because of the shift 2A THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 VOICE MONEY FINANCE MINISTRY UNVEILS ECONOMIC RELIEF MEASURES BY KABELO ADAMSON IN response to the ON HOLD: Kgosimontle economic havoc caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development this week TROPHY unveiled a series of interventions to cushion the local economy and the public. The interventions are HUNTING hinged on four pillars; being to support workers; stabili- zation of businesses; ensur- ing availability of strategic reserves; and promotion of FIRES BLANKS.... opportunities for economic diversification. According to the Per- manent Secretary in the Fi- nance Ministry, Dr. Wilfred FOR NOW! Mandlebe, as a way to sup- port workers, government BY FRANCINAH BAAITSE-MMANA such a meeting cannot take place will cover 50 percent of basic because at the time only a limited salary of employees of com- WHILE the coronavirus death number of people were allowed to panies affected. toll continues to rise globally, convene in one place.” Mandlebe says subsidy The chief revealed that the for the employees range be- claiming over 83, 000 lives findings of a ministerial task tween P1000 and P2500 for the by Wednesday, 20 elephants force appointed by Vice President next three months, starting in the Mababe area get to Slumber Tsogwane to investigate April until June, 2020. live a little longer thanks to alleged maladministration regard- To businesses, govern- Covid-19. ing the handling of the hunting ment is offering a loan guar- quota, were also to be discussed at antee of up P 1billion to Trophy hunting in the area – the meeting. companies with 80 percent 20 jumbos have been marked for “Unfortunately due to the lock- covered by government while death – was meant to commence HOPEFUL: Dr. Wilfred Mandlebe down, we do not know when the the remaining 20 percent is immediately. meeting will be held. But as con- by commercial banks at a 24 The central bank, Bank borrowing by licensed com- However, like all large gath- cerning the hunting, morafe is to months guarantee cover and of Botswana, has recently mercial banks will be ex- erings in Botswana, a kgotla be consulted first,” he stressed. a maximum loan size of P25 announced that it has re- tended to include all corpo- meeting scheduled for April 1 to Nonetheless the government million per borrower. moved a 6 percent penalty rate bonds listed and traded smooth out the finer details was has since allowed MZCT to contin- However, for companies for commercial banks to ac- on the Botswana Stock Ex- postponed indefinitely. ue with the transaction between to qualify for the interven- cess credit from it. change. Speaking to The Voice, Ma- themselves and Africa Field Sport, tion they have to be tax com- The bank has also re- Due to the coronavirus, babe Chief, Kemontle Kebuele- entered into before government pliant. duced the prudential capital which has affected all parts mang explained the meeting had had even confirmed Mababe’s quo- Mandlebe says govern- adequacy ratio for banks op- of the world, global growth been organised to give locals a ta. ment has also developed erating in Botswana form 15 projections for 2020 have been chance to debate the ‘controver- The trust and the community guidelines targeting sectors percent to 12.5 percent. revised downwards. sial’ hunting quota. was expected to gain Millions of that have been negatively The central bank says The local economy was “The board [Mababe Zokot- Pula from the hunting deal, which affected by the Coronavirus the cost of accessing over- forecast to register a GDP sha Community Trust (MZCT)] was the biggest quota in the coun- pandemic with the exact night funding by licensed growth of 4.4 percent and had written a letter in which try. The killing was to be the first terms and conditions yet to commercial banks from the now BoB says the figure will they planned to hold a consulta- since the hunting ban was lifted be discussed. Bank of Botswana Credit Fa- be much lower than this pro- tive meeting with morafe at the late last year following a five-year Furthermore, the min- cility will also be provided at jection. kgotla on April 1st. But the Dis- ban. istry put in place measures the prevailing Bank Rate of BoB projects economy re- trict Commissioner advised that pertaining to the Monetary 4.75 percent without the cur- covery to start taking place Policy. rent punitive 6 percentage in the latter part of 2020 and Among the measures to points above the Bank Rate. into 2021, assuming that the be put in place is to reduce Subject to completing spread of Covid-19 is con- the Bank Rate in order to regulations and require- tained and vaccines are dis- jump start the economy by ments to valuation and cus- covered. KHOEMACAU MINE encouraging borrowing. tody, the collateral pool for COVID-19 SCARE FALSE BY FRANCINAH MMANA He further added that ac- not understand the difference cording to amended regula- between those on quarantine North West district tions every Motswana who and isolation. For them if one commissioner, Keolopile enters the country is re- goes on quarantine it means quired to undergo quarantine they have the virus! That is Leipego has called for for 14 days but foreigners are why it was concluded that ev- calm following false allowed to deliver goods and ery day there has to be open allegations that there has immediately return to their information sharing at the been a confirmed case of home countries. mine to avoid the confusion,” Since last week, com- Leipego further added. covid-19 at Khoemacau plaints have been sent out Leipego also noted that mine in Toteng area, from disgruntled miners those peddling wrong infor- just outside Botswana’s with allegations that work- mation were a few elements tourism capital; Maun. ers even those not included in an effort to cause uneces- Leipego explained that in essential work were forced sary trouble. no such case exists and that to work during the current “Go na le batho kwa ga re there were only seven quar- lockdown, thus increasing itse gore maikaelelo a bone antined cases who have since their chances of catching the ke eng. They are trouble mak- tested negative. dreaded and deadly corona ers. Ha ba letsa o tla a tsaya “Those were truckers who virus. gore tlou e tsene ko mmae- had brought in goods from The disgruntled employ- neng!” loosely translating South Africa. They had to ees alleged that a case had to: “There are some people at be quarantined but none of been confirmed at the mine, the mine whose intentions we them showed any sign of CO- although management re- are yet to establish. They are VID 19. They were discharged futed the allegations. trouble makers. When they after completing the 14- day “This made us realise call you may think an ele- mandatory quarantine,” Lei- that the miners do not under- phant has entered the mine, pego explained stand corona virus. They do when in truth there is noth- ing!” UNDER OPERATION: Khoemacau mine news.thevoicebw.com VOICE MONEY FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 3A

Richard Harriman

email: [email protected] • website: www.bes.bw

The Consumer’s Voice is brought to you by Consumer Watchdog. We’re here to help consumers stand up for themselves and also WHY CAN’T THEY HELP ME? to help suppliers improve the services they deliver. THERE is a petrol/fuel station in Serowe I can see that there might be good rate customers and find a solution to It doesn’t cost you a thing so if you need that issues receipts/ till slips with a reasons why the receipts give an ad- this that doesn’t inconvenience them our help you can reach us by email at watch- dress in a different town. It’s likely so much. However, from what you say, Lobatse address. that the company that owns the filling that’s not something they seem to [email protected], by post to Consumer Watch- When I asked for a hand written receipt to pres- station in Serowe is based in Lobatse. care about. dog, P. O. Box 403026, Gaborone or by phone ent to my employer the stamp they put on it still However, clearly they don’t under- The better solution is to find an- on 3904582. showed a Lobatse address. stand, or don’t care about the impact other filling station in Serowe, one Read the Consumer Watchdog blog When I queried they told me no one has ever this has on that minority of custom- that is a little friendlier. They deserve where you can comment, celebrate and com- complained about the address. They also said my ers, like you, who need receipts for your money more than these guys. plain at consumerwatchdogbw.blogspot. employer could always call like others do to confirm claiming expenses from their employ- com. Also join our Facebook group called that I fuelled in Serowe, not Lobatse as per their re- ers. “Consumer Watchdog Botswana”. ceipt. I feel this is an inconvenience as calling them Normally I would suggest that we would cost time and money. They felt I was being un- try to persuade the owners of the fill- necessarily difficult. What’s your view on this mat- ing station to consider their corpo- ter? WHO MUST Expression of Interest for Registration Of Suppliers About MultiChoice Africa Holdings (MAH) MultiChoice Africa is a video entertainment provider, and investment in leading-edge content and technology by forging long-term partnerships with governments, our role is to enrich lives. Our mission is to deliver value to systems deliver the shows that people love into their hands national broadcasters and entrepreneurs and as the our customers by making great entertainment more and homes. continent’s leading funder of sport and local productions, accessible to millions of people across Africa-anytime, we’ve built skills and capacity to improve the quality of anywhere via multiple platforms including Direct-To-Home Born and bred in Africa, MultiChoice Africa is managed and content we offer through our flagship corporate shared satellite (DTH) platform-DStv (http://www.dstv.com), a run by local people with a team of more than 2750 full-time value initiative, MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) platform-GOtv and over 14 000 contractors and independent agencies and (http://www.multichoicetalentfactory.com). PAY? (www.gotvafrica.com) as well as Video-On-Demand and accredited installers who collectively deliver the greatest I am in need of your advice. On the 18th of March I received a phone OTT platforms Showmax and DStv Now. entertainment in the world to more than 49 countries It’s by creating value for our customers, our employees and call from a debt collector that they have been across Sub-Saharan Africa. society that we will continue to build a successful business engaged by my college for collection of my out- Whether it’s local telenovelas, the excitement of for the future. Visit www.multichoiceafrica.com for more world-class sport or the latest global blockbusters, our Our business has grown hand-in-hand with local economies information. standing debt. Please note that I made a transfer of the outstanding P6,000 to the college on the 3rd of March and as per the email the gentleman who called me from the debt collector he says the col- About MultiChoice Botswana lege handed me over on the 4th of March. This is the same thing that the gentleman at the college MultiChoice Botswana, born and bred in Botswana as of 1992, was originally set-up as a Joint-Venture between MultiChoice Africa and a locally owned consortium. told me and I questioned him and he did tell me MultiChoice Botswana is a business rooted in Botswana and committed to positively contributing to the economy of Botswana and playing a positive role in the future that they had handed me to debt collectors and of the country. he said however they will rectify that and after that they handed me my clearance letter and I MultiChoice Botswana is 100% locally managed and currently employs close to 150 people, and has a network of 90 accredited installers and close to 60 direct sales collected my certificate. force agents throughout the country. It also operates 9 agencies in the country, where individuals are afforded the opportunity to run their own agency and create I sent an email to ask now who is going to their own wealth through the power of entertainment. cover the debt collector’s fees and to date there is no response. Now I am getting constant phone calls from the debt collector to pay the P1,300 as MultiChoice Botswana wishes to invite eligible and qualified Citizen Owned companies and businesses to register as a Supplier / Service Provider on the MultiChoice it is accumulating interest monthly. Please ad- Botswana Supplier Database for the supplies and services noted below. Existing Service Providers are also invited to update. vice on way forward on this matter.

It’s normal practice for companies to Maintenance and ICT & Equipment Events Management Marketing & PR Branding Utilities Financial Operations Miscellaneous pass on the costs of collecting debts to Health Safety the people who owe them money and that can sometimes be a lot of money. Firstly, Painting PC Repairs Event Planning Entertainment Interior Design Cleaning Asset Disposal and Makeup Artistry that’s just a fair thing. It’s not the fault of Scrapping Electrical Conferencing and PA Systems Florist Digital Marketing Gifts and Stationery Newspapers the company that you owe them money or Promotional Delivery have failed to keep to your side of an agree- Plumbing CCTV & Access Control Packaging (gifts) Road Show Protective Cash Solutions and Material ment. They’re entitled to get their money Management Clothing Security Services Carpentry Fire Detection Systems Newspapers from you. It’s also what you agreed when Supply you signed your contract with them. If you Gardening Courier and Logistics look closely, you’ll find that the contract has a clause saying that if you fall behind Pests Control with your payments they’re entitled to take Air Conditioning whatever legal action they see fit to recover the money they’re owed. That will include engaging debt collectors, of if that fails, in- structing attorneys to come after you. Submission Procedure Submission Disclaimer However, in your case, things might be different. You paid your debt before they Interested companies are required to submit proposals with the following Suppliers that have been registered onto the MultiChoice Botswana Suppliers engaged the debt collectors that are chas- compulsory documents; Database may have the opportunity to bid or quote on RFQ’s acquisition ing you. Furthermore, they admitted they’d requirements. Registration onto the Supplier Database does not guarantee made a mistake and promised to rectify the business opportunities. situation. It’ now up to them to honour their • Certificate of Incorporation promise and sort this situation out for you. • Form of Company Directors Isuggest that you first contact the college and tell All enquiries must be addressed to: themthat you hold them responsible for fixing this situ - • Share Certificates ation.Tell them that you will telling the debt collectors • Identity document(s) of company shareholders and Directors [email protected] thesame thing. Then you should contact the debt col - Supplier Management Database lectorsand tell them that you have disputed the debt • Valid Tax clearance certificate PLOT 74374, UNIT 1 & 2, CARBO CENTRE collection charges with the college and that you are • PPADB registration certificate and PPADB code relating to the service of the holdingthem responsible for the problem. Insist that OFF TLOKWENG ROAD they record this in their files. business GABORONE I’ll also get in touch with the college and see if I can encourage them to help fix this Submission deadline: 17th April 2020 at 1000hrs. situation. 4A THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 VOICE MONEY

LOCK DOWN UPPER

IN AGREEMENT WITH BPC: Tlou Energy

TLOU ENERGY BONUS: We see more when we have time PEOPLE are not smiling much could come out of this experience these days. if we do it for those reasons, in That’s probably because that order. health officials are telling us to Many of us have time on our keep two-metres clear of other hands at the moment, and if we people because we or they may be can use that time to think about infected with coronavirus. Under- why we are following the health POWERS ON standably, many people take that guidelines, I believe we will be in to mean we should be afraid of a better position to think about our neighbours… but I don’t think why we do other things as well. that would be a good idea. We may do some out of habit, or Signs 2mw pilot agreement with BPC Fear is an extremely effective because that’s what other people motivator, but it doesn’t bring out do, or because an advert some- the best in people and it tends to where told us that’s what stylish BY KABELO ADAMSON connection to the power grid negotiate a contract such that make us selfish… as in it makes us people do. and first revenue for the com- we are not unduly charged ex- look out for ourselves instead of We also may find we don’t real- TLOU Energy has agreed p a n y. orbitantly because we did not doing what is best for the commu- ly need, or want, to be doing many an interim 2 MegaWatts Tlou Managing Director, know where the rate should nity. That’s not what we need to of those things, and if we can see Anthony Gilby, says a path- be,” Moagi admitted recently that, maybe we will be able to stop (MW) Coalbed Methane control the virus, or in the long- way to revenue generation in response to Voice Money en- run, to carry on developing as a doing them and free up time for (CBM) pilot Power is key to financiers and once quiries. civilised caring society. more satisfying activities… or for Purchase Agreement (PPA) connected to the grid, expan- According to the Minis- I have travelled and lived in just doing nothing and being open with Botswana Power sion of the project is seen as ter, the process of securing a many parts of the world and it to whatever comes our way. Corporation (BPC). relatively straightforward. transactional advisor is at ‘an seems to me Batswana culture is And that brings us to the bird In 2018, Tlou submitted advanced stage’. kinder than most, so I think the picture at the top of this column. In a statement to the a proposal to the Minsitry Moagi further disclosed I put it there because before I shareholders, the company, nation should play to its strength of Mineral Resources, Green that to enable Tlou to con- to combat the spread of the dis- started writing this morning, I which is looking to become the Technology and Energy Secu- tinue talking to its financers, had time to sit down in my back first to produce power through ease. The lock down needs to be rity for the development of a government gave them a tem- a cooperative effort if it is going garden with a cup of coffee and CBM in Botswana, explained 10MW CBM Gas-to-Power. porary PPA. stop… and while I was just being, the agreement is undergoing to be effective, because there is This proposal is still being “This will be superceded no way the government can use that is what I saw. final regulatory formalities. assessed by government and is by a formal PPA that would be I’m in England at the moment, Although the terms of the its limited resources to try to en- separate to the 2MW interim advised by the transactional force the social rules it has put in and I have never seen ring-necked agreement remain confiden- PPA. advisor. This temporary PPA parakeets here before, but that tial at the request of BPC, place. Explaining the slow prog- gives them the leeway to now Well, not if it is serious about doesn’t mean they haven’t crossed Tlou view the development as ress, Minister of Minerals, Le- go to the financiers, to say my path. It may just mean that a major step towards becom- helping people who have lost their foko Moagi stressed this was please don’t walk away from jobs and getting the economy go- when they did, I was too busy to ing a power producer. new territory for Botswana the project, there is light at notice them. Anyway, the para- Tlou, which describes it- ing again once the lock-down is and thus they were treading the end of the tunnel because over. keets brought a smile to my face, self as Southern Africa’s most extremely carefully. once they have the official and when I went to the store lat- advanced CBM natural gas So I believe we should all fol- “We have not been in this PPA, they will then move into low the measures because we er in the day, I shared that smile company, says it remains in space of CBM before. So we the development stage of the with other shoppers. discussion with potential fi- believe that would be the right needed to get a transaction project,” noted Moagi, add- thing to do for our families, our And you know what? I think nancers for the project. The advisor, someone who can ad- ing power produced from the the ones who returned it really would-be backers have been communities, Botswana, Africa, vise us on how we peg our rates project would be put into the the entire world... and ourselves. enjoyed the exchange. waiting for the interim to be and things like that when we national grid. put in place, which facilitates And I believe something positive

MoHW and WHO does not Regularly wash your hands recommend the use of mask for more than 20 seconds Be READY to fight by healthy people. However, it with soap of hot water. recomends that patients with COVID-19 wear a face mask to Stay home when sick and protect others around them, or avoid social gathering. if the patient cannot wear a face mask, they should if they are in the same room. If you need help please call MoHW 3632756 / 3632757 / 3632273 #STAYHOME

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DJ BEK-LALA CELEB EDITION WITH DJ BEK-LALA Female DJ shines PAGE 7A

WHEN you switch to FM dial 106.6 on a weekday morning, his honeyed tones SOCIAL help soothe you into a new day. MEDIA He is the charismatic host of Yarona FM’s popular ‘Buffet Breakfast’ programme. However, Thato Matl- ROUND UP habaphiri, better known as Catch your latest Scar, did come to prominence through his radio show. trends Indeed, Scar burst onto the PAGE 8A entertainment scene as a raw 17-year-old back in 2002, his de- but album ‘Illegal Act’ raising local hip-hop to an exciting DJ new level. Four years later, he BOOGIE became the first Motswana to SID win a Channel O award for his THE hit single ‘Metholo’ from the ‘Happy Hour’ album. The LP won critical ac- claim, escalating Scar to new heights as critics ranked him PERMANENT SCAR one of the best MCs in Africa. Although he continued to record hits and remain rel- (Laughing) Oh you have then because people started them? evant, Scar could never quite not heard this story? I fell off calling me scar face. Actu- Well Scar is an artist. He recapture the genius of his a fence! We lived in Gaborone ally, I remember my parents is an entertainer, from creat- early days. Phase 2 and had these Indian did not have it stitched up be- ing music to broadcast con- Fast forward to today and, neighbours who liked locking cause they said I was naughty, tent. Thato Matlhabaphiri, on as the Covid-19 pandemic has their gate. We were playing that is how it got so big. They the other hand, is a father, a everyone on lockdown, The ball and my sister accidental- did not even take me to the brother and an uncle. It’s real- Voice’s SHARON MATHALA ly threw the ball in their yard hospital! ly hard to differentiate the two visited the energetic rapper for so I had to jump the fence to but it boils down to whoever of WHAT a tete a tete. After exchang- go get it. I was about eight Interesting story! So for the two wants to speak at any ing pleasantries the interview years old at the time so I have someone who has never given time or situation. starts.... had this scar for a very, very heard of you, how would ABOUT US? long time! Actually the nick- By the way how did you get names started right there and you describe Scar and Entertainment Industry that scar on your face? Thato Matlhabaphiri to TURN TO PAGE 6A left in the cold PAGE 7A

STUCK IN THE PAD?

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Back in 2002, you were one of the breakthrough artists in local rap. 18 years on, how would you say the game has changed? The game has changed completely, positively. I mean guys now are more hands-on on the business side of things when it comes to the music game. They now have their own studios and equipment so they don’t have to deal with that when it comes to making mu- FROM sic. Again now there are more players in the game as com- pared to when we first started so it is more competitive. So yes, the game has changed over HIP-HOP TO the years when we compare it to our days. Going back to your ‘Happy MORNING Hour’ album, what would you say is your most memorable moment from that time? It would have to be winning RADIO the Channel O music award in 2006 because I was compet- PERFORMER: Scar ing against a lot of people and Botswana at the time had a lot of nominations. Believe it or not, there was a time when yourself and talent. I think we allowed to. Hip-hop is a com- life. I am near 40 so I have no time ‘controversial’ at the time? Botswana music competed re- react a lot of the time because petitive sport. I have always for battling. That is young man’s I did not really care about the ally well on a Continental level with a talent creatives don’t felt that way; that you should sport - I have done it when I was show before me. I never really lis- so it was really nice to cement have a set path. We don’t have be able to rap why you think younger. You tell me one guy who tened to Stupid 1 and Stupid 2, I that with an accolade for the anyone telling us what to do you are the best! With hip-hop has not tried to get into a battle honestly never did. I did not know ‘Happy Hour’ project. with that talent and where to everybody believes they are with me over the years! what or who I was going to be com- It was hard making other go and then more often than the best rapper until they are pared to. That is why when I got albums after that without not we panic because we need not. I feel beef, as long as you You are famously vocal when in I just did me. I have done three people having to compare with money and the money is not don’t beat anyone or get into it comes to artists’ welfare. breakfast radio shows before so it always there for the taking. trouble, is healthy for hip-hop. that one. It was a really fulfill- What do you think needs to be was not going to be anything easy ing moment. There are no rules, it is all lyr- but I came prepared. Do you think beef/feuds ical. So yes, I think it is very, changed at COSBOTS? very necessary. I really don’t care much for Why did your partner in crime, What advice would you are necessary in the rap COSBOTS. It has never really giv- give the young Scar game? en me money. Some of us existed Zizi leave? If it is like a competitive Locally, which MC would Zizi resigned because she desperate to make a name you want to avoid in a rap before they existed; they have ac- for himself in the music scene where probably some- tually made things more difficult wanted to pursue her Masters. She one is getting the cheque they battle and why? for us to even operate. I am really recently went through a traumat- industry? are not worth and you think I don’t think I want to bat- trying to focus on making myself ic experience - I will say traumatic Be a bit more patient with you are worth more, you are tle anyone at this point in my a better artists, COSBOTS does experience and not say anything not really help much. I hope I an- else! She has more talent than just swered you. radio so she wants to pursue that. Radio is not everything. But last week you received your COSBOTS royalties for How would you advise artists 2019. What did you do with to take advantage of the the money? Covid-19 lockdown? Artists need to get into the I got like 300 Pula. I bought studio and work. They need to use petrol. I was paid by e-wallet. It this time to work. Artists these was an embarrassment for them to days are lazy in my view, they just do that. It was really uncalled for! copy what other artists are doing. Use this time to work on yourself Take us to a dark time in your and your brand. career. There are a lot of dark places Have you ever said the wrong in my music career. Maybe when thing on live radio? I had to drop out of school and re- Not yet. And I hope I never do. ally disappointed my parents. I Good lord! I always try to be pre- was about to get into my fourth pared for the show because listen- year and I had to choose between ers are really up to date with in- that and my music career. I don’t formation and I think a lot of the have a lot of regrets about the de- time we take that for granted. cision but it was a very dark place because there was a lot of uncer- tainty. Delving a bit deeper into your personal life, is Scar taken? And in your personal life? I got dumped man! I was see- I would not want to get into ing someone not too long ago but that one. Just know that I am do- it did not work out. Hopefully we ing fine now and trying to get my- will see after Corona. self through this lockdown and pandemic era. I will tell you this So no wedding bells on the though, I am a fighter! horizon then? No. There are no wedding bells; Have you ever been in trouble there is no bell ringing anywhere! with the law? I am a boy man. I have had my How many children would you run in’s with the law but now I like to have? am trying my best not to. I work I already have one son and my for an institution which is part of nephew is like my other guy, so, the fourth estate now so I am try- so far so good. I mean if I find a ing my best not to get myself in girl who really wants to have ba- trouble. Wait, what are you trying bies then cool but at the moment to find out? I am doing good okay. I don’t know if that is happening anytime soon. I don’t think so. Tell us about the concept of Buffet Breakfast. Speaking of children, did you It was basically about trying ever reconcile with your baby to keep listeners both entertained mother? and informed whilst on their way No she got married. She is hap- to work. It was meant to be driven pily married. It’s business as usual... by me and Zizi [Panther] and we have had a really good 14 months. Our intention was to bridge the And finally, Thank God It’s gap between the young and the old Friday. How will you be Gaborone - 3161585 | Francistown - 2416621 | Maun - 6862734 so we really had our demographic spending your day? worked out pretty well. I am going to be home and get- ting some rest because I have been WhatsApp: +267 7273 3092 Telegram: @thevoicebw_bot Did you doubt yourself at working. any point, especially as you news.thevoicebw.com thevoicebw SPEAKS FOR ITSELF [email protected] took over a show considered @sharonmathala news.thevoicebw.com FEELGOOD IT’S FRIDAY FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 7A

BY SHARON MATHALA

In the male-dominated am aware of what other females go deejaying industry, DJ Bek- through. It is not a good place to be in. It sucks that some women have lala is fast proving she has to be subjected to such, all in the the talent and passion to mix name of a breakthrough! it with the big boys. Although shy in person, the 28-year-old Do you believe female deejays comes alive behind the decks, are given a fair chance as bursting with an energy that compared to their male can liven up even the dullest counterparts? of parties. That is a definite NO! But I would say over the years things How did your passion for the have become a little better for us – however, there is still a long way deejay booth come about? to go. I appreciate that there are I have always been into music places which now have days where even from a young age. I remember it is strictly female deejays on the I used to carry around my walk- line-up. That really helps a lot. man everywhere I went! Actu- ally my first love was TV. I really What songs are on your wanted to be a presenter on Mantl- waneng but for some reason I could current playlist? not get myself to go for auditions I am an old school RnB type of so I decided to let that dream go. girl. So right now I am jamming to anything from R-Kelly, EVE and PASSIONATE: Music, however, was some- DJ Bek-lala thing that was always within me Michael Jackson. and with me. Although I listened to all genres, I loved hip-hop above Who is your mentor? all else. Starting up was difficult; I My mother. She makes my life If you were to make one Movies or Documentaries? 3. I sleep all day, really! almost gave up at some point but easier. I can never make any deci- last phone call, who are Movies, any day all day. 4. All my siblings are girls sion without her acknowledgment! here I am now. you calling and why? - three sisters but no brothers Five things people don’t 5. I’m quite friendly but Has anyone ever tried to give What is the one thing you do My little sister, Bambi people think I am rude. I don’t Motsomatshukudu. She has know about you? know why! you a gig in exchange for when no one is looking? somehow indirectly become 1. I don’t go out unless I I actually make fun of people ‘benefits’? my manager too - shhh don’t have a gig or it’s for business [email protected] (laughing). But most times I just Noooo! I have been fortunate tell her! purposes @sharonmathala not to go through that although I tuck in my corner and cry. 2. I quit alcohol

WORRIED: ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY DJ Boogie Sid FEAR COLD LOCKDOWN BY SHARON MATHALA Entertainment Promoters Association ernment and or official sites or even the (BEPA) noted, “Our worry is the frag- mainstream media. Thus we believe im- mented approach towards the creative pactful messages can be spread by this WHILST President Mokgweetsi sector which is the third largest indus- very sector of people; the artist can be Masisi has ordered that businesses try by value and contribution to the the vehicle used to spread these impor- who suffer financial losses as a GDP and hence we believe the sector de- tant messages! result of the lockdown be offered a serves a seat at the top table.” “So we call on Government to use subsidy by Government, artists fear BEPA want Government to involve us as artists to engage the public and the creative industry in campaigns sen- hence we too could make something of they will be left out in the cold. sitizing the nation on the fight against the lockdown since we have been locked In a campaign titled ‘I lost my gig coronavirus. The association will also down literally!” Botswana, save the Botswana live per- ask Government to consider increasing BEPA further requested financial formance industry - recognize us too!’ local content on broadcasters to 70 per- aid from the government in what they the industry has called on Government cent. termed the ‘Creative Industry Recovery to consider their welfare. Speaking to Voice Entertainment, Grant’. With all music festivals and social BEPA Secretary General Sydney Nzala, “We call on Government to use the gatherings cancelled for the foresee- popularly known as DJ Boogie Sid in blank tape and part of the alcohol levy Rakgare stressed his Ministry had not forgotten able future, the majority of performers music circles, was quick to reiterate the to formulate the Creative Industry Re- about the entertainment industry. - ranging from singers, DJs, dancers, pulling power that many artists have. covery Grant and be availed to the in- “I can tell you now that we are working on a event organisers and MCs - have lost a “Artists and musicians in general dustry with immediate effect.” plan but nothing is finalised yet. Once we have large chunk of their usual incomes. have large followings, be it on social Reached for comment, the Minis- finalised the plan I will share with you and the Highlighting their concern in a press media pages or anywhere else. These ter of Youth Empowerment, Sports and artists but something is in the pipeline for them, statement issued on Monday, Botswana followers don’t necessarily follow Gov- Culture Development (MYSC) Tumiso that I can confidently confirm!”

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Women Against Rape - 6860865 THE COVID-19 (Corona Virus) has more; the longer a person drinks the • Having nightmares (Counselling, Legal Aid, Emergency Shelter) brought a lot of changes with more the brain gets used to having al- • Dilated pupils cohol in it and even becomes dependent • Sweating Botswana Gender Based Violence Prevention & Sup - it, many of which we are still to on it to do its daily functions. Since al- • Headache port Centre (BGBVC) - 3907658/9, 3900516 (Counsel- experience or even understand. One cohol slows down the brain your body • Difficulty sleeping ling, Medical & Legal Aid Support for Women and critical change it has brought has compensates by working harder to do • Nausea and/or vomiting Children affected by Domestic Violence) been stopping the sale of alcohol normal activities, once the alcohol is • Appetite loss Youth Counselling on Air : YOCA (Toll-free counsel- for 30 days from Saturday 28th absent the body remains anxious and • Faster heart rate the brain scrambles to function without • Tremor ling facility to give youth a platform to voice out their March 2020. it and that causes the effects known as challenges. Short code number 17250, accessible via This was done to minimise the risk withdrawal. Severe Alcohol Withdrawal all mobile network service providers and landlines of spreading the virus. And this week we from 10h00 to 22h00 daily) The more serious withdrawals usu- are going to look into what to expect in Common Alcohol Withdrawal ally start 12 to24 hours after your last the next few weeks for those who drink New Perspectives - 73888898 / 3184344 (Individual drink and may include hallucinations alcohol and won’t have access to it. We Symptoms and Group Counselling, Marriage and Family Therapy, (seeing, feeling, hearing things that are will specifically be looking at alcohol Withdrawal symptoms differ from Relationship Management, Midlife Adjustment not there) and seizures. withdrawal. person to person and depending on your Counselling, Retirement, Grief, Interpersonal Conflict, pattern of alcohol use they may range 48 to 72 hours after one may experi- Career/Vocational, Anxiety, Stress, etc) from mild and uncomfortable to severe ence Delirium Tremens or DTs, which What is Withdrawal? and life threatening. can lead to death if left untreated. Heart & Hands of Compassion - 73516022 (Face- Perhaps in order to understand with- Though symptoms typically begin Symptoms of delirium tremens in- to-face counselling with emphasis on Spiritual drawal we need to first understand what within 8 hours after your last drink, clude: Counselling) binge drinking and heavy drinking is. you may not experience any until sev- • Fever Binge drinking is when someone eral days later. These symptoms tend • Extreme agitation Emang Basadi drinks a lot of alcohol in a short period to spike around 24 to 72 hours after your • Seizures Tel: 3909335/3959424 of time or drinks with the intention to last drink, though milder ones may • Extreme confusion Face to face and group counselling get drunk. persist for much longer in some people. • Hallucinations Heavy drinking is drinking more than Some mild withdrawal symptoms in- • High blood pressure 1-3 drinks daily or almost daily. clude. Alcohol withdrawal usually happens • Feeling anxious or nervous Hospitals have experienced personnel when someone who is a heavy drinker • Feeling irritable who are familiar with these symptoms and stops drinking alcohol suddenly. • Feeling depressed have the tools to provide appropriate treat- • Feeling wiped out and tired ment. Should this happen to you or a loved What causes withdrawal? • Shakiness one please call 997 and seek assistance. You Alcohol affects the brain by slowing • Mood swings can also call for assistance on 11611 or 7265 news.thevoicebw.com down how the brain functions and the • Not being able to think clearly 9891 or contact us on our Facebook page.

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OCIAL M UP S EDIA ROUND BY KABELO DIPHOLO

MASISI

President Trump A.T.I

Ohhhh, I see. You didn’t tell me was facing. that, Jon. She did serve in the The disgraced superstar to- previous administration. You gether with his brother paid mean the Obama administra- a bond of $1.3M. The siblings, tion? Thank you for telling me who were both charged with at- that. See, there’s a typical fake tempting to enter the country news deal.” with fake passports last month, Karl tried to get in a word are now set to be placed under but Trump wouldn’t let him, house arrest at a hotel in the blasting, “You’re a third-rate capital, Asuncion. reporter and what you just said The famous footballer, who is a disgrace, OK?” Trump con- won the Ballon D’or back in 2005, tinued on before finally saying, traveled to Paraguay to pro- “You will never make it.” mote his autobiography. He was amended to allow the Director jailed in an improvised peniten- With much of the world tiary in the south of Asuncion, confined to their homes, of Health to lead the charge in ON JOURNALIST the fight against Covid-19. RONALDINHO which is used for 150 dangerous social media activity went criminals, including convicts into overdrive this week. n keeping with his OUT OF PRISON of drug dealing, corruption and Here are some of the disdain for the media, US rape. During his stay he played ATI’S CHINESE President Donald Trump football with inmates and took highlights….. I ormer Barcelona lashed out at Jonathan Karl, pictures with them that were superstar Ronaldinho shared on social media. He also WARNING ABC News chief Washington was released from celebrated his 40th birthday correspondent calling the F with a huge BBQ in jail - after SIX MONTHS ontroversial local Prison on Wednesday newsman a ‘third-rate receiving birthday messages rapper ATI faced a morning after serving 32 HOT POTATO reporter’ who ‘will never from fellow Brazilian icons Ron- Cbacklash following his days in a Paraguay jail, from aldo and Roberto Carlos. direct post to President make it’. resident Mokgweetsi a possible six months he Mokgweetsi Masisi On Tuesday, a video of Masisi’s proposal Trump dressing down the be- regarding HE’s plea for to have the State of mused scribe was shared by mil- P China to assist his country. lions of viewers. Emergency (SoE) extended The ‘Khiring Khorong’ The President became upset to six months sent social hit-maker seems to warn the after Karl asked about a report media into meltdown. President against trusting the from the Inspector General hav- Confusion reigned as most Chinese government. “China ing to do with a backlog of tests were wondering if they’d be hae tshameke diketo e ntshaa at hospitals. When Trump asked on lock down for half a year. 5 sheleng ka tsholohelo ya go another journalist to tell him On Monday, the President an- laola le go dira dipoelo tsa dik- the name of the Inspector Gen- nounced in his address that the etekete,” (China never spends eral - Christi Grimm, the Prin- Public Health Act is insufficient that amount of money without cipal Deputy Inspector General and proposed the six-month expecting something in return). of the Department of Health SoE that would allow him to “Se rekiseng lehatshe la and Human Services - Trump rule by decree. Put bluntly by rona ha godimo gamoo re kopa began asking reporters when some commentators, Botswana tshono ya go boela meber- she was appointed. will literally be a dictatorship ekong,” continued A.T.I. After Karl originally said for six months. Some were of Commentators had a field she was appointed by Trump, he the view that this is a good move day with some questioning the later said that Grimm ‘did serve as it gives the President appro- rapper’s sanity. in the previous administration.’ priate power to deal with the “Is our brother back to that (Grimm has actually served un- spread of Covid-19 head on. Oth- sh*t? Are yu OK ATI???” asked der Bush, Clinton, Obama and ers, however opined that instead one respondent. Trump.) But Karl’s answer set of usurping power from all the Trump off, who adopted a sar- other arms of government and castic tone as he began to tear centralising it on one person, TRUMP DUMPS into Karl from the podium. the Public Health Act could be “Oh, you didn’t tell me that. Ronaldinho

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FASHION IN TIMES with MPHO LAING OF CORONA VIRUS THE fashion industry In an interview with is often stigmatized WWD, Confindustria Moda president, Claudio Marenzi for lacking of social explained what he predicts responsibility, yet exactly the overall effects will be on the opposite is happening the industry. “It’s going to now. be a tough year,” he said. “I From giant retail store think that the slowdown of closures, to major event can- this moment will also affect cellations to beauty, health the first semester of 2021. and fitness chains closing, The spring 2020 season will as the coronavirus pandemic be the most dramatically spreads, so does its impact. hit by the crisis, we will see Of recent, Covid-19 had made negative repercussions also a significant alteration to on the fall 2020 season, and the way we fashion our lives unfortunately, I think that and our way of life. Accord- the spring 2021 season will ing to World Health Organi- be also affected.” The virus zation (WHO), the COVID-19 could very well be quelled by pandemic, which amassed + then, but Marenzi presumes 1 500 000 confirmed cases, + 81 that since stores will be full 000 confirmed deaths in more of unsold goods from 2020, than 200 countries, areas or sales for 2021 will continue to territories with cases as of be affected. “To sum up, this April 8, has led to the disrup- crisis will have a negative impact on our industry until BEST tion of everyday life with Local governments enacting June 2021.” On the brighter strict measures to contain side, According to Vogue, DRESSED OF the virus’ spread. It is evi- LVMH, L’Oréal and Coty dent that the damage is not have swiftly repurposed fac- limited to the health sector tories to produce hand sani- THE WEEK: only. Retail and the fashion tizer for medical use. industry has its fair share Gucci is awaiting medi- - whether its catching up cal authority go-ahead to with new consumer behav- make hospital masks and The Voice on iour, technology, or adapt- overalls in its Italian facto- ing to internal and external ries. It’s comforting to see change. fashion come together for a Fashion Stunner According to cfda.com greater good to raise funds to (The Council of fashion de- combat COVID-19. Closer to hato Kgarebe Thomas, is home, fashion and lifestyle signers of America) among a sassy style blazer with those hit hardest by the de- events have been postponed, while major designer houses panache and unshakable cline are G-III Apparel Group Hermès, Max Mara, Prada, been hugely affected by this has halted their production (down 27.1 percent to $11.07), Chanel and Versace. Corona pandemic, throwing supply elegance. She is donned until further notice. Some T Capri Holdings (down 26.2 virus crisis has resulted in chains of the radar. Cloth- in pink - a colour of tenderness, retail stores have shuttered percent to $10.29), RealReal millions of factory work- ing suppliers selling online their doors. I believe the ‘de- compassion and hope in these trying Inc. (down 19.3 percent to ers being sent home. This via retailer amazon has also sire for fashion’ has notice- times. $7.02), Tapestry Inc. (down cancellation also affects the seen their shipments being ably declined, mainly be- Since there are travel restrictions to 19.3 percent to $13.10) and world fashion economy, and temporary blocked. Not only cause fast-moving fashion Nordstrom Inc. (down 17 per- fashion calendar predicts, has the pandemic disrupt the witness style across Africa, we’re here trade depends on consumers cent to $17.93). Most of these world-wide. Fashion and economically, the virus is trying to convert you with your weekly to be in a good and relaxed own brands that control the lifestyle brands are offering increasingly having a nega- mood to receive fashion. The dose of style in and around Africa. The fashion industry at large. steep discounts and pushing tive impact on the fashion excitement that is fashion touch of right accessories such as a Ni- As for international fashion sales online amid an invento- industry specifically, having trends forecasting and look- weeks, COVID-19 hit the epi- ry pile up due to the closure escalated in the midst of the gerian gele from Thato is all the style ing forward to seeing what’s centre of Fashion - Italy in of stores world-wide. fall 2020 fashion month sea- around the world inset we need. I give new in the fashion industry the midst of Milan Fashion Taking the then epi- son, causing brands and de- will definitely be “fashion- her a 10/10 for this timeless and pre- Week in late February, caus- center of the virus, China - sign houses to shutter their ably late”. mium African inspired style. ing a number of to rethink China is the world’s largest doors and postpone upcom- their show formats. Many garment producer and com- ing runway shows. Major in- design houses cancelled or PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTOGRAPHY | panies around the world de- ternational fashion events, BORNAKING PHOTOGRAPHY postpone their international pend on it to make a substan- including the Met Gala and ALLEN CASE (CAPTION HARP) resort 2021 shows, includ- tial share of their garments. the CFDA Awards, have also ing Armani, Dior, Gucci, The garment industry has been postponed indefinitely.

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NOT SO ROSY! ATI’S CORONA SERETSE CONSPIRACY

ATI

SHE is the former head immediate supervisors report- of the DCEC and now edly reached crisis levels at the beginning of the year. leads BERA. However, Seretse joins many other the plum position could senior officials who have been soon be a thing of the past shown the boot by the current government. So take heart Ser- EMPTY for dear old Rose Seretse BEER as she is said to be on her tse, it’s nothing personal! Sha- ya advises you to accept your FRIDGE way out. package and head on home. You Shaya has been told that her have done your part. However, contract comes to an end soon if you’re willing to share some and will not be renewed. This of those secrets you have Sha- comes after alleged infighting ya’s email! WHERE DID between Rose and some of her ALL THE HOTEL’S STRICT BEER GO? Word reaching Yours Truly is that alcohol – NEW DAWN which has not been on sale since (legally anyway) Trouble seems to be to stay at the hotel for free and since Friday 27 March brewing among the awarding dubious tenders - are coming back to haunt him. - has suddenly become an top management of The new recruit has been expensive commodity. one of the oldest hotels in briefed on these allegations Apparently the ‘holy water’ is Gaborone. and is keeping a close eye on now being sold underground just like Rapper ATI is crying cryptic message: ‘Call me a drug other illegal substances. A reliable Apparently some of the old his sex-happy underling. Ap- out for help and in a addict all you want’. No, ATI you staff, who until recently were parently the old boss is one un- source told Shaya that alcohol has are the one who told us you are running the show, are feeling happy chappy and Shaya’s bird- disappeared from all the bar fridges big way. The celebrated a drug addict so do not pin it on the heat from the new boss. Ac- ies reckon it’s only a matter of around the main towns and villages. singer’s drug problems are us. The rapper even called out cording to a little birdie, one of time before he seeks greener In other villages with limited supply well documented and, Shaya President Mokgweetsi Masisi for the former manager’s skeletons pastures. Oh well, as the saying there’s not a single beer to be found. his decision to impose a state of So, where did all the booze go? hopes, consigned to the – which allegedly include sleep- goes: out with the old in with past. In a recent interview, emergency and a lockdown. ATI ing with staff, allowing friends the new! Your guess is as good as mine. insists, ‘Covid-19 is a scam and Apparently main distributors are also the ‘Khiring Khorong’ hit- he puts his life on it.’ Whatever aware of this development and should maker (one of Shaya’s all you smoking ATI, stop it! Coro- demand for the habit forming liquid time favourite songs btw) navirus is real, over 80, 000 people increase – which is highly likely - revealed he was recovering have died from it – a death toll FEEDBACK @ CHILLIN' OUT they’ll soon distribute underground that shows no signs of slowing to help quench the nation’s thirst. well and was the happiest down any time soon. Come on, The views expressed on this column are not Shaya knows a few who wouldn’t he’s ever been. you’re a smart guy, think before mind placing an order! However, this week he took to you engage your mouth! necessarily of the management, sponsors and paper. social media and left the slightly 12A THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 FEELGOOD IT’S FRIDAY

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PAYING THEIR RESPECTS: Lebogang and Elijah VOICE FAN: Catching up on the latest news with her favou- after a burial in Mogoditshane rite paper

ON THE SPOT: Mpho Moroka’s (l) impressive dance moves caught Kabelo Dipholo’s attention at a deserted F/town bus rank

STUNNING: Tlhomo and her sisters in Ramotswa POSE FOR THE CAMERA: Rea, the photographer, and her squad in action

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KEEPING BUSY: A group of friends creating vision boards at home

SOCIETY IN ACTION BACK YARD With the country in an unprecendented lockdown, society took the action to their homes and back- PHOTOSHOOT: yards this week. Others made the most of their last days of freedom at least for a while roving the Gao and her friend streets before Friday’s confinement. As ever, The Voice’s reliable lens was on hand to capture these taking a selfie at historic moments. home

EMAIL YOUR SPECIAL MOMENTS TO: [email protected] news.thevoicebw.com OkavangoFRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 13 THAMALAKANE With Francinah Baaitse-Mmana RIVER TO START FLOWING NEXT MONTH Tourists in Daunara “The river might dry before we enjoy it”-Maun poler NGAMILANDERS have waited with tacular sight that is Thamalakane river that the water has filled up Xhaxhaba bated breath for the Thamalakane at the end of the month. channels and moving closer to Thamal- “The water may even dry up before akane. We expect it to reach Thamal- River to start flowing again. we enjoy it or even just take a glimpse at akane before the end of this month,” Last year, very little rainfall and the flow because corona virus has forced explained Bojanala councillor, Luke drought caused the river which is a source us to go into an indefinite lockdown,” ex- Motlaleselelo this week. of livelihood for Maun village to dry up. pressed Rebaone Masedi. Thamalakane river remains a life- For months on end villagers kept A poler by profession, Masedi has line for many residents of Maun and watch of the flow of the river all the way been looking forward to a promising peak surrounding areas. With the flood comes from Angola, through Namibia to the year in the tourism industry and how his opportunities for fishery, harvesting of tributaries of the Okavango Delta where hope has been quashed. “ It looks like God water lilies, boat cruises and other tour- it is currently reported to be at. has suspended this year. Everything is on ism adventures. However with the lock- Villagers and tourist ‘s excitement hold as we shift our focus on to how to down this seems like a distant dream to was however dampened by the announce- stay alive!” many in Maun. ment of a 28- day lockdown to fight coro- According to a Xhaxhaba resident, a Last year the water did not fill up na virus Pandemic last week settlement deep in the Okavango Delta, as the water dried up about thirty kilo- News that the lockdown might be the water is slowly but surely moving to- metres before reaching the river, forc- extended depending on the public’s re- wards Boro River and other water chan- ing hundreds of polers to relocate to sponse to Covid 19 further brought dis- nels, which will then feed into Thamal- Daunara where they spent had spent the illusionment to those who were hopeful akane river. past year competing to take tourists on Luke Motlaleselelo that they would get to enjoy the spec- “As of yesterday, we were informed boat cruises. MAUN TAXI DRIVERS FACE BLEAK FUTURE THOUSANDS of taxi operators in and only 18 minibuses (Combis) have been general public is on lockdown and the licensed to operate in the whole of Maun, government employees have prearranged Maun and the North West District North West District Commissioner, Keo- transport. have been thrown out of business lopile Leipego has confirmed. “When the law is made, it is to regu- following government’s decision Generally Maun is serviced by the late every citizen and everyone has to to ban their operations during small taxis, but Leipego said they could abide by it. This was done in the best in- the current lockdown, which was not give them permits because they were terest of the nation. It is to avoid unnec- only allowed to carry two passengers at essary spread of COVID-19 and deaths,” effected to fight the corona virus a time and that could not make business explained Leipego. pandemic. sense. However not everyone has been able Just one week into the lockdown He add that the licensed minibuses to catch a ride from the few transport- some of the taxi men are complaining of therefore included those which were not ers Those employed in the private sector the looming death by hunger as their in- necessarily in the taxi rank. These in- especially shops are forced to walk long come has dried up immediately clude those that were used to transport distances to and from work on daily ba- “It is hard. I am solely dependent on school children and other combis in the sis. the daily cash I got from the taxi. I made village.” “It is hard for us. I walk everyday to at least P150 a day and with that I bought Speaking in an interview with Oka- and from Disana to new mall, a distance food for my children daily. The savings vango Voice this week, Leipego said the of approximately 10 kilometres to and went into house rent and now everything 16- seater minibuses are only allowed to fro. Hitchhiking does not help because looks so bleak. There is no more food in carry seven passengers at a time. “Per- people are afraid to pick strangers who the house.” mits are issued by DRTS (Department may end up giving them corona virus,” Mogata Duma, 52 added that the de- of Road Transport and Safety), so you explained an employee at Choppies cision to stop taxis from operating came maybe aware that the minister respon- stores at new mall. as a shock and at a very short notice to sible for that department has announced The woman who preferred anonymity them because all along the government new regulations. Taxis are not allowed to stated that, “For fear of losing my job, I had said public transporters will not be operate at this time.” have to walk to get here. I have children affected by the lock down. Leipego further added that the 18 and an extended family to feed.” Five seater taxis are prohibited by law minibuses are sufficient to carry those to operate during the current lockdown in the private sector because ideally the GIVING ADVICE: Leipego 14 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 COVID-19 CHILDREN’S EBOOK RELEASED

BY FRANCINAH BAAITSE

A new story book that aims to help children understand and come to terms with COVID-19 has been produced, World Health organization (WHO) has announced. WHO explains in a press state- ment sent out on Thursday this week, that the book, with the help of a fantasy creature, Ario, “My Hero is You, How kids can fight CO- VID-19!” explains how children can protect themselves, their families and friends from coronavirus and how to manage difficult emotions when confronted with a new and rapidly changing reality. WHO’s director general, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, was quoted saying, “Previous humani- tarian emergencies have shown us how vital it is to address the fears and anxiety of young people when life as they know it gets turned upside down. We hope that this beautifully-illustrated book, which takes children on a journey across time zones and continents, will help them to understand what they can do to stay positive and keep safe during the coronavirus outbreak.” The book is aimed primarily at children aged 6-11 years old and is a project of the Inter-Agency Stand- ing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. According to WHO it is a unique collaboration of United Nations agencies, national and internation- al nongovernmental organizations and international agencies provid- ing mental health and psychosocial support in emergency settings. It was produced by a collabora- working in the humanitarian sec- Organization, the United Na- tarian organization through their own stories.” Added Ex- tion of more than 50 organisations tor, including the World Health tions Children’s Fund, the the press statement. ecutive Director of UNHCR, United Nations High Com- In order to reach as many Henrietta Fore. missioner for Refugees, the children as possible, the book Through this book it is International Federation of which can be downloaded on- hoped that children will take Red Cross and Red Crescent line will be widely translated, an active role in the fight Societies and Save the Chil- with six language versions al- against rorona virus, “This dren. ready released thi9s week and is an important resource for “During the early stages more than 30 others in the children around the world of the project, more than 1700 pipeline. It is being released with a strong message of in- children, parents, caregivers as both an online product and clusion at its heart – that this and teachers from around the audio book. pandemic can only be beaten world shared how they were “All over the world, chil- if everyone is included in coping with the COVID-19 dren’s lives have been com- its prevention and response. pandemic. The input was in- pletely upended, the majori- Children, including those valuable to script writer and ty of them living in countries who are refugees, displaced illustrator Helen Patuck and with some form of restricted and stateless, can help too. the project team in mak- movement or lockdown. This No-one is protected unless we ing sure that the story and wonderful book helps chil- are all protected, explained its messages resonated with dren understand and navigate Filippo Grandi, United Na- children from different back- this new landscape and learn tions High Commissioner for grounds and continents,” fur- how they can take small ac- Refugees. ther explained the humani- tions to become the heroes in

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Tel: (+267) 316 1585 Fax: (+267) 393 2822 news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 15 CALLOUS COPS OUR police officers are an Health, the deceased, a 79-year-old man overzealous lot. from Bulawayo, visited Hwange National They have this ‘better than thou’ at- Park in mid March. A few days later he titude and are seemingly desperate to al- fell ill and never recovered, eventually ways have their presence felt, especially succumbing to the virus on Saturday. by harassing and intimidating the mass- Currently, Zimbabwe has 11 confirmed es. cases of Coronavirus (not including the The worst, however, are anti-riot po- two fatalities). BRUTAL: Zim anti-riot police in action lice officers better known as Orobai (the ones that beat up). They really do their best to live up to their indigenous name whenever on duty! As the lockdown continues, they have again forced their way into the spotlight, firstly because they seem to think they are immune to Covid-19 and secondly for harassing people unnecessarily. I was their victim on Saturday - I will get to that shortly. They man the roadblocks without masks and no water to wash their hands yet regular washing of hands and sani- tizing, as I’m sure you’re all aware in Bo- tswana, is currently the in thing. They insist on social distancing and that there should not be more than five people in a small vehicle yet you see them crammed like sardines into their own cars. In their efforts to ensure the rules and regulations of lockdown are adhered to, they should bear in mind that they are not super beings and are just as suscep- tible to this deadly virus. But anyway I guess it boils down to poor governance as the government has not availed the protective clothing and hand sanitizers for their use. That aside, it is their behavior that sucks the most. On Friday - Day 5 of Zim’s lockdown - they were widely condemned for round- ing up scores of people in the Central Business District (CBD) of Bulawayo, bundling them into their huge trucks and taking them to the central police station. The crime of these people was that their reasons for being in town were not convincing enough. The cops behavior defeated the whole purpose of social distancing as the police station yard became overcrowded with people sitting very close to each other. On Saturday, they thought they had found another person to throw into their yard. However, they were left with eggs on their faces. While driving in town, my husband and I came across a group of police of- ficers at a traffic light where they had blocked a car pulling a trailer with fire- wood. I took out my mobile phone, ready to snap one or two pictures and to shoot a video. Unfortunately one of the officers, who I had not noticed on the other side of the road, quickly alerted his colleagues and they speedily came round our car, ready to beat up and even arrest us and me in particular. They went ballistic, swearing and threatening me for taking their pictures, while angrily emphasizing that we would be taken to the police station for being in the CBD. We let them bark for a while so they could feel powerful before finally pro- ducing our pass from the police in our farming area which confirmed that we are famers and allowed to travel to buy stock-feed. I could feel their tails slowly rescinding back between their legs. The final nail in their coffin of humili- ation was when I revealed that I was a journalist and allowed to travel and take pictures. When I took out my press card, they were gobsmacked! Their silly threats were in vain but the incident made me realise that our po- lice officers still have a long way to go to understand that intimidation is no way to deal with people, especially in these unprecedented, frightening times. They need to take a chill pill, as some would say in street lingo! *Sadly, the country recorded its sec- ond Covid-19 related death this week. Ac- cording to a statement by the Ministry of 16 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 STEP

VICTIM: Kebatsetse Andries PHANE HARVESTERS DOWN PUNISHED FOR VIOLATING COVID-19 MEASURES BY PORTIA MLILO interview one of the victims, Ke- batsetse Andries said initially THREE men escaped police they had gone to do a piece job of moulding bricks for a farm house. charges by a whisker He said on their way back they on Monday after they were tempted to harvest phane were found in the bush since they did not have relish at harvesting mophane worm home. 34-year-old Andries said they had thought since they were against COVID-19 lockdown not more than 10 for purposes of precautionary measures. extreme social distancing it was The three were found by the not wrong to go to the farm. police and soldiers on patrol near “They asked us if we were Tati Siding Village. Last week aware of the lockdown and when Friday President Masisi declared we said yes, they punished us. a State of Public Emergency, They made us roll on the ground which restricts non-essential ser- and do some push ups. We were vices and unnecessary movement lucky they did not shambok us. for 28 days to curb the spread of Movement restriction came as the virus. an emergency and we were not People are expected to stay prepared. Some of us hustle for home and those who go out should survival so it was a serious incon- apply for permits and failing to do venience. We tried to apply for so are liable to a fine. This Thurs- temporary permits at the kgotla day Parliament endorsed the ex- and they refused. We moulded the tension of state of emergency by bricks and they need to be wa- six months as the president re- tered and we cannot go there so quested. we wonder who will compensate Speaking to The Voice in an for the loss,” said Andries

AUTOVEE (PTY) LTD T/A CLIMATEC AIR-CONDITIONING CALLED TO RESIGN: Dr. Malaki Tshipinyane P.O Box 81424, Gaborone Plot 21928/3 Broadhurst Industrial, Gaborone Nurses, Media Unions call on Autovee (Pty) Ltd T/A Climatec Air-Conditioning specializes in provision of innovative climate control solutions for air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, heating and mechanical engineering as well as fabrication. Govt to fire top health officials Due to the current contracts that we have won and continued business growth, we are currently looking to recruit an experienced specialist to join our team for the position of: BY SHARON MATHALA rona virus. treatment of health workers. Refrigeration Operations Manager BONU believes that Government in response IN a strong worded letter through the Minister and the had since resorted to a man- The Ideal candidate should Director MoH has not been datory isolation of nurses • Have knowledge of the industrial refrigeration operations, specifically for of demand the Botswana following its own set rules. from their families during the commercial refrigeration applications in large distribution centers. Nurses Union (BONU) has “The Ministry of Health period. • Responsible for leading and coordinating of the company’s field technicians’ called on government to and Wellness through its di- Meanwhile President of operations rector and Minister has been Botswana Media allied work- • Develop and implementation of vendor-based maintenance solutions to drive with immediate effect preaching on the importance ers Union (BOMAWU), Philli- equipment reliability and uptime for commercial refrigeration systems and dismiss the Director of of short meetings (2 hours), mon Mmeso also shares the preventative maintenance Health and Wellness Malaki • Ensure continuous training of our field technicians in order for the company to few people (less than 10), stay- same sentiments. provide excellent service to clients. Tshipiyagae from work. ing home, 1 m distance rule Some of the journalists • Knowledge and experience in organizational effectiveness and operations The call was made after as well as touching of face, who were on duty have also management the announcement by the These measures apply to ev- been exposed and have since • Knowledge of business and management principles and practices Minister of Health and Well- eryone including the leader- been advised to go on self-im- • Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with high expectations ness Lemogang kwape that ship of the country,” a press posed quarantine. • Good communication skills and principles Botswana as of April 9th 2020 statement signed by the “We are disappointed with registered seven new cases of BONU President Obonolo Ra- the Ministry of Health of- Qualification COVID-19 positive persons, one hube reads in part. ficials for exposing a lot of • Should have Refrigeration qualification or in a related field of whom was a nurse who was The statement further people including the media • Over 10 years’ proven experience in Refrigeration: cooling, air-conditioning; with part of the team that screened states that, “The Director of workers to VOCID -19 by reck- at least 5 years of which should have been in management/supervisory level; members of parliament who Health Dr. Malaki Tshipin- lessly deploying someone who managing people and their performance attended the extra ordinary yane must step down as he is was from the red zone to test • Excellent experience in maintenance and refrigeration in a large production multiple seating on Wednesday. unfit to lead under the try- MPs. It is clear that there is site environment This nurses union argued ing times like this and he has a severe drought of thinking that the Director had blun- failed to protect the parlia- at the committee spearhead- Applications should be forwarded to the address below before 24th April 2020. dered by exposing members of ment including the President ing the pandemic and we call parliament, parliament staff, on the President to replace Human Resource Office of this nation.” media as well as the President P.O Box 81424, Gaborone Last week the union them with immediate effect,” Email: [email protected] of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Ma- slapped Government with an Mmeso said. sisi to possibly contacting co- intention to sue citing mis- news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY10.04.2020 THE VOICE 17 MPS IN THE MONEY.....AGAIN!

Tshepho Lebentlele Chuma Khawulani Gadimorome Thophego Karabo Lekgasa Public react to MPs 10 percent allowance increment

BY KABELO ADAMSON scorn by many, as The Voice’s KABELO to use a personal car for official purposes, be channeled towards defeating the virus. ADASON discovered when he took to the you will be using a family property. Effec- Also I think this issue of six months of DESPITE earning close to P40, 000 a streets of Gaborone on Thursday after- tively the car would not be yours alone; State of Emergency was unnecessary. We month - including a massive pay rise noon. MPs should have official cars they use to should have looked at the 28 days of Ex- perform their official duties. So person- treme Social Distancing and see how the last April - the country’s Members Tshepho Lebentlele, Telecom ally, I’m fine with the 10 percent travel situation turns out and then make a deci- of Parliament (MP) have long Technician allowance because they will be working, sion after that. complained about a lack of transport I think this is completely unfair. given that they will be using that money when carrying out their constituency Right now I don’t have any money; as you to carry out their official duties for the Karabo Lekgasa, 41, Security Guard duties. can see I came here to take groceries on good of their constituents. Well for me, I don’t think it should At Tuesday’s General Assembly, their credit and somebody out there is getting have been that way. So many businesses grievances were answered as it was an- an increase and that is not fair. I came Gadimorome Thophego, Security have closed yet we are expecting compa- nounced all MPs would receive a 10 per- all the way from Lobatse and was given Systems worker nies to pay salaries of their employees cent salary increment to cover their a permit which will expire today just to For me I think it is unnecessary to come month end. Where is the money travel allowances. come and get groceries on credit here in give them 10 percent as an allowance going to come from when MPs are get- With the country currently locked Gaborone because I have ran out of mon- because at this moment in time the fo- ting increments? We should have waited in a momentous struggle to contain the ey and MPs have the audacity to increase cus should be on fighting Covid-19 virus. before making increments. Instead the killer coronavirus - a struggle that has their allowances - sies man! Right now we are working but there is no focus should be on what we are going to left many wondering how they will feed protective clothing, it is just us! Honestly, do with those who are working as well as their families in the upcoming weeks – Chuma Khawulani, Self-employed I don’t see any reason for the increment, those who are unemployed. the timing of this news was greeted with I don’t see a problem with this because because right now more resources should MPS EXPOSED TO COVID 19 AT COVID 19 MEETING BY VOICE REPORTER that the nurse who screened them for quarantine as per the Corona Virus pre- corona virus had tested positive. vention protocol immediately The minister said the nurse, who The house however was advised by MEMBERS of parliament who met is deployed at a clinic designated as a the Director of the Ministry of Health to debate a six months State of quarantine area in Block 8 was wait- (MHO), Dr Malaki Tshipiyagae that ing for her results from routine testing they could finish the debates and con- Public Emergency declaration by when she screaned the MPs. clude business of the day before they president Mokgweetsi Masisi have “ We got her results at 11 PM and could go into self-isolation in their own been exposed to Covid -19 they came back positive,” said minister homes. In the ironic turn of events, the ex- Kwape to the visibly shocked legisla- At the end of the day President traordinary parliament meeting was tors. Masisi got his mandate to rule by de- on Thursday gripped by fear and con- The somber moment was broken by cree for six months and MPS registered fusion after the minster of Health and Leader of Opposition, Dumelang Sale- their names for quarantine and patient Wellness, Dr Lemogang Kwape dropped shando’s suggestion that parliament tracking. the bomb on the unssuspecting house should break and MPs be taken into MINISTER: Kwape 18 THE VOICE FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE POPA RISE OF STAR SEAN SETS DEKOP SIGHTS DREAMING BIG: Orebonye ON SA

BY TSHEPO KEHIMILE crossed the capital divide in as Palapye All Stars, Mot- 2018, joining Popa in an acri- lakase then eventually joined AS he blew out the candles monious split for Gaborone big side Gaborone United.” on his 24th birthday cake United, has certainly found Although he eventually his goal-scoring boots this fell out with the club in a dis- last month, Tumisang season. pute over unpaid wages, Ore- Orebonye made a promise Having clinched the Mas- bonye remembers his time to himself. com Top8 Yellow Boot with at the Money Machine with The Township Rollers four goals, Orebonye is also fondness. striker, who has been in scin- amongst the league’s top “My stay at GU was suc- tillating form this season, predators, his seven strikes cessful as I was once chosen vowed he would one day fulfill helping the Blues to second as the Footballers Union Bo- his dream of playing in the place in the table. tswana (FUB) Young Player South African Premier Soccer Proving that he’s a man of the Season accolade. That League (PSL). for all occasions, Orebonye’s prompted a move to the It is an ambition the Pala- late finish against a stubborn mighty Township Rollers,” pye-born goal machine is con- Sua Flamingoes sealed a 1-0 said Orebonye, who has since vinced he will achieve. win and ensured Mapalastina gone on to win 27 caps with “Age is still very much on progressed to the Orange FA the national team. my side, and I believe in my Cup quarter-finals. When he signed for Roll- abilities as a striker. I am op- Casting his mind back to ers, Orebonye was return- timistic that I can still make his younger days, Orebonye ing from a long lay-off. He it in the PSL; it is only a mat- - who despite being 24 still remains incredibly grateful ter of time before I start firing boasts the nickname Teenage to Popa’s management for in SA,” maintained the ultra - revealed his love affair with the patience and trust they confident Orebonye in an ex- football blossomed early. showed in him as he fought clusive interview with Voice “I started loving football for his fitness. Sport this week. when I was doing Standard The fiery forward, who One, and played for clubs such “They did not put pressure DREAMING BIG: Dekop on me and I Table Tennis teen savours started get- national recognition ting those

BY TSHEPO KEHIMILE achievement thus far was making goals which the national team, and doing it in AT the age of 18, Sean Dekop style by defeating the massively is what I love talented Mooketsi. is already ranked amongst “After playing for junior the top table tennis players teams for a very long time, I’m the most!” in the country. convinced graduation to the se- In an interview with Voice nior team will enhance my inter- “I joined Rollers when I Sport this week, the teenager national status,” he said. came back from a five months revealed that he was a relatively Quizzed about the challenges long injury. So they knew that new convert to the sport with his he faces as a youngster, he said, I was still on a recovery pro- passion for table tennis starting “At the moment, my biggest cess hence expectations were in 2017 at junior school. challenge is balancing sport and less despite what I could offer “Originally it started off as a school. I have to sit for the Bo- on the day. They did not put past-time, but then I fell in love tswana General Certificate of pressure on me and I started with the sport. I then focused on Secondary Education (BGCSE) getting those goals which is crafting my skill with hope that Examinations this year, and have what I love the most!” one day I’d be one of the best in to focus on my studies,” said Fast-forward to today, and the country.” Dekop. with the country starting out The youngster said as his He, however, further told on a 28-day lockdown, Ore- reputation grew he became aware Voice Sport he will work hard to bonye explained he was keep- of the competition he was up strike the balance and not let his ing fit at home and following against to be considered amongst schoolwork hinder his progress in a rigorous training program the country’s elite. the sport and vice versa. set by Rollers Fitness Train- “I quickly became aware of With the country currently er, China Matlhaku. the likes of the seasoned Thobo in lockdown, Dekop is using the We have a training pro- Mahlatsi and Tshenolo Mooketsi time to work on his fitness. gram from home by China. I who’re both exceptional players,” “I’m training well. I do some am currently following it to he said. sit-ups, push-ups and footwork keep body in shape so that The Charles Hill native told drills every morning as soon as I when we return to playing I Voice Sport that his biggest wake up.” FILE PIC: Orebonye taking the ball from Gaborone United player will be ready!” news.thevoicebw.com FRIDAY 10.04.2020 THE VOICE 19 AMOS FORBES AHEAD

NO MORE PRACTICE: Kgaswane before the lockdown LOCKED DOWN IN A FOREIGN LAND FROM BACK PAGE jani, and it is not easy. I’m stuck here, far from home. My business RARING TO GO: Amos As of Tuesday the former is football and when there are no Soviet republic, which boasts a football activities I get bored to population of just under ten mil- death. Mid last month we stopped lion, had recorded 717 confirmed playing football and now there is Covid-19 cases, including eight movement restriction, 28-days Marobela marvel inducted known fatalities. lockdown. I can’t risk going out For Kgaswane, the pain and to do roadwork, imagine if I meet loneliness of isolation thousands soldiers on the street and they of miles from home has at least beat me! It’s so scary because we been eased by the comforts of do not know how long this will into forbes under30 list modern technology. last,” continued Kgaswane, his In an exclusive interview with upbeat mood dipping as notice- ably as one of his trademark free- BY PORTIA MLILO silver-medal winning run of right time in my career as I Voice Sport, the Mankgodi na- 1:41.73 remains the third fast- am now more experienced and tive, who joined Zira FC at the kicks. The only time he leaves the BOTSWANA’S first, and est of all time, is currently it will give me an opportunity start of 2019 after four years with based in Oregon, United to contribute to our athlet- South African outfit Baroka FC, four walls of his flat is to go shop- to date only, Olympic States of America at a high ics development. I am very stressed he was ‘bored but safe’. ping. medalist, Nijel Amos performance centre. thankful to be considered an “I spend the whole day in- “Fortunately there is a shop has been inducted into The silver bullet, who inspiration to many, including doors playing games on my lap- right under my flat. If I need groceries I put on my protective the Forbes 30 Under 30 turned 26 last month, told aspiring professional sports- top, watching movies, listen- Voice Sport that he intends men and women. Having been ing to music and chatting with clothing and go and buy.” summit scheduled for to use the Forbes platform to through the pressures at world friends and family on social me- Agonizingly for Kgaswane, December in Gaborone launch his passion for devel- stage, I hope I can make a dif- dia. Thanks to the new technol- when it was first announced that and Kasane. oping other successful young ference in that regard,” said ogy, I am able to video chat with Azerbaijan would go into lock- The 30 inspirational elite athletes in the country. Amos. my relatives back home and it down, he considered coming home entrepreneurs and game He revealed that with the Despite his huge passion gives them hope that I am safe!” but quickly realised this was too changers will be joined by 570 help of other sports bodies, for sport, Amos was quick to revealed the former Gaborone dangerous. other youth entrepreneurs a pool of 50 top athletes in stress the importance of edu- United starlet, who sounded in “I could not risk it because from around the world, at the Botswana will be selected to cation adding he plans to build good spirits despite his predica- there are no direct flights. For me summit which will be held in train with him for a week. a preschool for underprivi- ment. to get back to Bots I would have Africa for the first time. The week will include moti- leged children at a location yet The Zebras regular admitted had to travel through high-risk Amos is the only athlete vational talks from Amos as to be decided. that the language barrier adds countries. Instead I decided to amongst Botswana’s fantas- he seeks to enhance the ath- “Education is the key to another layer to an already diffi- lock myself in and stay safe!” tic four, which also include: letes passion and talent on life. I attribute much of my cult situation. Azerbaijan has since intro- businessman Thobo Khatho- the field. success to the education I re- Unable to speak the country’s duced stricter restrictions, with la, entrepreneur Tony Mautsu “During these sessions, ceived from the Government; official language, Azerbaijani, those wishing to leave their and Native Events founder we will shoot a documen- it moulded me into the pro- Kgaswane relies on a translator homes for essential trips having Newman Ramatokwane. tary which will be aired next fessional athlete I am today!” to explain all the Covid-19 mes- to get special permission via an The Marobela born 800m year after the Olympics. The concluded the Marobela mar- sages from relevant authorities. SMS from a helpline. athlete, whose London 2012 Forbes inclusion came at the vel. “I am still learning Azerbai- 1A THE VOICE FRIDAY 01.01.2019 THE RISE AMOS

OF SEAN Amos FORBES DEKOP AHEAD SEE PAGE 18 SEE PAGE 19 ALL ALONE IN AZERBAIJAN Zebra’s star ‘lonely but safe’

BY PORTIA MLILO

AS the country nears the end of its first week in lockdown, Botswana’s European footballing export, Mpho Rudolph Kgaswane is already EUROPEAN EXPORT: Kgaswane in action halfway through his own confinement. The 25-year-old attack- ing midfielder, who plies his trade for Azerbaijani Pre- mier League side Zira FC, is holed up all alone in his small flat in Baku, the capi- tal of Azerbaijan. The Eastern European nation went into a 28-day lockdown on Wednesday 25 March as part of the coun- try’s efforts to stop the spread of coronavirus.

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