INSIGHT: SORCERY, CHEMICAL POISONING AMONG THREATS TO VULTURE POPULATION - P6

Wednesday June 24, 2020 | Volume 12 / Issue 12 | Price: P6.00

facebook.com/sundaystandard/thetelegraph NEWS Khama speaks out on ATI Assot (Pty) Ltd interdicts Ministry of Basic Education and ‘out of touch regime’ A case in which the Min- istry of Basic Educa- n ATI has become a big distraction inside government n Gov’t does not know how to handle ATI tion (MOBE) has been dragged before the High n Khama says nothing would come out of ATI meeting with Masisi Court after selecting a few contractors for a con- siderable number of ten- ders is expected to open a can of worms. Page 2 BUSINESS

BAMB has still to fill board vacancies

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Dr Edwin Dikoloti is running Botswana Agricultural and Marketing Board (BAMB) Former President, Ian Khama without a full board including chairperson. By The Telegraph Reporter Khama who the government de- graph through his aide, Khama went about his demands reflects In the video he calls for citi- spises. said he is not surprised to learn the feelings of a vastly growing zen economic empowerment and Page 11 ormer President Ian ATI has among other things that government thinks he is the majority who are angry and frus- rants at how Batswana are poor in Khama has said he has called for an urgent meeting be- one guiding ATI to rebel against trated by the deteriorating state of a rich country. no contact with popular tween Masisi and himself, but in- them. affairs in this country. I have no ATI has also been giving in- artist and musician ATI, stead Masisi assigned his minister Khama called ATI a “bril- opinion about whether he should terviews wherein he articulates who has lately been responsible for youth and culture liant” and “creative” young man. [president] Masisi or not except to and further hones his message SPORTS Framping pointed attacks against Tumiso Rakgare. And called the government say nothing will come of it if he against Masisi. President Mokgweetsi Masisi. ATI has rejected Rakgare. “out of touch” with a majority of were to do so,” said Khama One senior official confirmed Football league For a few months now ATI He stood out the meeting say- citizens. In some of his recorded mes- that ATI has become a big distrac- has been calling on Masisi to re- ing he is above Rakgare and that “I think he is a talented young sages, ATI is seen standing before tion in government enclave. stoppage divides sign. his fight was also on behalf of artist and a patriot who has a great a landmark owned by a leading in- “This comes after president The thinking inside govern- people like Rakgare. passion for his country and its dustrialist in Botswana who is of opinion ment is that ATI is influenced by Speaking to The Tele- people. The manner in which he Indian heritage Satar Dada. CONTINUES ON PAGE 2

15 police officers quarantined … after contact with Covid-19 positive Zimbabwean illegal immigrant

By Mpho Keleboge The Telegraph, understands the couple gave false information tion to the Covid-19 Taskforce that the two are Zimbabwean that they were staying in Gabane. for further details. Coordinator of the task team Dr nationals, believed to be intimate The police then asked them to Some Broadhurst Police offi- Kereng Masupu has confirmed partners. They were detained at identify where they stay in Gab- cers are reported to be fearing for The Botswana Football As- that 15 Broadhurst Police officers Broadhurst Police on Friday be- ane of which they failed. Pressed their lives as the station had not yet been disinfected by Monday. sociation (BFA) National Ex- are in quarantine after coming fore they were handed to the Co- further by the investigating of- ecutive Committee’s (NEC) into contact with a Covid-19 posi- vid-19 team to be quarantined. ficers, they changed their minds decision to stop the football tive undocumented migrant. The Telegraph, understands that and disclosed they were illegal im- residents of Ledumang were sus- migrants. season has triggered mixed Masupu said the officers were picious about the Zimbabwean Broadhurst Police, Station feelings from football el- quarantined after their preliminary investigations found that they nationals and reported them to Commander, Superintendent ders. were in contact with a covid-19 Broadhurst Police. Obusitswe Lokae confirmed the positive patient who was detained It is understood that during arrest of the two illegal Zimba- Page 16 Dr Kereng Masupu at Broadhurst Police. interrogation by police on Friday, bweans and referred this publica-

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Terms and Conditions apply. E&OE. 2 | NEWS | Wednesday June 24, 2020 Starving sex workers risk Assot (Pty) Ltd interdicts contracting Ministry of Basic Education coronavirus • Contractor alleges lopsided tender awards from truckers By Khonani Ontebetse case in which the Motswana By Mmapula Molapong Ministry of Basic Education (MOBE) Sex workers across the world have been has been dragged be- student dies negatively impacted by COVID-19 fore the High Court Aafter selecting a few contractors pandemic and the lockdowns that go with it. The Botswana sex worker for a considerable number of mysteriously in hasn’t been spared either. Sex work in tenders is expected to open a Botswana remains illegal but organiza- can of worms. Malaysia tions like Sisonke continue advocating It emerges from the papers for this marginalized group. before the High Court that By Reuben Pitse Founder and director of Sisonke some companies have been awarded similar tenders at a Botswana; Tosh Beka, says some of A female Motswana post-graduate questionable frequency. the major issues faced by sex workers student has died under mysterious cir- (SW) in Botswana under COVID 19 One of the aggrieved con- tractors, Assot (Pty) Ltd, has cumstances in Malaysia. are that sex workers are now at the risk It is close to a month since the of contracting corona virus from truck already brought an application before the High Court seeking a corpse has been lying in a mortuary in drivers as they remain one of their big- that country while the family awaits pa- gest clients. stay of the decision of the min- tiently for the repatriation of the body Since the lifting of the lockdown istry to procure contract servic- to Botswana for burial when interna- they have seen an increase in imported es from at least 17 contractors tional flights resume. cases from truck drivers delivering es- by way of selective tendering. Reports from Malaysia reaching sential goods. The contractor also seeks “Our government and civil soci- an order interdicting and re- The Telegraph suggest that the female eties have submitted a Global Funds straining the Ministry of Basic Motswana post graduate from Tlok- proposal that will deal with this issue Education from carrying out weng (names withheld) who was spon- through the engagement of sex work- any procurement proceedings sored by Limkokwing University has ers as contact tracers and disseminate and any performance and or allegedly died under mysterious cir- information to truck drivers,” she carriage of works pending de- cumstances. noted. She said another challenge was termination and finalization Unconfirmed reports suggest that faced by those that are HIV positive. of the ongoing appeal (before the family is at loggerheads with the “Sex worker’s movements were the Public Procurement and both the ministry of Foreign Affairs extremely limited and they were un- Asset Disposal Board) against Fidelis Molao and the school as the family requested the decision of the Ministry on able to access treatment facilities for for financial assistance to repatriate the the choice of method of pro- the proposed project. Further “Take note that selective their monthly refills. This has grossly to run its full course, that is to corpse from Malaysia to Botswana for curement regarding at least 12 say all process and any associ- we are of the opinion that the affected them and mostly non-citizen method dictates that only se- a decent burial and closure. tenders. In his affidavit Assot ated activities regarding the need for the said works have sex workers who are documented and lected contractors are invited. It is reported that the family ap- employee Chenani July states concerned tenders should be been in existence and have been non-documented,” she noted. Furthermore, PPAD Regulation proached the Ministry of Foreign Af- that the Ministry “chose not to stalled pending completion of within your knowledge for a Beka says there was a reduction in 77(2) states that among others make a public domestic bid on our appeal with PPADB. I have reasonable time.” fairs and International Corporation to HIV prevention activities due to the the selection of a method of reasons unknown to her which to add that at the moment the Assot stated: “If there arise seek help but the ministry turned down COVID-19 lockdown which include, procurement and a decision of excluded” his company and also applicant does not have knowl- any urgent need to maintain the the request of the family. information about self-testing, consis- by the board or its committee excluded more than 200 other edge of the status of the said concerned sites, that would be It is also reported that now the tent and correct condom use, alcohol all bids and refusal by the pro- competent contractors from tenders,” said July. owing to your poor planning or family is negotiating with the high and drug abuse, GBV, active commu- competing in the said tenders. The contractor before ap- negligence.” curing entity to an unsolicited learning institution on how best they nity HIV testing and recruitment and “Having learnt of the above, proaching the court, had writ- “It is an abuse of authority offer of and interest to bid shall could eventually bury the deceased in enrolment into PrEP. The Sisonke sometime around 6th February ten to the Ministerial Tender and disturbing in that you have not be subject to review,” said Botswana. founder says SWs continue to face stig- 2020, his company wrote a let- Committee objecting to the se- selected same companies for Koolese. Responding to this publication, ma and discrimination due to people’s ter of complaint addressed to lective bidding. the various proposed projects. The Director of the De- spokesperson of Limkokwing Uni- perceptions surrounding SW. the Ministry. The essence of “We submit that the accept- If truly and in good faith that partment of Technical Services versity Mercy Thebe in a short state- “People are of the view that SWs the complaint was as follows; able method of procurement in the proposed works deserve in the Ministry of Basic Educa- ment said: “Limkokwing management are responsible for the spread of the that the concerned tenders do this circumstance is an open bid. selective bidding, you ought to tion David Malejane said selec- regrets to confirm the passing away corona virus because of the nature of not qualify for selective bidding We strongly submit that you are have selected 1000 companies their job and thus still face violations tive methods allow for few se- of one of our Botswana students who as provided under Regulation in violation of Regulations set divided above the entire pro- lected contractors to compete. was studying in Malaysia.” from communities. Furthermore, Gen- 58 (1) of PPADB,” said July. by the Public Procurement and posed projects and the same der Based Violence GBV active case “The ministry used the “Due to the sensitivity of the mat- He said Assot was denied its Assert Disposal Board. You are companies have mostly been method to address longstand- ter and out of respect for the memory finding has been adversely affected by right to compete as given under aware that there are many do- receiving like works form your- ing backlog dating back to when of the departed and the dignity of the the lockdown because paralegals are section 26 of the PPDB Act mestic entities that can provide selves at a questionable fre- schools were transferred from grieving family friends and colleagues not essential services and thus cannot and that the Ministry should quency,” Assot alleged. the works you seek,” said the and loved ones, we seek your under- move around to find cases of GBV provide justification for choos- contractor. Replying, the Ministerial Board of Governors further standing as we are not at liberty to re- and refer them accordingly,” she said. ing selective bidding or with- It added: “You are quite Tender Committee Chairperson to reduce inundated tendering spond to your questions at this time,” She added that ladies have experi- draw selective bidding process aware that the associated works Ndondo Koolese said they had queries form unsuccessful con- she said. enced GBV though minimal. and replace it with domestic for the subject projects are cy- no reason to believe that the se- tractors which in the process “We recorded less than 10 GBV public bidding. cle maintenance. An open bid lective method of procurement causing delays to project imple- Family spokesperson Tidimalo cases. Some SWs and 2 migrants expe- “This application is in- would meet the requisite turn- approved by the Committee mentation and delivery,” said Motlhotse briefly confirmed the death. rienced shortages of ARV because we tended to allow our complaint around for implementation of was not applied accordingly. Malejane. She said though she cannot give much did not have their type of drugs avail- details on the matter, currently the able, so they were put on other similar family is busy negotiating with school regimes. Also lack of income affected on how the corpse can be repatriated them badly leaving them with no mon- from Malaysia to Botswana for burial. ey for food, toiletries etc,” she stated. Inside new guidelines allowing “As you might be aware there are She however noted that the good currently no flights globally due to CO- thing about working from home has Batswana farmers become game ranchers VID 19 therefore once that is over, we actually improved their safety, as clients hope that the corpse will be flown in to are less likely to abuse them. By Khonani Ontebetse mited the proposal to the near- Botswana,” she said. Beka said some of their recommen- est DWNP offices, the proposal The Ministry of International Af- dations are that Support interventions Game farming guidelines aimed will be evaluated and if satisfac- fairs and Cooperation was unable to and projects such as the Hands Off at enabling Batswana with an tory, an approval leer will be respond to this publication’s queries at 2, that is aimed at reducing violence sent to the applicant and set a the time of going to press. Due to the against sex workers both at commu- interest in small game or wild- date for the assessment of the impact of COVID-19, a number of nity and national level are accelerated. life in their fields have been re- land. The assessment is carried Governments have imposed passenger Improved access to justice for violated vealed. out to ascertain whether devel- sex workers through their partnership According to the guidelines, and/or flight restrictions. opments as may be indicated with BONELA by providing free le- a copy of which has been seen in the project proposal and as gal services to all sex workers. Provide by The Telegraph, every citizen of nutritional support to sex workers who Botswana (individual or compa- per requirements. The applicant have not benefitted from the govern- nies) with land and has an inten- should indicate his or her inten- ment social support relief program tion to keep game animals on it sion on numbers of people to Khama speaks under COVID 19 guidelines. Speak shall be eligible to have game be employed for security. against stigma and discrimination of as part of their production in a Some of the wild animals to Sex workers support and ending vio- field. be reared are Gemsbok, Harte- out on ATI lence against them. The guidelines state that in- beest, Tssessebe, Roan/Sable antelope, Kudu, Eland, Spring- She says through BONELA’s fa- terested individuals will be ex- Wildlife from page 1 cilitation they have been able to se- pected to make an application bok, Impala, Blesbok, Water cure support from Childline Botswana to the Director of Wildlife and that his government would al- program should be implement- Buck, Duiker, Steenbok, Bush to assess and assist foreign SWs with National Parks accompanied by low farmers in the country ed on the land aimed at disease buck Ostrich. Masisi has been experiencing a streak children and give them food packages a project proposal, document- to keep small game on their prevention and control (consult The guidelines further of bad press including on his personal during lockdown. She noted that so ing the intentions of the appli- farms to encourage locals’ nearest veterinary offices for state that many Batswana have investments but also on general lack of far, 21 families have been assessed, 19 cant. participation in agro-tourism. support). shown interest in this economic direction in government,” he said. approved and 19 assisted in Gaborone “Any Motswana with a field To start up the project one Provision of slaughter slabs diversification approach which “The trouble,” he continued, “is and are yet to asses 1 last case in Tlok- (tshimo) can apply for keeping will stock with the help of (Inspection by the Department has not been adequately rolled that he raises serious issues that this weng. of wild animals on their land. other exisng farms/ranches, of Veterinary Services should out for implementation as pro- government campaigned on, that they “We are still discussing how we will The person should provide through, donations, raffle if be carried out if slaughter is vided for in the Game Ranching are not taking up.” go about assisting other sites. But it the following; Certified copy quota is available from the wild to be done) and provision of Policy. This document intends On when he last met ATI, former looks like, they may not be able to do of National Identity , certified and government institutions if internal routes (which will act to address and close this gap. president had this to say: “I have had it looking at the logistics,” she noted. copy of proof of property available. as firebreaks within the land) The overarching objective no contact with ATI since I left office. Sisonke vouches that they will be ownership/lease/ title deed, On management, the guide- depending on size of land are of these Guidelines is to pro- They mistakenly believe that for any- giving food hampers to both HIV vide to an aspiring citizen of positive and HIV negative migrant sex letter of consent, if borrowed, lines indicate that there should also a requirement as part of one to express their disdain for the re- 4 Botswana an opportunity to workers, in all the districts that they size of the land, description be availability of water and the management process. gime they have to be influenced by me. have wildlife as part of produc- work from. and coverage of vegetation in reticulation within the land, The would-be game farmer This shows just how out of touch they “We are giving to both because the field and existing devel- management of stock in the should indicate number of tion in their land. The specific are with the majority of people in this we want to prevent stigma around sex opments in the area if any (a land (reduction of inbreeding, manpower to be employed, to objective of the guidelines is country and their contempt for them.” workers themselves, if we give only sketch plan would do),”read overstocking and management provide security, depending on to among others facilitate the Since leaving office Khama has positives they will be stigma around part of the guidelines. of old stock), ways of feeding the size of land and recom- keeping of wild animals or been fighting non-stop against his suc- that from sex workers who are nega- Mokgweetsi Masisi, an- (supplementary feeding if re- mended security personnel; game in small agricultural land cessor and former deputy, Mokgweetsi tive. nounced on May 30, 2020 quired), disease management After the applicant has sub- holdings. Masisi. Wednesday June 24, 2020 | BUSINESS | 3

The mystery over dead elephants in Botswana continues INDUSTRY NEWS Stanbic Bank, GPH resumes operations after Covid-19 scare Following the temporary closure of the Stanbic Bank Botswana Head Office and Fairgrounds Branch by the Ministry of Health and Well- ness, the Bank has confirmed that it has resumed operations from the building (including the branch) ef- fective from 17 and 18 June 2020 re- spectively. Stanbic Bank Botswana Chief Executive - Samuel Minta said, “We wish to confirm that following con- cerns over a COVID-19 case, we received written approval from the Director of Health Services at the Ministry on 14 June 2020 to re- open both the Head Office and Fairgrounds Branch. This approval was based on the bank having met all conditions including disinfection and testing of all staff at both prem- ises. As a precautionary measure, Elephants the bank extended the disinfection to all of our Gaborone branches, By The Telegraph Reporter ties quickly ruling out the possibility Elephants and Rhinos, an interna- ephants and Rhinos Organization dying from being poisoned by offices and ATMs. Furthermore, of poachers being behind the mas- tional non-governmental organisa- (GMFER) hereby officially requests poachers was ignited this week when we are happy to report that all the he troubling mass sacre. The officials were also quick tion that lobbies and advocates for the engagement and assistance of the Zimbabwe police found fruits COVID-19 test results for our staff death toll of elephants to downplay poisoning, explaining elephants and rhinos welfare, sought South Africa’s Minister Barbara laced with cyanide at Victoria Falls, were negative.” in Botswana is garner- that other animals would have died to solicit outside intervention, citing Creecy in her role as the incom- a key area usually frequented by el- The bank said the health and ing international con- as well. deep concerns over the Botswana ing chair of the African Ministerial ephants which move between Bo- safety of its employees and clients cern which is set to put The Environment, Natural Re- government which they said ap- Conference on the Environment. tswana and the neighbouring coun- remain a top priority and it will do Tpressure on the Botswana govern- sources Conservation and Tourism peared to “to show few signs of We respectfully request that Min- tries. Poachers have in the past used whatever it takes to keep them out ment to get to the bottom of the ministry has been criticised for the seriousness and urgency on behalf ister Creecy engage diplomatic ties oranges injected with cyanide as bait, of harm’s way. mystery that lies behind the over 100 lack of urgency over the rising death of investigating the hundreds of el- to work with Botswana to immedi- poisoning the elephants and later “We will continue to offer our elephants which died without appar- toll of elephants, with figures now in ephant deaths occurring within the ately unravel the reasons leading to cutting off the tusks after the ani- full support to the government ent cause. the north of 170. In May, the min- jurisdiction of that nation.” the mass deaths of elephants in the mals drop dead. and communities in which we op- In the past three months, reports istry officials revealed that they have In the letter addressed to South Okavango Delta region,” read part “It is not unreasonable to specu- erate. We look forward to deepen- started trickling in, detailing the un- collected samples from the dead car- Africa’s minister of Environment, of the letter. late that similar tactics are being em- ing our sustainability interventions, usually large number of dead ele- casses and were awaiting post-mor- Forestry and Fisheries, Barbara Dal- The letter appears to question ployed in Botswana to kill elephants, especially on Youth Employment phants strewn across northern parts tem results. las Creecy, and copied to Botswana’s the wildlife officials’ decision to the carcasses then left to dry in order and Entrepreneurship,” concluded of Botswana. In a country known to Shockingly, almost a month lat- regional wildlife coordinator, Di- quickly rule out the involvement for tusks to be retrieved -with rela- Minta. be home to the largest herd of el- er, the wildlife officials announced makatso Ntshebe, the organisation of poachers, especially early in the tive ease- months later. The remote Meanwhile Gaborone Private ephants, estimated at over 130,000, that the samples are yet to be sent said that any forensic analysis under- investigations. Though Botswana’s nature of the locale and the absence Hospital has also said is now fully the initial suspicion was poachers to South Africa, attributing the de- taken to determine the causal factors national laboratory has ruled out of relevant authorities on the ground open following closure on 12 June who have becoming daring in their lay to travel restrictions put in place of the mass mortality in Botswana Anthrax as cause of death, GMFER continue to create opportunities for 2020. hunt for ivory. to slowdown the spread of corona- must be scientific, conscientious and says the possibility of poisoning both speculation and criminal be- In a press statement, the hospi- However, what puzzled the virus. The delay further adds to the transparent. The NGO added that cannot be ruled out conclusively if haviour,” GMFER said in the letter. tal management says the facility has country’s wildlife officials was that growing concerns that the coun- trans-border cooperation can bring forensically viable samples from the The lobby group further ques- been satisfied safe for normal op- the elephants appeared to have died try appears to indifferent to mass about substantial benefits both in dead animals are yet to be been sent tioned the government’s lackadaisical erations and admissions. without apparent cause and even deaths, characterised by the slow view of conservation and in main- to a reputable lab for a thorough approach to the mysterious deaths at “All active staff and doctors more dumbfounding, the majestic response as bodies of carcass con- taining the accountability and trans- analysis that will determine the un- a time where any unknown death have been tested for Covid 19 with animals still had their ivories intact, tinues to pile. parency of SADC’s member nations. derlying cause. causes should spur immediate action negative results”, reads part of the an observation that led to authori- This week, the Global March for “The Global March for El- The likelihood of the elephants given the outbreak of Covid19. GPH statement. Botswana gets three Independent Power Producers

By Bonnie Modiakgotla and distribution nationwide. BPC’s money raised will be used to fund defective 600 MW Morupule B coal engineering and design of a pro- Botswana is getting multiple players station and the 132 Morupule A posed 66kV transmission line, due in the electricity generation sector power station have failed to gener- diligence costs related to develop- after the regulator issued licences ate enough electricity to meet local ment funding, field operations and to three independent power pro- demand, with BPC importing al- for working capital. ducers, a move aimed at enhancing most half of power from outside. The company - focused on de- the country’s local domestic power “Tlou Energy has received the livering gas-to-power- solutions in generation. Electricity Generation License for- Botswana by tapping on coal bed Botswana Energy Regulatory mal certificate and accompanying methane natural gas - wholly owns Authority (BERA) on Wednesday conditions from Botswana Energy the most advanced gas project in awarded the licences to Energy and Regulatory Authority (BERA). The the country, Lesedi CBM project, Natural Resource Corporation, Sese licence has a term of 15 years, is for which it promotes as a solution to Power and Tlou Energy. Energy the generation of 2 MW of CBM the region’s chronic power short- and Natural Resource Corporation gas and solar power generation at ages. intends to build a 600 megawatts the Lesedi project for sale to Bo- Tlou’s managing director, Tony (MW) coal-fired power station, tswana Power Corporation (BPC) at Gilby, has revealed that they are in while Sese is undertaking a 225 MW the approved BPC tariff, as well as advanced discussions with develop- a series of standard conditions,” the ment funding institutions interested coal-fired power station and Tlou Morupule B Energy is to construct a 2 MW coal company listed on the Australian in providing debt or equity capital bed methane (CBM) fuelled power Securities Exchange, London’s Al- to fund the next stage of the Lesedi Gilby added that they are locked “Once the term sheet is signed, 8 to 12 weeks from the execution of station. ternative Investment Market (AIM) project. This work includes but is in advanced negotiations with Bo- due diligence covering commercial, the term sheet,” Gilby said. The three independent power and the Botswana Stock Exchange’s not limited to, drilling of additional tswana Development Corporation, technical, legal, reputational, envi- Tlou’s top main shareholders producers are expected to sell part main foreign counter said this week. wells, installation of generation as- the investment arm of the Botswa- ronmental, social and governance are Botswana Public Officers Pen- of the electricity generated to the Tlou has already begun a fun- sets, purchase of capital equipment, na government. BDC is currently can be completed. The costs of this sion Fund (BPOPF), which has a state-owned Botswana Power Cor- draising exercise, offering about and installation of associated infra- pouring over the term sheet, which will be borne by Tlou. The Com- 10.5 stake in the company, and An- poration, which has had the mo- 75 million new offer shares at 0.32 structure to develop up to 10MW is progressing through the BDC’s pany has been advised that the due thony Gilby Group which holds 4.8 nopoly of electricity generation thebe to raise P24 million. The of power. internal corporate processes. diligence process is expected to take percent.

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Mysterious Mobile data costs slashed illness kills Okavango elephants • Illness has killed 162 elephants to date • Specimens sent abroad and regionally for testing By Khonani Ontebetse

he Director of the De- partment of Veterinary Services (DVS) Dr Letl- hogile Modisa has said that the investigations Tinto the mysterious deaths of scores of elephants in the Oka- vango panhandle is a complex process. Speaking in an interview, Modisa acknowledged that they have not yet concluded their inves- tigations on samples that were tak- en from the carcasses of elephants that were found in the Okavango Delta. “We do tests and then we have Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority to go and confirm. It’s a whole Elephants complex thing. It takes time for By The Telegraph Reporter data pricing, offering more inter- figure that is thrice the average for the results to be released because ly could have died within a space death of elephants were a cause net bundles for a lesser cost. The other African countries – and way we work as a team. The delay is of a month and not two or three for concern as the country rely on Mobile network operators have top two companies were playing over the world’s average which is due to transporting of samples months as previously reported. tourism as another source of rev- slashed prices across their key data catch up to BTC Mobile, which projected to grow to 63.4 percent within laboratories,” he said. “What we have now discov- products and services, in a move already had lower pricing across its in 2019. Asked if they have notified the enue. ered is that the latest carcasses Botswana which has a expected to increase affordable bundles. The high mobile penetration World Health Animal Organiza- could be part of the elephants that internet connectivity and keep the According to Botswana is the result of the country’s dual tion about the mysterious death population of 2.3 million has an died in May, which we previously elephant population of 130 000 mobile wars going. Household Access to Information simcard market, where consumers of elephants, Modisa said while did not locate,” he said. The three operators, Mascom, and Communication Technology hold multiple numbers from the Botswana is expected to submit its and this has led to human wildlife Ntshebe said they were unbale Orange and BTC Mobile, experi- statistics for 2019, which surveyed three mobile network operators. report next year, they can only in- conflict. In 2018, President to locate some of the carcasses at enced increased data connectivity nearly 668,387 households, 63.5 While the subscriptions have sig- corporate information relating to Mokgweetsi Masisi came under the time because “it is not easy to this year following the outbreak percent of the households had nificantly increased in 2019’s three the death of elephants when the fire after he lifted a 2014 hunting traverse the difficult terrain that is of Covid19, which offered a sil- access to internet, registering a quarters, industry players had results of the causes of death have ban. the Okavango Delta.” ver lining for the Telco’s. Some tremendous growth of 72.4 per- warned that the numbers will dras- been established. A local NGO, Elephants He said the number of car- measures put in place to limit the cent from 2014. The survey fur- tically drop following proposed For his part, Regional Wildlife Protection Society said it was also casses were expected to surge as movement and interaction of peo- ther found out that 91.1 percent regulatory changes which will be Coordinator, Dimakatso Ntshebe they intend to undertake a tour of at a loss as to what could have led ple in efforts to curb the spread of confirmed that more than 162 el- of households accessed internet implemented. the delta after securing help in the to the deaths of such a number of the virus resulted in people work- through their phones. In March 2019, the ministry ephants have died mysteriously in form of helicopters from the Min- ing from homes thus requiring elephants in the delta at alarming The data from the survey also of Transport and Communica- recent months. He said they have istry of Wildlife and other stake- rate. more than usual usage of internet since sent specimen and samples revealed that there are 569,991 tions disclosed to parliament that holders. The NGO’s director, Oaitse connectivity. of dead elephants to United States Batswana who had access to mo- BOCRA, will implement the mo- He said travel restrictions due Nawa said although they are still During the lockdown, which of America, South Africa and bile cellular phones. Still, Statistics bile number portability (MNP) in to COVID-19 pandemic has also to establish what the cause of ran from early April to mid-May, Zimbabwe for testing. resulted in the delay of the results consumers complained of the high Botswana’s Information and Com- the 2019/2020 financial year, but deaths could be, it was not the first “What we have also discov- on the exact cause. data costs, spurring the minister munication Technology brief for as that financial year comes to an time that such a pestilence struck ered is that the pattern of death is Ntshebe said the deaths were of Transport and Communication last year’s third quarter (Q3 2019) end this month, the project is yet similar for all carcasses that were first reported on 11th May 2020 elephants in the country. to announce that internet prices shows that mobile subscriptions to take off . found in the area. They are all and carcasses were found intact “In 2018, a mysterious agent will be reduced, offering the first were recorded at 3.8 million at the The implementation of MNP dying from the same mysterious ruling out possibilities of poach- like the one that is responsible glimpse into behind the scenes ne- three mobile operators. will allow customers to switch agent,” he said. ing. He said upon further investi- for such large number of deaths gotiations between the MNOs and With a population of approxi- between wireless carriers with- According to Ntshebe, they gations, anthrax and human poi- of elephants also hit the country government regulators. mately 2.4 million, the data puts out fear of losing their numbers, have discovered that the carcasses soning were ruled out as possible in the north-western part of the As of this week, Orange and the country’s mobile penetration something which has been a stum- of elephants that died mysterious- causes of death. Ntshebe said the country,” he said. Mascom made changes to their rate in excess of 200 percent - a bling block. Wednesday June 24, 2020 5

Le MHELE ga o bape! Thiba ha, o thibe kwa!

Observe Social distancing, drink from home and stay safe. Every game has its rules. These are the rules of the alcohol consumption game.

This campaign is brought to you by: 6 | INSIGHT | Wednesday June 24, 2020 Sorcery, chemical poisoning among threats to Botswana’s vulture

As a conservation activist asks Botswana government to impose stiffer penalties for the killing of vultures similar to those imposed for killing rhinos, EDGAR TSIMANE takes a bird’s eye view of what threatens the existence of the “clean-up squad”

ast year some 537 says Moleofi. White-backed Despite diclofenac poisoning vultures died from being on top of all the threats (in what was believed to addition to the misuse of agro- be poisoning from chemicals), the latest threat is lead Ldiclofenac laced carcasses they fed poisoning which is more harmful on. and deadly so says Moleofi. Earlier this year, on February The poisoning is caused by the 11, another incident occurred in ingestion of remains of a lead-based the vicinity of Mosu Village in ammunition found on carcasses central Botswana - about 1000km of wild and domestic animals from the capital Gaborone - when that have been deliberately killed White-backed vultures died on using lead bullets, or by ingesting the scene from similar suspected entrails or carcasses left behind by poisoning by an unknown famer irresponsible hunters. trying to kill livestock predators. When ingested in large This has gotten, and still does enough quantities, lead has get Keddy Moleofi all the more detrimental effects on the nervous worried. The Project Officer at and reproductive systems. Birds BirdLife Botswana, a non-profit with lead poisoning exhibit loss bird conservation organisation of balance, gasping, tremors and which seeks to preserve birds from impaired ability to fly. Emaciation extinction, says incidents such as follows and death can occur within these are a threat to the vulture 2 to 3 weeks after lead ingestion. population in Botswana. She adds a litany of other threats “Considering the frequency to vultures being collusion with of poisoning incidents across the power lines, lack of suitable habitat, country, some of them [incidents] Vultures big nesting trees being destroyed by may be happening out there but elephants, human activities such as; communities are not able to report. The other danger, she says, is the intelligence,” Moleofi reveals. “There is a need to have more Anyone who contravenes it is farming, firewood collection and In many instances, some people, hunting of vultures for traditional On that score, Moleofi argues interventions such as amending the liable to a fine of P5,000.00 and to craft making. especially those who are aware of medicine. “Traditional doctors that penalties for offenders who kill laws and regulations. For instance, 5 years in prison, the penalty for Vultures are important in the penalty they could face when believe that the head and eyes of vultures are lenient when compared the current Wildlife Conservation killing a vulture is P1,000.00 or 1 the ecosystem. A decline in their caught, do not report poisoning a vulture are efficient in providing with those visited on those who kill and National Park Act prohibits year in prison. Whereas killing a numbers increases those of stray cases,” she reveals. powers, foresight and increased rhinos. the use of poison to kill wildlife. rhino is P100,000.00 and 10 years dogs including other species in prison. These are insignificant capable of causing rabies. fines and they need to be reviewed Vultures are able to digest putrid to scare the public.” carcasses infected with toxins or Moleofi proposes: “Thediseases that are potentially lethal penalty for killing a vulture should to other scavenging animals due be P70,000.00 and 15 years in to the corrosive strength of their prison because vultures are known stomach acid. By so doing, they globally to be threatened. Soon clean the landscape and help they will be extinct. Therefore, prevent the spread of diseases such we need laws and acts that can as Anthrax, Rabies, Tuberculosis, effectively protect them from Botulism, and Brucellosis. poisoning.” “If vultures vanish there will be no source of recreation. People While acknowledging derive pleasure and get therapy from that government, through the viewing vultures. They contribute Department of Wildlife and to the economic benefits that National Parks (DWNP), has accrue to tourism. Vultures help GABORONE been working with BirdLife farmers to locate their lost or dead Botswana (BLB) to deal with the livestock and help authorities to ADMINISTRATION AND TEACHING VACANCIES FOR 2020 poisoning issue, she points out identify illegal poaching activities. Westwood International School, established in 1988, provides international education to children from Reception to university entrance level. that the level of response is not They also reduce carcases disposal The school has just over 500 students from 40 different countries receiving an international education. Westwood International School is an IB satisfactory. costs,” says Moleofi. World school offering Primary Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate (IB PYP), Middle Years Programme (IBMYP), and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB Diploma Programme). “BLB and DWNP have There are five vulture species formed a working group found in Botswana which are The school invites applications from suitable qualified and experienced professionals for the following positions: where vulture concerns and White-backed Vulture, Lappet- ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL conservation approaches are faced Vulture, Cape Vulture, The Elementary School Principal will report to the Head of School, and will oversee all staff, teachers, and programmes related to the elementary school (Reception - Year 6). Supervises and appraises all elementary school staff; being tackled together. When Hooded Vulture and White- Roles and Responsibilities: there is a poisoning incident headed Vulture. And all of them • Ensuring a quality elementary school curriculum in line with the school’s mission, and vision government responds by availing are endangered and critically • Providing professional leadership in organizing, administering, supervising and evaluating all elementary and preschool programmes and activities veterinary officers to test the cause endangered. • Lead and coordinate with Coordinators, elementary school management team and the heads of department to ensure current innovative of death and confirm the type of BirdLife Botswana has educational practice, relevant curriculum content and regular assessment of the educational quality. • Ensuring pedagogy in line with the IBO and the Westwood philosophy chemical used on the carcass. The developed a reporting platform on Department also supports the its website where people can access SECONDARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL events held to sensitise the public, • The school is seeking a highly experienced International School professional to provide leadership within the secondary school. and report incidences at http:// Experience in the International Baccalaureate Programmes and leadership in international schools will be an asset. for example, kgotla meetings and www.birdlifebotswana.org.bw/ Reporting Structure: workshops. The government also node/add/vulture-and-animal- • Secondary Head of the School reports directly to the Head of the School and has direct lines of authority over MYP and DP Coordinators; assists in support to mobilise Department Heads of the Secondary School; Student Services Coordinator; and staff in other positions of responsibility. sightings. Qualifications and Experience: funds for vulture conservation,” “This helps us map the says the project officer. • Bachelor of Education most affected areas around the • Masters of Education BLB, which has a citizen country. The Organisation has • A minimum of 5 years in a leadership role science programme aimed • Experience in International Baccalaureate Programmes (PYP/MYP and DP) preferred been implementing a campaign at determining the wild bird called ‘I want Vultures Alive not SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS – MATHEMATICS, FRENCH, LANGUAGES, ARTS AND GENERAL SCIENCES population trends, also adds it has dead’ aimed at sensitising the been evident that vulture sightings Applications are also sought from suitably qualified Secondary School teachers from Year 7 up to IB Diploma level (Year 13). Experience or training in public about vulture poisoning the Middle Years Programme, IB Diploma Programme would be an advantage. in the wild have drastically countrywide,” says Moleofi. declined more especially the PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS Moleofi says over the last 10 White-backed Vultures. years BLB has, in partnership Previous teaching experience in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IBPYP) or an understanding of inquiry based learning “Volunteers report that would be desirable. nowadays one can spot dead with the DWNP, undertaken a Qualifications livestock which could be a donkey, capacity enhancement initiative A Degree in Primary/Secondary Education, together with Certification, required. a cow, or a goat without any providing poisoning response vultures nearby. Until now, most training to communities, wildlife Only candidates meeting the requirements will be contacted. Letters of application including CV and the names and contact address of referees must be sent to: The Head of School, Westwood International School, P O Box 2446, Gaborone, Deadline July 15th, 2020. work has been done to determine scouts, stakeholders, farmers and Telephone:3906736, Fax: 3906734 Email: the extent or distribution of rangers in responding to poisoning vultures using satellite telemetry,” incidents. Wednesday June 24, 2020 | INSIGHT | 7 Leadership crisis undermines Africa’s political stability initiatives

If there is any continent that has been associated with all that is considered bad, extending to evil, it is surely none other than Africa. JOSEPH BALISE unplugs how it all started and envisioned to ultimately for a continent exposed to bad and negative publicity receiving all kinds of uncharitable characterizations

frica is a economic interests emerge as different parts for it is governance that continent of the international of the country compete determines whether or r a v a g e d community constantly or lay claim to such not there are durable links by wars, play a significant role in resources, Furthermore, between the state and diseases, undermining the very the consequence of the society it purports to Apoverty, unemployment, processes and institutions external pressure govern. political instability and that are expected to combined with internal The nature of a host of other problems nurture democracy and malgovernance problems governance is central that the continent has to instil a sense of stability in Africa are enormous because it determines been gallantly fighting to for societal development and have had serious whether the exercise of no avail. in Africa. implications for political authority is viewed as Presenting a paper: “In combination to stability”. legitimate. Legitimate “Political Instability such factors as unequal O n y ’ a g o authority, in turn, is in Africa: Where development, poverty, based on accepted acknowledges that calls the problem lies and disease, violence and the laws and norms rather for African countries alternative perspectives” manipulative tendencies than the arbitrary, Antony Otieno Ong’ayo of the local elite, political to solve such problems unconstrained power of at the 2018 International and economi9c stability ignore the reality on the rulers. Governance Day of Peace, argued that in Africa is constantly the ground and at the also has an important while it is not deniable under threat. This threat international level regional dimension that Africa faces a lot of is however not emanating where special interests relating to institutional problems, the African from within the continent often determine thestructures and norms that situation is not as bleak as but from external course of events in the guide a region’s approach portrayed in the media or interests whose thirst periphery. Just as the to challenges and that by Africanists. for African resources, problem is complex help to shape its political “In terms of political continue to shape the African Leaders and multifaceted, their culture. instability, it is also dynamics in areas related solutions also require a “This is especially undeniable that the to governance. Resources broader implications global and domestic supervision of their “the market outcome of similar approach which relevant in looking at continent has had some in Africa if well managed of bad politics and pressures, need to be observation. As long the allocation of resources encompasses a greater Africa’s place in the difficult momentsare capable of providing the consequences of speeded up. The political as these mechanisms especially in Africa is commitment from the emerging world since the during the last fifty years for its entire population, governance structures stability as a result of are being flouted in socially unacceptable; the leadership. large region consists of 54 or so. But what is still hence the potentials for a that are autocratic and these framework and Africa, the markets even cause massive deprivation Chester A Crocker, a states – close to 25 percent unexplained in the many more stable environment, oppressive”. redistributive systems though touted as the and inequalities, former secretary of state of the UN’s membership analyses that have been however, it is well Ony’ago argues that is therefore essential to solution to economic marginalization and in for African Affairs from – and includes the largest looking at events in Africa documented that stolen the leadership problem Africa’s socio-economic development problems, some cases, trigger inter- 1981 to 1989 concurs number of landlocked is the fact that in almost wealth from Africa often crept into the new states, development”, urges has still shown its failures ethnic conflicts as various explain that in Africa, as states of any region, all the cases of political end up in banks abroad”, as the new African Ony’ago. due to misuse of power groups struggle for scarce in every region, it is the factors that dramatically instability in Africa, it laments Ony’ago. affect the political leadership became the According to in relationships. These state resources. Again, quality and characteristics is evident that the major It is further observed environment in which neo-colonialists, while the presenter, bad included corruption, rent this more common in of governance that shape problem is leadership. that also problematic in leaders make choices. liberators turned into governance practices and seeking behaviour and the countries less endowed the level of stability In this context, the African context are Consequently, national oppressors of their own loopholes for plunder of existence of externalities and the prospects for Africa has seen its the existing institutions with natural resources and regional governance people. public funds, demands and related problems of economic development. freedom heroes turn and how they function. while in those countries factors interact Many countries an extensive regulatory free riding. There is no more critical into dictators, while Despite the existence of in Africa have seen an system of contract rules with natural resources, continuously”, reckons Ony’ago decries that variable than governance, the plunder of natural institutional frameworks increased level of political and an effective legal regional conflagarations Crocker. resources, politics of that are supposed to awareness in their exclusion and deprivation guide processes and people as citizens to tilt the balance of delivery on essential are demanding power continues to services, the continued accountability in dominate the public weakening of these their governments. sphere”, argues Ong’ayo, institutions, through Participatory of the Amsterdam based political mechanization democracy is taking African Diaspora Policy and predatory nature root, as country Centre, adding that “these of African elites, to country move SALES problems have been working in cohorts with from single party pointed out and fought external interests also dictatorship to gallantly by ordinary contributes further to pluralism, while EXECUTIVE Africans who have over the undermining of military take-overs the years, expressed their stability in Africa. These are getting less and discontent with regimes tendencies exacerbate less. imposed upon them, resources wars, ethnic “These are National Development Bank (NDB) was established under • To ensure adherence to all sales related processes, through the complicity rivalry, and more signs that Africa an act of parliament in 1963 to provide a varied range of policies and procedures; of the international recently, the emergence is not static, but financial services to Botswana’s business sector and the • To ensure adherence to ISO 9001 standard; community”. of electoral violence as a progressively public at large. NDB is the first Bank in Africa to be certified • To ensure smooth branch controls. According to characteristic of a multi- adjusting to under ISO 9001:2000 International Quality Standards. • Identify anomalies and irregularities and adhere to the Ong’ayo, almost every party era elections in universal standards referral process; country in Africa is still Africa. as far as governance NDB is seeking to recruit a suitably qualified, dynamic, • To be an expert knowledge of the products, structure as haunted by historical According to is concerned. talented and experienced professional to join the team as well as the Bank functions. injustices and oppressive Ony’ago, despite the The pace is Sales Executive. JOB REQUIREMENTS structures that were hardships the continent however slow MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB bequeathed to the post- faces, African people • Business Degree or Equivalent and sometimes, Reporting to the Relationship Manager, the role ensures • COP and/or Agricultural Qualification will be an added colonial leadership. have not remained static, experiencing the effective facilitation of all sales transactions, advantage This is an aspect which even though there are setbacks, especially measuring sales performance on continual basis and • Must have a 2-3 years Banking, Sales consulting informs the weak retrogressive tendencies. by the few reporting the performance to the sales team. It experience with a proven track record of having worked institutions of the The majority, whoseremaining bin involves the appropriate matching of client needs to in sales / distribution preferably in an Agriculture-focused state, flawed legislative perspectives are hardly men in Africa. the NDB products and providing input to the sales team environment systems and constant captured in western However, it is on potential changes and modification. The role is • Should have a valid driver’s license struggles for political media or academia, also important to tenable in Francistown power to the detriment have made great leaps, COMPETENCIES caution about these KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS of the wellbeing of many in a number of areas, developments, • Integrity The candidate will be responsible for, among others, • Professionalism nations, which could including their level of since global events the following: have moved on a path of political awareness and • Dependability keep changing, • To monitor client accounts and follow up with • Reliable development as part of popular participation in hence creating clients where necessary; modern societies. the electoral processes. new challenges • To manage and route client queries effectively and REMUNERATION In his no blows barred On a positive note, for Africa. In this efficiently, ensuring quality service and ongoing The Bank offers competitive remuneration. presentation, Ony’ago Ony’ago acknowledges regard, efforts customer satisfaction; unequivocally posits that that “the leadership towards fast • To perform mandated product modifications for Interested and qualified individuals should send their political instability in dilemma and many tracking certain clients in real time, where possible or flagging applications (Cover Letter, CV and certified copies of Africa may owe its cause to other governance requested product changes for clients; identification and qualifications) to the following address no political processes, later than Friday 3rd July 2020. internal factors, however related malpractices • To request for disbursement and follow up until establishment successful disbursement; the interpenetration of are being challenged of institutional • To apply effective administration services ensuring Address to: Head of Shared Services internal and external more and more from and legislative follow up on client queries; National Development Bank, P O Box 225, Gaborone factors especially within, as people begin frameworks that • To ensure effective record keeping of all sales Email to: [email protected]. geo-political and to u7nderstand the can with stand related documents and data; • To execute sales objectives through proactive Hand Delivery: In Gaborone - Development House, selling, whilst following NDB sales processes; Main Mall, Gaborone. • To negotiate and advise on product sets; • To undertake pre-assessment activity and recom- NB: ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES mend selecting the right products based on client specific needs; WILL BE RESPONDED TO. • To negotiate favourable terms and conditions with the client; • To coordinate the activities of Business Development Agents;

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FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: (+267) 72 602 045 / 71 498 784 8 | OPINION & ANALYSIS | Wednesday June 24, 2020

PRESS RELEASE Life Gaborone Private Editorial a Hospital (GPH) Management wishes to Botswana government can inform its clients and the general public that ignore ATI, but not his message Over the last few days, pop- also on social media. ing on a whole government could be irrelevant. Botswana government ular musician and artist ATI He is viewed by some machinery and is taking it to That has happened with and the ruling party face a the hospital is now open has ramped up his political as a leader. Everybody has the cleaners. a law on declaration of as- brutal test. The split person- message against Botswana always known ATI was a tal- But a much bigger prob- sets, which by the way it is ality that has sustained the following closure on Government. ented musician. But nobody lem for government is re- still to pass. two – where they are voted He wants to meet the saw his activist side coming. ally not ATI, but what to do Despite many prom- by indigenous Batswana and president of the republic, He has been persistent. And with his message which is a ises to empower indigenous financed by Indians who go the 12 June 2020 Mokgweetsi Masisi. He also also focused. message for the majority, es- Batswana, the economy re- on to get government con- wants Masisi to resign. Detractors have accused pecially the youth many of mains in the hands of natu- tracts and business patron- Quite predictably, Presi- him of being high on sub- who don’t feel any allegiance ralized people especially of age is no longer sustainable. dent Masisi has declined stance. That might well be to neither the ruling party Asian heritage. Political parties can no lon- to meet ATI. It is not clear so. But he defied such criti- nor the government. The focus should be on ger make electoral pledges why. He instead said ATI cism by staying focused and Ignoring these young correcting a defective past. and promises during cam- must meet his minister of delivering a message that people or their message is But looking at how ATI paign only to abandon those Youth, Sports and Culture, resonates with many people. no longer feasible. What is being treated, there is no once in power. Tumiso Chilliboy Rakgare. The message is non-conven- the country needs are genu- acceptance even of the exis- Those in power today ATI has responded by tional and non-conformist. ine programmes aimed at tence of the imbalances. have to demonstrate the ex- refusing to meet Rakgare, Government supporters redress. Government has There is not even a level tent of their sense of public saying it’s Masisi or nothing. have been unable to craft promised a Citizen econom- of empathy on the part of duty and service. But his message of de- a plausible message to re- ic empowerment law. those in power. Instead ATI To enrich themselves fiance has resonated with a spond to ATI. That no longer elicits is being abused for being while leaving the economy vast section of the youth. It is like a flashpoint for excitement because the fear high on drugs. of the country in the clutch- ATI has legions of fol- Botswana government. A is that when it comes it will They are going for the es of Indian industrialists lowers – as a musician but one-man campaign is tak- be so watered down that it man and not the ball. will be an unforgivable sin.

This week’s cartoon • The hospital has been • The majority of hos- certified safe for - nor pital staff and doctors mal operations and ad- have been vaccinated missions against seasonal influ- • All active staff and enza (flu) as a measure doctors have been test- of mitigating the risk ed for COVID19 with of being off sick due negative results to normal flu. Since • We swab patients for COVID-19 symptoms COVID19 tests before are similar to those they are admitted or on of flu, this also assists the same day of admis- with mitigating the sion in cases of emer- number of staff “false gency alarms” of the virus. • The safety of our pa- • Should any person tients and staff is para- with COVID-19 be mount admitted, necessary • We are fully commit- precautions are taken ted to the working with while in hospital to the health ministry and prevent spread of the all relevant authori- infection and informa- ties and stakeholders tion is only shared with in the fight against relevant authorities for COVID19 pandemic further management and following the best of the situation. clinical standards. Combating the spread of The hospital’s COVID19 the virus by reviewing the safety measures and necessary guidelines and protocols, implemented services and engaging with since the March 2020, are the Ministry of Health and aligned to WHO and na- Wellness continues to be a tional guidelines and go top priority. beyond, as follows: ______• All healthcare workers Mpho Gabonewe entering our facility are Hospital Manager screened daily • Compulsory wear- Anthony Sibiya Open letter to President Dr M.E.K Masisi ing of the appropriate Hospital Superintendent at the eleventh hour show have steered off course, rebuttals are made on, while Personal Protection ______Dear H.E Masisi Speak to your heart just that. Many thought you they are always defending, in others they are not. It Equipment (PPE) by Your ship has lost course were calm and smart on the always trying to make logi- leaves a lot of unease and all healthcare workers About Gaborone Private It is with both utmost hu- but it is my belief that you presidential debate speech, cal explanations when it is doubt and dents your cred- when attending to pa- Hospital: Gaborone Pri- mility and a bleeding heart can still fix your sails and re- but to some degree even you impossible to. H.E, all they ibility. Like in a love affair, tients. vate Hospital is a healthcare that at exactly 3 AM I woke route. You need to do it at were doubtful, they had run are doing is anger Batswana our relationship (as your • Wearing of surgical business providing acute up suddenly, took a short once or you are heading to a a smooth campaign until even more. Statistics show constituents) requires com- masks by all patients care, oncology services (in- prayer, and I pen this down. great disaster. In fighting in- then, but all of a sudden it’s that just about a million munication, honesty, and to further mitigate the cluding radiation), dialysis, As a spiritual someone I justice you now find yourself as though something took Facebook accounts are ac- most of all transparency. risk of possible trans- radio-diagnostics services don’t find that a coincidence becoming the very injustice over to expose what laid tive in Botswana, and, fur- Its time you stopped look- mission. and Laboratory services. for the thought has come you once denounced from behind a mask, what in de- thermore Facebook is the ing to a secretary for written • A COVID-19 health- The business has 2 com- to mind a couple of times others in the eyes of the bate terms is called a shaft. most influential platform speeches (they will just copy care worker’s exposure ponents being the property but I dismissed it, but today public. The very things you The same thing is lurking where thoughts are shared and paste, they did in school policy is in place. company (Propco) that the edge was rather strong. spoke of, are turning into and waiting, beware, speak and refined in Botswana. too), or a PR team for politi- • Emergency admission owns the hospital structure Please take time to go a prophecy of doom and to your heart, find refuge in This makes it a volatile and cally correct stances, and dig undergo COVID-19 and an adjacent residential through this because I know damnation against yourself. the light it has to offer. sensitive playground, but into your heart and speak testing for manage- complex, and the operat- your praise poets(a danger It is as though you took the your praise poets parade from it. To a certain degree ment in a specific dedi- ing company (Opco). The to yourself I shall address baton, as though now you Praise poets council up and down Facebook ev- it is what greatness is made cated unit pending the Propco business is 100% in this communique) will want to be worse than what You have a robust praise eryday. And it is angering of, the genuine self-being outcome of the test citizen owned through a do their best to keep it from came before. All the chaotic poets council. Some hide Batswana. If anything they given to the people, not results. partnership between Deb- you or dismiss it as words news headlines we see every behind the titles you have should just keep quiet. management and manipula- • Limitation of visitors swana Pension Fund, BIFM of a bitter hater of yours. I day can’t all be lies. There is given them as communica- tion to shape perspectives. to the hospital to 1 per- and Clinic Holdings. The put it to you though, that on just no way, an old saying tions and what not people, Inspire confidence and Speak the truth, and the son per patient for 15 Opco is 49% locally owned the contrary, those who love says there is no smoke with- some with an end of goal speak from your heart best way to ensure that is minutes per day by Debswana Pension you always put things blunt- out fire. The smoke is black of self-enrichment and buy- Make it a habit to speak to by speaking from the heart • All visitors to the hos- Fund, BIFM, Clinic Hold- ly to you, it’s not betrayal and even blocking the sun. I ing favor with you. Some your people Mr. President when addressing your peo- pital are required to use ings and a Doctors invest- (and it is my fear that you believe there is goodness in with a genuine love for party even in tough times when ple, and not reading from a alcohol hand-rub and ment company. Life Health- are at a point where anyone you and hence the spiritual and country and misguided you have damning allega- piece paper verbatim. wear a mask upon en- care (SA) has a 51% stake in forces that intervened on belief that they can never tions in your face, silence is tering and leaving the the Opco business. with divergent views from your behalf during national differ with you, as it will be treated as confirmation -es Make room at your table hospital. you is now seen as enemy; again I will speak to this in elections. The own goals seen as treason. Even when pecially when there are mat- this piece). conceded by opposition a blind person sees that you ters which swift and prompt CONTINUES ON PAGE 9

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THE LINGUIST CHAIR Opinion / Analysis The ugly side of the PROF. THAPELO OTLOGETSWE Covid-19 Task Force: Ramotswa We should learn and Block 8 incidences to live with coronavirus In exasperation with lock- would happen if corona- has not, to the best of my grieving family be denied the Accepting on the basis of the so hall have been declared a down, I have heard this virus hit just one school! WITHOUT FEAR knowledge, come out pub- Covid-19 results of one of Ramotswa case that some- high risk area given that the argument being thrown And as schools open, we see OR FAVOUR licly to offer its own version their own whether positive thing fundamentally wrong President, Vice President, around by some. Those who school-going children walk- to the new twist presumably or negative? Because this had gone so fundamentally Members of Parliament and have shared it have not fully ing the streets with masks on account that these mat- death is the first Covid-19 wrong, one would expect almost all Ministers together developed it. So, it lacks clar- hanging around their necks ters are before court. For in this country assuming the that the Covid-19 Task Force with senior government of- ity. I too think we should like the albatross in Samuel the time being, I will rely official position is correct, would have learnt the hard ficials were in attendance? It learn to live with coronavi- Coleridge’s The Rime of the on what the aggrieved par- wouldn’t it have been, at a way and wouldn’t repeat the was not to be as science glar- rus but not as some imagine Ancient Mariner. Danger is ties have put on the table. It bare minimum, a courtesy ‘mistake’. The Block 8 case ingly played second fiddle to it. There are those who ar- not imminent. Masks have would appear from what the protocol for the Covid-19 again on the understanding politics I argue. This is a seri- aggrieved parties are alleging Task Force to visit the family of what is contained in court ous indictment, I am tempt- gue that we should open the become a requirement for with respect to the conduct and hand over the results? I papers, suggests that more ed to believe, on the integrity borders, open the business- accessing public spaces and es, and return the country to they are not seen as essential ADAM PHETLHE of the Covid-19 Task Force am just saying! How could a of the same still obtained. of the Task Force. They in- handling of their Covid-19 team made up of doctors of Without playing down stead chose to look the other normalcy. They argue that elements of public health. The Covid-19 Task Force tests for the virus that some- immense repute fail to pay the significance of the- Ra way when they were sup- we should allow those who This must be corrected in a which is at the forefront of thing fundamentally wrong attention to detail in the se- motswa case to the ugly side posed to step to the plate to die, die, with the hope that hurry before things worsen. managing and containing the may have taken place. It is on nior citizen’s case? of the Covid-19 Task Force, enforce Covid-19 protocols. we will attain the so-called This brings me to this Covid-19 pandemic has, gen- the basis of these that I hold Second in the seemingly let me focus on the Block 8 Then out of the blues herd immunity. By herd im- point: we must learn to live erally speaking, done fairly the view that there is po- incompetent conduct of the one because there is a funda- came the announcement that munity they mean “the re- with coronavirus – by shut- well given the circumstances tentially an ugly side of the Task Force is the case of the mental and profound con- public transport was revert- sistance to the spread of a ting down zones, villages, under which it is operating. Covid-19 Task Force. These Block 8 nurse. On national text to it. And that is, that it ing to full carrying capacity. contagious disease within towns, borders, schools The speed under which it incidences-cum-new-twists television this time by the proved beyond any reason- This means the other leg of a population that results if once a positive case has been was assembled to deal with should they be correct, have Minister of Health and Well- able doubt that politics took the three-pronged Covid-19 a sufficiently high propor- identified. The COVID-19 the invincible monster, the somewhat eroded the confi- ness, it was announced that precedence over science. I preventative measure is no tion of individuals are im- team must not hesitate to dence some members of the a nurse who had screened have said it before and I re- longer applicable in public reported budgetary con- mune to the disease, espe- lockdown villages, towns, straints and other unforeseen community may have had on Members of Parliament and peat it herein that the Task transport. And that is so- the Task Force. others at the extraordinary Force sat hopelessly and cial distancing. I am not by cially through vaccination.” and regions if they sincerely challenges cannot be under- The danger however is that believe that such an action stated. For operating under The long and short of meeting of parliament early helplessly when the Minis- any measure downplaying we do not know how herd will go a long way in con- these circumstances and these incidences is that the in April 2020 the previous ter of Health and Wellness the economic hardships the more importantly managing Vice President announced day, had tested positive. The made the announcement of transport sector experienced immunity can be attained, trolling the spread of the vi- to keep Covid-19 pandemic on national television that a said nurse in court papers the Block 8 nurse. Needless as a result of Covid-19 re- firstly, because covid-19 is rus. Once a bomb threat has figures under control so far, Ramotswa-born senior citi- meanwhile draws a pathetic to say and on the presump- strictions. Several other sec- still largely unknown. Sec- been received in a packed the Task Force deserves a zen aged 79 years had passed scene of how his own case tion that the management of tors have suffered the same ond, because nowhere in shopping centre; the police pat on the back. But two ma- on as a result of succumb- was (mis)handled by the Covid-19 programme was fate. The Task Force has the world has this been move swiftly to clear the jor incidences somewhat put ing to the Covid-19 virus same Covid-19 Task Force in essentially science-based, not up to now informed the achieved previously. Instead mall urgently to get every- a black spot on the otherwise after attending a funeral in more respect than one - how science should have, expect- nation as to whether their of any country attaining one to safety with minimum fairly good job. These are the the South African village of he was taken from pillar to edly, taken charge immedi- overall testing for Covid-19 herd immunity, people have regard for the man who is Ramotswa and Block 8 clinic Motswedi. It later turned out post for demanding the re- ately after the positive ver- suggests it is safe to ‘com- died in unimaginable num- still cutting his juicy steak incidences which in my view, according to her family that sult that confirms he indeed dict was pronounced. That promise’ social distancing in bers around the world. The or the teenager who is still should have been routine the death certificate stated tested positive if at all; how is, Covid-19 protocols in the public transport sector. search for herd immunity is enjoying a refreshing creamy that she had passed on as a he was admitted at Sir Ketu- cases where a positive indi- In conclusion, credit medical cases appropriately therefore a dead end which milkshake. Everybody must result of Asthma and respi- mile Masire Hospital without vidual had come into contact is perfectly due to the Co- and diligently handled. From will lead to disaster. leave. Upon investigation it ratory complications. The the Covid-19 positive results. with other members of the vid-19 Task Force for hav- a distance and as a layman, a However, the desire to may be discovered later that Covid-19 test doesn’t appear official position is that the On what basis would the society should have been im- ing put all measures hu- open the country, is not mis- the whole thing was a hoax too complicated to perform senior citizen succumbed to hospital receive a Covid-19 mediately and strictly applied manly possible to contain placed. Business are strug- - the work of a deranged and consequently, results Covid-19-a position heavily suspect without correspond- and enforced. What resulted and manage the pandemic. shouldn’t be a tough ask for disputed by her family. This ing initial test results; what was the pathetic and out of This should be acknowl- gling and some pushed to young soul. Instead of C4, the tested to receive. But not leaves the contradiction, on would the hospital be treat- sorts posture and conduct of edged without any qualms. the verge of bankruptcy. the whole package was full so for the Ramotswa and the face of it, between the ing him for? Shouldn’t the the Task Force. It may have been worse and Lives have been significantly of chocolate cake. The Block 8 incidences it would family and the Covid-19 Task hospital have demanded It will be remembered catastrophic. But on the disrupted. Only a small num- threat would have passed - appear. As the dust over Force over the true cause of test results before admitting that around mid-May this other side of the coin and ber of people can bury their the public can return to their these incidences seemed to the senior citizen’s death. In- him? Just how is it admin- year after the lockdown re- in my view, the Task Force dead. Stock is low in many normal daily business. The be settling somewhat on the formation in the public do- istratively possible he was strictions were relaxed, Ga- appears to have committed shops. You must register police officers would see surface, serious and con- main indicates that all people informed that he had tested borone was declared a high two fundamental errors of and sanitize prior to enter- their actions as having been cerning undercurrents to from Motswedi and Bo- positive on 9 April 2020 only risk area during a special judgement on the Ramotswa ing each shop, or restaurant in the best interest of pub- the concerned and aggrieved tswana who had had contact to receive (disputed) initial broadcast on national tele- and the Block 8 nurse issues. in a mall. Additionally, to lic safety. Criticized by those parties who allegedly had with the senior citizen have test results as he calls them vision after a truck driver The jury is however still out the credit of our COVID-19 they were trying to protect all tested negative for Co- on 24 April 2020 when he who had arrived from South there. These cases may have tested positive for Covid-19, team, Botswana like many as too zealous and wast- were meanwhile gathering vid-19. The family says that was discharged from Sir Ke- Africa, had tested positive. created doubts in other peo- Covid-19 Task Force have so tumile-a period of about 16 This is the driver who was ple’s minds to the authentici- African countries, has not ing everybody’s time, they traction. A new twist has experienced huge corona- would respond calmly with: since emerged particularly far failed to avail the medi- days? If indeed he had tested reported to have made con- ties of the Covid-19 results it virus numbers. Our success “What about if the threat from one side where serious cal documents that indeed positive, why would he up tact with many people in- has disseminated to the pub- allegations against the Cov- show that the senior citizen’s to now been struggling or cluding businesses such as lic. That said, I am prepared in managing coronavirus has were real and lives had been id-19 Task Force are made. It death was indeed as a result better still, cap in hand as it Choppies at the Fairground to be persuaded otherwise as therefore diminished its de- lost? It is better to err on the is fair to mention that this far of being Covid-19 positive. would appear, begging for mall, Puma filling station and always. Judge for Yourself! bilitating effects. Our coun- side of caution.” Prevaricat- and owing to the new twist, This on the face of it should his own results? The results the CA Sale and Distribution try has not seen people dy- ing will not help. Those who the Covid-19 Task Force be a red flag. Why would a are his and nobody’s after all. centre. Shouldn’t the Boipu- [email protected] ing like flies such as in Italy oppose shutting down parts and the United States. of the country have no help- This sadly has borne ful alternative. They simply complacency. Many people see a lockdown as an incon- in our country therefore venience – purely as public Open letter to President Dr M.E.K Masisi think that the coronavirus nuisance. Their sentiments CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 you. They will be busy self- believed in you, are slowly threat is overstated. This do not outweigh concern praising and fail to think losing hope in you, in short, is where I believe they are for public safety and the for divergent views beyond the initial thoughts, you are slipping Mr. Presi- wrong. Some of us have fol- COVID-19 team must stay In a room, out of 10, let 6 and you on the other hand dent, and praise poets are lowed the horror that coro- focused on protecting the be those who almost all the will be making new dis- not the life line you need. navirus has brought to the lives of Batswana and the time criticize you, this not coveries and refining those Your will be a president doorsteps of families in over public. We must not allow only sharpens your thought ideas as you implement that will be challenged more 100 countries. The picture the virus to spread to a 100 process but helps even to them. This is how China is is sickening. Over 120,000 people before we act. A cou- than all, you have inherited keep your moral compass in beating the US presently. dead in the US; over 42,000 ple of weeks ago I predicted an angry youth, a youth pil- check. It is human nature to They wait for them to come dead in the UK; over 45,000 that borders will for a long ing up from varsity. Believe want to be exalted, but that up with ideas and they take dead in Brazil; over 34,000 time remain the new battle me, with my recollections is a dangerous feat, and it is them and implement them dead in Italy; over 29,000 front. It is so. The country of the University of Bo- like cocaine, very addictive. better (a paraphrase from killed in France; over 27,000 must stay vigilant. So far, we tswana, where even profes- And at one point you get so The book “capitalist nig- killed in Spain, the list goes have won the battle against sors where brought to their drunk in it that you start to ger”; nothing meant to on. Many of these are coun- coronavirus as a country. see yourself as a demi-God. knees by angry EDUCAT- jeopardize Botswana for- tries with health systems that But the battle is not over yet. Guard against such H.E. eign policy). Don’t punish ED youth, you do not want surpass ours a 100-fold. We cannot give up now. As in the book “a capitalist those with different views, President Mokgweetsi Masisi that at national level. Youth And we know that there We know that business- nigger” it is important that especially those who make are hotheads, and now that is higher mortality amongst es, schools, churches, sports you learn especially from it known, even if it’s out of your team, and reward those Pay more attention to what they are educated, system- populations with underlying are all suffering. But we those you see as enemies. spite, take the lesson in the who always come out more and how they behave at you atically tearing you apart is conditions. This we know must exercise forbearance Take what they know, take message and turn the other critical at the discussion table, taking into account a danger you face. You have their ideas, use them, and in for a fact. Botswana, South and continue to heed the cheek. table. They not similar to how cunning they are. Lastly educated hackers, lawyers, a way you will be disarming African and Eswatini have advice of our experts who Even in decision making, those who do behind your in politics there are no per- psychologists, economists, them. Their greatest weap- allow for divergent views ( back, I am tempted to point manent allies or enemies. some of the highest levels have served us magnificently financial gurus, political on against you is their ideas, this is why sometimes leaks out a few in your ranks but They will dump you when of HIV and Aids cases in so far. We must learn to live scientists, chemists, physi- your weakness is the pride of intended actions are I won’t, but those seen to be the going gets tough. Slowly the world. Many of our peo- with coronavirus by adapt- and ego, of thinking that done; to indirectly get crit- making political own goals but surely Batswana are cists, engineers etc.; if they ple are old and suffer from ing to the new realities and it is weakness to use those ics’ input), refuse to use ad- are actually the ones to re- coming to a boil when they united in arms against you, hypertension. Some are dia- not frustrate the efforts of ideas. It is not, they will say vise or unanimous opinions. ally befriend they are genu- do, only a few will be there not even the BDF could betic. Our clinics and hos- those who are trying to keep I told you so, but you would I understand it is difficult ine and honest. Praise poets to shield you. Furthermore stop them. Don’t be the pitals are poorly equipped the population alive. One be the one having done it, to get such, especially with have a way of weeding out this time the boil might be president who was so busy and ill-staffed. The entire day, there will be no corona- not them. Politically this everyone a leletse jaaka ma- those who would take a bul- far greater than anything accumulating and looking to country has fewer than 100 virus. Until that day arrives, may sound weird but in re- phorwane a ntsu mo sentlhageng let for you before they turn you have seen. Tensions are preserve the party while the ventilators. Think what let us keep everybody alive. ality the results will amaze mmaone a goroga. Challenge the gun on you themselves. rising, the very people who country was about to burn. 10 Wednesday June 24, 2020

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CAPTIONS: Pic 1 & 2, IDM Country Director Dr Onalenna Seitio-Kgokgwe (r) with Lesedi Primary School Headteacher Mr Kuda Sylvester Letsholo. Pic 3, IDM Matron and SHE Coordinator Jinx Tau Explaining the Covid-19 protocols to attendees. Pic 4 & 5 Lesedi Primary School SHE officers and IDM staff witnessing the ceremony IDM DONATES SICK BAY TO LESEDI PRIMARY SCHOOL

On the 5th June 2020, the Institute of Development Management (IDM) extended a helping hand to Lesedi Primary School in Gaborone and donated a sick bay to the school. The donation comes in the wake of the Covid19 pandemic, which has affected the world over.

In response to Covid19 protocols, IDM has offered a fully-equipped sick bay with beds, bedding and other nursing necessities to the school as part of its readiness plan.

Schools and establishments around the country are required to follow set health standards as part of their response to the Coronavirus. To that effect, Lesedi Primary School has set aside some rooms for isolation purposes as well as patients’ observation centres in the event they experience cases of Covid19 at the school.

During the handover ceremony held at the school, the Country Director of IDM, Dr Onalenna Seitio-Kgokgwe said IDM is an institution founded on the principles of responsiveness to support the Government achieve its mandate.

Dr Kgokgwe told the small gathering that witnessed the handover ceremony that since the outbreak of the Coronavirus, IDM has been on high alert to provide assistance as a responsible corporate citizen.

“We have previously assisted our Government by providing access to some of our facilities, which served as quarantine centres. We also provided accommodation for frontline staff who are part of response teams and offered them with convenient facilities to adequately discharge emergency duties during lockdown periods. At the same time, IDM provided technical support to ensure that we assist our Government to defeat this enemy.”

She further revealed that IDM was established in 1974 by the Founding Fathers of Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini and has remained part of the social fabric of this country. Dr Kgokgwe said public health remains a critical issue, hence the need for appropriate and timely response by the nation to manage the lives of Batswana is important. When receiving the donation, the headmaster of the school, Mr Letsholo said: “We are greatly honoured to have been blessed with such a benevolent gesture from IDM. You have made an indelible mark in the history of Lesedi Primary School. It is great that we are joining hands in order to defeat the enemy.”

Borrowing from Winston Churchill that “healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have’’ Mr Letsholo applauded IDM for the offer and that it will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of students and staff at the school.

Lesedi Primary School was established in 1965.The current enrollment of the school is 1189 pupils with 31 teaching staff.

He said the school is well known for its consistent high pass rate grade.

TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL: 3190905 OR FAX: 3190870 Wednesday June 24, 2020

Here is why parents should start teaching their children about money at an early age…. Pg 12 How did you learn about money when you were a child? Maybe you were like most of us who only learnt about money through trial and error or maybe you were one of the fortunate ones who received money lessons at an early age. Nonetheless, talking about money has always been regarded as a taboo in most families, not only in Botswana, but globally too. Journalism of courage Markets | Companies | Mining | World Business Wednesday June 24, 2020 BAMB has still to fill board vacancies Investment in Africa projected to drop - UN report

By Portia Nkani

A report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Devel- opment, (UNCTAD) forecasts a precipitous drop by up to 40 per cent in global trade, due to the Covid-19 pandemic that has af- fected the global economy. Released recently, the annual World Investment Report (WIR 2020) showed global investment tailspin below $1 trillion from their 2019 value of $1.54 trillion. This nosedive will be for the first time since 2005, a recession much worse than the 2008 finan- cial catastrophe. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is projected to decrease by a further 5 to 10 per cent in 2021. Africa alone, is expected to see a decline of FDI between 25 and 40 per cent in 2020. This would bring foreign investment in Africa below $35 billion. Despite early concerns about the potential spread of COV- ID-19 in Africa, the continent ap- pears to have been spared the ini- tial outbreak seen in other parts of the world. Although it also suffers from structural vulner- abilities and commodity depen- dence, recent macroeconomic indicators show a relatively more solid growth path than in other regions.

Gloria Somolokae The ongoing regional cooperation, By Mpho Keleboge the position of Board member said Somolekae. from the past administration man/or farmers,” said Somolokae including through the African is usually a Political one by The former Minister said BAMB was running Somolokae said she is Continental Free Trade Area he Minister of Ag- nature. The source said the when she arrived at BAMB at a loss. aware of corruption which (AfCFTA), may also prove riculture and Food Minister might not renew the with the current CEO; The former Board was in place at BAMB but instrumental in designing Security Dr Edwin contract of some of the board BAMB was faced with a Chairperson said some of the the current system has put all regionally coordinated responses Dikoloti is running members because they have not lot of challenges. It was issues which were achieved measures in place to improve the to the crisis and supporting Botswana Agricul- been helpful to the institution. bankrupt, failing to pay are of farmers getting paid, situation. regional trade and FDI. Ttural and Marketing Board (BAMB) Dr Somolokae confirmed that farmers and diplomatically empty in improving the Strategic The former Board chairperson her contract has come to an end. “I its strategic grain reserve(SGR). Grain Reserve on time said she welcomes the clean up without a full board including chair- MITIGATING FACTORS was approached by the then Minister Somolokae fell short and tightening all loose points which campaign at BAMB. person. ON AFRICA PERSPECTIVE of Agriculture Patrick Ralotsia and of calling the past BAMB was used to loot BAMB of millions of She said leadership is a platform Functioning with five Board The ongoing regional coop- Cabinet to serve my national service management of being corrupt pula countrywide under dubious to do public good and welcomes the members, BAMB has still to replace eration, including through the at BAMB. It is not dependent on my but played her cards right and said her circumstances. purpose of the ongoing investigation three of the members whose African Continental Free Trade interest but it is the discretion of new team which is the current new “It’s painful to see at BAMB that will lead to someone contracts ended in April. Area (AfCFTA), may also prove government to appoint competent Board members and the some farmers taking more being proven innocent or found They are Chairperson, Dr instrumental in designing region- leaders to serve in some management of BAMB than three months without guilty. Gloria Somolokae, Duke Masilo ally coordinated responses to the of the institutions as a played a very critical role in payment and this gives us sleepless Dikoloti said the positions will and Ogone Madisa-Kgwarae who crisis and supporting regional way to improve leadership restructuring BAMB. nights because it was like state soon be filled as consultation is still served as ordinary members. trade and FDI. and expertise at governance level, ’’ She said when they took over institution was collapsing small ongoing. A source within BAMB said Depending on the duration and severity of the global cri- sis, the longer-term outlook for FDI in Africa could draw some BotswanaPost brings virtual post box to your phone strength from the implementa- tion of the African Continental By Cedric Swanka PO box at a mailbox store or at ees.” Free Trade Area Agreement in a shared workspace in an office Furthermore Plaatjie said: “Bo- 2020, including the conclusion of The days of snail pace mail delivery building with a real physical mail- tswanaPost’s approach to Services its investment protocol. service may be coming to an end ing address. It uses digital mailbox & Products Development is such In addition, investment initia- thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. technology to let you view and that after the normal Applications tives for Africa by major devel- The BotswanaPost is upgrad- manage your postal mail and pack- Development exercises and pro- oped and emerging economies ing its mailing service to online ages from anywhere with an app or cesses which entails: Development, could help the recovery. In 2019, platforms with chief executive of- online. A virtual Post Office gives Quality Assurance Testing, User FDI flows to Africa had already ficer (CEO) Cornelius Ramatlhak- customers control over where, Acceptance Testing, products are declined by 10 per cent to $45 wane saying it will help customers when and how they receive their availed on a pilot basis in Gabo- billion. Increased FDI flows to to receive their mail and packages mail and packages and it also en- rone, thereafter, based on the suc- some of the continent’s major in real time at the comfort of their ables the user to have an alternative cess of the pilot, a full nation-wide economies, including Egypt, homes or offices using Google address instead of their residential rollout is conducted. However, we were offset by reductions in oth- mapping. address. are committed to having this devel- ers, such as Nigeria and South Almost a fortnight ago, during The big advantage that has at- opment being a permanent solu- Africa. a BotswanaPost press conference tracted some companies to virtual tion, which we believe is a value- FDI flows to transition econ- on the impact of COVID 19 on the postal boxes is that they validate add.” omies are expected to fall by 30 to organisation, the CEO announced the identity of users for merchants acting chief operations officer mation being theirs.” Information Communication 45 per cent. In natural-resource- the company would introduce vir- and in peer to peer sales, while con- Pako Plaatjie said: “Customer Sen- “This however does not miti- Technology (ICT) companies will based projects, prospects are be- tual post office boxes which is be- cealing home address and personal sitive Data or Personal Identifiable gate the risk particularly during have to wait on the side lines for ing revised downward as demand ing developed internally. information of users. Virtual post Information, PII, resides on se- mail processing internally, thus the now. Plaatjies revealed “in a case for commodities weakens and The virtual post boxes will al- boxes will enable small business to cured BotswanaPost databases; for residual risk will be handled by in- where BotswanaPost sees the need the price of oil, one of the main low Batswana to use their phone possess a vanity address and use processes that require information ternal processes and procedures; of engaging a local company for exports from several economies numbers as part of their addresses the virtual Post Office Box as a mi- to be printed on screens, sensitive BotswanaPost Conditions of Ser- deliveries, we are open to smart in transition, remains depressed. which will in turn make it unneces- cro warehouse. data is masked during transactional vice, Data & Information Security partnerships to augment any short- Export-oriented production for sary for people to visit postal boxes Asked what assurances Bo- processing to ensure that only the Policies, and None-Disclosure in- falls that we might have, looking at global value chains (GVCs), e.g. and have their mail come to them. tswana Post can give so that cus- owner of the information present- struments between BotswanaPost competing priorities and shortage in special economic zones, will An online PO box is a virtual tomers privacy will be protected ed has knowledge that the infor- (the Organisation) and its employ- of resources.” also be heavily affected. 12 Wednesday June 24, 2020 Here is why parents should start BBS warns of losses as it transitions By Bonnie Modiakgotla coming out of it being ques- application with the latest fi- tioned,” she added. nancial results and will resub- teaching their children about Leading local mortgage lend- According to the latest mit it once they have finalised er - Botswana Building So- set of financial results that the audit for the period ended ciety Limited (BBSL), which only cover a nine-month pe- December 2019. He says they money at an early age is planning to morph into a riod, BBSL recorded a loss are confident that they will not commercial bank, has finally of P26 million in December recall the banking licence ap- reported part of its late finan- 2018 compared to P49.9 mil- plication again, adding that at Education (INFE), financial However, as much as financial seen, learnt and experienced in GUEST cials, reflecting losses which lion profit registered in March the latest, they should be op- literacy is a “combination of technology comes with conve- childhood and adolescence. In COLUMN are expected to roll over in the 2018. The bank has changed erating as a commercial bank awareness, knowledge, skill, at- nience, it comes with new types other words, parents have the coming years. its financial year end from by the second quarter of 2021. titude and behaviour necessary of risks which requires one to highest influence at childhood On Thursday, BBSL fi- March to December and has “I would like to assure you to make sound financial deci- be sufficiently financially liter- stage. When you think about it, nally announced the financial explained that the registered that BBSL is in full mode to sions and ultimately achieve ate to protect themselves and most childhood memories, even statements for the year ended loss was not due to poor per- run the commercial bank in individual financial wellbeing.” their families. Such risks include on money, are centred on what December 2018, which have formance but due to in BBSL’s the event that the Bank of Global leaders, including the crimes, such as identity theft transpired at home. So whether capital structure following Botswana issues it with a li- G20 recognise it to be a life- and fraud. Also, convenience you believe it or not your child been delayed by over a year, resulting in the bank’s shares its conversion to a company cence,” said Molefe. long learning that should start requires financial discipline and is listening and watching you as well as the effects of the He said they have finalised in childhood. Most countries self-control. Without these, it’s every day – how you talk about being suspended from trading OTISITSWE TAWANA- on the Botswana Stock Ex- implementation of IFRS 9 Fi- a new organisational structure MADZIBA worldwide have started to in- difficult to say no to online sales money, what you do with your tegrate financial literacy or per- and easily accessible credit, es- money, and how you earn your ow did you sonal finance education into pecially when a transaction money, and is likely to adopt learn about their school curriculum, includ- is just a click away. This is the that as a habit and carry it into money when ing OECD countries, USA, environment that our children adulthood. you were a Rwanda, Zimbabwe, among grow up in, and it’s upon us The long-term consequenc- child? May- others. In Botswana, Creative to prepare them for this new es of lack of money lessons Hbe you were like most of us and Performing income ratio, it world. and good financial habits at an who only learnt about money is the type of debt and use of With COVID-19 pandemic early age are severe at both an through trial and error or may- this debt that is of a major con- upon us, doing almost every- individual and macro level. The be you were one of the fortu- cern. The debt eats more from thing online is the new normal, 2019 Financial Stability Report nate ones who received money the consumer and it is often from meetings to banking. With by Bank of Botswana showed lessons at an early age. None- used to finance consumption, most parents working from that the bulk of household theless, talking about money such as cars, travel, etc, rather home, it is an opportunity for debt was in the form of unse- has always been regarded as a than economically produc- Arts (CAPA) has some ele- cured personal loans (68.3%) taboo in most families, not only tive investments. To break this ments of financial literacy but as at June 2019. These types of in Botswana, but globally too. trend, basic financial literacy at most teachers are not trained loans are expensive relative to Sharing financial information an early age is the solution, and on the area. In fact, there is still residential property loans. Al- with children can be stressful should incorporate practical les- not a deliberate programme though regionally Botswana has for parents, especially for fami- sons on entrepreneurship. The that forms part of the school a relatively low household to lies having financial challenges. high level of unemployment, curriculum. As a cross-cutting them to prepare their children Parents feel that not discuss- especially among the youth is a area, most countries integrate for the digital world. For par- ing financial issues with their reflection, in part, of a lack of it across subjects as it links well ents, this is the best time to start children, shields them from the entrepreneurship culture. The and strengthens them. This is money discussions. It is a time realities of financial stress. Un- fear of taking risks and learn- the best approach by far. to get creative. The internet has fortunately, this scenario also ing through failure is something However, countries that a wide range of money games trickles down to those doing that children must learn from have made great strides in this that parents can play with their well financially. Kids are often an early age. It is often said ex- area found that although teach- children. It’s the time to turn left in the dark when it comes perience is the best teacher, and ing financial literacy in schools challenges into opportunities. to money issues. I am of the same mind. is critical, it should not substi- The bottom line is, money Fortunately, though, this Besides the severe conse- tute money lessons taught at discussions with our children trend is changing worldwide. quences of lack of financial home. This is because children are no longer an out of bounds Parents can no longer afford to literacy at an early age, tech- learn best by experience. You topic. We have to take charge sweep money issues under the nology is making the financial can teach a child the difference and help liberate our children rug. Financial literacy is now change’s Serala OTC Board, space complex. Technology between a need and a want, but from generations of financial which is a springboard for nancial Instruments. which is in line with the envis- recognised as an essential skill has changed how we bank, pay, they would not be able to cor- ignorance. Let’s commit to raise In April 2018, BBSL went aged banking operation. Be- globally, and recommended in companies that intend to list save and invest. As a result, rectly distinguish between the a financially smart Botswana. on the main board of the BSE. through a demutualisation sides introducing a number of early childhood learning. As there is a wide variety of finan- two without practice in the real Otisitswe Tawana-Madziba is process by converting from new roles, the bank will also defined by the Organisation for “This is the first time in cial products and services to world, like going to the real store the founder of Fin-Edu. For com- a building society to a com- roll out new products and ser- Economic Co-operation and the history of BBS Limited choose from, and our children to buy grocery. Research studies ments and enquiries email at otis- pany limited by shares. This vices offering and fine-tuning Development (OECD)/ Inter- that we have brought you au- need to be prepared in order also found that adult financial [email protected] or visit www. process was part of the com- a new digitalisation strategy. national Network on Financial dited financials of a particular for them to fully utilise them. capability is linked to what is fin-edubw.com. financial year very late. The pany’s journey to convert to However, the bank audit for the period ended 31 a commercial bank. The pro- warned that some initiatives December 2018 was delayed cess involved selling shares to and many others require a lot by challenges we experienced existing account holders and of financial investment thus with our core banking system, listing of 487 million shares future performance will not be Temenos T24,” said Pelani Si- on the Serala board at P1.20 comparable to what the mar- wawa-Ndai, the bank’s board per share. BBS’ biggest share- kets have been used to and the We are looking for more chairperson. holders include the Botswana situation will subsist for the “This was after we up- Privatisation Asset Holdings, next two to three years. than bankers graded it in preparation for Motor Vehicle Accident Fund The loss-making position commercial banking opera- and the Botswana Police Sav- is expected to continue for a Come and join Africa’s tions. Admittedly, the system ings and Loans Guarantee period exceeding 12 months, experienced some bugs fol- Scheme. largely driven by the envis- leading Bank lowing the upgrade resulting BBSL managing director aged increased costs as part in the integrity of the numbers Pius Molefe says they are now of journey to transition into a updating the banking licence fully-fledged bank. RELATIONSHIP MANAGER- INSURANCE Kgosidiile promises to transform manufacturing, Stanbic Bank is continuously striving for service excellence and market supremacy and we are committed to making a real difference in the provision of financial services in Botswana. The Bank values its people and maintains a challenging and inspiring agriculture sectors environment for teamwork, with abundant opportunities for growth and rewards for innovation and high performance. If you have the energy, the drive and the passion, BDC’s aims to maximise long- once the investments are ma- then you are the person Stanbic Bank is looking for. By Kabelo Seitshiro term value for the sharehold- ture thereby empowering the ers and creating wealth for private sector and Batswana in Relationship Manager- Insurance Having barely settled as the new broom at the Botswana future generations through general. Development Corporation investments and partnerships He added that divestments The Bank is looking for a seasoned, dynamic, highly-driven individual with strong (BDC), Cross Kgosidiile has in commercially viable enter- have been a core part of the leadership skills to undertake the role of Relationship Manager, Insurance. The acknowledged that operating prises across all sectors of the Corporation’s business model successful candidate will be responsible for securing Corporate and Commercial in today’s economy presents economy. since inception dating back insurance opportunities from Banking Relationship Managers (RM’s) and persuade its own set of challenges, in- “The corporation will be as far as the 1973 disposal of these customers to place their insurance program through the Bank by providing cluding constrained growth embarking on a new strategy, Botswana Craft, a successful customised solutions, tailored to their needs. In addition, they need to maintain and and liquidity challenges. post the successful comple- venture. retain a portfolio of Insurance customers and manage their insurance needs on a In an interview, Kgosidiile tion of a five-year transfor- He stated that the candi- continual basis. stated that there is a real op- mational 2014-2019 one, that dates for divestment are gen- portunity for transformation yielded outstanding positive erally companies where their results,” said Kgosidiile. They will also be responsible for Investigating and developing all Insurance sales of sectors such as manufac- development assistance is no He is of the view that longer required and where opportunities and on-board the customer. Furthermore, the incumbent will be tasked turing and agriculture to re- BDC has an opportunity to funds can be unlocked for with ensuring compliance with in- country insurance regulations. duce reliance on imports. “We intend to continue transform the Botswana econ- new sectors and industries growing all sectors that BDC omy by investing in diversi- that require their develop- To be considered for this position, you will need to have at least Graduated from an invests in. There are unique fied sectors and large-scale ment interventions. He added accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in any Business related opportunities that lie ahead, businesses that provide re- that divestments are also a key degree, accredited on both Long and Short certificate of Proficiency and with at least such as the establishments in turns for the Corporation and contributor to the pool of in- five (5) years of experience working as a manager. the manufacturing space, and contribute significantly to the vestment capital used to fund focus on agribusiness to help economy. He said a focus on new projects. Please forward your applications to Head, Human Capital, Stanbic Bank Botswana, achieve food security and re- unlocking opportunities and During the recently ended promoting the manufacturing Private Bag 00168, Gaborone or via e-mail to [email protected]. duce Botswana’s import bill,” five strategic period the corpo- and agriculture industries are ration earned a total of P657 Not later than 04th July 2020. he said. He spoke of investment key to achieving this. million from divestments. He in the energy sector to har- “We have crafted a unique said all this was ploughed back ness natural resource and in- and robust stakeholder en- into the P1, 2 billion invested Only short-listed candidates will be contacted if you are not contacted within 14 days after the frastructure to mention but gagement strategy that allows over the same period. closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. a few. He believes that every us to cater for and engage all He added that the divest- sector of the economy is of our stakeholders most ben- ment funds from mature importance for BDC and he eficially and deliver value to businesses such as residential added that they continue to them,” he said. property and small operations explore opportunities in all He is of the view that di- in the hospitality sector have sectors of the economy at the vestment is an inherent part been used to fund new proj- Corporation in line with their of BDC’s normal course of ects such as the two private mandate. business as the Corporation hospitals in Gaborone and Kgosidiile stated that invests with a view to divest Francistown. Arts & Society

Wednesday June 24, 2020

he music industry 3. Distribution: On the has been hit hard distribution side, there is a by coronavirus with growing list of artists delaying live performance Global music industry to lose at releases to later in the year. In revenue the biggest part this is due to the inability Tcasualty. A six-month to use tours to promote new shutdown is estimated to albums, and live music in cost the industry more than least $10billion over COVID-19 general has been dramatically $10bn in sponsorships, with affected. An extensive list of longer delays being even more major concerts and events have devastating. The industry is been cancelled. fighting back with new ways to As long as bans on large monetize music consumption gatherings continue, live and innovative models: performance revenue is almost Fortnite hosted a live rap zero – effectively cutting the concert that attracted nearly industry’s total revenue in 30 million live viewers. half. Ticket and merchandise The crisis is likely to sales aside, a six-month accelerate underlying trends in shutdown is estimated to the music industry, based on cost the industry more than the importance of streaming, $10bn in sponsorships, with which has grown from 9% to longer delays being even more 47% of total industry revenues devastating. in just six years. In addition, the post- The business model of pandemic outlook appears music: The global music challenging and growth industry is worth over $50 forecasts for live music billion, with two major income are expected to be revised streams. The first, live music, significantly. Rebuilding makes up over 50% of total consumer confidence in the revenues and is derived mainly sector will be difficult: one from sales of tickets to live survey shows that, without a performances. and consumers. Streaming around 11%. This aligns with applications on TVs and smart the change in consumers’ 2. Advertising spend: The proven vaccine, less than half The second, recordednow makes up almost half of general falls in discretionary devices. routines, saying that daily music industry is also subject of US consumers plan to go to music, combines revenue recorded music revenue. spending. “While there was habits are now reflective of to reductions in advertising concerts, movies, sports events from streaming, digital The effects of coronavirus Evidence also shows some impact on our social weekend consumption, as well spending that are happening and amusement parks when downloads, physical sales and on the music industry that the way people listen entertainment services, we as relaxing genres rising in worldwide. A survey by the they reopen. This will affect synchronization revenues 1. Sales and streaming : to music is changing in light have started to see a moderate popularity. Interactive Advertising Bureau artists hugely – they generate (licensing of music for movies, In the wake of the pandemic, of coronavirus. In China, recovery recently. In the In terms of the amount shows that around a quarter around 75% of their income games, TV and advertising). physical sales, which represent Tencent Music Entertainment first quarter of 2020, online of music consumed, initial of media buyers and brands from live shows, even as data Recorded music today is close a quarter of recorded music (TME) reported changes to music subscription revenues data showed a reduction in have paused all advertising shows that a growing share of to the industry’s pre-piracy revenues, are down by about listening behaviour during increased by 70.0% year-over- streaming of 7-9% in some for the first half of 2020, and live music revenue goes to the peak, a testament to the one-third – unsurprising given the pandemic, with more year. The number of online markets – though this appears a further 46% have reduced top 1% of performers (60% growing adoption of streaming the closure of retail stores – consumers using home music-paying users reached to have recovered. At the same spending. This, combined in 2019, versus 26% in 1982). services by both music labels while digital sales have fallen 42.7 million, a year-over- time, on-demand music video with an approximate one- In response to the immediate year increase of 50.4%.” streams have increased. The third reduction in digital pressures, the industry has Tsai Chun Pan, Group reasons are linked to a change ad spending, will affect ad- developed actions to mitigate Vice President, TME in behaviours: the pandemic supported music channels – and the impact of COVID-19. Content Cooperation has intensified peoples’ focus therefore both total industry Written by Stefan Hall, Project Covid-19 threatens to throw Department. on news media (especially revenue and individual income Lead, Media, Entertainment Spotify, which also TV), while fewer commuting for artists. Spotify announced and Culture, World Economic journeys and the gym closures added subscribers during that it missed its first quarter Forum. Full story at (www. have shifted listening to women’s progress off track the first quarter of this advertising targets in light of weforum.org). year, has likewise noted different parts of the day. changes to ad budgets. Martin Whande A public health specialist, states that they are still yet to get Bonolo Masilo who spoke to a clearer picture of how school Like much of the rest of the world, Arts & Society says failure to closures affected girls, she says Botswana is struggling to deal address the plague of low-paid, reports on the ground indicate with the socio-economic fallout insecure work and to assist our that the lockdown might have led from the coronavirus pandemic. most vulnerable and marginalised to a spike in teenage pregnancies. Whilst the country has done groups now means “Covid-19 is “This is a double whammy since well to suppress the Covid-19 likely to worsen poverty which Botswana was already battling the infection rate, the limited gains ultimately affects family dynamics scourge of teenage pregnancies made by women in the last since the country has a high well before the arrival of few decades are at risk of being number of single mothers who coronavirus,” she says. rolled back. Although everyone are the bread winners,” she says, Amongst other things, Masilo is susceptible to coronavirus, in adding that the P10 million that also says it is only when society Botswana there are clear gendered government set aside to provide realises the equal role women power dynamics and imbalances loans to informal traders should could play in every aspect of life, and; women and girls are the most have been grants. that progress can be achieved. affected. Over the six months that A UNAIDS 2020 report Botswana’s 48-day lockdown coronavirus has been raging, entitled “Six concrete measures not only deepened pre-existing there have been increased cases of to support women and girls in entrenched inequalities, but violent crimes against women in all their diversity in the context to a large extent exposed Botswana, including physical and of the covid-19 pandemic” says women’s social and economic sexual abuse. Masilo says things there is need to “ensure women’s vulnerabilities which are in turn are likely to get worse before they equal representation, meaningful increasing the impact of the can get any better. participation and decision-making pandemic. “Since corona virus is likely power in national COVID-19 With over 65 percent of to be with us for the foreseeable response and recovery planning, Botswana’s working population future, the financial stress brought implementation, monitoring and being in the informal sector, on by unemployment especially in evaluation, and in governance public health experts say the the informal sector and economic and decision-making processes pandemic is likely to create more frustration usually lead to anger regarding public health and problems since the informal being directed towards women,” emergency responses moving sector is manned by more women she says, adding that it is sad forward.” than men. The fact that women that Batswana women have been UN also says failure to in the informal sector earn less degraded by men and societal integrate women and girls money, have insecure jobs and had institutions for the purpose of as patrons will only result in most of their savings decimated absorbing their insecurities. Botswana losing out on the by the pandemic means female Masilo also says inequality in abilities, ideas and attitudes that headed households are likely to Botswana shows that women are are vital to growth and socio- experience an increase in relative more disadvantaged than their economic development. poverty. male counterparts. Although she

The fact that women in the informal sector earn less money, have insecure jobs and had most of their savings decimated by the pandemic means female headed households are likely to experience an increase in relative poverty. PIC: GLOBALCITIZEN.ORG 14 | ARTS & SOCIETY| Wednesday June 24, 2020 Okavango Craft Brewery launches in Maun

aun: employment in the local economy here in the that, until now, has evaded brewery team, like many Brewery will also invite visit the Okavango is Botswana at large, during Do you region are needed now Okavango region. Our Maun. And according to businesses, have had tourists that visit Maun something I, as a citizen the challenging period want to more than ever before products give consumers our experienced brewer, to adapt and change to come on a tour of of Botswana, am very COVID-19 brings, with know to support the local the choice to support Destin Bidzouta-Zola, course, moving to a the brewery. The team proud to be a part of,” the hope that a united what economy and people. both farmers and wildlife, from Brazzaville, Congo, distribution sales strategy. hopes this will add to the says co-owner, Francine community and business Mit’s like to taste the Established in while enjoying quality “make no mistake, the Now that the sale of tourism activities Maun Sheldon. ”We look sector will emerge Okavango Delta? 2019, Okavango Craft products. We recognise primary objective is to alcohol is permitted has to offer, raising more forward to growing this stronger once the worst Okavango Craft Brewery Brewery is Maun’s first that with the COVID-19 make a selection of top at restaurants and for awareness and support business, and ensuring of the pandemic has is a new and exciting licensed microbrewery pandemic taking its quality beers that people home consumption, for the local economy, its throughout that we passed. The organisation venture that produces and is located at the old toll across the globe, will love.” the team launches its people and the wildlife spread the message of remains committed to craft beer from quality Sports Bar in Sennonori Botswana is by no means Under the beer this week, through of the Okavango. responsible drinking, and making a meaningful Ward, along Sir Seretse immune to impact, and professional guidance ingredients, including an ordering and take- “Building a sustainable positive behaviour, in line contribution to the Khama road, Maun. we are going to market in and experience of local millet malt and away service from their development project with the values of our economy as a proudly mineral water from the The enterprise offers a a truly challenging time; food tech expert and that produces top quality premises. Details of brand. “ Botswana business ready Okavango Delta. In variety of millet adjunct however, we are also business partner, Heine Botswana products and how to order and what’s Okavango Craft to responsibly support an effort to drive new beers made from taking every precaution Du Toit, Destin and his on offer can be found that can be showcased Brewery stands united quality imported malts as we proceed, for our Motswana trainee brewer, the economy and the and innovative ways to on their Facebook page to many tourists from with the residents of and malt made from staff, stakeholders and Matshidiso Sekeseke, community it is so proud diversify the wildlife @okavangobrew and around the world who Maun, and the people of locally harvested millet potential customers.” started brewing after the to call home. economy in northern Instagram. Order using mineral water The Maun-based brewery was installed in Botswana, Okavango enquiries can be from the Okavango company has launched early January this year. Craft Brewery is now made by e-mail, to Delta. Okavango Craft its food and beverage Since then, the brew producing beer that orders.ocb@gmail. Brewery Co-Founder enterprise in support of, crew trio have produced contains millet grown com. Currently, and Director, Graham and to realise the socio- and tasted some quality The Toyota Kalahari Botswana by small-scale farmers two beer types are McCulloch, said: economic potential of a Kolsch, IPA, Golden Ale who are coexisting with on offer: a Kolsch- elephants, improving “Through the Okavango more integrated, cross- and Stout varieties. Craft Brewery, local sectoral wildlife-based The original business inspired ‘Leleme benefits for sustainable la noka’ pale ale, 1000 Desert Race – A legend farming practices that farmers residing in economy, focused on plan was developed the area now have the creating new markets for around the brew pub named after the are tied to a wildlife recent return of economy. With the opportunity to be linked farmers who are making model, serving quality to and benefit from a new a big effort to coexist beer over the counter the Okavango impact of COVID-19 on flood waters, sold in Southern Africa Motorsport tourism and conservation market, offering some with wildlife. The new and offering a new bar- reward for their efforts microbrewery also takes restaurant experience in in 330ml and in the area, we recognise 750ml returnable The month of June marks years in succession from years a privateer team took that support for to coexist with elephants, advantage of a craft beer the tourism hub of Maun and creating sustainable, industry that is growing town. Since COVID_19, bottles, and ‘The the Southern Hemisphere 1997 to 1999, with all their overall honours ahead of sustainable eco-practices, winter solstice or mid- wins coming in a Toyota the more fancied factory inclusive growth for our in popularity worldwide the Okavango Craft Matriarch’, an local investment and American Amber winter and traditionally Land Cruiser. teams. Chris Visser and IPA, that is occurs around 20 or 21 2000 to 2011 were Phillip Herselman in a being offered to June each year. lean years for Toyota Toyota Hilux posted a race During this period, crews with the overall winning time of just over members only in the Earth’s axis is tilted Production Vehicle victory seven minutes ahead of the one liter returnable furthest away from the sun going to Neil Woolridge/ closest factory rivals. Visser jugs or ‘growlers’, directly over the Tropic Kenny Skjoldhammer in a last won the TDR 1000 as they are called of Capricorn. But for Mitsubishi Pajero in 2000 in 2011 alongside Japie in the craft beer the SA Cross Country and a Ford Ranger in 2001. Badenhorst in a factory world. Details of Series (SACCS), its Woolridge also won the Ford Ranger TDCi. how to become a sponsors, officials, teams, event in 1996 with Paul Over the years the member can also competitors, thousands of Vermaak in a Nissan Sani. battle for supremacy on be found on social enthusiasts and Botswana During this period the gruelling TDR 1000, media. businesses and spectators other notable Production with terrain often more the month of June Vehicle category winners suited to four-wheel drive The Brew Pub traditionally celebrates the included a hat trick of wins vehicles, was as intense in is also currently running of the majestic for Hannes Grobler and the Special Vehicle category being renovated Toyota Kalahari Botswana Richard Leeke senior in a for two-wheel drive frame and will open 1000 Desert Race (TDR Nissan Hardbody in 2002, vehicles. This category soon for food and 1000). 2003 and 2004 with Grobler has also seen several an opportunity The event has again taking the laurels with Botswana competitors like to taste the beers been in existence since Francois Jordaan in 2006 Keith du Toit, Mogrey on offer, in small 1975 and legacy has it, and Hennie Ter Stege in Mabille, Lepsy Mosope, numbers. In the Piet Lambrecht was in 2010 in a BMW X3. Julio Ferreira and Atang future, when the Gaborone organising a Nissan’s winning streak Makgekgenene, who won hunting permit when he also included a win by Alfie the event on two occasions tourism industry saw a poster advertising Cox/Ralph Pitchford in in 2004 and 2005 with Buks recovers from the Trans-Kalahari Road 2005 and three consecutive Carolin, compete in the current travel Race. Lambrecht, Giel wins by Duncan Vos with SACCS championship. restrictions, the Potgieter the navigator and Richard Leeke senior in Buks Carolin was Okavango Craft Hans de Lange the teams’ 2007, Louis Weichelt in the first recipients of the wherewithal entered a Ford 2008 and Ralph Pitchford overall Special Vehicle title F250 and much to their in 2009. in 1992 in Vryburg. Carolin surprise, and that of the Chris Visser/Japie followed by Rob Wark in organisers, the trio romped Badenhorst were the last 1994 and Marius Beaurain to a historic victory. of the overall Production in 1996 in Botswana made Lambrecht won Vehicle category winners TDR 1000 history by again the following year in a Ford Ranger in 2011 winning in single-seaters. – this time with Tony before Toyota again Buks and brother Richard Hawken, who could “talk took total control of Carolin also carved their to the English speaking the championship in niche as the only sibling journalists”, as navigator 2012 with Duncan Vos/ combination to win a TDR and Doep du Plessis Rob Howie in a Toyota in 1995. fulfilling the supportive Hilux breaking the spell. Father and son role. With the monkey finally combinations to have Such stories are a far cry of their back, Toyota proved their mettle on from the hugely successful has basked in glory by the TDR 1000 include the and professional Toyota dominating from 2012 Czepek’s, Franz senior and 1000 Desert Race, the corps with the Vos/Howie win junior, who won three years d’elite of the SA Cross to present day. Anthony in a row from 1997 to 1999 Country Series. The TDR Taylor and Dennis Murphy and added a fourth victory 1000 has a magnificent in a Toyota Hilux were in 2001. Nick and Ryan legacy as the event with victorious at the final round Harper in 2006, Kallie and FRAUDULENT KAROWE DIAMOND MINE one of the longest running of the event in Kumakwane Quintin Sullwald in 2007 sponsorships in South just outside Gaborone in and 2011, Herman and African motorsport. 2013. Wichard Sullwald in 2013, ‘LETTER OF INTENT TO PURCHASE’ AND Toyota took ownership of 2014 saw the Wichard and Herman the event in 1981, 40 years introduction of some Sullwald 2014. ago, and to date have 17 significant changes, The only other Special ‘PURCHASE ORDERS’ IN CIRCULATION overall victories under their chief among the new Vehicle team to have belt. included relocating to recorded a hat trick on For the first 12 years, Jwaneng, approximately this demanding event 1981 to 1992, the event was 160 kilometres west of was Shameer Variawa It has been brought to our attention that there are Karowe Diamond Mine ‘Letters of run in the Vryburg area of Gaborone, home to the and Siegfried Rousseau the North West Province from 2008 to 2010. Evan world’s richest diamond Intent’ and ‘Purchase Orders’ in circulation. with Toyota scoring two Hutchison and Danie overall victories in 1988 mine, offering new terrain Stassen were victorious These documents are fraudulent and are not generated by Lucara Botswana, nor are and 1989 via Andre Kock/ and a level playing field for in 2012 and 2015 with Koos Coetzee in a Toyota all plus a ‘Pot of Gold’ for teammates Dave McShane they for our operations situated at the Karowe Diamond Mine in the Lethlakane area. Land Cruiser and Philip competitors, with the TDR and Leander Pienaar taking Malan/Richard Leeke 1000 the only marathon the laurels in 2016. The use of any of these fraudulent documents by any Company or person is prohibited senior in a Toyota Hilux. event on the SACCS Mark Corbett and Juan and is against company policy and procedure. Any advertisement to this effect is a Between 1981 and 1991 calendar, now scoring Möhr 2000, Greg Daus the rules made provision for double points. and VZ van Zyl 2002, John scam. only overall winners to be Taylor/Murphy made Weir-Smith and Geoff declared on events. In 1992 it three in a row when they Minnitt 2003, husband and Lucara Botswana follows a unique Supply Chain Management and Procurement it was decided to split the clinched the overall title in wife Marius and Jolinda championship into Special 2014 and 2015 while Leeroy Fourie 2017, father and process and any procurement documentation and/or communication will be unique Vehicle and Production Poulter and Rob Howie, daughter Coetzee and per RFQ, RFP or engagement with suppliers. Vehicle categories - with after a stellar performance Sandra Labuscagne 2018 overall winners recognised in their Toyota Hilux were and Lance Trethewey and Members of the public who may have received these documents and/or may have in each category. crowned 2016 overall Adriaan Roets 2019 all took Toyota, a keen champions. 2017 and 2018 a win a piece. engaged in payment of monies based on these fraudulent documents are requested supporter of the decision to belonged to Dakar legend Regrettably, like all other to report this matter as follows: move the TDR 1000 back Giniel de Villiers and major sporting, cultural and to its roots in Botswana, Dennis Murphy in the FIA corporate events worldwide dominated the Production Class Toyota Hilux. the TDR 1000 in Selebi To the Botswana Police Service Vehicle category from In accordance with Phikwe, Botswana had 1992 to 1999 with Kassie the Botswana authorities’ to be sacrificed in June . Additionally, call the Lucara Botswana Tip-offs Anonymous hotline on the Coetzee and Apie Reyneke philosophy of tourism 2020 in view of the global following numbers: winning the Toyota 1000 diversification, elevating COVID-19 pandemic. Desert Race seven times. communities and meeting SACCS together - Orange – 1144 Kassie Coetzee and Leeke the requirements of the with its partners Toyota, - Mascom 7111 9714 senior won in a Toyota Environmental Impact Hilux in 1992 in Vryburg, Assessment, the TDR 1000, Botswana Tourism, - BTC/Be Mobile 0800 600 644 and the inaugural TDR the largest sporting and SPEDU, Selebi Phikwe - Or complete an online form at www.tip-offs.com 1000 in Botswana in 1993, social event in the country Town Council and BMS are it was then the turn of Apie and a major financial donor monitoring the devastating . Notify us via email [email protected] Reyneke and Lucas Dreyer to the local community, effects of the current to win in a Toyota Land relocated to the mining situation very closely and Cruiser in 1994. town of Selebi Phikwe in will announce plans for Reyneke then teamed 2019. 2021 in accordance with up with Robin Houghton The new terrain proved relevant government and with the pair going on to a major challenge and economic guidelines once win in 1995 and for three for the first time in eight these become available. Wednesday June 24, 2020 | SPORTS | 15 Grigor F/Town chess school online Dimitrov ‘so sorry’ tourneys offset Covid-19 impact after testing positive for coronavirus Grigor Dimitrov says he is “sor- ry for any harm I might have caused” after revealing he has tested positive for coronavirus. The Bulgarian announced his positive test on Instagram just moments before world No 1 Novak Djokovic was due to face Andrey Rublev in the final of the Adria Tour exhibition series in Croatia, leading to the swift can- cellation of the event in Zadar as the crowd awaited their arrival. “I want to reach out and let my fans and friends know that I tested positive back in Monaco for Covid-19,” Dimitrov wrote on Instagram. “I want to make sure anyone who has been in con- tact with me during these past days gets tested and takes the nec- essary precautions. “I am so sorry for any harm I might have caused. I am back home now and recovering. Thanks for your support and MAKING MOVES … Local chess is adapting well to the new normal please stay safe and healthy.” Numerous top tennis players By Patience Lephogole we used it as an opportunity to ex- be reached through the online tournament which was made up we can take our relationship to the have flown out to the Balkans for plore our player’s talents and har- platform during the pandemic. of nine clubs,” he explains. next level.’ the tour organised by Djokovic hen others con- ness their skills,” Dikgang says. “We however managed to get He says this worked wonders “We seek to explore better av- in lieu of the cancelled ATP tinue to decry While admitting it was not more kids to take online lessons as for them as ‘those clubs are made enues that we can venture into for and WTA sanctioned events. the negative easy, he however says they did not parents could see the importance up of very strong players.’ “We the benefit of both the kids and The opening leg in Belgrade last effect of the give up on their beliefs in the kids of online tuition during this pan- took part in three tournaments and the academy whose interests we week had already received criti- novel coronavi- and the academy. Dikgang adds demic, which helped us to grow,” we did relatively well,” he opines. hold dearly at heart,” he says. cism after being held in front of Wrus pandemic on local sport, one that despite losing business during says Dikgang. “First tournament was very He says they are in talks to es- hulking crowds in accordance club is turning the negatives into the period, that did not stop them He further adds that the on- tough and we finished in position tablish exchange programs with with Serbia’s relaxed restric- positives. from pushing against the odds. line platform grew bigger than eight. The second time we got such academies and clubs which tions. Throughout the weekend, In what looks like a bless- “In our academy, we work with expected. “We started playing and position six whilst the last tourna- will help them to grow as acad- Djokovic, Dimitrov, Alexander ing in disguise, the Francistown kids and their parents pay to bring participating more on online tour- ment which we had last week we emies. Zverev, Dominic Thiem and school of Chess says it utilized the them here. That is how we gener- naments,” he says. finished in positions three,” he ex- “Covid19 has helped us to other players were pictured hug- covid19 pandemic induced lock- ate income,” he explains. “Dur- “It helped us to give our play- plains. move a lot of our attention to the ging, shaking hands and dancing down as an opportunity to better ing this pandemic, most of the ers more exposure and experience. “This testifies to the determi- digital world than we ever did. It together at a club. their players. While other sporting kids could not continue with the We also established new connec- nation, hard work and persever- opened our eyes to online activi- Djokovic addressed the dis- codes closed shop, the academy sessions, meaning they stopped tions and market ourselves with ance our players possess. They ties, networking with best acade- approval to the Eurosport Tennis says it organised online tourna- playing and this proved more of a people outside our borders.” used the pandemic period to get mies and clubs, interact with inter- Legends podcast. “I know there ments as a way to keep members challenge for us,” he says. Dikgang says this has proved more lessons, improve their skills national players as well as give our have been some criticisms as well engaged and growing during the While this may have stopped beneficial for the development and represent the academy well,” players exposure,” Dikgang says. especially coming from the West: time. some from continuing with their of our kids and for the academy, Dikgang notes. “Covid19 had its own advan- ‘why do we have a crowd? Why The school’s co-founder and programs, the Francistown chess which he says ‘remains attractive He further adds that during the tages and disadvantages. But there not having social distancing?” he coach, Jeremiah Dikgang says their academy established online plat- to many people both locally and same period they ‘participated and are also a lot of good things that said. mission is to continue redefining forms to conduct training sessions internationally.’ won a tournament against three came out of it. we are coming out “But it’s hard to explain to chess development in the country. for its members. This however “We have one Spanish group South African academies.’ of it a lot better than we were. It people that the situation is really, “Where others saw this as a time came with its own challenges as called ExpoChess, which during Beyond the pandemic, Dik- was a learning curve for the acad- really different maybe in America to feel sorry for themselves during not all children have access to the Covid19, managed to invite us to gang says they seek to ‘hold talks emy and we cannot say it is all or the UK than it is in Serbia or Covid19 pandemic and lockdown, internet, meaning only a few could participate in their weekly online with the Spanish group to see how doom,” he concludes. surrounding countries, and obvi- ously from the day one of the or- ganisation of the Adria Tour, [we have been] following the rules FBI investigating noose found in garage of black US racing driver and the measures that have been regulated by the government in- The FBI and the US Justice De- stitution and the public health in- partment are investigating the dis- stitution.” covery of a noose in the garage Over the weekend in Zadar, stall of African-American race car Dimitrov took part in activities driver Bubba Wallace. that placed him in close proxim- Wallace, the sole full-time black ity with his colleagues and fans, driver in US motor-racing organ- such as a basketball game and a isation Nascar, successfully pushed media event amid large crowds in to ban the Confederate flag from the centre of Zadar. On Saturday races. afternoon, he looked severely off The flag has been a common the pace during his emphatic 4-1, sight at Nascar circuits but for 4-1 loss to Borna Coric. many it remains a symbol of slav- “At all times we have strictly ery and racism. followed the epidemiological The news follows Nascar’s own measures in place with the coun- pledge to investigate the “heinous” tries where the Adria Tour was act. organised. None of the people In a statement, the US-based involved in the organisation and organisation condemned the act at who have been in contact with Talladega Superspeedway in Ala- Grigor have any symptoms,” read bama. a statement from the Adria Tour. “Late this afternoon, Nascar The news comes days after was made aware that a noose was the US Open confirmed its spot found in the garage stall of the 43 on the 2020 calendar with around team,” the organisation said late on 300 players due to travel to New Sunday. York. US Open tournament di- “We are angry and outraged rector Stacey Allaster described and cannot state strongly enough their cooperation as a “leap of how seriously we take this hei- faith”, stressing the importance nous act. We have launched an im- of sound decision making from mediate investigation and will do players to avoid contracting the everything we can to identify the virus. person(s) responsible and eliminate However, numerous top play- them from the sport.” lace, 26, described the incident as a sight, particularly in the sport’s scheduled racing at Talladega, a joined the chorus of those con- ers have already shown some “despicable act of racism” that left southern US heartland. small plane flew over the track demning the act, and voiced sup- disregard for the pandemic by It added: “As we have stated him “incredibly saddened”. “Get them out of here. They trailing a Confederate flag and a port of their fellow driver. travelling fairly frequently over unequivocally, there is no place for “This will not break me. I will have no place for them, “ he told banner that read “Defund Nascar”. “Cannot believe something like the past few months. Dimitrov racism in Nascar and this act only not give in, nor will I back down,” CNN. “No one should feel uncom- Nascar executive vice-president this could happen and the hate that spent the initial quarantine period strengthens our resolve to make he said. fortable when they come to a Nas- Steve O’Donnell condemned the one must have to do this,” Driver in the United States and has since the sport open and welcoming to Earlier this month, Nascar car race. It starts with Confederate display on Twitter. William Byron wrote on Twitter. passed through Bulgaria, Serbia, all.” banned the Confederate flag from flags.” Alabama Governor Kay Ivey NBA All Star Lebron James Croatia and Monaco. Meanwhile, On Monday, the Department all races. It came amid global pro- And that same week, Wallace released a statement on Monday, also took to Twitter, describing the Thiem travelled back to Vienna, of Justice announced that its Civil tests against the death of George and his team, Richard Petty Mo- condemning the “vile act”. act as “sickening”. Austria before flying to France Rights Division would join the FBI Floyd while in Minneapolis police torsports, unveiled a new colour “There is no place for this dis- “Know you don’t stand alone” for the Ultimate Tennis Show- in an investigation to determine custody. scheme for his No 43 Chevrolet, gusting display of hatred in our James wrote, tagging Wallace on down and he is slated to compete whether there was a violation of Wallace had called for the flag with #blacklivesmatter painted state,” she wrote on Twitter. “Bub- Twitter. “I’m right here with you as in Berlin and then Kitzbuhel, federal law. to be banned from racetracks over the rear wheels. ba Wallace is one of us.” well as every other athlete.” Austria again. In a statement on Twitter, Wal- where it had become a common However, before Sunday’s Several other Nascar stars (bbc.co.uk) (guardian.co.uk) Wednesday June 24, 2020

FBI investigating noose found in garage of black US racing driver - Pg 15 The FBI and the US Justice Department are investigating the discovery of a noose in the garage stall of African-American race car driver Bubba Wallace. Wallace, the sole full-time black driver in US motor-racing organisation Nascar, successfully pushed to ban the Confederate flag from races. Journalism of courage Wednesday June 24, 2020 Football league stoppage divides opinion

RIGHT OR WRONG? ..., the award of league championship is polarizing opinions in local football (File Picture)

By The Telegraph Reporter with as many in support and sumption. teams will outsmart each oth- they too want to play Febru- teams must suffer the act of minute because of rain, a many other against. “Most of the teams in er and go on top” says Kowa. ary – November season. God hence nullification was winner is not declared,” he he Botswana For Extension Gunners the elite league are not run- Kowa is however wor- Kowa worries that while the only option if the BFA explains. “The game will re- Football Asso- elder Rashid Chopdat, the ning professionally and it was ried that the BFA leadership it is said COVID19 is here was not willing to wait,” he sume again because it was act ciation (BFA) decision by the BFA to stop going to be taxing on them,” is only concerned about first to stay, the BFA is not com- opines. of God,” Bayani says. National Execu- the league is right and is a he observes. division and premier league. ing forth to tell the nation Bayani reasons that the He further warns: ‘We tive Committee’s welcome evil. “Companies have also “The decision was based its plans to play football. BFA decision is erroneous cannot compare our football T(NEC) decision to stop the “I think the decision is been donating to the COVID entirely on top tiers of the He wondered where the and should be corrected with developed countries.’ football season has triggered right because it was based on 19 fund and it was going to league and not on other P300million will come from rather than to set a bad pre- “FIFA knows that countries mixed feelings from football medical situation. We have to be difficult for them to assist leagues,” he says. to play football in the coming cedence that will haunt foot- differ hence an option to elders. monitor the situation first to football or sports,” he says. Kowa goes on to say: season. ball in future. adapt and localize everything, Two weeks ago, the BFA avoid risking the health of Chopdat’s sentiments are “Regional leagues have been For his part, Benedict “No one can convince it be the constitution, play NEC took a decision to de- the players and that of the shared by another admin- playing without a sponsor for Bayani, former national Un- me that the right decision was rules and other operations to clare the league finished as is nation,” he says. istrator and coach Sexton the past 25 years and the as- der 20 coach is of the view taken,” he says. “In football, suit local football.” and award winners and los- Chopdat opines that con- Kowa who opines the move sociation has been silent on that ‘the leagues should have a match cannot be decided by Bayani concludes that ers due to the ongoing CO- tinuing with the league would to stop the league is a wel- the difficult conditions re- been nullified as the pandem- an act of nature.” championships and relega- VID19 pandemic. be risky as teams do not come one. gional teams play under.” ic is an act of God.’ “During a match, if a tion must be determined in The decision elicited dif- have facilities to meet health “There is no guarantee He says BFA could have “In the act of God no team is leading three nil and the field of play not on the fering emotions and debates requirements for a safe re- that despite the small margin also opted to wait because one should benefit. All the game stops in the 85th table. Botswana moves one spot in netball rankings

By Godfrey Mowaneng Australia are at the top of graph, Botswana Netball As- the radar followed by New sociation (BONA) President The Botswana netball national Zealand and Jamaica that has Malebo Raditladi acknowl- team has risen one spot in the toppled England from the edged that the sport is going latest International Netball spot. England dropped to the through a rough patch. She Federation (INF) rankings. fourth spot on the table after says if netball continues to It is the first time that the gunning down 172 ratings be played as a recreational country records an improve- together with rivals Jamaica game, it will be a difficult task ment in world rankings fol- while Australia scored 207 and to return the sport back to lowing six years of a down- 182 for New Zealand. its rightful place in the world ward spiral. The national team perfor- rankings. The latest INF rank- mance deteriorated just after “Our challenge is that due ings, which were released this the 13th World championship to financial constraints, we month, indicate that the coun- in 2011 where they finished play fewer ranking matches try in now ranked 24th in the placed 13th. while other nations compete world. Since then, the country and earn rankings points,” she Botswana’s worst ranking has failed to make it to an- explains. “If we could play was 25th which was recorded other world championship, more competitive games, our on INF’s previous ranking re- having missed out on the 2015 rankings would change.” leased in July last year (2019). World Cup held in Sydney, The BONA president says The latest rise in ranking Australia as well as the one for netball to grow and be comes despite a lack of team hosted in Liverpool, England competitive, ‘it is critical that activities this year. last year. it starts being treated profes- The world rankings are In their best performanc- sionally. based on matches that took es in the history of the team, “We are hoping to change place before netball suspen- Botswana was placed 10th at for the better in future so that sion due to the novel coro- movement in the continental countries, being South Af- South Africa is ranked top in Coming behind the trio are the 12th world championships players can also play the sport navirus pandemic. While rankings for Botswana as she rica, Uganda and Malawi are Africa and fifth in the world Zimbabwe and Zambia who that were held in Auckland, as a profession and a lot of moving up in world rankings, remains sixth in Africa. ranked in the top ten net- while Uganda sixth and Ma- are placed in 13th and 15th New Zealand in 2007. sacrifices have to be made to there was however no upward Only three African balling countries in the world. lawi seventh respectively. respectively. Speaking to The Tele- achieve that,” says Raditladi.