• WHO Says Spread of the Pandemic Slowing in Africa • Warns Against Hasty Re-Opening of Schools 2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

West African Mediators In THE AFRICAN STORY Mali Seeking Reversal Of Coup

page 3 Princess Marina Hospital ISSUE NUMBER 734 VOLUME 2 24 - 30 AUGUST 2020 records over 30 cases amid Covid-19 surge page 4

‘CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC MAY LAST LESS THAN 2 YEARS’ • WHO says spread of the pandemic slowing in Africa • Warns against hasty re-opening of schools 2 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

THE AFRICAN STORY

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Head of Design Ame Kolobetso [email protected] Distribution & Circulation Mogapi Ketletseng [email protected] Echo is published by YMH Publishing YMH Publishing, Unit 3, Kgale Court, Plot 128, GIFP, Gaborone Postal address: P O BOX 840, Gaborone, Botswana ‘Coronavirus pandemic Telephone: (267) 3922 655 E-mail: [email protected] www.echo.co.bw DISCLAIMER: may last less than 2 Echo Newspaper welcomes concise letters from readers. Letters must carry the full name and address of the sender. Letters must conform to the laws of years’ Botswana and to the Press Council of Botswana’s Code The World Heatlh Organisation course with more connectiveness, stages of the pandemic, the rate Although pressure was building Of Ethics. Letters will also be Chief Tedros Adhanom the virus has a better chance of infection gradually accelerated in some countries to open up edited for length, libel and Ghebreyesus has for the first of spreading, it can move fast especially in South Africa, which schools, Nkengasong said it was language. time estimated that the pandemic because we are more connected now accounts for more than half proper to delay such a move may take less than 2 years to be now,” he said. of its case load of more than 1.1 until infections have declined dealt with, provided the world “But at the same time we have million. substantially. unites and succeeds in finding also the technology to stop it The Africa CDC further said He cautioned a hasty re- a vaccine. and the knowledge to stop it. on average, there were signs of opening of schools in Africa His remarks come shortly So, we have a disadvantage a decline in new infections across could repeat experiences of after the Africa Centre for of globalisation, closeness, Africa over the last two weeks, other countries like Israel where Disease Control and Prevention connectedness but an advantage said John Nkengasong, head of they were re-opened and then announced that the continent’s of better technology. So, we Africa CDC. shut down again after infections slowing the spread of COVID-19 hope to finish this pandemic (in) “So I think that is really some spiked. infections is through measures less than two years.” He urged sign of hope that we are beginning Africa’s caseload has remained Read more Echo like mask wearing and social “national unity” and “global to bend the curve slowly. We relatively low compared to other stories on our distancing. Africa CDC also said solidarity”. take this news with cautious continents, a factor that has been Facebook page by it is proper to delay re-opening “That is really key with optimism,” he said. attributed to its relative isolation. of schools until infections have utilising the available tools to “It’s very early, we’re dealing Low levels of testing in many scanning the QR declined substantially to avoid the maximum and hoping that with a very delicate virus that countries also means infection code below with experiences of other countries we can have additional tools like spreads very quickly but it’s rates are likely to be higher than your mobile phone like Israel where they were re- vaccine.” important to recognise those reported, according to some opened and then shut down again More than 22.81 million people slight tendencies that are experts. after infections spiked. have been reported to be infected positive.” Moeti said the slowing infections The World Health Organization by the coronavirus globally since World Health Organisation in Africa was encouraging but hopes the coronavirus pandemic it was first identified in China (WHO) Regional Director, that “we cannot be complacent. will be shorter than the 1918 last year and 793,382 have died, Matshidiso Moeti, told a press Cases are continuing to increase Spanish flu and last less than according to a Reuters tally. conference that Africa reported in some countries particularly as two years. Tedros said the 1918 Meanwhile the Africa Centre for a total of 55 000 new cases last borders, businesses and schools Spanish flu “took two years to Disease Control and Prevention week compared to 73 000 cases are opening up. stop”. has said also that although the the previous week, with the “And in our situation now spread of the COVID-19 outbreak reduction mostly driven by South (Additional reporting by with more technology, and of was slow in Africa in the early Africa, Reuters.) Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 Echo Report 3 West African Mediators In Mali Seeking Reversal Of Coup

Mediators from West Africa’s felt. regional bloc were due in Mali on Saturday for talks aimed (Reuters.) at reversing a coup that has been condemned abroad, but celebrated by many in a country battling an Islamist insurgency and simmering political unrest. Leaders from the 15-nation Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have taken a particularly hard line on Tuesday’s ouster of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. They quickly shut borders and ended financial flows - a move diplomats said was as much about dissuading opponents at home as stabilising Mali. “They cannot tolerate this taking place. They are taking it very personally. It is on their doorstep and they think they are next,” one regional diplomat said of the West African leaders. The presidents of Ivory Coast and Guinea are among those pushing for a tough response, another diplomat said, as both have faced violent public protests to their third-term bids and want the bloc to show it will not tolerate power grabs in its own backyard. All eyes are on the visit by an ECOWAS delegation led by Nigeria’s former President Goodluck Jonathan, which is expected to arrive in Mali later on Saturday, according to his spokesman. The ouster of Keita, known as IBK, has been welcomed by many in Mali, which was rocked by months of protests calling for his resignation over alleged corruption and worsening security in areas where affiliates of al Qaeda and Islamic State are active. “Reinstating IBK is out of the question. The only thing they can achieve is the transition. Under the rules of ECOWAS, ECOWAS should midwife the transition,” the second diplomat said, referring to the outcome of the delegation’s talks. A junta of military officers has controlled the country since Tuesday, when the mutineers detained Keita at gunpoint and forced him to resign. They have promised to oversee a transition to elections and a spokesman has said they are open to talks with ECOWAS. On Friday, thousands of the coup’s supporters gathered in a central square in Bamako, the capital, to celebrate the takeover. There is no outward sign ECOWAS’s suspension of financial relations is yet being 4 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

decongestion exercise at the Princess Marina Hospital records hospital, to reduce the number of patients being serviced. He shared that already, this over 30 cases amid Covid-19 surge exercise is bearing fruit, having reduced patient numbers from close to 700 to just under 400 in STAFF WRITER patient in the same condition Hospital Superintendent Dr COVID-19 tests, 15 have tested a few weeks. He explained that who also visited the facility. Tshepo Machacha has said a positive. currently the hospital is only One of Botswana’s major Public The new statistics at the female ward at the hospital Dr Machacha further attending emergency cases, Health facilities, Princess Marina hospital come on the backdrop was the most affected, and emphasised that the hospital is pre-planned appointments Referral Hospital has recorded 31 of the Greater Gaborone Zone subsequently had to be now more robust with testing, as with specialists as well as cases of COVID-19 among its staff coming out of a two week closed off for disinfection. Dr well as enforcement of Personal critical referrals, which have and patients, since ramping up lockdown, after cases in the Machacha said over 800 staff Protective Equipment within to be confirmed before being tests at the beginning of August. zone escalated, with Marina members were tested, with the hospital, to guard against attended to. The exposure to the virus is said implicated among contact areas 16 confirmed positive. He said the spread of the virus withing to have been due to a positive by the COVID19 Task Force, so far in August, from patients its facilities. The Hospital patient who visited the hospital, as a result of being exposed to that are being admitted to the Superintendent also added that coupled by another elderly the virus. hospital, subjected to mandatory there is currently an ongoing Dr Machacha said over 800 staff members‘‘ were tested, with 16 confirmed positive. He said so far in August, from patients that are being admitted to the hospital, subjected to mandatory COVID-19 tests, 15 have tested positive.

However, Dr Machacha said there are still large numbers of expectant mothers at the hospital, advising that those that are due for labor should visit nearby clinics that offer such a service. He also called on the general public to seek health services from clinics in their areas, and limit visiting Marina. Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 5 6 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

to the existing logistical barriers. WHO initially provided US$ 1.7 million and subsequently supplemented this with another US$ 600 000 from its contingency fund for emergencies. The DRC Ministry of Health has presented an integrated plan to donors and partners for about US$ 40 million and has committed US$ 4 million. There is a critical need for additional support. “Without extra support the teams on the ground will find it harder to get ahead of the virus,” said Dr Moeti. “COVID-19 is not the only emergency needing robust support. As we know from our recent history we ignore Ebola at our peril.” The majority of the responders have been mobilized locally under the leadership of the DRC Government. There are currently 90 WHO experts on the ground, as well as experts from nearly 20 partner organizations supporting the response. Since the beginning of the outbreak, WHO has supported the ring vaccination of more than 22 600 people at high risk. Along with its partners, WHO helped to screen more than 640 000 people across 40 points of control that were set up to help keep travellers safe when crossing into an affected area. WHO has also worked to raise awareness about Ebola among nearly 774 000 people in the affected communities on how Ebola outbreak reaches to recognize symptoms and seek treatment. Furthermore, WHO and partners are also ready to 100 cases in DRC support the Ministry of Health in implementing preparedness The number of cases in the “With 100 Ebola cases in less Organization (WHO) Regional COVID-19 draining resources and readiness activities in ongoing Ebola outbreak in than 100 days, the outbreak in Director for Africa. “The virus and attention, it is hard to scale- currently unaffected health western Democratic Republic Equateur Province is evolving is spreading across a wide and up operations.” zones of Equateur in a bid to of the Congo (DRC) has reached in a concerning way,” said Dr rugged terrain which requires The current response is curtail the further spread of 100, a near two-fold increase in Matshidiso Moeti, World Health costly interventions and with underfunded, adding challenges the outbreak. a little over five weeks. This latest outbreak, DRC’s 11th, was declared on 1 June 2020 in Equateur Province. A cluster of cases was initially detected in Mbandaka, the provincial capital. The outbreak has since spread to 11 of the province’s 17 health zones. Of the 100 cases reported so far, 96 are confirmed and four are probable. Forty-three people have lost their lives. The outbreak presents significant logistical challenges, with affected communities spanning large distances in remote and densely-forested areas of the province, which straddles the Equator. At its widest points, the outbreak is spread across approximately 300 km both from east to west and from north to south. It can take days to reach affected populations, with responders and supplies often having to traverse areas without roads, necessitating long periods of river boat travel. An Ebola outbreak occurred in the same province in May 2018 and was contained in less than three months with 54 cases and 33 deaths recorded.

Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 Echo Report 7

scattered, with one Lioness forced to scramble up a tree. The unit of eight women - one from each of the local clans - patrols the Olgulului community conservancy conservation area, 150,000 acres of land shared by wildlife and human beings. It is funded by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, which helped form the unit in 2017 to encourage more women to take part in conservation. The fund says they managed to stop almost all poaching in the area last year. Sometimes the women are accompanied by male rangers, and sometimes they go by themselves. As the women patrol, their bonds are clear - they chat and joke on the long walks in between visits to residents, who they ask whether predators are bothering cattle or if any strangers are moving through the area. Cattle - the foundation of Kenyan all-female conservation Maasai cultural life - and wildlife mingle freely here, with herds grazing not far from where a mother elephant and her baby ranger unit patrols amid COVID-19 lovingly intertwine their trunks.

Purity Amleset Lakara has The recruits are drawn from the of girls in our community,” the slaughtering a giraffe,” Lakara (Reuters.) spent the year capturing armed Maasai community who live 20-year-old said. said as she brushed down her poachers, running from an around the park. When Kenya confirmed its first boots in the dying rays of the sun. aggressive buffalo, and relaxing Sharon Nankinyi, another case of the new coronavirus in The women, who patrol around a campfire reading “A ranger, said the day she was March, the unit was already out unarmed, captured the two men Day Before my Wedding” as she chosen to enter the team was on patrol in the bush, and chose armed with bows and arrows prepares for her own marriage the best day of her life. to stay away from their families in and handed them over to rangers this month. “It’s rare for a woman in our the bush for four months rather from the government-run Kenya The 24-year-old works as part community to be a ranger. With than risk coming in and getting Wildlife Service. of an elite all-female ranger unit us being the first women rangers infected and leaving the animals On another occasion, the named “The Lionesses,” who we are changing the taboo and vulnerable to poaching. patrol was ambushed by a patrol a conservation area near men and our dads respect us. “A few weeks ago during our buffalo - whose sharp horns Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. We have fought for the rights patrol we came across people can cause deadly injuries - and

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restrictions as a result of COVID-19 has led to businesses having to introduce cost reduction initiatives such as pay cuts, reduced working hours, unpaid leave, suspension of contracts and possible retrenchment. The reality of the possibility of loss of income increases the need to identify actions to reduce debt burden and become financial free. Interest rate cut benefits are passed on to individuals by Financial Institutions in 2 ways: reduction in monthly repayments or a reduction in the tenure of the loan. The longer the loan tenure the more interest to be paid. Repayment of a loan for eight years instead of for three years means you will be owing more interest due to the extra five years. Although the monthly repayments are lower with long tenure loans, cumulatively over the tenure of the loan you end up paying more interest which makes the loan more expensive. A short tenure loan means that you will pay less in terms of overall interest. While long tenure loans help Interest Rate cut – Path to ensure your monthly repayments are affordable it also takes longer to become debt-free. Becoming debt-free is a major financial becoming Debt Free goal for many people, and it is an important first step to financial By Emmanuel Allottey of stimulating economic activity contributors to poverty in Africa. never-ending debt repayments. freedom. The right choice for by making it easier for businesses Majority of Africans do not have Financial institutions now offer your loan repayment tenure COVID-19 has buckled economies to invest and consumers to spend formal bank accounts, or incomes unsecured loans with repayment will vary depending on your across the world. Governments and borrow. The interest rate cuts that are stable enough to borrow period of up to 84 months financial situation, including are scrambling to implement provide an opportunity to reduce from Financial Institutions. Those emphasizing the convenience and how much flexibility you have measures to mitigate the the debt burden and carve a path who are privileged to borrow affordability of longer repayment in your budget and what your disruption to their economies. to financial freedom. from Financial Institutions tenures to customers. money goals are. Contact your Central banks have reduced Lack of access to finance struggle with high levels of debt Government imposed accredited Financial planner to Interest rates with the intention remains one of the largest and are facing a bleak future of lockdowns and movement explore your options.

multi-channel approach Bank Group, has set the goal consisting of traditional face of connecting every individual, to face interaction, over the business, and government on phone, online or using a mobile the continent by 2030. Today, application are now recognized more than 1.2 million kilometres methods of engaging with of Internet cables run across Financial Institutions in Africa. the oceans’ floors, but just 20 Digital banking is underpinned years ago Africa was completely by telecommunication disconnected. infrastructure and connectivity. Financial institutions striving In Africa, between 90 and to provide customers with the 98 percent of all internet best digital experience have to connections are via mobile transcend from just offering network operators. Africa’s cutting-edge new products and internet penetration remains low features, to supporting a cost at 25 percent and so is access to effective, seamless, personalized electricity which is at an average internet connectivity. of 43 percent compared a global The growth in digital banking average of 87 percent, limiting requires active collaboration the adoption of life-changing between Financial Institutions technologies in all sectors. and stakeholders to bring Sub-Saharan Africa has affordable connectivity to rural the highest internet prices and semi-rural regions. These in the world. According projects require significant to the International investment which are endorsed The Key to Digital banking Telecommunication Union (ITU) by governments that understand and World Bank estimates, the the key contribution of average price of a broadband broadband connectivity to growth in Africa – Technology connection in Sub-Saharan economic growth. Africa is about USD 110 for 100 Financial interaction through kilobits per second compared Digital Banking is evolving Infrastructure to an average of USD 19 in other in Africa. The progression of parts of the world. technology infrastructure impact of COVID-19. Restrictions aggressively accelerated the This disproportionate average development has been By Emmanuel Allottey on social contact and crowding development of features and cost is reflective of the lack exacerbated by COVID-19 which of physical transaction channels functionality of their digital of technology infrastructure is fortuitous as it holds a sure The adoption of Digital channels has magnified the convenience offerings in response to the making it costly to connect to promise of leapfrogging Africa for financial transactions has seen and value of digital channels. increased demand for remote the internet. The African Union, into the 4th industrial revolution. exponential growth driven by the Financial Institutions have customer transactions. A with support from the World Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 9 Echo Report Diamonds’ Potential To Capture Consumer Travel Spend

De Beers Group has released the that highlight these attributes and are looking to third instalment in its Diamond are likely to be particularly well create a special Insight Flash Report series, received by consumers who have gifting experience which looks at the consumer additional money to spend due this holiday.” perspective in the US and how to their lack of spend on travel, it continues to evolve as the country progresses through the stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. The latest report includes a focus on consumer discretionary spend including the potential for diamonds to capture luxury The world has changed, market share in light of the current reduction in travel spending, which has been the key your determination hasn’t. competitor to diamond jewellery in recent years, particularly for To everyone using their creativity to still get things done, every day. the Millennial share of wallet. Your Africanacity inspires us. The latest round of research, conducted among 500 Americans aged 18 and above, found that #WeLoveAfricanacity 44% of consumers had more disposable cash due to the #StaySafe cancellation of travel, dining or other experiences during absa.co.bw the year. When it came to travel specifically, more than two- thirds of Americans had cancelled travel plans for 2020 and of those, 55% found themselves with extra money as a result. In the absence of travel, one in eight consumers said they would instead choose diamonds to mark a special occasion. The report also looks at how consumer confidence has changed since De Beers Group started this research in March. While consumer confidence was relatively fragile on the whole compared with previous research waves – largely due to the increased spread of the virus and uncertainty regarding the upcoming presidential election – the latest research found that almost half (46%) of consumers had an optimistic outlook on life overall for the next three months and more than 60% said the pandemic had not affected their personal finances. In addition, 46% said their jewellery spending was back to normal, with a further 25% expecting it would normalise in the next six months. “As some consumers find themselves with additional discretionary income as a result of spend in other areas such as travel being cancelled, there is potential they will allocate this to alternative purchases, creating something of a unique opportunity for diamonds. As a product that can be both experiential and meaningful, diamonds fill the temporary void left by travel in the way few other luxury products can,” Absa Bank Botswana Limited (registered number UIN BW00001237900) is regulated by the Bank of Botswana. said Bruce Cleaver, CEO, De Beers Group. Diamond marketing themes 10 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

without a free trade agreement, Kenya’s three biggest exports to the US – apparels, macadamia nuts and cut flowers – would face duty increases of 5%, 0.5% and 4% respectively. This would undoubtedly negatively affect exports. But if it is extended, and the US-Kenya agreement ratified by Congress, elimination of duties on Kenyan non-AGOA exports (mainly minerals) will not amount to much in terms of export enhancement. Constraints to Kenyan exports to the US are not primarily tariff based. From Kenya’s standpoint, therefore, these trade talks are less about tariff and trade, than they are about attracting foreign investment into Kenya. The most useful potential outcome will be the extent to which Kenya draws manufacturing foreign direct investment from the US and other states, into its economic processing zones. To achieve this, Kenya should negotiate for liberal rules of origin requirements. Such rules should not unduly constrain investors to use only US or Kenyan inputs for Kenyan exports to qualify for the duty free entry into the US. A rules-of-origin threshold of no more than 30% value add Kenya-US free trade talks are should be the target. As an investment vehicle, the Kenya US agreement should under way: What Nairobi Must be modelled on the Jordanian “qualified industrial zones model” which increased bilateral trade between the two states tenfold Get Right From Start since its inception in 2001. This model permits foreign The United States and Kenya coffee and nuts. Its imports were and agricultural goods in Africa. Biden. owned companies situated in formally launched negotiations mainly commercial aeroplanes US trade officials have From a political perspective, select export processing zones for a free trade agreement last and other spacecraft, polymers described the Kenyan deal as a trade agreement makes to qualify for duty free exports month and with the US gearing and medicaments. Kenya has a a model for other African free sense. It shields Kenya from the into the US market. With up for presidential elections in slim trade surplus that the US trade deals. Terming Kenya a apparel as Kenya’s principal a few months, these talks may will probably be keen to balance. “strategic partner, regional target export, the success of its not draw much global attention. For the European Union and leader and commercial hub” negotiating dexterity will be The US is the third most China, the Kenyan agreement statements from both the US judged on how well it integrates important destination for further signals America’s intent Trade Representative Robert the inputs and outputs of its Kenyan exports after Uganda and for commercial expansion Lighthizer and the US ambassador The US is the third export processing zones. An Pakistan, accounting for 8% of and competition in Africa. to Kenya Kyle McCarter highlight most important agreement that considers all its total exports. Kenya exported The principal objective is to the seriousness with which apparel exports “Kenyan” goods worth US$ 527 million secure duty-free access for Washington wants this deal done. destination for irrespective of ownership and in 2018, primarily apparels, American industrial, apparel This vigor affirms President ‘‘ input source for a reasonable Kenyan exports after Trump’s strategy outlined by the duration should be the target. 2018 US-Africa policy. But since Uganda and Pakistan, Finally, the US will no doubt be the Kenyan deal is an initiative accounting for 8% keen on Kenya’s liberalisation of of President Trump, the palpable agriculture and services as part pressure to conclude agreement of its total exports. of its ambition to compete with could be detrimental to Kenya’s Kenya exported goods the EU as preeminent agricultural interests. The pressure hampers exporters. Every country keeps Kenya more given the asymmetry worth US$ 527 million a short list of goods that it is of capacity between the two in 2018, primarily allowed to protect either for states. infant industry protection or Free trade agreements are apparels, coffee and security reasons. Kenya’s highly protracted affairs which take nuts. protected commodities include more than a year to complete. wheat, matches, rice and cement The US-Morocco agreement, which can attract customs tariffs for instance, took 15 months. uncertainties over the extension of up to 75% in the case of certain Talks with Peru (18 months) and of the African deal and the types of rice. Colombia (20 months) lasted even vicissitudes of political party If properly negotiated the longer. The Kenya-EU economic changes in Washington. agreement has the potential to partnership agreements took More principally, whether rapidly enhance Kenya’s foreign more than 10 years to conclude. democrats or Republicans win industrial investment and overall Additionally, there’s no in November, the extension of export volumes. To do so, Kenya guarantee that Trump will be the Africa market access law will must pay more attention to the in office come January 2021. depend on the extent to which role of this agreement as an For this reason, Kenya’s team sub-Saharan Africa states will be investment attraction vehicle in Washington should consider regarded as important flashpoints and not just a simple tariff centred informally engaging the for US-China commercial ‘traditional’ pact. democrats in case the deal has competition in Africa. to be concluded under President If AGOA is not extended (TheConversation.) Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 11 12 Arts Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020

What is your genre and are you willing to cross or perhaps even redefine genres? I would classify my sound as ethereal soul and yes, I am Mpho Sebina – open to other genres. I just made a song with Major League Djz which is Amapiano very Inspired by Life, Inspired by Africa different from what I have previously put out. My dream is to collaborate with Artists across Genres such as Skinflint, Franco, Damian Marley and Charma Gal. Those are some of my dream collaborations.

How challenging is the music industry? The music industry is challenging in that everyone loves music but for some reason people do not want to pay for it. Artists in Botswana are extremely talented, and they share inspiring music for the nation to hear but it does not reflect in the finances that we make. At the end of the day artists need sustenance and to build legacies for their families.

Given your experience what would you say aspiring musicians have not grasped about what it takes to gain recognition?

Recognition should not be the main goal of a musician. My advice would be to make music that you are proud of, understand that the entire world is your audience so make your music available to the globe, keep creating, know that not everyone is going to like your music but create anyway.

The music industry is challenging in that everyone loves music but for some ‘‘reason people do not want to pay for it.

What would you change about the music industry given the opportunity? First and foremost, better pay for the musicians and artists of Botswana. If it were up to me the creative industry would be subsidized on various aspects of living being medical aid, rent, better loan rates etc.

Butterfly,” “No Evil,” “Pula” What is next for Mpho Sebina? Are there any upcoming and “Melodi.” shows, singles or albums? Art is a vital thread in the her inspiration and her insight Who is Mpho Sebina? Africa Inspires me, more so I have been working on music fabric of society, and due to into the music industry. Mpho Mpho Sebina is a Motswana the liberation of her people. The during lockdown which I will the Covid-19 lockdowns most Sebina is a singer-songwriter woman with a love for music, continent is so beautiful and rich be sharing this September. Look people s now have a renewed and among Botswana’s most the continent of Africa and her with amazing food, color, music out for that! appreciation for the arts and recognizable musicians whose people. I express myself through and the most beautiful people entertainment and those who music is reaching a global art and music is my main form of I have ever seen. Life inspires How do you balance the music production side and the have dedicated their lives to audience. Sebina blends different expression. I am also an Honors me, we all go through hurdles creativity. sound elements fusing soul, hip Degree Holder in International in life and I write music based commercial side? Echo Newspaper Reporter hop and jazz with traditional Business. on my personal struggles with I like to section my life into RYAN BLUMTON speaks to Setswana elements and folklore. anxiety. I also write inspired seasons, a season for writing, Mpho Sebina about her career, Some of her titles include “Black What inspires Mpho Sebina? by the beauty of life! recording, promoting and rest! Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 13 Travel

in people’s consciousness was important to capture the rebound economy. Emphasis was placed on not cancelling their holidays but postponing them instead. Our association brings together competitors and we have amassed USD 160,000 worth of pro bono work in the past 2 to 3 months from different international organizations and it has been heartwarming to see this support. Covid 19 is tragic, though it has allowed us as a sector to rethink our businesses. When tourism recovers, we will be looking to eliminate the unnecessary.

What is the digital destination solution? This is a multi-faceted destination marketing approach. Digital tools and digitization in general will increase in the travel sphere. We knew we would need an interactive website with direct booking platforms for our members; it needed to inspire travelers to see and value our destination, to educate trade. Our social media strategy is running on “Africa’s Eden” across social media communicating with consumers directly. We partnered with itinerary destination platform, WETU where people who want Victoria Falls Regional Tourism to build multi stop itineraries use these platforms reducing the need for brochures. People Association – Marketing the KAZA can be more informed, and the platform has 280,000 itinerary requests per month and in the Region as a Destination past they only served products like hotels but not destinations as a whole. This destination The Kavango Zambezi Botswana’s most desired Echo TRAVEL speaks to the have integrated suppliers who portal will follow with other Transfrontier Conservation Area destinations, the Okavango Association’s CEO, Jillian support the tourism industry destinations as well. (KAZA- TFC) lies centrally in and the Makgadikgadi pans. Blackbeard to learn more about and obviously benefit from the Kavango and Zambezi river The Victoria Falls Regional the organisation. more visitors. Suppliers are We partnered with Online basins where Botswana, Angola, Tourism Association provides important to the growth of Travel Training, a huge database Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia cohesive marketing for this What is the Victoria Falls the economy in tourism; this of travel and trade agents Regional Tourism Organization converge. The entire region is region to attract the tourism assisted attracting associate around the world who log on a conservation and tourism economy that supports an and how did it begin? members such as conservation to a platform to learn about hub that includes northern estimated 2 million people. We are a new organization. I activities and NGOs. destinations, in order to get was asked to form the association We build the destination as certified. We work towards a in January responding to private a cohesive whole to create a digital destination magazine, sector feelings regarding stories positive picture across every with local firm Botswana in the international and local single aspect controlled by Unplugged which will create the Jillian Blackbeard press that were affecting the the private sector. By the 27th first edition for us. We have also perceptions of our travelers that of February when we were worked with Gerald Malebe from some private sector occupancies presenting our strategy, travel 3D Media and they provided were declining. We are a unique restrictions were just announced the digital video that inspired organization, entirely funded by and there was very little this whole collaboration. We the private sector and in contrast money from our membership work with Hills Belford one of to other tourism organizations, organization. the largest PR companies for focused on the region rather travel-based PR in the UK and than a specific country. How has the organization the others are US based Green coped with declining tourism The association wanted to Team Global and Rethink Travel. concentrate on the way that numbers due tom Covid 19? We collaborated with Break people often travel, throughout We were challenged. Members the Ice Media to put together, a region instead of just one closed their operations, staff free of charge, a virtual travel country. It was very important furloughed, and salaries trade show where our members to look at a country as part of reduced. No income means could exhibit and network with the region. The private sector you cannot maintain operations. global traders. The key to digital wanted controlled and guiding Everyone was in crisis. is using what your members mechanisms for the destination Fortunately, we have strong already have for the purpose of marketing. Private sector input global relationships with PR the destination. I believe these was important. Some of the companies and communication relationships will go forward largest tourism companies in and digital specialists. Though for a long time to come and the region are members. Covid 19 meant less money could the efforts can be duplicated We also cater to the small be directed towards marketing for other destinations even for and exclusive tour operations tourism, we felt that retaining new destinations who want to and activities including a presence on the global market build from scratch. restaurants and crafters. We and keeping the destination 14 Sports Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 Cameroon 2021 qualifiers CLASSIFIED ADS resume See upcoming sales, November Employment options,announcements and more. Call 3933805/6 to advertise.

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA HELD AT LOBATSE IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA HELD AT LOBATSE

CASE NO: CVHGB-002986/19 CASE NO: CVHGB-000872/19

KGALAGADI BREWERIES (PTY) LTD Plainti JKGALAGADI BREWERIES Plainti And LESS THAN (PTY) LTD t/a LESS THAN LIQUOR RESTAURANT 1st Defendant JONATHAN MOTLOGELWE t/a MOAFRIKA JAZZ GARDEN 1st Defendant ERNEST PHEFO 2ND Defendant BOTSALA MOTLOGELWE t/a MOAFRIKA JAZZ GARDEN 2ND Defendant

The CAF Emergency Committee has approved the resumption date for qualifiers of the Total Africa Cup of Nations Cameroon 2021 and the group stage of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. A busy schedule awaits the participating teams with double-headers from November 2020 through to November 2021 in the battle for spots to the final tournament of the two competitions. The schedules for the two competitions have had to be revised in light of the COVID-19 outbreak which halted many sporting activities across the continent and beyond for some IN THE MAGISTRATE COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA time. HELD AT GABORONE GABORONE HELD AT BROADHURST For Cameroon 2021, the Case No: CVHGB-001083-20 qualifiers resume on 9-17 In the matter between: November 2020 with the COUNT TIME INVESTMENTS (PTY) LTD POWER WHOLESALERS PLAINTIFF Day 3 & 4 matches whilst the And penultimate and ultimate BALDOVA INVESTMENTS (PTY) LTD DEFENDANT matches take place on 22-30 March 2021. NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION The 40 teams in contention for the five slots for Qatar BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE that the pursuant to a judgement of the above 2022 will commence the Honourable Court the following properties of the Defendant will be sold by Public Auction by Deputy Sheri G. NGWAKO as follows: journey between 31 May and 15 June 2021 with the Day 1 & DATE OF SALE: 25TH SEPTEMBER 2020 2 matches. From 30 August TIME: 10:00 am till 7 September, the Day 3 & VENUE: NTSHE HOUSE, FRANCISTOWN 4 matches are expected to take place with Day 5 & 6 matches KIC DEEP FREEZER, 7X OFFICE TABLES, 18X OFFICE CHAIRS, fixed for 4-12 October 2021. PROPERTY TO BE SOLD : LG MICROWAVE, HISENSE FRIDGE, 3X BLACK STOOL, 2X ACER The Playoff matches have DESKTOP, SUMSUNG DESKTOP, 3X KEYBOARDS, 3X OFFICE CABINET, HP PRINTER, SUNSUI FLAT SCREEN TV, 1 GLASS been scheduled for 8-16 TABLE, 2X OFFICE METAL CABINET, 2X AIR CONDITIONER, November 2021. OFFICE SHELVE AND PUM TLM PRINTER. Meanwhile, CAF is CONDITION OF SALE: Details terms and conditions of sale together with details of property may monitoring the situation closely be inspected through the Deputy Sheri . Cell 74130174/ 72902654 and working with the relevant DATED AT GABORONE ON THE 20TH AUGUST 2020. authorities with regards to hosting of the matches and AJAYI LEGAL CHAMBERS (Plainti ’s Attorneys) will make pronouncements Oce No 20B, Plot 56 accordingly in the event Craft Market, Nakedi Road Broadhurst Industrial of developments that will P.O. BOX 228 ABG, Sebele affect playing a match at the GABORONE designated venue. Echo Newspaper 24 - 30 August 2020 Sports 15

Ahmad Ahmad stated that, “Whether at home or on the pitch, everyone is entitled to respect and safety. Domestic, physical or moral violence, especially against women and children, must be condemned. Do not be afraid or ashamed to seek help if you are a victim of violence in your own home. If you are a witness to violence, intervene or get help, but do not stay silent: remaining silent is to be guilty of complicity. Never forget that everyone has a right to live in safety in their own home.” The #SafeHome campaign launched last week today across Africa is part of a wider global initiative to raise awareness on FIFA, CAF promote campaign this critical issue. The campaign is being published on various FIFA digital against domestic violence in Africa channels and African Union and WHO channels. #SafeHome FIFA has joined forces with The African Union-FIFA-CAF Union, WHO and CAF,” said gender-based violence and is also being supported by the African Union, the World memorandum of understanding, FIFA President Gianni Infantino. inequality, as well as community multimedia toolkits for FIFA’s Health Organization (WHO) and which was concluded in “It is our duty to leverage the awareness and empowerment. member associations and the Confederation of African February 2019, covers joint immense popularity of football We align ourselves to leverage for media to help facilitate Football (CAF) to address the campaigns on topics of mutual in Africa to raise awareness on the popular appeal of football to additional localisation and to issue of domestic violence interest and the promotion of this societal challenge with a raise awareness against domestic further amplify the message by launching the #SafeHome gender equality, a key principle. very clear message: violence violence, particularly as stay-at- worldwide. campaign across the African Other areas of collaboration has no place in homes, just as home measures in response to FIFA is calling upon its continent. include education through it has no place in football.” COVID-19 are in place,” Elfadil member associations to actively The initiative is designed to football, sports integrity and African Union Commissioner said. publish details of national or support women and children safety and security at football for Social Affairs, Amira Elfadil, “Violence against women is a local helplines and support victims of domestic violence, matches. emphasised that the AU is major threat to women’s health services that can help victims particularly as stay-at-home “I am glad that today we can committed to the protection and that of their children,” and anyone who feels they are measures in response to launch this campaign on the of women and girls. said Dr Tedros Adhanom at risk of domestic violence COVID-19 have put them at important topic of domestic “We recognise and align Ghebreyesus, WHO Director- in their locality. The world greater risk. A number of African violence, which is significantly ourselves with FIFA, CAF and General. governing body also calls upon football stars are supporting the exacerbated by COVID-19 the World Health Organization ”It is also a grave violation its members to review their campaign via video awareness lockdown conditions and and other stakeholders on the of human rights – and it must own safeguarding measures messages distributed on social movement restrictions, together efforts aimed at preventing end now. WHO is proud to using the FIFA Guardians toolkit and traditional media. with our partners, the African abuse and domestic-based stand with FIFA, the African to ensure that football is fun violence through collaborative Union and CAF to launch this and safe for everyone in the programming that links campaign across Africa to bring game, especially women and reconstruction, access to attention to this critical issue. the youngest members of the the continuum of service, We are committed to a world football family. addressing the underlying social where women live free from norms and harmful practices violence and discrimination.” (Fifa.com) that continue to perpetuate Meanwhile CAF President

NTHOMIWA J

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA HELD AT LOBATSE

FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF BOTSWANA LIMITED Plainti Second Defendant

NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION

BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to judgment granted in the above Honourable Court on 23rd JUNE 2020, the Defendant’s property will be sold by auction to the highest bidder by Deputy Sheri MESHACK MOSHABI. FIFA insists Trinidad and Tobago DATE: 25th September 2020 TIME OF SALE: 11.00 am dispute has to be resolved at CAS PLACE OF SALE: Lot 24895, Gaborone FIFA is today lodging an appeal insists that the only recognised resolution forum at CAS greatly against the decision of the path to resolve such a dispute endangers the overall football PROPERTY TO BE SOLD Lot 24895 Gaborone West Extension 24 450m Trinidad and Tobago High Court is the Court of Arbitration for structure in the country and 836/14 issued last week to proceed Sports (CAS). The recognition endangers the position of 13th day of May 2014 BANDILE KAGELELO MOOKA with a claim from the former of the CAS as the correct forum Trinidad and Tobago football leadership of the Trinidad and in which to hear the dispute is internationally. Tobago Football Association in accordance with the FIFA The absence of a resolution (TTFA) against the decision of Statutes that all 211 FIFA member that is in line with the statutes of TERMS OF SALE: DATED AT GABORONE THIS 17th DAY OF AUGUST 2020. the Bureau of the FIFA Council associations have agreed to, as both FIFA and TTFA will result in March 2020 to appoint a well as in agreement with TTFA’s in the matter being brought to Deputy Sheri Meshack Moshabi (71623026/73301311) C/o Serole & Partners normalisation committee for own statutes on this matter. the attention of the relevant The Courtyard, Lot 54513, Unit 1 the TTFA. The insistence of the TTFA FIFA bodies for consideration P O Box 1679 ABG, Sebele GABORONE This appeal is a formal former leadership to bring this and potential further action. step, and as football’s world matter to a local court instead governing body, FIFA further of the established dispute (Fifa.com) THE AFRICAN STORY

Sport24 - 30 AUGUST 2020 Echo Newspaper

Cricket-South Africa confirm two COVID-19 cases in national squad

Cricket South Africa has began on Tuesday and runs to racism within the side. imminent birth of his second missed a mix of test and limited reported two positive COVID-19 Saturday, and confirmed two “There were no replacements child. overs series against India, Sri tests among national team players positive cases among the group, made for the two players who Former captain Graeme Smith, Lanka and West Indies due to who were due to participate in without naming those infected. tested positive. All those unable now CSA Director of Cricket, has the COVID-19 pandemic. a squad camp taking place this The camp is focused on team to attend the camp will join the denied the accusations of racism A number of their leading week. The announcement was bonding and was arranged after proceedings virtually,” CSA said and says he was unaware of any players are contracted to play made last week Thursday. CSA came under heavy criticism in a statement on Thursday. such incidents during his 11 years in the Indian Premier League, CSA tested 50 players and from some former players who Another absentee is former in charge of the side. which is due to start next month. officials prior to the camp, which claimed there was a culture of captain Faf du Plessis, due to the South Africa have this year Reuters.