DAILY

YOUR VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

THETHE SECOND FIRST MEETING MEETING OF THE O FSECOND THE FIFTH SESSION SESSION OF OF THETHE ELEVEN TWELFTHT HPARLIAMENT PARLIAMENT MONDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2020

MIXED VERSION HANSARDHANSARD NO: NO. 200 193

DISCLAIMER Uno cial Hansard This transcript of Parliamentary proceedings is an uno cial version of the Hansard and may contain inaccuracies. It is hereby published for general purposes only. The nal edited version of the Hansard will be published when available and can be obtained from the Assistant Clerk (Editorial). THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SPEAKER The Hon. Phandu T. C. Skelemani PH, MP. DEPUTY SPEAKER The Hon. Mabuse M. Pule, MP. (Mochudi East)

Clerk of the National Assembly - Ms B. N. Dithapo Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly - Mr L. T. Gaolaolwe Learned Parliamentary Counsel - Ms M. Mokgosi Assistant Clerk (E) - Mr R. Josiah CABINET His Excellency Dr M. E. K. Masisi, MP. - President

His Honour S. Tsogwane, MP. (Boteti West) - Vice President Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Hon. K. N. S. Morwaeng, MP. ( South) - Administration

Hon. K. T. Mmusi, MP. (-) - Minister of Defence, Justice and Security Hon. Dr L. Kwape, MP. (Kanye South) - Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation Hon. E. M. Molale, MP. (Goodhope-Mabule ) - Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Hon. K. S. Gare, MP. (Moshupa-Manyana) - Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation Hon. P. K. Kereng, MP. (Specially Elected) - and Tourism Hon. Dr E. G. Dikoloti MP. (Mmathethe-Molapowabojang) - Minister of Health and Wellness Hon. T.M. Segokgo, MP. (Tlokweng) - Minister of Transport and Communications Hon. K. Mzwinila, MP. (Specially Elected) - Minister of Land Management, Water and Sanitation Services Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Hon. T. M. Rakgare, MP. () - Development

Hon. A. M. Mokgethi, MP. ( Bonnington North) - Minister of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs Hon. Dr T. Matsheka, MP. (Lobatse) - Minister of Finance and Economic Development Hon. F. M. M. Molao, MP. (Shashe West) - Minister of Basic Education Minister of Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Hon. Dr D. Letsholathebe, MP. (Tati East) - Technology Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Hon. L. M. Moagi, MP. (Ramotswa) - Energy Security

Hon. P. O. Serame, MP. (Specially Elected) - Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Minister of Employment, Labour Productivity and Skills Hon. M. Balopi, MP. (Gaborone North) - Development

Hon. M. Kgafela, MP. (Mochudi West) - Minister of Infrastructure and Housing Development

Assistant Minister, Presidential Affairs, Governance and Hon. D. M. Mthimkhulu, MP. (Gaborone South) - Public Administration Assistant Minister, Local Government and Rural Hon. K. K. Autlwetse, MP. (Specially Elected) - Development Assistant Minister, Local Government and Rural Hon. S. N. Modukanele, MP. (Lerala -Maunatlala) - Development Assistant Minister, Agricultural Development and Food Hon. B. Manake, MP. (Specially Elected) - Security

Hon. S. Lelatisitswe, MP. (Boteti East) - Assistant Minister, Health and Wellness

Hon. N. W. T. Makwinja, MP. (-) - Assistant Minister, Basic Education

Hon. M. S. Molebatsi, MP. (Mmadinare) - Assistant Minister, Investment, Trade and Industry Assistant Minister, Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Hon. H. B. Billy, MP. (Francistown East) - Development Hon. M. R. Shamukuni, MP. (Chobe) - Assistant Minister,Tertiary Education, Research, Science and Technology MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT AND THEIR CONSTITUENCIES

Names Constituency

RULING PARTY ( Democratic Party) Hon. L. Kablay, MP. (Government Whip) - Hon. Dr U. Dow, MP. Specially Elected Hon. M. R. Reatile, MP. Jwaneng-Mabutsane Hon. P. Majaga, MP. Nata-Gweta Hon. J. S. Brooks, MP. Kgalagadi South Hon. C. Greeff, MP. Gaborone Bonnington South Hon. T. Letsholo, MP. Kanye North Hon. T. F. Leuwe, MP. Hon. T. Mangwegape-Healy, MP. Gaborone Central Hon. S. N. Moabi, MP. Tati West Hon. T. Monnakgotla, MP. Kgalagadi North Hon. P. K. Motaosane, MP. - Hon. O. Regoeng, MP. Molepolole North Hon. J. L. Thiite, MP. Ghanzi North OPPOSITION (Umbrella for Democratic Change) Hon. D. Saleshando, MP. (Leader of the Opposition) Maun West Hon. A. Lesaso, MP. (Acting Opposition Whip) Shoshong Hon. D. L. Keorapetse, MP. Selebi Phikwe West Hon. Y. Boko, MP Mahalapye East Hon. Dr K. Gobotswang, MP. Sefhare-Ramokgonami Hon. C. K. Hikuama, MP. Ngami Hon. K. K. Kapinga, MP Okavango Hon. G. Kekgonegile, MP. Maun East Hon. P. P. P. Moatlhodi, MP. Tonota Hon. T. B. Lucas, MP. Bobonong Hon. M. G. J. Motsamai, MP. Ghanzi South Hon. K. Nkawana, MP. Selebi Phikwe East Hon. O. Ramogapi, MP. Palapye Hon. Dr N. Tshabang, MP. Nkange Hon. D. Tshere, MP. Mahalapye West Hon. M. I. Moswaane, MP. Francistown West (Botswana Patriotic Front) Hon. T. S. Khama, MP. Serowe West Hon. L. Lesedi, MP. Serowe South Hon. B. Mathoothe, MP. Serowe North (Alliance for Progressives) Hon. W. B. Mmolotsi, MP. Francistown South TABLE OF CONTENTS THE FIRST MEETING OF THE SECOND SESSION OF THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT MONDAY 9 NOVEMBER, 2020

CONTENTS PAGE (S)

PROCLAMATION...... 1

State of the Nation Address by His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, to the Second Session of the Twelfth Parliament...... 1-28 SPEAKER’S ANNOUNCEMENT ...... 1

Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

Monday 9th November, 2020 unwavering commitment to fighting this scourge as I will outline during this Address. THE ASSEMBLY met at 2:00 p.m. I want to assure you that, despite the challenges (THE SPEAKER in the Chair) presented by COVID-19, Government remains PROCLAMATION steadfast in its promises to create jobs particularly for our young people. Following the onset of COVID-19, The Clerk read the Proclamation summoning the we shall focus more sharply on promoting Botswana’s First Meeting of the Second Session of the Twelfth digitisation, providing quality education and ensuring Parliament. that our people have reliable electricity, water, roads, hospitals and schools. P R A Y E R S Mr Speaker, I wish to express my profound gratitude * * * * to Honourable Members of Parliament for their support SPEAKER’S ANNOUNCEMENT to Government in approving the extension of the State of Emergency which was meant to contain the spread MR SPEAKER (MR SKELEMANI): Order! Order! and transmission of COVID-19. This is indeed a clear Honourable Members, please take your seats. Good afternoon Honourable Members, may I welcome you to manifestation of political maturity and patriotism by the First Meeting of the Second Session of the Twelfth all of us despite our political differences. We may have Parliament. Honourable Members, I am pleased to inform differed politically, but at the end of the day, we have all you that His Excellency, Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe put Botswana first, and this is commendable. Similarly, Masisi, the President of the Republic of Botswana will let me thank the frontline workers, particularly, the address the Assembly later in the afternoon today at drafters of our legislation, the medical doctors, health 14:20 hours. As a result, the proceedings of the House professionals, immigration officials, truck drivers and are therefore suspended until 14:20. our law enforcement agencies, whose contribution to the containment of the pandemic remains outstanding PROCEEDINGS SUSPENDED UNTIL 14:20 P.M. and exemplary. STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI I also wish to recognise and appreciate the private sector, E. K. MASISI, PRESIDENT OF THE civil society, development partners and individuals REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA, TO THE alike for their continued support to Government’s SECOND SESSION OF THE TWELFTH efforts to fight the Coronavirus pandemic, including PARLIAMENT their contribution to the COVID-19 Relief Fund. To this end, allow me to take this opportunity to sincerely HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT (DR thank Batswana and residents for continuing to comply MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI): Mr Speaker, before with the COVID-19 health protocols, a move that will I address this August House, I would like to request that significantly save many lives in our country. we observe a moment of silence in remembrance of our Honourable Members, as you all know, we have citizens who have departed during the course of this embarked on an ambitious National Vision of year. transforming our country from an upper middle-income …MOMENT OF SILENCE OBSERVED… country to a high-income country by 2036. This Vision will be driven by a knowledge-based and inclusive Amen. economy underpinned by democracy, good governance, the rule of law and respect for human rights. I therefore extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones. Today’s As Government, we will strive to attain a diversified Address is being delivered against the backdrop of the and inclusive economy that will ensure a free, fair Coronavirus pandemic which has negatively affected and prosperous Botswana guided by the principle of our lives and all productive sectors of our economy, “Leaving No One Behind.” This being the first time including mining, manufacturing, the services industry that I report on our progress in the last 12 months, and tourism. However, I wish to express Government’s immediately after the adoption of the Mid-Term Review

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of the Eleventh National Development Plan (NDP 11) nation as a magistrate. She has served at the specialised by Parliament, it is critical that we put in place measures maintenance court in Extension 2, and is currently at the that will ensure an effective implementation of our traffic court in Broadhurst. She is with her husband who national transformation strategy. is an attorney in private practice.

Therefore, during the implementation of the remainder HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… of NDP 11, we will be focusing on the following thematic areas which were agreed by Parliament: DR MASISI: The other is Professor Vasilis Koulolias who is an Information and Communications Technology • Economy and Employment; (ICT) Presidential Advisor, and has been kind enough to volunteer his services to the • Social Upliftment; without remuneration.

• Sustainable Environment and; HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)…

• Governance, Peace and Security. DR MASISI: The last but not least is Sergeant Baleseng I urge Honourable Members of Parliament to continue Peloyakgomo with the Botswana Police Service, supporting Government to take this country to greater representing all our patriotic frontline workers. heights. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)…

At this juncture, Mr Speaker, let me recognise my DR MASISI: Thank you. special guests who are in the public gallery for their sterling performance and contribution in the different ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT sectors. They are; Global Economic Outlook (i) Mr Phenyo Shammah Bernard who is the winner of Mr Speaker, according to the latest International the 2019 President’s Golden Star Award. The annual Monetary Fund’s World Economic Outlook update award is bestowed on the top achiever in the Botswana released in October 2020, the global economy is General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) projected to contract by 4.4 per cent this year. Projections final examinations. Phenyo scooped 8A*, 1A and 2Bs. indicate that all regions of the world will experience HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… negative growth in 2020, with advanced economies recording the lowest growth of 5.8 per cent. Economic DR MASISI: Thank you Phenyo. activity in emerging markets and developing economies is projected to contract by 3.3 per cent in 2020, while The second is Mr Otsile Moje, a successful young growth in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to register entrepreneur who through Citizen Entrepreneurial minus 3.0 per cent. Hence, this is expected to be the Development Agency (CEDA) funding manufactures worst economic crisis since the Great Depression of the sanitary pads which he exports to Rwanda. 1930s. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… The World Economic Outlook update, however, projects DR MASISI: The other is Mr Tiroyamodimo Semanga, a gradual recovery in the coming year, with global a graduate of Food Science and Technology from growth forecast to strengthen to 5.2 per cent in 2021, the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural while the Sub-Saharan region should attain growth of Resources (BUAN), who participated in an 11-month 3.1 per cent. This is expected to have a positive effect on exchange programme in high tech farms in Israel. the performance of our own domestic economy. Alongside five other participants, they have since Domestic Economic Review and Outlook formed a company that offers agronomic services to farmers. In 2019, the domestic economy grew by 3 per cent, as against a projected growth of 4.2 per cent. The relatively HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… low growth rate was mainly attributable to a contraction DR MASISI: The other is Mrs Babedi Rankoro, a Wits in mining output, as well as a deceleration in non-mining University law graduate who currently serves this great Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. Mining output

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fell by 3.9 per cent in 2019, mainly due to the weak pressures occasioned by supply constraints due to travel performance of the diamond sub-sector, while non- restrictions and lockdowns. mining GDP grew by 3.8 per cent in 2019. The slower growth in the non-mining GDP was primarily due to Exchange Rate Policy slower growth in the manufacturing, construction, The objective of exchange rate policy is to maintain transport and communications, as well as the services a stable value for the Pula in real terms, that is, sectors. after adjusting for inflation. Stability in the Real During 2020, the domestic economy is expected to Effective Exchange Rate (REER) aims to anchor the contract by 8.9 per cent. This is attributed to an expected competitiveness of Botswana’s producers in both sharp decline in major sectors such as mining, (minus domestic and export markets. In 2020, there was a 24.5 per cent); trade, hotels and restaurants (minus 27.4 need to respond to foreign exchange market instability per cent); construction (minus 6 per cent); manufacturing resulting from COVID-19 in particular, the appreciation (minus 3.9 per cent); and transport and communications of the Pula against the South African Rand, which (minus 2.5 per cent). caused challenges for Botswana’s firms exporting to South Africa or competing with imports. As a result, The economy is, however, expected to rebound during the downward crawl of the Pula exchange rate was 2021, with overall growth projected at 7.7 per cent. increased from 1.51 per cent annually to 2.87 per cent The anticipated recovery will be driven by a rebound with effect from May 1st 2020. While the exchange rate in growth of some major sectors such as mining (14.4 plays a key role in supporting competitiveness, which per cent), trade, hotels and restaurants (18.8 per cent), should contribute to economic growth and employment and transport and communications (4.2 per cent). creation, lasting competitiveness needs to be anchored The recovery will also be supported by the Economic on economy-wide productivity improvements, some of Recovery and Transformation Plan currently being which are addressed by the envisaged transformation implemented by Government. and policy reforms.

It is critical to note that these projections are dependent Foreign Exchange Reserves on, among others, the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions. These containment During 2019, the foreign exchange reserves declined by measures have the effect of reducing spending by firms 8.7 per cent, from Seventy-One Billion, Four Hundred and households and causing supply-chain disruptions. Million (P71.4 Billion) in December 2018 to Sixty-Five Beyond this, the recovery phase will be influenced Billion, Three Hundred Million Pula (P65.3 Billion) in by confidence effects on households and businesses; December 2019. The reserves declined further this year, sectoral transformation and changes in work patterns; falling by 2.3 per cent to Sixty-Three Billion, Seven as well as prospects for the recovery of global financial Hundred Million Pula (P63.7 Billion) in July 2020. The markets and commodity prices. Despite the challenges decrease was mainly due to foreign exchange outflows of COVID-19, there still remains the delicate balance associated with Government obligations and economy- of opening the economy whilst containing the disease wide import requirements. The level of reserves as at burden. July 2020 was equivalent to 11.6 months of import cover of goods and services. Of the total amount of Inflation reserves, Thirteen Billion, Seven Hundred Million Pula According to the latest data from Statistics Botswana, (P13.7 Billion) or 22 per cent, was attributed to the inflation fell significantly from 2.2 per cent in Government Investment Account. September 2019 to 1.8 per cent in September 2020, COVID-19 Response Plan remaining below the lower bound of the Bank of Botswana’s medium-term objective range of 3 to 6 per In April 2020, Government introduced an economic cent. The significant decline in inflation mainly reflects relief package to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 the downward adjustment in fuel prices in June 2020. virus, and keep economic activity and livelihoods afloat. However, inflation may rise above the current forecasts To this end, more than Four Billion Pula (P4 Billion) if the international commodity prices increase beyond was spent on various components of the relief package. current projections, and in the event of upward price So far the funds have been utilised as follows;

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(i) Wage subsidies for three months for employees in Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) to supply essential goods businesses adversely affected by COVID-19; and services during the pandemic. Furthermore, NDB created a P20 million Essential Services Fund to assist (ii) The provision for deferment of profit taxes payable businesses with purchase orders financing. by businesses; Decent Work and Investment Promotion (iii) Waiver of the Training Levy for six months; Mr Speaker, employment creation remains Botswana’s (iv) Loan guarantee scheme to support access to bank top priority, hence the continued exploration of credit by affected businesses; opportunities to create sustainable and decent jobs for our people. Government is fully committed to the (v) Increasing health and other expenditures directly promotion of decent work as demonstrated through related to COVID-19, such as treatment, testing, the signing of the Botswana Decent Work Country quarantine and contact tracing; Programme for 2020-2024 by Government, employers’ (vi) The provision of food baskets for eligible low- and workers’ representatives, as well as the International income households and; Labour Organisation (ILO) in February, 2020. The programme is anchored on three pillars namely; (vii) Repayment holidays for bank loans for adversely Creation of Sustainable and Decent Employment, affected borrowers. Enhanced Social Protection and Conditions of Work as well as Strong Labour Market Governance Institutions. In implementing some of these initiatives, several challenges were encountered, including shortages of Tripartite consultations on the review of some labour supplies, limited implementation capacity, lack of data laws will be finalised this financial year, paving way and limited revenues available to Government. for the drafting of the Bills on the proposed changes to the laws, to align them with a relevant international Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan instruments. Some of the emerging labour issues that (ERTP) were occasioned by the COVID-19 are not adequately catered for in our labour laws. As you are aware, Following the adoption of the economic relief package, during the State of Emergency (SOE), regulations were Government developed an Economic Recovery and introduced to prevent dismissals and industrial action. Transformation Plan (ERTP), which was approved by Parliament in September, 2020. The ERTP is an Youth Employment addendum to the Mid-Term Review of NDP 11 and Mr Speaker, the Government of Botswana continues to it is aligned to the National Vision 2036. The plan is implement initiatives and programmes that are geared expected to re-boot the economy and to cushion it from towards empowering young people in businesses and the unprecedented shock brought about by COVID-19. skills development. During the 2019/2020 financial Government has allocated Fourteen Billion, Five year, a total of 975 businesses owned by young people Hundred Million Pula (P14.5 billion) for the were funded at a cost of Ninety-Four Million, Six implementation of the ERTP. The amount will be spread Hundred and Seventy-One Thousand, Seven Hundred over the remaining years of NDP 11. Government is and Seventy-Eight Pula (P94, 671, 778) and in the currently looking at several options to finance this process, creating 1, 918 jobs. additional expenditure, with a preference for domestic Government also funded 24 Non-Governmental borrowing and additional revenue mobilisation. Where Organisations (NGO’s) to implement character building necessary, Government will consider other financing and life skills development programs with focus on options to accommodate any outstanding needs. unemployed youth without formal training. In this Government has set up an Industry Support Fund to the regard, a total of 160, 962 youth were trained from amount of One Billion, Three Hundred Million Pula April, 2020 to date. In addition, funds amounting to (P1.3 billion) to support local businesses. Additionally, One Hundred and Twenty-Five Thousand Pula (P125, the National Development Bank (NDB) established a 000) were allocated for skills development in Gaborone, P50 million Agri-Business Stimulus Fund to promote Francistown, Kgatleng, Ghanzi and Selebi Phikwe. smart farming. It also supported Small, Medium and As at July, 2020 enrolment in volunteer programmes

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averaged 16, 326. During the same period, the number other hand, were valued at One Hundred and Seventy- of interns absorbed in formal employment was 8, 457. Seven Million, Eight Hundred Thousand Pula (P177.8 A total of 1, 954 jobs were created through the Youth million). Development Fund (YDF) from my last report to date. Among the BDC’s project achievements during this Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency period is the establishment of the Francistown Academic (CEDA) Hospital with a 75 bed capacity which offers Medical Training facilities. This project has created 270 jobs. Mr Speaker, during the 2019/2020 financial year, the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) Botswana Investment and Trade Centre funded 2, 127 businesses valued at Four Hundred and Fifty-One Million Pula (P451 million). In addition, the Mr Speaker, the Botswana Investment and Trade Agency financed 1, 442 businesses owned by women Centre (BITC) continues to implement a robust export at a value of One Hundred and Thirty-Four Million promotion programme in line with the new National Pula (P134 million) and 568 youth-led businesses at Export Strategy. Exporting companies which benefited P27 million. In terms of sector funding, the Services from the BITC services realised Two Billion, Seven Sector was the most funded at 55 per cent, followed Hundred and Eighty-Three Million Pula (P2, 783 billion) by Agriculture at 28 per cent, Property at 10 per cent worth of export earnings between April, 2019 and June, and Manufacturing at 7 per cent. This translated in the 2020. Over the same period, BITC realised cumulative creation of 3, 883 jobs during the period under review. Foreign Direct Investment inflows amounting to Three Billion and Seventy-Nine Million Pula (P3, 079 billion) The Revised CEDA Guidelines will play a facilitative against the target of Two Billion, Four Hundred and role in the realization of broad-based citizen Fifty Million Pula (P2, 450 billion). economic empowerment. These guidelines offer concessionary lending terms and longer repayment Between April 2019 and June 2020, the Botswana periods. Government has identified Agro-processing, Investment and Trade Centre’s (BITC) investment Construction, Technology and Innovation, Energy, promotion drive resulted in the creation of 4 382 jobs. Manufacturing, Agriculture, Tourism and Mining, as The Services sector was the highest performer, followed well as the Creative Industry as priority sectors. by manufacturing, agriculture and the agro-processing sectors. CEDA launched the Letlhabile product to resuscitate the informal sector which was affected by COVID-19. The SPEDU product has to date, assisted 3, 873 micro businesses The construction of the SPEDU Industrial and Urban valued at Seventeen Million, Six Hundred Thousand Agriculture Land Servicing project commenced in Pula (P17.6 million) and protected 4, 066 jobs. August 2020, and it is expected to be completed by June Moreover, the Agency created a COVID-19 Relief Fund 2023. Once complete, the project is expected to create 3 which has assisted 62 businesses at a cost of Thirty-Five 500 jobs, with an investment value of P1.2 billion. Million Pula (P35 million). Special Economic Zones Authority Botswana Development Corporation Mr Speaker, the Special Economic Zones Authority During the 2019/2020 financial year, the Botswana (SEZA) currently has 15 potential investors, with an Development Corporation invested a total of One estimated investment value exceeding P10 billion. The Billion and Thirty-Nine Million Pula (P1, 039 billion) first company was licensed in June 2020 and will begin in the Services, Property and Tourism sectors. The total to operate as a brownfield investment company from Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stood at Five Hundred Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA). The and Thirty-Three Million, Six Hundred Thousand Pula company will expand its operations in Botswana. Three (P533.6 million), while the total Domestic Investment others are at licensing stage. was valued at Five Hundred and Six Million, Three Hundred Thousand Pula (P506.3 million). This In addition, the detailed design and land servicing of comprised, new domestic investments valued at Three the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport Special Hundred and Twenty-Eight Million, Five Hundred Economic Zone Phase 1, which measures approximately Thousand Pula (P328.5 million). Expansions on the 100 hectares has commenced and it is planned to be

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completed in May 2021. Furthermore, the design and the country’s import bill, especially for power supply, construction of 12 steel grain silos with an overall clothing apparel, leather products and food imports; storage capacity of 60 000 metric tonnes is underway at promoting the domestic production base, thereby the Pandamatenga Special Economic Zone and will be creating jobs for citizens and growing the economy completed by August 2021. through targeted sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. The new laws will also deter fronting Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) and frivolous complaints. Government will also Mr Speaker, in its endeavour to promote entrepreneurship consider the review of the 30 per cent reservation policy and Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) for citizen-owned companies to a minimum 60 per cent development, the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) is for major projects in this country. focusing on agriculture and manufacturing sectors as HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… key drivers for job creation. DR MASISI: Ease of Doing Business LEA currently supports 1 078 SMMEs across the country, with 51 of them being accommodated in LEA incubators Mr Speaker, the implementation of the Industrial and and factory shells. The combined contribution of these Trade Regulations Act commenced in June 2020. enterprises to Gross Domestic Profit (GDP) stood at P Under the regulations, only 10 trade activities which 420.2 million in revenue, from April 2019 to September have public health and safety requirements now need 2020. Through LEA’s market linkages facilitation, the licensing, while the remaining 35 trade activities can supported SMMEs have managed to supply national start operations and register with councils within 30 days retailers and parastatals to the value of P52.47 million of operation. Furthermore, the new Act has abolished from April 2019 to September 2020, whilst the value Trade Licensing Committees and introduced over the of goods and services that contributed towards import counter licensing. substitution stood at P47.2 million. In spite of the challenging trading environment, the assistance availed HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… to SMMEs to improve quality and secure markets led to DR MASISI: The review of the Industrial Development the creation of 1 391 new jobs. Policy, which will be completed by December 2021, is ongoing. Its primary objective is to align it to the LEA commenced an SMME registration exercise Southern African Development Community (SADC) from April 2020. The registration will provide the Protocol on Industry. However, as part of its efforts necessary data to inform future enterprise development to implement the Industrial Development Policy, initiatives, as well as the ability to measure the impact Government has over the years introduced Statutory of interventions in the form of SMME contribution to Instruments, including the recently imposed restrictions employment and the Gross Domestic Product. on the importation of bread and confectionery, as well as face masks to support the local industry. The purpose of Economic Inclusion and Empowerment these instruments is to stimulate local economic growth In an effort to promote citizen economic empowerment, and investment. Government is developing the economic inclusion law, which seeks to strengthen the enforcement of As a way of improving the business environment, citizen economic empowerment initiatives to ensure Government will continue to review Immigration meaningful participation of citizens in the economy. Policies and Acts to facilitate the ease of doing business The law is expected to be presented to Parliament before in Botswana. Government is reviewing both the the end of this financial year. Immigration and Citizenship Acts, and is also in the process of finalising a Migration Policy, in collaboration Furthermore, Government’s focus on transformation has with SADC. These processes will be completed by the necessitated the review of the Public Procurement and end of March 2021. In an endeavour to make Botswana Asset Disposal (PPAD) Act and the Local Authorities the country of choice for international tourists and Procurement and Asset Disposal (LAPAD) Act, with a investors, Government in 2019 introduced reforms view to aligning them to the transformation agenda. The which include the decentralisation of VISA applications reviews will help Government realise; empowerment to Botswana’s Diplomatic Missions and the issuance of of citizens through public procurement and reducing VISA at some ports of entry. In addition, a relaxation of

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the VISA requirements was introduced to make doing exporting natural products such as Morula Oil, Organic business in Botswana smooth and seamless. Ultimately, Honey and Gourmet Gems following attainment of the intention is to provide the service digitally after Fair Trade Certification. National capacity audits on seamless integration of systems. the jewellery and semi-processed stones have been completed. The newly established Leather Entrepreneur Trade Facilitation Association with a membership of one hundred 100 The African Continental Free Trade Area players in the sector’s value chains including abattoirs, collectors, exporters, traditional tanners, manufacturers Mr Speaker, following the postponement of the start and suppliers has developed a roadmap for capacity of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area building and accessing the United States (US) market. (AfCFTA) Agreement which was set for 1st July, 2020 to 1st January 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Agricultural Sector Botswana has commenced preparations towards the Dairy agreed timelines. Together with the other 55 Member States of the African Union, Botswana is working Mr Speaker, there are 59 dairy farmers in Botswana towards completing work on Tariff Liberalisation, who produce 8.1 million litres of milk annually, which Rules of Origin and Services, the conclusion of which is only 12 per cent of the national demand. The biggest will provide market access for Botswana’s goods and challenge besieging the dairy industry is the shortage of services to a larger African market of 1.2 billion African production of dairy animal feeds locally. Through the people. Economic Recovery Transformation Plan, Government will therefore develop fodder banks in strategic locations HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… for the cattle industry.

DR MASISI: The Tripartite Free Trade Area Government through the Industry Facility Support Mr Speaker, the ratification of the Tripartite Free Trade Fund will assist smallholder dairy farmers to increase Area (TFTA) Agreement was successfully concluded on their production capacities by providing them with an 30 January 2020. By ratifying the TFTA Agreement, accelerated business subsidy and an interest free loan, Botswana has secured a duty free market for a variety which will be administered by National Development of her products, including breeding animals, beef, Bank (NDB). salt, vaccines for livestock, plastic pipes and tubes, HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… pharmaceutical and copper products, semen and embryos for animals and the entire value chain. DR MASISI: This intervention is expected to grow the dairy industry by at least 18 per cent in the next HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… twenty four 24 months. Clusters for fodder production DR MASISI: The private sector will therefore have in Molepolole, Lobatse, the North East and Ngamiland access to new and dynamic markets for exports will be promoted. In addition, Government will renovate and new sources of inputs for domestic production and upgrade existing milk pasteurizing centres in processes, thereby enhancing intra-regional trade. The Tonota, Phitshane Molopo, Serowe and Sunnyside and TFTA comprises 27 countries from the three Regional outsource their management to farmers by March 2021. Economic Communities, namely the Common Market HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African DR MASISI: Development Community with a combined population of nearly 600 million people. Integrated Support Programme for Arable Agriculture Development (ISPAAD) African Growth and Opportunity Act Government is reviewing the Integrated Support The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), as Programme for Arable Agriculture Development it is commonly known, is currently under a three month (ISPAAD) with the intention of creating an efficient and bi-annual review process due for completion by the sustainable programme. The new programme will be end of this month. To date, four local companies are launched during the course of 2021, next year. Among its

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key elements will be de-bushing, shifting the weighting tags as part of compliance. Government has identified of the subsidy more towards outputs and realignment three export slaughter facilities for goats and sheep at of fields to enable critical infrastructure developments the Botswana Meat Commission in Francistown, the such as digitization, roads and water among others. multi species Abattoir of Botswana in Gaborone, and the Meat Inspection Training Institute abattoir in Lobatse. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... As part of improving small stock production at farm DR MASISI: Beef Cluster Development level, Government has rejuvenated Lobu Farm in the Mr Speaker, the beef industry has been besieged with Kgalagadi District where stud and commercial stock of challenges over time and this has affected the different goats and sheep are bred and sold to farmers to improve stakeholders within the industry. Government is genetics of their animals. The Lobu Farm concept is however, committed to revive the beef industry and being replicated at Impala Rural Training Centre in to this end utilize the adopted Beef Cluster Model to Francistown to cater for farmers in the northern part of ensure its competitiveness and sustainability. It is the country. expected that through this model, cattle farmers will HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... get the true market value of their product which will present an opportunity to improve the economic returns DR MASISI: Other Government farms will be readied to Batswana farmers. for allocation to citizen small stock farmers before the end of this financial year. Bio Security HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... Mr Speaker, there was an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Okavango region which was DR MASISI: The National Policy on Agricultural reported in October 2020 in the Nxamasere extension Development is under review and will be tabled during and Xhakao. All affected cattle were vaccinated. I this sitting of Parliament. The review of the policy therefore call upon Batswana around the Okavango seeks to address emerging challenges and create jobs, region to continue taking the necessary measures to especially for our young people and making agriculture reduce the spread of FMD. Government is currently more inclusive and attractive. working on relief measures as a matter of urgency to Mr Speaker, I have recently embarked on an initiative assist affected households in the Boteti and Ngamiland to promote small stock production in the country and areas. Help is on the way. I have met people whose testimonies have motivated HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... me to do even more to grow it and make it one of the key drivers of our economy. For instance, Kgosi DR MASISI: Between February and June for 2020, Boitshwarelo Difemo of Lotlhakane West, appreciated there was an invasion of locust in the Ngamiland, Boteti the abundance of goats resulting from the successes and Chobe districts which significantly damaged the of the Livestock Management and Infrastructure grazing land and crops. In September 2020, Botswana Development (LIMID) programme. I also met, Miss swarms of the African Migratory Locust from Emely Selabeka, a smallstock farmer in Kudumatse in neighbouring countries flocked to Chobe and to date Mahalapye East who expressed gratitude to Government over 53 swarms have been identified, out of which 48 and promised to increase her herd in anticipation of the were controlled, controlled means killed. international market for smallstock. More than anything Small Stock Production else, she appreciated the economic potential of serious smallstock farming with the aim of exporting- this she Mr Speaker, Government has secured a market to supply promised to do. goat and sheep meat in the Middle East and Europe, and modalities are underway to meet market regulatory Mining, Minerals and Energy requirements in the targeted countries. In order to Mining comply with the traceability requirements of the market, all goats and sheep will be registered under the Botswana Mr Speaker, COVID-19 has affected the sale of Animal Traceability System (BAITS). Farmers will be diamonds globally. However, the United States of required to tag their goats and sheep with electronic ear America, China and Europe have started showing signs

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of recovery which gives us hope that by December 2020 other products, whilst increasing its contribution to the the diamond market would have stabilised. As a means industrial base of the country and food security. to stimulate diamond sales, Government granted short term permits to local diamond companies to conduct As part of the Government of Botswana’s commitment sales outside the country. The permits are valid until the to promote mineral exploration, and in response to the end of December 2020. increasing demand for technology metals, Botswana Geoscience Institute (BGI) started a consultancy project In order to facilitate local participation in the downstream called Assessment of Mafic, Ultramafic and Granitic diamond industry, Government has developed a Complexes in June, 2020. The project’s primary beneficiation strategy to facilitate citizen participation. objective is to identify mineral potential that includes To this end, in the first half of 2020 the local diamond platinum group metals, base metals, and precious metals, cutting and polishing industry was supplied with as well as rare earth metals and battery metals which are approximately P1, 5 billion worth of rough diamonds. currently being explored in the Semarule area around Molepolole and Shoshong in the Central District. The The mining industry is continuing with some of the project will be completed in February, 2023. strategic projects such as Jwaneng Mine Cut 9, Morupule open cast, Khoemacau mine development and Karowe BCL Group Liquidation underground diamond mine. Mr Speaker, care and maintenance of BCL Group assets The development of Khoemacau mine is progressing at the Selebi Phikwe, Phoenix and Selkirk sites continues well with planned commissioning during the first quarter in order to preserve them for potential investors. The of 2021. The mine will be highly mechanised using liquidators have received three indicative offers for the latest automated mining technology, to improve the estate which are currently under evaluation. It is productivity and safety. anticipated that by the end of December 2020, a preferred bidder would have been identified with the view to The mine currently employs 2,131 of which 1,952 or 92 complete the transaction during the course of 2021 after per cent are citizens and has a comprehensive training detailed due diligence. Government is making efforts to programme to equip employees with requisite technical promote and catalyse domestic cement production. The skills. Botswana Geoscience Institute is currently involved in a Morupule Coal Mine open pit and processing plant project to identify raw materials for cement production construction is well underway and it is anticipated to be in Botswana. So far, the Letlhakeng calcrete deposit in commissioned in September 2021. The new expansion West has the potential for a cement plant. will produce an additional one million tons of washed HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… coal to be sold locally and exported into the region. It currently employs 376 people. At full operation, it is DR MASISI: Electricity Generation expected to create about 400 permanent jobs. Mr Speaker, energy security is a national priority for Jwaneng Mine Cut 9 project is also progressing well Botswana. Key power generation and transmission and currently the project employs 501 employees, 97 initiatives are therefore being undertaken to ensure per cent of which are citizens. The company is targeting the realisation of this goal. Government continues to to develop citizen suppliers in key areas of the value carry out some major power infrastructure development chain, including setting up an artisan training centre projects, electrification of rural villages, network and component rebuild facility. Let me underscore extension and reinforcement, as well as the refurbishment the crucial importance of ensuring that Batswana of the transmission and distribution network. significantly benefit from the Cut 9 project and other mining projects. Government has developed an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for the electricity sector development to drive Mr Speaker, Botswana Ash is currently conducting the strategic objective of achieving reliable, safe and a feasibility study to diversify its product through affordable electricity supply. The Integrated Resource beneficiation of the Sua Pan brines. The project is Plan intends to achieve an energy generation mix of at expected to come on stream in 2024. It will produce a least 15 per cent renewable energy by 2030 from the premium fertilizer, Sulphate of Potash (SOP), among current 2 per cent. The Botswana Energy and Regulatory

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Authority (BERA) has issued three licences for power occasioned by COVID-19, have highlighted Botswana’s generation to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) for overdependence on fuel imports on a single source the first time in November 2019, while one was for local of supply. In this regard, Government has identified generation, two were for electricity exports. alternative sources of supply which will significantly increase the security of fuel supply to the country. The refurbishment of the Morupule A 132 Megawatt Power Station was successfully completed in February Government is also exploring other options to improve 2020, while the Morupule B Power Station is undergoing fuel supply security by developing a Coal to Liquids comprehensive defects remedial works scheduled for (CTL) project which is at feasibility stage and is completion by 2023. The remediation of the first unit, expected to be completed during the course of 2021. initially scheduled to be in operation in the first quarter To further ensure national security of fuel supply, of 2020 is at 90 per cent completion and it is expected to additional strategic fuel storage facilities are being be commissioned by June 2021. developed through Botswana Oil Limited (BOL) in Ghanzi, Francistown and Tshele Hill in the Kgatleng Another noteworthy initiative is the North-West district. Transmission Grid Connection project (NWTGC) that seeks to connect the North-West and Ghanzi districts Tourism is at 92 per cent completion and it is scheduled for commissioning in December 2020. Upon completion Mr Speaker, Government has revised the Tourism Policy this project will significantly reduce the power imports and it will be presented during this sitting of Parliament. bill from cross-border supply and provide reliable grid The overall objective of the policy is to facilitate power to mining operations in the region. product diversification, promote domestic tourism, increase citizen and local community participation Government continues to electrify villages under the in the development of the sector. In order to increase Rural Village Electrification Programme bringing the meaningful citizen participation in the growth and total of rural electrification progress to 88 per cent with 435 out a total of 492 gazetted villages in the country development of the tourism industry, Government has electrified. The current national access to electricity taken the decision to reserve five concessions in the stands at 64 per cent. The electrification of 15 more Okavango Delta to be allocated to 100 per cent citizen villages, namely; Kedia, Sepako, Tsokootshaa, Xere, owned Madingwana, Sankuyo, Mababe, Kweneng, , companies, consortia and joint-venture partnerships. Loologane, Jamataka, Kanye, Tsootsha/Kalfontein, Letlhakeng and Mabutsane, will be completed by HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… December 2020, increasing the total number of villages electrified to 90 per cent. DR MASISI: Government launched the Tourism HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… Information Licensing System (TOLIS) in January 2020 for the licensing and revenue collection from licenced DR MASISI: The Rural Electrification Programme operations. The system offers a platform to apply for is implemented fully by citizen consultants and tourism licences, pay licence fees, penalties and the contractors in accordance with Government’s Citizen training levy fee online, thereby improving the ease Economic Empowerment (CEE) and Economic of doing business. Government has restored the 80- Diversification Drive (EDD) policies. The total amount year old Matlapana Bridge in Maun in recognition of spent is over Two Billion Pula (P2 billion) on projects local heritage. The community trust has taken over the such as Rural Electrification Programme and the North management of the bridge for tourism activities. West Transmission. Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has incubated over 60 citizen owned companies The Kgalagadi Heritage Trail was also launched to for the construction and maintenance of distribution highlight and celebrate 30 key cultural and natural infrastructure. heritage sites for tourism. Communities have been engaged to strengthen four mini-trails at BORAVAST, Supply of Petroleum Products Gakhibane, Tsamama and 4-Hooks.

Mr Speaker, the recent fuel shortages which occurred The ongoing management plan for the Qcwihaaba caves in Botswana as a result of supply chain challenges and wider NG-4 seeks to explore further developments

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in the area with the caves as the main tourist attraction. bridges will provide connectivity to planned major road These and Tsodilo will be leased to Batswana and will projects namely; Francistown-Nata, Nata-Maun, Nata- commence operation by June 2021. Kasane and Orapa-Maun and Maun-Shakawe roads.

The above notwithstanding, COVID-19 pandemic has The Okavango Bridge in Mohembo village which is reversed the gains previously made in the tourism sector. under construction, will be completed in August 2021. By the end of April 2020, it was estimated that 90.7 per Nearly 500 Batswana have been employed at this cent of all tourism enterprises had closed, with only project. The project is fully funded by the Government 9.3 per cent still open primarily for periodic quarantine of Botswana. Other on-going road projects include, purposes. Charleshill-Ncojane, Gaborone-Boatle, Dibete- Mookane-Machaneng, Mabeleapodi-Tshimoyapula- In response to these challenges, Government has made Serule, and the Mosu-Thalamabele. a decision to extend the wage subsidy support to all licensed tourism enterprises for a period of six months Progress on the New Greater Gaborone Traffic Signaling beginning July to December 2020, and to pay wage System Modernization and Provision of a Centralized subsidies to freelance personnel in the tourism sector Traffic Control (CTC) project stands at 30 per cent that were not covered in the initial wage subsidy of against the planned 35 per cent. To date, 31 out of 129 April to June 2020. As at current, all tourism categories intersections have been commissioned. Construction of have been opened to conduct business. the three interchanges along the “Western Bypass” road which started in December 2019 and is ongoing. Transport Sector Rail Transport Roads Mr Speaker, in order to unlock the connectivity of our Mr Speaker, Botswana’s 20 000 kilometers (km) road country, Botswana Railways is embarking on two key network is worth about P50 Billion. The development strategic rail infrastructure projects for Mosetse to and maintenance of our road network is pivotal to Kazungula railway line and Mmamabula to Lephalale. the socio economic development of our country, as it The Mmamabula-Lephalale railway line will connect to creates networks for the movement of goods, services the South African railway network, while the Mosetse- and people, as well as linking our country with others Kazungula railway line connects to the Zambian railway in the region. Government is therefore undertaking network. The feasibility studies for two projects are rapid road development projects across the country and scheduled to commence before the end of the current continues to reserve maintenance works for 100 per cent financial year and are expected to be completed by citizen owned companies. September 2021.

Government is still committed to construct the following Aviation roads; Francistown-Nata-Maun- Sehitwa-Mohembo, some sections of the Nata-Kazungula road and the Mr Speaker, the aviation sector plays a key role in Palapye-Martin’s Drift road. These roads link Botswana growing the economy of the country. However, due with Central Africa, as we anticipate the increase in to the current restrictions on travel, it has not been freight transport due to the completion of the Kazungula performing as expected. Botswana is embarking on Bridge and the coming into effect of the African the development of the aviation infrastructure, to ready Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement in herself for international travel. It is for this reason that January 2021. the International Airport in Maun is being refurbished and will be completed during this financial year. So far, Two major bridges are being constructed in the tourist the new domestic and international arrival halls have areas of Ngamiland and Chobe districts. The Kazungula been completed and handed over to the Civil Aviation Bridge project that Government has completed in Authority Botswana (CAAB) in July 2020. collaboration with the Republic of Zambia. The bridge will improve the efficiency of transit traffic at the The introduction of long-haul flights into Botswana Kazungula Border, enable regional connectivity of the including Qatar and Ethiopian Airlines, as well as North-South Corridor, as well as facilitate regional regional operators such as Namib Air, SA Express and integration of the SADC economies. Furthermore, the SA Airlink, requires an urgent review of the aviation

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and airspace safety and security, as well as disaster and Letlhakeng are at 97 per cent and will also be preparedness. Another airline which has expressed completed by the end of November 2020. In addition, interest to fly to Botswana is the Emirates Airlines. To all villages with a population of less than 5000 people this end, the improvement of surveillance coverage of will be connected using high capacity radios, instead Botswana’s airspace has commenced and tender in this of optic fibre by the end of National Development Plan regard, will be awarded in May 2021. (NDP) 11.

Promoting Digitisation E-Services

Mr Speaker, as a result of our continued efforts, we have Botswana aims to pursue a digitally inclusive adopted the Smart Botswana Strategy, “SmartBots”, that nation through the implementation of the Digital is now in the implementation stage. SmartBots adopting Transformation Agenda. Thus the increase in demand a whole of Government approach to transform the for e-services over the past few years has demonstrated public sector, and thus enable us to efficiently provide the centrality of digitisation and advanced technologies services to citizens and businesses. in our quest to transform and diversify the economy of our country. To this end, major initiatives have been As I have stated before, our commitment to achieving the introduced aimed at improving the delivery of quality Fourth Industrial Revolution is demonstrated by, among services through digitilisation in different sectors, as others, our inclusion in the World Economic Forum’s follows; 2030 Vision Leaders Platform. The partnerships that we E-Minerals continue to form with global leaders and international high-tech companies will assist Botswana in her drive The Botswana GeoScience Institute (BGI) has to achieve a digital economy and her transformational developed access to the mineral exploration borehole agenda. To this end, I have offered Botswana to partner information system to facilitate the sharing of borehole with global leading companies and organizations, so data that covers water table, yield, depth and chemistry. we become a living laboratory for the Fourth Industrial This system will be availed to the public by the end of Revolution. The Maun Science Park could well be a part the current financial year. of this, if ongoing consultations are successful. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... National Backbone Infrastructure DR MASISI: E-Health Mr Speaker, our quest to upgrade the national backbone network to a state of the art infrastructure is in progress. Mr Speaker, the health sector has successfully launched To date, BoFiNet has a national fibre coverage in excess the e-Health Strategy for 2020-2024 in March 2020. of 10,600 km countrywide, and it is in the process of The strategy will improve access to healthcare; better connecting cities, major towns and villages, which patient outcomes; access to health information, as will also reduce the digital divide in the country. In well as monitoring and evaluation. To this end, the this regard, 206 out of 399 localities are connected to development of a home grown Centralised Electronic high-speed open access network infrastructure. 193 Medical Record (EMR) system is in progress, developed villages, however, still require Open Access Broadband here. It is envisaged that upon completion the system backbone network connectivity. More than 20 villages will replace the use of paper-based medical patient cards across the country will be provided with broadband and assist in building an Electronic Health Record. connectivity through optic fibres. These villages E-Learning are; Kang, Tshane, Lehututu, Hukuntsi, Lokgwabe, Letlhakeng, , Sorilatholo, , Mr Speaker, the need for digital platforms in teaching , Takatokwane, Maake, Ngwatle, Monong, and learning has taken precedence in delivering the Ncaang, Ukwi, Ncojane, Kole, Makunda and Charles 21st Century learner and transitioning Botswana to a Hill. Of these, Kang, Tshane, Hukuntsi, and Lehututu knowledge-based economy. Government continues to have recently completed and launched, whereas Charles partner with stakeholders to support school connectivity Hill, Monong, Ncaang and Ngwatle are at 98 per cent and the provision of Information and Communications progress and will be completed at the end of November Technology (ICT) gadgets. Capacity building of 2020. Letlhakeng to Kaudwane covering Sorilatholo teachers in ICT is ongoing. To date, more than 3300

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teachers have been trained. The development of a the remaining six ports of entry, being, Two Rivers, content platform to facilitate access to digital education Bokspits, Makopong, Paarshalt, Zanzibar and Mabolwe is ongoing and it will be completed by the end of the which would be completed by end of March 2021. 2021/2022 financial year. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... E-Commerce DR MASISI: Government has also started the Mr Speaker, Government is in the process of developing development of the VISA on-line application platform, a National e-Commerce Strategy which will facilitate which is expected to be completed by May 2021. In commerce across all sectors of the economy. The project addition, Government will develop the platform for on- commenced in 2019 and it is scheduled to be completed line application for the Botswana passport in the next by March 2021. Our National Payments System Vision financial year. and Strategy (NPSS) 2020-2024 is designed to promote the use of digital payments platforms. The NPSS is Broadcasting Services expected to accelerate financial inclusion and support Mr Speaker, as you are aware, Government has started the growth of the digital economy. live parliamentary debates in an endeavour to take The financial sector is also at the forefront of digitisation Parliament closer to the people. In order to disseminate in our economy. Banks have continued to roll out information to the youth, a channel, NOW TV, was digital products and services. To date, the number launched in November, 2019 and is available online. of transactions conducted through Electronic Funds Government continues to provide universal access to Transfer (EFT) has increased by 7 per cent compared to broadcast and print media services. A new transmitter the previous year, while the number of points of sale or has been installed to enable access to broadcast services swiping transactions increased by 13 per cent. The use to a total of 8,443 people residing in , Shadishadi, of cheques dropped by 33 per cent over the same period. Lephephe, Otse, , Kokonje and Leologane. Three transmitters will be commissioned at Salajwe, Botswana Post has launched an online service, Takatokwane and before the end of the PosoMoney, to help achieve financial inclusion for the current financial year, resulting in an additional 18,652 unbanked and the under-banked as well as generate an people in 33 villages with access to broadcast signals… additional revenue stream to sustain itself. PosoMoney HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... is a mobile money solution that allows customers to access a wide range of financial products and services. DR MASISI: Gabz Free Wi-Fi There are currently 66,000 registered users on this platform. As part of its efforts to expand access to the broadband internet services, Government and the private sector During the current financial year, the Botswana Unified have started rolling out the Fibre-To-The-Business and Revenue Service (BURS) commenced the project of Fibre-To-The-Home project in Gaborone. The GABZ upgrading a number of ports of entry into One Stop FREE Wi-Fi initiative which was launched last month Border Posts. These include Ramokgwebana, Mamuno, intends to provide free and daily Wi-Fi for one hour per Tlokweng and Pioneer Gate Border Post to improve user in some public areas in Gaborone. The first phase clearance of cargo and facilitate the ease of doing of this project entails the installation of Wi-Fi Hotspots business. The upgrading commenced in April 2020 and in 10 public spaces in the city of Gaborone. These will be completed by March 2023. places were selected because they have already been provided with the requisite infrastructure in the form of Ports of Entry fibre networks. This service will be extended to other The automation of the ports of entry will enhance parts of Botswana in due course. compliance with the requirements of the International Internet Protocol TV Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and ensure efficient service delivery as well as validate the authenticity We made a promise to nurture the creative economy and integrity of e-passports of member states. To this to make it a source of economic growth, job creation, end, Government is carrying out the installation of innovation and trade, as well as, to expose our arts the Passport and Border Control System (PBCS) at and diverse cultures to international markets. Through

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Botswana Fibre Networks (BoFiNet), Government has be conducted in partnership with local institutions created a digital content platform that will showcase including, Madirelo Training and Testing Centre, Botswana’s storytelling and entertainment through an Construction Industry Trust Fund (CITF) and brigades Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) service. The IPTV across Botswana. platform will be a significant contributor towards the commercialisation of the creative and arts industry, as Poverty Eradication outlined in our country’s Creative Industry Strategy. It Mr Speaker, poverty eradication is one of Government’s is the Botswana equivalent of Netflix. key policy deliverables. In this context, we have Research and Innovation broadened the scope of measurement of poverty to include the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), Mr Speaker, Government, through the Botswana Institute which measures non-income deprivation levels of for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), the poor in the areas of education, health and living has established a software development centre which standards. Under the Poverty Eradication Programme, will enhance Botswana’s participation in the Fourth as at July 2020, thirty-nine thousand nine hundred and Industrial Revolution. The centre develops core and seventy-one (39,971) projects were funded. Out of these, backbone platforms across national economic sectors thirty-one thousand eight hundred and twenty-nine and accompanying application programming interfaces (31, 829) or 80 per cent are operational and employing to allow seamless integration with applications from thirty-four thousand seven hundred and ninety-one other developers. (34,791) Batswana, while two thousand two hundred and eighty-six (2,286) projects were not successful, SOCIAL UPLIFTMENT resulting in a 5.7 per cent failure rate since inception Social Protection of the programme. About five thousand, eight hundred and fifty-six (5,856) projects are at different stages of Mr Speaker, the recently approved National Social implementation. Protection Framework (NDPF) will deliver a Single People Living with Disabilities Registry System with the aim of consolidating and harmonising the existing 29 Social Protection Mr Speaker, Government continues to mainstream programmes across Government into five Life Course disability in all its development programmes with programmes. The consolidation will forge coherence the view to improve the lives of people living with and synergies between these programmes to assist disability, as well as to remove barriers and ensure their Government in building a stronger, more responsive, full participation in the socio-economic development of efficient and resilient social protection system. our country. Children living with disability are provided Government continues to provide care for the with diagnostic assessments through multi-disciplinary less privileged persons through social protection teams comprising educational psychologists, speech programmes including Old Age Pensioners (OAP), and language therapists and low vision specialists to Destitute Persons, Orphans and Vulnerable children, guide in the appropriate placement for learners with Community Home Based Care patients, World War special needs. The construction of a Centre for Severe II (WWII) Veterans, People Living with Disabilities and Multiple Disability in Maun to cater for learners (PLWD) and needy students. As at September 2020 with disabilities commenced in February 2020 and is a total of 229,622 beneficiaries were registered under scheduled for completion in February 2022. various programmes. As at March 2020, the Government Unemployed The Ipelegeng programme will be re-engineered with Graduate Database has registered a total of two hundred focus on maintenance of public facilities, especially and ninety-five (295) graduates with disability, of schools and implementation of development projects at which one hundred and forty-three (143) were placed the local level. at different Government departments, representing 48 per cent placement. It is important to note that graduates The revamped Ipelegeng will empower beneficiaries with disabilities were given priority. Government has through capacity building and development of technical also revised the land policy to ensure that people living skills for sustained livelihoods. Their training will with disability are prioritised in the allocation of land.

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Gender Equity household food security vulnerability assessment, conducted in June 2020. However, there are pockets Mr Speaker, Gender equality and empowerment of of the country that were affected by the drought and women remains central to the socio-economic and therefore need targeted relief measures. These measure cultural development of Botswana, as espoused in include, an 85 per cent seasonal loan pay-out to farmers our National Vision 2036. Government has set up in the seriously affected areas in the North East and structures, such as the National Gender Commission, North West Districts, Boteti and Bobirwa Sub-Districts, the Technical Advisory Committee and District Gender the Tswapong areas in the Mahalapye and Palapye Sub- Committees to bridge the gap on gender equality. The Districts as well as Tutume and Tonota Sub-Districts. Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Programme Farmers in those areas obtained seasonal loans from the which aims to strengthen the participation of women in Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) the national economic activities is under review. and the National Development Bank (NDB) through The prevalence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme (ACGS) to especially violence against women and children, who are supplement the complete crop failure as was determined the most vulnerable to this crime, is of serious concern at the time of the assessment. for all of us. Government has therefore prioritised Other interventions were a 20 per cent livestock subsidy drafting of a Sexual Offenders Bill to be tabled during for the entire country, the continuation of supplementary this sitting of Parliament. The Bill will establish a Sex feeding at primary schools and health facilities, Offenders’ Registry to record and publicise names and provision of special food basket to underweight children particulars of all persons convicted of sexual offences. residing in areas serviced by mobile health stops and HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… continuation of the implementation of basic food relief packages to deserving residents in the affected districts. DR MASISI: To date, 12 districts have set up the District Gender Committees in Chobe, Kweneng, These interventions have been effected and are to end Kgatleng, Kgalagadi, Maun, Serowe, Selebi Phikwe, on the 30 June, 2021, save for the livestock feed subsidy North-East, Bobirwa Sub-District, Mabutsane Sub- which started on 1st September, 2020 and will end on District, Goodhope Sub-District and Mahalapye Sub- 1st January, 2021. The RDC will continue to monitor District. These committees will promote gender equality implementation of these relief measures to ensure their and women’s empowerment, as well as address GBV. effectiveness.

I am delighted to announce that, subsequent to my Local Economic Development address to the nation on GBV in September 2020, the Botswana Police has taken swift action and introduced The Local Economic Development (LED) strategy is an a Toll-Free number for reports on GBV. The Police will effective instrument to promote local investment, sustain also establish a Gender and Child Protection Unit by economic growth and diversification, and enhance April 2021. Government is currently putting in place sustainable livelihoods across localities. Following the appropriate structures to strengthen its response towards approval of the National LED framework, Government GBV. has been focusing on assisting local authorities to develop their LED strategies. So far, one of the five Rural Development targeted districts has completed its strategy, while the remaining four are at various stages of development. It Mr Speaker, the Rural Development Council (RDC) has is anticipated that all the strategies will be completed by adopted a value chain approach as a tool to transform the end of this financial year. community projects into business entities. These community driven initiatives are anchored on the use Bogosi of the natural resource base that predominantly exist in rural areas to create wealth for the rural economies. The Mr Speaker, the Bogosi institution plays a pivotal RDC intends to replicate successful business initiatives role in nation building. However, Bogosi succession in other parts of the country. disputes continue to negatively affect decision-making and service delivery. Government is concerned with You will recall that I recently declared this year, 2020, the increasing involvement of politicians in Bogosi and a non-drought year following the annual drought and the use of this sacred institution for pursuing political

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agendas. I therefore urge our traditional leadership promote mixed land use has helped our people to re- and Batswana alike, to jealously guard this important purpose their land for advantageous economic activities. institution which has served us well over the years. Government has embarked on a Land Management Government, continues to engage with Dikgosi through Reform Agenda that aims at the transformation of the various platforms to address these challenges going land sector with particular emphasis on speedy and forward. efficient land allocation which will reduce the numbers on the waiting lists and the turnaround time for land Government is also making concerted efforts to improve allocation. The reform is expected to be completed by the state of Customary Courts and Kgotla offices. To April 2021. this end, the refurbishment of 11 Customary Courts were completed by September 2020. Furthermore, WiFi HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… connection for 50 Kgotla offices across the country is ongoing and is expected to be completed in March, DR MASISI: Mr Speaker, Government continues 2021. This initiative will provide access to WiFi services to undertake land servicing projects to facilitate land to communities of these areas providing yet another allocation and development. In most of the layouts, opportunity for youth businesses to grow. plots have already been allocated and developed ahead of servicing. Projects that are being undertaken during Adequate and Affordable Housing this financial year include Lentsweletau, Lesoma/ Kazungula, , Mabutsane, Francistown Mr Speaker, Government remains committed to (Gerald Block 1), Kalamare and Moshupa. These providing housing particularly targeting the low income projects are expected to provide access to a total of 9, strata of the society and first time buyers. Government 729 plots by March 2022. is working with stakeholders, including the Botswana Housing Corporation (BHC), to promote high density However, owing to capacity constraints, Government housing, especially in urban areas, where there is is actively considering leveraging on the local private shortage of land. BHC continues to provide housing sector through Public Private Partnerships (PPP) to and has recently been able to deliver houses in Palapye, service land and significantly reduce the waiting lists Tutume and Tati Siding. Since the beginning of NDP for land allocations; nationally. Furthermore, we are 11, one thousand, three hundred and thirty-three (1,333) considering plot allocations on un-serviced or minimally units out of the targeted one thousand, nine hundred and serviced land. seventy-two (1,972) have been completed. HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… The construction of the remaining units is expected to be completed by the end of this financial year. DR MASISI: Land Use Planning and Management

Government is reviewing the National Policy on Mr Speaker, in the past year, Government adopted Housing to improve housing delivery and promote several planning initiatives such as the declaration of home ownership. The review of this policy is expected planning areas, namely the South-East, Kgatleng and to be completed by end of the 2021/22 financial year. Chobe Districts, as well as the Palapye and Bobirwa The revamping of the Integrated Poverty Alleviation Sub Districts. Government aims to declare all districts and Housing Scheme (IPAHS) initiative which targets as planning areas by March 2021. Government has also lower income groups is expected to be completed by the completed the development plans for Sowa, Serowe, end of the 2021/22 financial year. Kanye and Molepolole; and the revitalization plans for Selebi-Phikwe, Kasane, Kazungula, Lobatse and Land Francistown.

Mr Speaker, land is an important resource that we must The Land Administration Procedures Capacity and jealously guard, it is our heritage, and selling it should Systems (LAPCAS) project was to provide technological be discouraged for the benefit of our future generations. solutions for effective management of land. As part of My Government is worried by the disempowering effect the LAPCAS initiative, Government will establish a where citizens sell tribal land. Government strives National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) by 2023, to empower Batswana by reforming our land tenure which will allow for geo-spatial data sharing. The policies. The initiative undertaken by Government to availability of the NSDI is expected to contribute to the

16 Hansard No 200 Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

Digital Government Transformation (SmartBots) and Ngwapa Cluster covering Ramokgonami, Mokobeng, also enhance the implementation of the National Spatial Ngwapa, Pilikwe; as well as the Matlhako-Letoreng Plan (NSP). Cluster.

Water and Sanitation Government is also constructing a Water Treatment Plant in Kasane. The project is scheduled to be completed Mr Speaker, it should be noted that the prevention of the in March 2023, and will benefit Kasane, Kazungula, spread and transmission of COVID-19 requires hygiene, Lesoma and Chobe Enclave villages. Projects under consequently making the availability of water supply the World Bank supported programme include the to all households critical. Government has instituted North East/Tutume Water Supply project which entails measures including the provision of additional capacity upgrading and remedial works of schemes in 52 villages for supplementary bowsing to areas with critical water in the two districts. The North East/Tutume Water shortages and an additional 41 un-gazetted settlements, Supply project is scheduled to be completed by August the reconnection of all customers with outstanding bills 2021. and the suspension of water disconnections country- wide, all these done with a view to maintain a continuous Projects that were awarded in September 2020 include supply of water throughout the country. the next phase of North South Carrier project under the Mmamashia-Gaborone Pipeline and the Gaborone In the last two years, Government has been successful Water Master Plan, Moshupa Sanitation project, Lobatse in efforts to provide water to the people. While short Water Master Plan, the Connection of Tswapong South term water projects are being put in place, Government villages to the North-South Carrier at Mahalapye and is at the same time implementing medium to long term the Mmamashia Water Treatment Plant expansion. projects like the development of the Botswana Water Security Strategy for 2020-2024, to ensure reliability Mr Speaker, this phase of the North South Carrier and consistency of water supply. The development of project involves the development of additional the strategy is expected to be completed by the end of infrastructure to allow for the transmission of raw water, this financial year. the upgrading of the existing Gaborone Water Supply Network as well as the connection of new developing Major investment in water and sanitation infrastructure areas of Gaborone North, Sebele, the Sir Seretse Khama which includes the design and construction of the International Airport development area and the Forest Maun Water Supply and Sanitation Scheme is planned Hill Development. The project will benefit localities to be completed in 2022. The scheme is envisaged to provide potable water and sanitation networks to such as Oodi, Modipane and Matebele. benefit the localities of Sexaxa, Matsaudi, Sekampane The Molepolole-Gamononyane – North South Carrier and Shorobe. In the Southern part of the country, we Connection and Goodhope Water Master Plan - Phase 2 have commenced the construction of the Masama- are currently at procurement stage. The Gamononyane Mmamashia 100 kilometers pipeline which will inject – Molepolole project will benefit Molepolole, , an additional sixty-four million cubic liters of water per , Gamodubu and Thebephatswa Airbase. day (64Ml/day) into the Greater Gaborone, Lobatse, The Goodhope project involves the transmission Kanye, Ramotswa, Molepolole and Borolong areas. The and distribution systems covering 32 villages from project is expected to be completed by May 2021. Pitsane to Sekhutlane. Furthermore, the Ramotswa Water Treatment Plant is scheduled to be completed in Other significant water projects which are ongoing December 2020, and will benefit the Ramotswa Cluster include the Mahalapye and Palapye Water Treatment villages. The connection of the Ramonnedi Wellfield to Works scheduled for completion in December 2021. Mmathethe is ongoing, and is expected to be completed The Palapye Treatment Plant will benefit Palapye by December 2020. The project will address the and Serowe. The Mahalapye Treatment Plant will shortage of water for the village as a short term measure benefit Mahalapye and the Shoshong Cluster covering while awaiting the implementation of the Metlojane – Shoshong, Bonwapitse, Mmutlane and Kalamare, as well Mmathethe World Bank Project. as 21 villages in the Tswapong South area. Tswapong South villages include; Sefhare Cluster which covers The Gumare Water Treatment Plant is scheduled to be Machaneng, Borotsi, Chadibe and Maifala; the Pilikwe completed by January 2021, and it is designed to service Cluster covering Pilikwe, Mhalapitsa and Mokobeng; the villages of Gumare, Tubu, Etsha 1 and Etsha 6.

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The Shakawe Water Treatment Plant is also ongoing and Education and Training Sector Strategic Plan (ETSSP) it is scheduled for completion in February, 2021. The with a view to promote a competence or skill-based project entails rehabilitation of the existing treatment curriculum and as such, 38 subjects have been reviewed plant to increase treated water capacity to meet the and developed. So far, Maun Senior Secondary School increase in demand for the villages of Shakawe, has been selected for Tourism and Hospitality, while Nxamasere, Samochima, Mohembo West, Ukusi, Moeng College was identified for Horticulture, Crop Shaikarawe and Xhauga in the Okavango Sub-District and Animal Production. The construction of facilities until 2035. to prepare the schools for pathways has already commenced. Assessment programmes aligned to the The rehabilitation of the Glen Valley Waste Water new curriculum are being developed and are expected Treatment Plant is scheduled to be completed by to be completed by 2023. Syllabus development will December, 2020. The project involves the upgrading of commence from October, 2020 to March, 2022 for wastewater treatment processes and the rehabilitation junior schools and from November, 2022 to April, 2024 and maintenance of existing wastewater facilities for primary schools while for pre-primary it will be to improve plant efficiency and compliance to November, 2024 to April, 2026. environmental discharge protocols which will also reduce odour. A feasibility study for the implementation In this context, a draft National Policy on Assessment of the Glen Valley Wastewater Reclamation project for General Education as well as the Technical and through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) has also Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been been concluded. The project involves the development completed and will guide examinations and assessments of infrastructure for recycling wastewater for potable in the context of outcome-based education. The use. Botswana Teaching Professionals Council has been established to professionalise the teaching cadre and BASIC EDUCATION restore dignity of the profession.

Early Childhood Education Development Projects - Educational Facilities Mr Speaker, since the implementation of the Early Mr Speaker, provision of quality education cannot be Childhood Education Programme, the number of public realised without a conducive teaching and learning primary schools offering the one-year reception class programme has increased from 590 to 613 schools as environment. In this regard, Government has recently at March, 2020. This programme will be extended to made rigorous efforts which led to the completion of 30 all the remaining 143 primary schools by 2022. The schools under cyclic maintenance while 22 are ongoing shortage of learning materials and infrastructure are the at various stages of completion. Thirty one (31) projects main challenges for the Early Childhood programme. are yet to commence and will be implemented in the To alleviate the challenges, Government provides grants remaining years of NDP 11. Under the expansion of to centres, playgroups and Day Care Centres owned by junior secondary schools, four schools namely; Tsodilo, communities and Non-Governmental Organisations Maunatlala, Tshwaragano and Selolwe Junior Secondary (NGOs) to assist children who are unable to benefit Schools have been completed while Mphuthe Junior from the Government programme. In this context, Secondary School is at completion stage. Government partnered with 30 centres during this Government has also delivered 156 out of 191 targeted financial year. classrooms and 37 out of 54 science laboratories. The remaining 35 classrooms and 17 science labs are Outcome-Based Education System at Senior ongoing and expected to be handed over by the end Secondary Schools of November, 2020. The expansion of Goldmine and In order to improve the quality of our education, Bonwatlou Junior Secondary Schools is expected to Botswana has adopted an outcome-based approach complete during this financial year whilst the plan for to education to facilitate the introduction of multiple the expansion for Kalamare Junior Secondary School is pathways starting in 2021 at senior secondary schools at design stage. In terms of accommodation provision to enable students to pursue subjects of their interest for teachers, 454 staff houses were constructed across and capability. Over the last two years, there has been a the country while another 301 units were procured rapid implementation of reform programmes under the from Botswana Housing Corporation. Tenders for the

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provision of 412 porta cabin classrooms across the National Employment Services System, as well as the country are still at evaluation stage. Government Unemployed Graduate database.

Response to COVID-19 in Schools Government is also committed to enhancing quality assurance in our education system and to this end, all Mr Speaker, the outbreak of COVID-19 has caused institutions of higher learning in Botswana have been substantial disruptions within the education landscape of registered with the Botswana Qualification Authority. our country. The closure of schools and the interruption This was followed by a comprehensive review of in curriculum delivery across learning institutions has Technical and Vocational Education and Training demanded robust plans to ensure continuity in the programmes in line with the National Human Resource delivery of teaching and learning without compromising Development Plan and the National Credit and the quality of education and the safety of both leaners Qualifications Framework. and teachers. Libraries Government has ramped up efforts to counter the Government is committed to increasing literacy in the spread and transmission of the virus in institutions of country. In this regard, we continue to collaborate with learning. Measures undertaken to contain the spread of stakeholders such as the Robert & Sara Rothschild COVID-19 at schools include the following; Family Foundation, which has completed the • Reduction in class sizes to a maximum of 30 learners construction of 17 libraries in the country, which are and the introduction of shifts in schools, and; now operational. The construction of the 18th library • Engagement of 3 000 temporary teachers to in Rakops started in August, 2020 and is scheduled for accommodate the increase in the number of completion by March, 2021. classes and the employment of Safety Health and Provision of Quality Vocational Training Environment (SHE) officers to ensure compliance with safety protocols. Our commitment is to Mr Speaker, the maintenance of brigade institutions is maintain the status quo. on-going with four brigades funded and completed in the last financial year, while maintenance for 12 is ongoing. To date, all public and private schools have adhered to the dictates of the COVID-19 safety protocols. The low The procurement of modern workshop equipment for numbers of actual COVID-19 cases across our schools brigade institutions and certificate offering technical is testament to the commitment by our educators colleges is at an advanced stage. Tenders for various to keep our schools and children safe. The Primary equipment have been floated and are at various stages of School Leaving Examinations (PSLE) was delivered the procurement process. successfully. The Junior Certificate (JC) and Botswana As Government has promised to rapidly diversify our General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCE) economy, Construction Industry Trust Fund (CITF) has examinations have also begun and it is our hope and commenced the development of learning programmes prayers that they will also be delivered successfully. for roads maintenance, fence erection and maintenance, I am delighted to indicate that today, all Government furniture making and alternative building solutions. The schools have hand wash basins, soaps, toilet papers, establishment of the Sojwe, Bokspits, Phitshane Molopo sanitizers, disposal bins and water tanks. and Ncojane Rapid Skills Centres has commenced. The HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… establishment of Shakawe and Khakhea centres will commence in the next financial year. DR MASISI: Tertiary Education The Senyawe, Nkange and Naledi brigades were handed Mr Speaker, Government is currently developing a over to Construction Industry Trust Fund (CITF) in Labour Market Information System (LMIS) to facilitate September 2020 and their accreditation has started, disaggregation of education and employment statistics after which training will commence. These efforts are a through linkages with other databases, including the true demonstration of this Government’s commitment to Integrated System for Civil Registration, Migration economic diversification and our objective of improving and Citizenship, Labour Administration (ISCRS), the lives of our people, especially the youth.

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Sport and Culture Development 1000 km Kgalagadi Desert Race, the President’s Day Competitions, Constituency Sport and Arts Mr Speaker, as I have repeatedly expressed, the creative Competitions, and other sporting activities such as industry holds great potential to improving the lives of football competitions and the leagues. I wish to indicate our people and significantly contributing to employment however, that the postponements and cancellations were creation and the development of this country. In necessary for the protection of our people. recognition of this, a Bill to establish the National Arts Council for effective regulation and coordination of the Health and Wellness Arts and Culture sector was passed in September 2020. The Council is expected to be in place by the beginning Mr Speaker, let me emphasise this Government’s of the next financial year. To further optimise on the unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest potential of the creative industry, the Cinematograph standards of health for our people. Thus, through the Act is being reviewed to strengthen the local film and Revised National Health Policy, Government is pursuing television industry. The drafting of the Bill is expected the delivery of quality universal health care services to be completed by the end of this financial year. In with the objective of attaining “Health for All by 2036”. addition, Government has developed the creative The policy is also consistent with the commitment of industries strategy with the view to promote creativity, ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for nurture skills and talent for job and wealth creation, people of all ages, in line with Sustainable Development particularly for our young people. Goal 3.

The National Sport Commission Act is also being HIV/AIDS reviewed to facilitate sport to contribute to the economy Mr Speaker, Botswana has made tremendous efforts through commercialisation and professionalism, as in tackling the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the country. well to improve the welfare and the rights of our As such, the country has surpassed the UNAIDS 90- sportspersons. The Youth Development Fund (YDF) is currently being reviewed to assess impact and identify 90-90 targets in 2019 and has now set new targets to gaps in its implementation. The Botswana National 95-95-95. Currently, 92 per cent of people living with Youth Policy is also being reviewed to incorporate HIV know their status, while 89 per cent of them are emerging issues in the youth development space such on treatment, with 96 per cent being virally suppressed. as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Both reviews are To date, 384,110 people in Botswana are estimated to targeted for completion by March 2021. be living with HIV. However, HIV/AIDS related deaths have declined by 28 per cent between the years 2010 To alleviate the impact of COVID-19 on sport and and 2019. the creative industry, Government offered a financial relief programme for artists and athletes. By September It is also worth noting that the country is on the path 2020, a total of Nineteen Million, Four Hundred and to eliminating mother to child transmission. It currently Four Thousand, One Hundred and Eighty Pula (P stands at 1. 9 per cent, when compared to 2.5 per 19,404,180.00) had been paid to youth, athletes and cent in 2018. In December 2019, the Government in artists to help them cope with the effects of COVID-19. collaboration with President’s Emergency Plan for 340 youth received One Million, Five Hundred and AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) adopted a policy on providing Twenty-Eight Thousand, Two Hundred and Fifty free HIV/AIDS services to non-citizens living in Thousand Pula (P1, 528 250). 9,090 artists received Botswana. To date, there are over 2,965 non-citizens Fourteen Million, Three Hundred and Eight Thousand, accessing Antiretroviral (ARV) treatment services for Five Hundred Pula (P14, 308,500.00), while 889 free. In order to further reduce new HIV infections, athletes received Three Million, Five Hundred and Government has introduced Pre Exposure Prophylaxis Sixty-Seven Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty Pula (PrEP) to HIV negative individuals who are 18 years (P3, 567,430.00) of the relief package. old and above, and at risk of acquiring the infection. The PrEP is already being rolled out in phases to prioritised Mr Speaker, I note with sadness that many sport and beneficiaries such as Adolescents Girls and Young cultural activities for 2020 were either postponed Women (AGYW). or cancelled due to COVID-19. These include, the Khawa Dune Challenge and cultural festivals, the Malaria

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Mr Speaker, in spite of the significant progress made 2020, a cumulative 6, 441 Batswana had tested positive, towards achieving the elimination of malaria in the with 880 active cases, while 5, 534 people had recovered country, I wish to note with concern that, at the beginning from the virus. To date, Botswana has recorded 27 of the Malaria transmission season in October 2019, a COVID-19 related deaths. In order to contain the spread total of 936 cases were registered, out of which 11 led and transmission of the virus, a Presidential COVID-19 to deaths, surpassing the transmission rate of 585 cases Task Force which I chair, comprising; Cabinet, Dikgosi, recorded in 2018, during the same period. Government scientists, health experts, the private sector and civil however, remains steadfast in efforts to eliminate society, as well as communication specialists was Malaria. established to work in collaboration with Government and other stakeholders to coordinate all COVID-19 Alcohol and Substance Abuse related activities.

Mr Speaker, alcohol and substance abuse remain a To date, a total of P2, 134, 557, 839 was contributed matter of concern to our nation and there is an increasing into the COVID-19 Relief Fund, of which P2, 000, 000, need for treatment of those affected. To address the 000 was seed capital by Government and P134, 557, challenges, the Draft National Health Rehabilitation 839 was contributions from individuals, civil society Policy is being developed. In addition, the design organisations, the private sector and development and review process to convert an existing facility to a partners. specialised Health Rehabilitation Centre in Francistown is ongoing. The centre will treat individuals with trauma In addition to the financial contribution, Government and neurological conditions. receive donations in kind from individuals and companies, which implemented our efforts in fighting Emergency Medical Service the pandemic. So far, of the P2.134 billion contributed In order to reduce deaths and injuries from road traffic into the Relief Fund, an amount P1 844 677 264 was disbursed as follows; accidents, Emergency Medical Service (EMS) units were established to provide lifesaving out-of-hospital (i) Wage subsidy, P831 113 202 medical care and transportation of patients to definitive care. As part of the implementation of the EMS policy, (ii) Food relief; P350 870 083 the service deals with time sensitive health conditions. (iii) Health supplies P396 710 434 In the implementation of the EMS policy, Government has to date established nine EMS centres at Gaborone, (iv) Education P58 200 748 was disbursed to the Lobatse, Mochudi, Mahalapye, Palapye, Selebi Phikwe, Ministry of Basic Education for the temporary Francistown, Maun and Kasane. Plans are underway employment of safety, health and environmental to roll out the service to other areas particularly in officers as well as psychological support; Molepolole, Jwaneng, Kang and Ghanzi. As a long term strategy, Government will establish a centralised (v) Support for citizens in the diaspora P11 099 679 national EMS call centre, where all emergency calls and was utilised for the evacuation and financial dispatches will be coordinated. support to Batswana abroad;

Botswana Public Health Institute (vi) BAMB strategic grain reserves P196 680 098.

It is the intention of Government to establish the The balance of the Fund is P289 880 575, of which Botswana Public Health Institute. The institute will P200 000 000 has been reserved for the wage subsidy help Botswana develop, strengthen and maintain her for the tourism sector as approved by Government capabilities to detect, assess, notify and report events in the Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan deemed to present public health risk and public health (ERTP). In recognition of the continuing COVID-19 emergencies. pandemic in the medium term, Government requested for a supplementary budget of 1 billion from Parliament COVID-19 Pandemic at its last sitting which was approved. These funds are Mr Speaker, the index case of COVID-19 in the country available to finance a whole range of health supplies was recorded on 31st March 2020. As at 1st November required to fight the disease going forward.

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The key aspects of the control strategy for COVID-19 DR MASISI: COVID-19 exposed the inadequacies include, to influence behavioural change through in our health system to effectively deal with public public education; implementation of sanitary measures; health threats and emergencies. In order to deal with enforcement of face coverings, as well as contact- this challenge, the National Health Laboratory services tracing, quarantining and testing those exposed. In capacity was improved to process 5000 tests per day this connection, general movement restrictions were against the previous 500. Improvements to build full imposed on non-essential travel and gatherings. It capacity of 10 000 tests per day are ongoing. Construction is against this backdrop that the country has been of the testing laboratories at Mamuno, Kasane and Maun demarcated into nine COVID-19 zones. The extended are ongoing and planned for completion by the end of State of Public Emergency which was recently approved November 2020. by Parliament will strengthen our ability to effectively address the spread and transmission of the pandemic. Mr Speaker, I am pleased to inform this august House that Government has lifted international travel In an effort to address the COVID-19 challenges, porta restrictions starting from today in a phased manner, cabins have been set up at six ports of entry, being; covering the 14 ports of entry as follows; Mamuno, Martins Drift, Ramatlabama, Ramokgwebana, (i) Starting from today air travel resumes at Sir Seretse Kazungula and Pioneer Gate, to facilitate testing, Khama International Airport in Gaborone, Kasane sample storage and the temporary holding of suspected International Airport and Maun International cases. Government has also procured and installed Airport. thermo scanners to facilitate screening at border gates st in Ramatlabama, Martins Drift, Pioneer and Tlokweng. (ii) International air travel will resume on 1 December, These have greatly contributed to the early detection and 2020 at Phillip G. Matante International Airport in isolation of COVID-19 suspected cases and significantly Francistown. reduced long queues. Government has further identified, (iii) On 1st December, 2020, ground crossing will maintained or converted various facilities across the resume at the commercial border points of regions or zones into isolation centres to admit patients Kazungula road, Kazungula ferry, Ngoma, who have tested positive for COVID-19. Ramokgwebana, Martins Drift, Ramatlabama, Tlokweng, Mamuno, Pioneer and Mohembo. Mr Speaker, the availability of a safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19 is a critical step towards the (iv) The remaining ports of entry are being considered, control of the pandemic. To date, over 300 vaccine subject to disease burden and harmonization of candidates across the globe are at varying stages protocols with neighbouring countries. We remain of development, 25 of which have entered clinical agile to the threat, while eager to open more trials, including nine that are in phase three and could borders soonest. achieve emergency use approval by first quarter of 2021. A COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility or However, all arriving travellers will be expected to meet the “COVAX Facility”, was launched in April 2020 the following requirements; to accelerate the development and manufacturing of (i) Present a valid 72 Hour negative COVID-19 COVID-19 vaccines, and to guarantee fair and equitable Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) result from access for every country in the world. time of departure.

As at September 2020, a total of 156 countries were (ii) Screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon entry. reported to have joined the COVAX Facility across the globe and this includes 64 high income countries and 92 (iii) Symptomatic clients upon arrival will be required lower income economies, representing more than 64 per to undertake mandatory testing and possible cent of the world’s population. Botswana, I am happy to isolation and or quarantine, as per section 76 (1) say, is among the countries that have joined the COVAX (2) and 80 of the Public Health Act of 2013. Facility, therefore presenting an opportunity for us to (iv) Travellers will be required to remain in contact access the COVID-19 vaccine once availed. with the local health authority for a period of 14 HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)... days doing self-monitoring.

22 Hansard No 200 Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

(v) Returning citizens and residents not meeting Sustainable Development the requirement will undergo 14-day mandatory quarantine and testing at their own cost (as The year 2020 marks five years since the adoption of assessed by local authority). the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as the commencement of the Decade of Action’ before (vi) Non-citizen travellers not meeting the requirements the end date for our Sustainable Development Goals will not be allowed entry into Botswana. (SDGs). During the 10 years, the global community committed to mobilise accelerated sustainable solutions (vii) Travellers exiting Botswana are expected to towards the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and its comply with travel regulations of the destination underlying Sustainable Development Goals. However, country at their own expense. COVID-19 proves to be the biggest setback likely to Health Infrastructure reverse the gains of the last five years. As such, my Government recognises the importance of SDGs to Mr Speaker, the construction of seven clinics and sustain Botswana’s recovery from the COVID-19 associated housing units, which commenced in the pandemic, thanks to their holistic nature. 2018/2019 financial year is still ongoing at Makgophana in Mochudi, Toteng, Ngarange, D’kar, Dibete, Sepopa In order to advance SDGs implementation, Government, and Kauxwi with progress ranging from 12 per cent to in partnership with the United Nations (UN) family in 97 per cent. Moreover, Government in collaboration Botswana, developed Planning Guidelines to effectively with Development Partners and Donors has constructed facilitate the integration of SDGs targets and indicators and completed clinics in Kumakwane, Lotlhakane West into sectoral strategies and plans, as well as their and Magapatona in Tutume. effective mainstreaming into the national budgeting Regarding donor funded projects, progress stands as processes. Currently, the guidelines are being piloted follows; Letlhakane maternity ward at 90 per cent; in six selected ministries. Plans are also underway to Borotsi at 42 per cent; Makalamabedi at 30 per cent; develop an SDG Financing Strategy, to help leverage 5 per cent and Molalatau, 95 per cent. domestic, international and private finance to support the realisation of national priorities, including SDGs. With regard to the provision of accommodation, to date, a total of 75 staff houses are complete in Kgalagadi, SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT Greater Francistown, Tutume, Mabutsane, Bobirwa, Lobatse and Kweneng regions. Eighteen (18) staff Mr Speaker, environmental sustainability is one houses in Maun, Shorobe and Makalamabedi are 92 of the key requirements for realising sustainable per cent complete while the eight houses at Tsau and development. Streamlining environmental management Sehithwa are still at tender stage. Other planned staff in our development processes is therefore of crucial houses are at various stages of construction ranging importance. from 20 per cent to 95 per cent. In addition, a total of Environmental Assessment 58 houses were procured from the Botswana Housing Corporation (BHC) through the Public Officers The amended Environmental Assessment Act will Housing Initiatives (POHI) to address an acute shortage facilitate the ease of doing business, reduce the of accommodation for health workers. categories of projects subjected to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and reduce the turnaround The construction of 70 bed capacity primary hospitals time for reviewing EIA project documents from six to is progressing at 95 per cent and 25 per cent rate in three months. Shakawe and Moshupa, respectively. 69 staff housing units for Moshupa Hospital are also under construction Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation at 15 per cent progress rate, while the upgrading of Tutume and Gumare Primary Hospitals is still at the Government has completed a draft Climate Change and design stage. The refurbishment of three old hospitals in Response Policy, which aims to manage the effects of Mahalapye, Sefhare and Serowe (Sekgoma) is complete, climate change and facilitate effective adaptation and while construction work is ongoing at the old Maun mitigation plans. The implementation of climate change and Scottish Livingstone hospitals. These facilities will response measures will result in targeted subsidies for enhance service provision in the respective areas. clean technologies, such as, renewable energy, energy

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efficiency and climate smart agriculture. The Draft (iv) 200 Megawatts Concentrated Solar Plant (CSP) Policy will be considered in the November Parliament by the year 2026, procurement is scheduled to sitting. start in 2021;

Renewable Energy (v) 50 Megawatts Wind by the year 2027, procurement to start in 2024; and Mr Speaker, Government continues to undertake organisational reforms to align itself with the National (vi) 100 Megawatts Solar Photovoltaic by the year Vision 2036 Pillar of Sustainable Environment to ensure 2027, procurement to start in 2025. that Botswana will be energy secure, with diversified, safe and clean energy sources, and a net energy exporter. Waste Management Government has developed Solar Roof Top Guidelines Converting waste into resourceful products will to enable Batswana to generate electricity from the sun empower communities through job creation, poverty for their own use, while selling excess energy to the alleviation and conservation of biodiversity resources. Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) . This nationwide During the 2019/2020 financial year, waste management programme is being piloted in five areas in Gaborone projects created a total of 13,267 jobs out of which 6,129 areas, namely; the Okavango Diamond Company, Bank were youth, 5,131, females and 196, people living with of Botswana, Airport Junction Mall, Diamond Trading disabilities. Company Botswana and Botho College and is limited to system-wide capacity of 10 megawatts for the first 12 Sustainable Management of Natural Resources months of the program. Two megawatts will be reserved Mr Speaker, Government is working to develop an for domestic consumers while the rest for commercial Environmental Management Policy that promotes the use. These trials will provide Government with reliable protection, conservation and harmonised coordination data to inform policy direction. of the environmental related programmes and projects. Clean Energy Initiatives The policy which is due for completion by 2021.

In order to meet our national electricity demand in a Sustainable Management of Forests cost effective and environmentally friendly manner, Government through the newly approved Integrated Mr Speaker, Government is finalising the 2020 Forest Resource Plan (IRP) will implement the following clean and Range Resources Bill which will be submitted to technology projects; Parliament in February 2021. The Bill harmonises Botswana’s forest legislation with international (i) 100 Megawatts Power Plant which is currently frameworks for sustainable management of forest and under procurement; the tender award to the successful bidder or bidders is expected in the veldt resources. The Bill will increase opportunities first quarter of 2021, and commercial operation is for Batswana in the sustainable use of range resources scheduled for third quarter 2022. The power plants and open up forest reserves to communities through the sites are located in Selebi Phikwe (50 megawatts) establishment of ecotourism ventures. and Jwaneng (50 megawatts). Community Based Natural Resources Management (ii) 12 Grid tied solar photovoltaic with a total of 35 (CBRNM) megawatts by 2022. Tender award is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2020, and commercial Mr Speaker, hunting for the 2020 season was postponed operation is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022. to 2021 due to COVID-19. In addition, the Government These projects will be at; Kasane, Molepolole, has received support from the Federal Republic of Tutume, Ghanzi, Tsabong, Maun, Serowe, Germany to the tune of P65.8 million through the Bobonong, Shakawe, Lobatse, Mamuno and Kavango Zambezi Trans frontier Conservation Area Kang. (KAZA) and Peace Parks Foundation to provide community livelihood as well as wage subsidy for (iii) 10 Megawatts Coal Bed Methane (CBM) by the personnel employed within the Community Based the year 2025 which is currently undergoing Organisation and freelance professional guides, chefs, procurement processes; Mokoro Polers within the KAZA region of Botswana.

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Wildlife Management Species Makgadikgadi fence has commenced, and is anticipated that it will be completed by March 2021. The fence Mr Speaker, as part of economic diversification and is anticipated to reduce the impact of wildlife on citizen economic empowerment, Government intends community livelihoods and also to serve as a disease to broaden citizen participation in agro tourism. To this control barrier. The Elephant Management Plan which end, Government is finalising guidelines to empower our proposes a number of measures to mitigate conflict people to keep game in their fields (masimo) which will and address environmental impacts will be approved be completed during this financial year. Government during the current financial year. The Compensation has also identified 45 new campsites in Central Kalahari Guidelines are undergoing review, and this process will Game Reserve (CKGR), Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park be completed by December 2020. and Khutse Game Reserve for lease to individuals, citizen owned companies and consortia. GOVERNANCE, PEACE AND SECURITY

Poaching remains one of the greatest challenges in the Constitutional Review sustainable management of our wildlife species. At least 63 rhinos have been killed since 2019. As part Mr Speaker, Government remains committed to the of the interventions to combat poaching, rhinos in the review of our Constitution and it will begin in earnest Okavango Delta have been dehorned. Government also early next year. This is naturally a lengthy and sensitive completed the construction of Kang Anti-Poaching process that will require all of us to approach it with facility in August 2020. The facility will be used for maturity, objectivity and a good level of tolerance. training Wildlife Officers responsible for anti-poaching. The National Anti-Poaching Strategy is being reviewed Promotion and Protection of Human Rights to strengthen measures against poaching and the illegal Mr Speaker, my Government strives to attain clean wildlife trafficking. It is anticipated that the review will and open Government, where people civil liberties and be completed by March 2021. human rights are upheld as espoused in our Constitution. Mr Speaker, Government received the first reports Botswana has established a Human Rights Office with a mandate to among others, provide strategic of elephant mortality in April 2020 occurring near guidance in the promotion and protection of Human Seronga village in the Ngamiland District. More cases Rights, as well as to coordinate the implementation of were subsequently reported in May and June. A total of recommendations by International and Regional Treaty 280 elephants died. However, other species, including Bodies. This is a significant milestone in honouring our scavengers feeding on the elephant carcasses were not reporting obligations to the United Nations. affected. Samples were sent to laboratories within the country, as well as to Zimbabwe, South Africa, the To date, Botswana has deposited the country report United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US) for on the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of testing. Investigations revealed that the animals were Racial Discrimination (CERD) with the United Nations killed by natural cyanobacteria toxins. Human Rights Treaty Bodies and the country report on the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in January Government is engaged in finding ways to develop the and May 2020, respectively. Government is currently capacity of the Department of Wildlife and National finalizing the Universal Peer Review Mid Term Report, Parks to ensure preparedness and tackle such outbreaks which will be deposited with the Human Rights Council expeditiously. In addition, we have witnessed an increase by the end of 2020. In addition, the amendment of in sightings of elephants outside of the normal elephant the Ombudsman Act to convert the Office of the range. Elephants were cited as far the Kgalagadi area. Ombudsman into a National Human Rights Institution This expansion is exacerbated by drought and climate (NHRI) is nearing completion. This amendment Bill change. In response, Government is finalising a National will empower the Office of the Ombudsman to address Elephant Action Plan, which will be completed during human rights issues. this financial year. Strengthening the Justice System Human-wildlife conflict continues to pose a challenge to livelihoods of Batswana. The number of lives and Mr Speaker, the strengthening and reforming the injuries due to human-elephant conflict in particular are criminal justice sector is critical to enhancing access a cause for concern. The construction of the western to justice and the rule of law. In this regard, the Legal

25 Hansard No 200 Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

Practitioners Act is being amended to make the legal assets and liabilities of certain categories of persons, will profession more responsive to the needs of the members go a long way in preventing and detecting corruption, of the public. The Legal Practitioners Bill of 2020 was money laundering and the acquisition of property from tabled in the last Sitting of Parliament. The jurisdiction proceeds of any other offence. of Small Claims Courts which has hitherto, been limited to P10,000, was increased to P30,000. The Small Claims To address the challenge of money laundering and Court will be rolled out to Palapye, Jwaneng and Maun, terrorism financing, Government developed several in addition to those in Gaborone and Francistown. initiatives which include, conducting a sector risk assessment, sensitisation of Non-Profit Organisations Fight Against Corruption (NPOs) and profiling them to guide decision making. A Strategy on Money Laundering and Financing of Mr Speaker, fighting corruption is fundamental to the Terrorism was developed in May 2020 to strengthen the attainment of good governance and the rule of law, AML/CFT systems for NPOs. as well as sustainable socio economic development. According to the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) Office of the Receiver of Transparency International, Botswana has remained Mr Speaker, since its establishment, the Office of the constant at a score of 61 per cent for the past three years. Receiver has been served with 27 Court Orders of which Although the country has been doing relatively well on 21 are active whilst six have been concluded. The total indicators of this Index, we should not be complacent. value of property under the management of the Receiver We should all ensure that corruption in the country is is P177, 933,830.66 as at August 2020. effectively addressed. In February 2020, Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Public Safety and Security with BOCONGO, that will help Botswana achieve its international and continental obligations under Mr Speaker, on transnational crime of human trafficking, the United Nations Convention Against Corruption Botswana’s 2019 international ratings remained at Tier and the African Union Convention on Preventing and 2 out of four possible tiers, as was the case in 2018. Combating Corruption. Botswana’s achievement is commendable and is indicative of our nation’s resolve to end this transnational Strengthening Investigations, Asset Tracing and crime, even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Recovery United Nations has reported that COVID-19 will most Mr Speaker, the Grey-listing of Botswana by the likely exacerbate incidents of human trafficking and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Eastern human smuggling worldwide. and Southern African Anti Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG) is a stain to Botswana’s reputation with Chemical, Biological, Nuclear and Radiological potential to hinder national economic growth and Weapons Management Authority limit access to international lending institutions. The Mr Speaker, the threat of terrorism has increased and Grey-listing may also affect Government’s ability to diversified worldwide and cannot be ignored. To this end, open bank accounts in foreign jurisdictions, which are Botswana ratified the Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear needed for both diplomatic and economic initiatives. As Weapons in July 2020 to reaffirm her commitment such, the fight against corruption needs to have real and towards global nuclear disarmament. immediate impact. Botswana Defence Force To this end, Government created the Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Forfeiture Unit in 2019. Through Mr Speaker, the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) investigations of suspected money laundering and continues to play an important role in maintaining application of the Profits and Instruments of Crimes Act the country’s security and national sovereignty, and (PICA), Botswana may be strengthened in its deterrence as Government we do not take their contribution for and detection mechanisms of all forms of money granted for they secure our nationhood upon which laundering to meet the FATF standards. The passing of the peace dividend which we enjoy is premised. More the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Act in August importantly, we applaud their professionalism in 2019 for purposes of monitoring the interests, income, executing their mandate.

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Botswana Police Service in strengthening and deepening her relations with all her development partners across the globe, to advance her Government has deployed cutting-edge crime national development agenda. Botswana continues to fighting technology, geared towards enhancing police cooperate with her neighbours, through various bilateral capabilities. In particular, the Closed Circuit Television mechanisms, as well as her membership of the SADC. (CCTV) surveillance system deployed in Gaborone nd continues to show improvement in crime prevention In this regard, Botswana hosted Zimbabwe for the 2 and detection, especially with regard to smash and Bi-National Commission (BNC), in Maun, in February, grab incidents which used to terrorise motorists around 2020. the city. The evidence retrieved from the surveillance system has proven to be effective in expediting police Botswana is the current Chair of the SADC Organ investigations and prosecutions. I am pleased that the on Politics, Defence and Security, a position we will installation of the cameras in Francistown is now at an hold until August 2021. During this time, Botswana advanced stage. will continue to contribute towards peace-building initiatives and consolidation of democracy whilst In order to attain public safety, Government has providing leadership on peace and security issues in the prioritised the reduction of violent and intrusive crimes region. At the continental level, Botswana continues to such as robberies and break-ins as well as serious crimes play an active role in advancing the transformational like murder, rape and threats to kill. Strategies in place yielded positive results, as the country saw a decline of agenda as envisioned in Agenda 2063, by advocating 4.4 per cent in violent and intrusive crimes from 7, 629 for a transparent and inclusive reform process of the to 7, 295 and a decline of 4.7 per cent in serious crimes African Union. from 5, 566 to 5, 304 reported cases in 2019 against Botswana participated at the African Union Heads of 2018. State and Government held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in General Elections February, 2020. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Botswana as chair of the Organ, facilitated the process Mr Speaker, Botswana takes democratic elections as of virtual observation of the general election in the a normative framework that enhances the credibility Seychelles and the United Republic of Tanzania. and the legitimacy of Government. In our conduct of elections we are guided by our Constitution and On the multilateral front, our posture has been to electoral laws. We are also guided by the Revised ensure that Botswana as a good standing member of Southern African Development Community (SADC) the international community, meets her international principles and Guidelines on elections of 2015 which obligations and commitments and benefits from her entail conducting elections based on shared values and strategic partnerships and membership of international principles of democracy, the rule of law and human bodies. To this end, Botswana has had the opportunity rights. The SADC Election Observer mission said to participate in a number of international meetings the elections were conducted in, “a peaceful, free, to promote and advance our national interest. These transparent and credible manner.” include the 9th African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya, which resulted in HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… the transformation of the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific Group into the Organisation of the Africa, Caribbean DR MASISI: Although there were petitions, we and Pacific (OACP) and the SADC Virtual Ordinary allowed the due process of the law to prevail. Thirteen Summit which took place in August, 2020. of the National Assembly petitions were dismissed by the court while one was withdrawn by the petitioner. Mr Speaker, Botswana also participated at the World Five of the Local Government petitions were dismissed Economic Forum in January 2020. This is part of ongoing by the court while three progressed to trial but were efforts to secure multi-sectoral partnerships with a view subsequently dismissed. One was appealed and was to contribute towards economic diversification. On other unsuccessful. international leadership roles, we have worked to enhance our representation in various regional and international International Relations organisations such as the Economic and Social Council Mr Speaker, turning now to our international relations, (ECOSOC), Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, I am pleased to note that Botswana is making progress Executive Board of United Nations Development

27 Hansard No 200 Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

Programme(UNDP)/United Nations Population Fund HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… (UNFPA)/United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Intergovernmental Committee for the DR MASISI: In that regard, I urge Batswana, especially Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and our young people to remember this in everything they the Executive Board of the World Health Organisation do and say; “Leina le a itirelwa.” (WHO). HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)…

In our determined efforts to advance a coordinated DR MASISI: Let us therefore, uphold the principle of foreign policy in our engagement with the international botho in everything that we do, so that we continue to community, I am pleased to pronounce that the process be a nation known for unity and respect for one another. of developing a foreign policy document is at a very advanced stage. Mr Speaker, since this is the ploughing season, I urge all of us to take advantage of the rainy season to go out and CONCLUSION plough. Please continue adhering to the health protocols Mr Speaker, in a nutshell, as I stated from the beginning of social distancing, wearing masks appropriately of this Address, the creation of sustainable jobs in public, and washing your hands with soap and/or especially for our youth remains priority for this sanitising. Government. I am pleased that over the past two years tremendous efforts have been made I thank you all for your attention. towards the provision of quality education, offering A pula e namagadi e re nele! services through digitisation, as well as the provision of renewable energy which are pivotal to achieving …Silence… Botswana’s Transformation Agenda. MR SPEAKER: Order! Order! Honourable Members Mr Speaker, Botswana has a long standing tradition of please be seated. I am happy to report that this Assembly democracy which is anchored on consultation, tolerance has today attended the official opening of the First and Botho. The spirit of Botho has bound us together Meeting of the 2nd Session of the 12th Parliament and as a nation and we must ensure that no matter how we that His Excellency the President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric evolve as a people, we must safeguard this principle. I Keabetswe Masisi was pleased to deliver the State of the must hasten to add that the good name that one builds for Nation Address. For better accuracy, I will place copies of the Address for immediate distribution to Honourable themselves is a great legacy that cannot be diminished. Members and all our invited guests as we leave the Last week, I went to Shakawe to commiserate with Chamber. the family of the late Mr Vista Moruti who has been In addition, our invited guests and of course you part of this August House. I also went to Kauxwi to Honourable Members are invited for refreshments. offer condolences to the family of the late Mr Jairos I believe officials should be outside to guide you Sekonekene Setoka. This was a man who built a great to the places of the refreshments. I have received name for himself in his community. I was accompanied communication from His Excellency the President by among others, the Honourable Member of Parliament that in the absence of His Honour the Vice President, for Okavango, Honourable Mr Kenny Kapinga who Honourable Tsogwane who should be the Leader of this despite having not met Mr Jairos by his own admission, House, Honourable Eric Molale has been appointed Acting Leader of the House in addition to his another knew of his good deeds. Honourable Kapinga gave a Ministerial duties. testimony about his own mother, Mme Mshoba Kapinga whom he was proud to say, he has and still rides on the HONOURABLE MEMBERS: ...(Applause!)... good name she left behind- no wonder you won your elections first time Kenny… MR SPEAKER: As we have come to the conclusion of the business of today’s Order Paper, let me call upon the HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Applause!)… Honourable Leader of the House Honourable Molale to move a Motion of adjournment. HONOURABLE MEMBER: …(Inaudible)… MOTION DR MASISI: I was saying no wonder you won your elections on first time round Kenny. ADJOURNMENT

Hansard No 200 28 Monday 9th November, 2020 STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY DR MOKGWEETSI E. K. MASISI

ACTING LEADER OF THE HOUSE (MR MOLALE): Thank you Mr Speaker and good afternoon. After this action-packed inspiring speech by His Excellency the President…

HONOURABLE MEMBERS: …(Interruptions!)…

MR MOLALE: I move that this House do now adjourn. I thank you Mr Speaker.

Question put and agreed to.

The Assembly accordingly adjourned at 5:05 p.m. until Tuesday 10th November, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.

29 Hansard No 200 HANSARD RECORDERS Mr. T. Gaodumelwe, Mr T. Monakwe, Ms T. Kebonang HANSARD REPORTERS Mr M. Buti, Ms Z. Molemi, Mr J. Samunzala, Ms N. Selebogo, Ms A. Ramadi, Ms D. Thibedi, Ms G. Baotsi, Ms N. Mokoka

HANSARD EDITORS Ms K. Nyanga, Ms C. Chonga, Mr K. Goeme, Ms G. Phatedi, Ms B. Malokwane, Mr A. Mokopakgosi, Ms O. Nkatswe, Ms G. Lekopanye, Ms T. Mokhure, Ms B. Ratshipa, Ms M. Madubeko

LAYOUT DESIGNERS Mr B. B. Khumanego, Mr D. T. Batshegi, Mr K. Rebaisakae

Hansard No 200 30