NEWS: AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL SHRUGS OFF INDEPTH: DISABLED MAN WITH EPILEPSY CLAIMS POLICE PAGE 3 BOTSWANA’S POLICE BRUTALITY REPORTS PAGE 6 ASSAULTED HIM DURING LOCKDOWN PATROL

April 19 - 25, 2020 EXCELLENCE IS STANDARD PRACTICE PRICE: P12.50 www.sundaystandard.info @SunStd_bw

COVID-19 Botswana records three cases Child sparks malnutrition confusion of COVID-19 disinfodemic rates among over civil n BPF spokesperson in COVId-19 disinfodemic scandal Botswana’s service salary n UDC closes ranks around BPF colleagues n Local and international free poor likely to increases press champions call for a clamp down on fake news spike THOBO MOTLHOKA SUNDAY STANDARD REPORTER

There was confusion this week over wheth- Whilst the Food and Agricultural Organisa- er government will increase public service tion assessment report shows that Botswana salaries for the financial year 2020/21 or is currently battling multiple forms of mal- freeze them because of the COVID-19 cri- nutrition, a new multi-sectoral report shows sis. that malnutrition in the country will get In a savingram released last week, gov- worse as the balance between the global de- ernment raised a flag that it could not afford mand and supply of food becomes tighter public service salary increases for 2020/21 because of the coronavirus. due to the outbreak of COVID-19. The sal- The fresh report prepared by Grain and ary adjustments had been negotiated with cereal researcher, Lakayana Sepapi, states public service unions in 2019. that there is need for the government to “Officers are informed that Govern- take urgent coordinated action to prevent ment has directed that processing of sala- the Covid-19 pandemic from turning into a food and humanitarian crisis in Botswana. Well before the arrival of the coro- navirus, Botswana was already recording In a savingram released increasing cases of malnutrition which were attributed to shortage of food com- last week, government modities, climate change and the increase in raised a flag that it prices of cereals. “Export restrictions and tariffs which have been imposed by some could not afford public countries could result in shortages,” states part of the multi-sectoral report, adding service salary increases that “coronavirus will result in insufficient supply of food required by beneficiaries in for 2020/21 due to the Botswana”. The World Health Organisation (WHO) outbreak of COVID-19. defines malnutrition as deficiencies, excess- es or imbalances in a person’s intake of en- The salary adjustments ergy and/or nutrients. The term malnutri- tion covers 2 broad groups of conditions. had been negotiated One is ‘under-nutrition’—which includes stunting (low height for age), wasting (low with public service weight for height), underweight (low weight for age) and micronutrient deficiencies or unions in 2019. insufficiencies (a lack of important vitamins and minerals). The other is overweight, obesity and diet-related non-communicable ries adjustments be in abeyance until fur- Gaborone City Council this week engaged in a fumigating exercise to rid the city streets and communal areas of COVID-19 PIC: OMPHILE VALELA diseases (such as heart disease, stroke, dia- ther notice.” betes and cancer). In terms of malnutrition, The communication however assured Botswana is currently categorised under the that this did not mean the increase will not ‘burdened’ category – which is the worst . be paid, saying they will be authorised at a SUNDAY STANDARD REPORTER government attempt to fight the virus on the COVID-19 disinfodemic. (UDC) which was in a loose alliance with category. A country is considered ‘bur- Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) At the time of going to press, South the BPF in the run up to the 2019 gen- later date when the Ministry of Finance and dened’ by a malnutrition indicator depend- otswana this week joined the spokesperson Justice Motlhabane and Africa had arrested eight people for dis- eral elections issued a statement this week Economic Development advices according ing on whether the national prevalence was growing number of regional two of his party colleagues were this week seminating false information about the stating that it “wishes to express its serious to the country’s financial outlook. greater than a certain cut-off. and international countries charged under “publishing statements COVID-19 pandemic, according to the concern and apprehension with regard to According to Sepapi, latest annual as- The government and unions agreed in battling an epidemic of COV- with intention to deceive persons about country’s Police Minister Bheki Cele. increasing reports of fellow citizens who 2019 that employees who fall under A and sessments of regional agriculture forecast ID-19 fake news, a virus threat COVID – 19 infection.” The trio alleg- While both Botswana and South Af- have been arrested and detained by the alarming trends in southern Africa mainly B grades would be awarded a 10 percent multiplier so big it is now being referred to edly had published a number of Facebook rica are caught up in a COVID-19 disin- Police for alleged inappropriate posts in due to the novel virus which has brought salary increment for both financial years Bas a disinfodemic. conspiracy theories suggesting that Presi- fodemic, what is different about the Bo- the social media. These posts have been the world to a near standstill. Sepapi also 2019/2020 and 2020/2021. For a long-time dismissed as hoax sites dent Mokgweetsi Masisi was using the CO- tswana crisis is the political environment deemed to be criminal behaviour by the indicated that the number of destitutes is Employees who fall under C and D pushing fringe theories, their fake news VID-19 state of emergency as a stalking in which it is playing out. The Botswana government allegedly because they are likely to increase exponentially in the short grades would also be awarded a 6 percent about COVID-19 in Botswana were last horse to attack and destroy his opponents. disinfodemic is riding on the pre-existing offensive to the government and leader- term. salary increase for both financial years week spreading faster than the coronavi- In another post, the trio allegedly falsely dynamics of the online political disinfor- ship of this country. Our concerns are Household surveys conducted over the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021. rus, disrupting the official narrative and claimed that President Masisi had paid mation ecosystem, amplifying rumours, magnified by the fact that these arrests past five years indicate that the rate of stunt- At the time of going to press there had spreading disinformation about the pan- ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) misinformation, conspiracies, and outright come close on the heels of the adoption ing among under-five year-olds is twice as been another government communication demic in the country. MPs P12 million each to vote through his lies. by the ruling party dominated parliament high among children in the poorest house- indicating that the initial savingram be with- While thousands of Batswana re- state of emergency motion. For a government seeking to build of a six months state of emergency and holds than those in the richest. Due to eco- drawn. It was not clear if the government mained cooped up in their homes under Botswana became the second country trust and communicate clearly, it’s a night- the accompanying regulations. The state nomic hardships, many families in Botswana had reversed the decision to suspend the strict lockdown laws, a range of bogus in the region after South Africa, and one mare. For those looking to sow chaos and of emergency and its regulations were increments. COVID-19 stories were surging through of more than a dozen in the world to re- doubt, it’s an opportunity. CONTINUES ON PG 2 the internet threatening to undermine the sort to the court in a bid to clamp down The Umbrella for Democratic Change CONTINUES ON PG 3

WEATHER WEATHER SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY SUNDAY STANDARD IS A MEMBER OF THE PHYSICAL ADDRESS: PHYSICAL ADDRESS FORECAST Max: 32°C Max: 32°C Max: 27°C BOTSWANA PRESS COUNCIL AND SUBSCRIBES Commerce Park, Plot 104, Rowland, Ngilichi House (Meriting Spar) Unit 6, Francistown GABORONE Min: 17°C Min: 17°C Min: 13°C TO THE BOTSWANA MEDIA CODE OF ETHICS Unit 21. Gaborone TEL: 3188784 FAX: 3188795 TEL: 2412319 FAX: 2412310 & INFO Source: www.weather.com 2 Behind the News April 19 - 25, 2020

An MP COVID-19 Patient confidentiality educator who places Batswana at higher claims he doesn’t know risk of COVID-19 infection THOBO MOTLHOKA cultural stigma. Knowing the name, enough about location and mobility network of he government’s refusal these cases, they have said, can make to disclose the identity of an invaluable difference in curbing COVID-19 COVD-19 patients may the spread of the virus. With bars In attempt to explain away why he took be putting the public at a Granted, countries worldwide an ill-fated shopping trip when he had higher risk of contracting continue to adhere to the confiden- closed, been told that he might have COVID-19, the virus. tiality practice with those in support TBotswana’s decision to shroud the Tonota MP, Pono Moatlhodi, only raising concerns that suspecting CO- succeeded in tying himself in knots. the identity of confirmed CO- VID-19 victims may be discouraged drinkers turn VID-19 victims with a cloak of se- When parliament convened for from coming forward for fear of crecy means Batswana remain sitting a special session a fortnight ago, a victimization, making it difficult for ducks, helplessly looking to the heav- governments to record such cases to home- government nurse came around to ens for exemption from possible in- and contain the virus. Governments inspect the temperature of MPs, as part fection. across the world have introduced of a COVID-19 screening process. The While confidentiality remains brewed stringent legislation guiding conduct following day, MPs learnt that the nurse central to a doctor, patient relation- during the COVID-19 crisis. Bo- had tested positive for the disease and ship it may not always remain an ab- alcohol that since they had come into contact solute obligation where public health tswana has introduced COVID-19 The answer is public with her, they couldn’t go back to their is concerned. specific regulations some of which aim to prevent disclosure of infor- constituencies but had to be quarantined This week (Thursday April mation regarding COVID-19 cases. health education, not at their Gaborone residences. When this 16,2020) the Minister of Health Dr. “Any person who relays any in- announcement was made, there were howls Lemogang Kwape announced two increased policing formation to the public about CO- of protest from a good portion of the new infections, bringing to 15 the to- tal number of recorded Coronavirus VID-19 from a source other than the chamber. The protest was in vain because The government’s plan to soberise the cases in Botswana. The announce- Director of Health Services, and the nation seems to have failed dismally and the Director of Health Services, Dr. ment came with what is now becom- WHO commits an offence is liable might likely lead to a shortage of certain Malaki Tshipiyagae, told the MPs (after the ing a worrying trend for both the Health Minister Lemogang Kwape to a fine not exceeding P100 000 or fruits that some need to control chronic din had died down) that they couldn’t leave government and the public at large; to imprisonment for a term not ex- medical conditions. town. Later that day and after the session local transmissions. one of the designated health facili- While Botswana has enforced a na- and confirmed cases of COVID-19 ceeding five years,” reads some of In our last edition, we reported about had ended, a video clip of Moatlhodi, an Kwape announced yet another ties. While the government is work- tionwide lockdown and undertaken a the government has already, in line the regulations. the underground sale of alcohol which Umbrella for Democratic Change MP, at case of local transmission which ing tirelessly to trace contacts of all rigorous ‘Extreme Social Distancing’ with the relevant legislation, limited “A person who intentionally ex- in some cases involves unscrupulous bar a Choppies supermarket popped up on brings the total to three. The latest people with a positive COVID-19 campaign to curb the spread of the people’s movement in the interest of poses another person to COVID-19 owners secretly selling stock that remained social media. In the video, one woman local transmission is the second by diagnosis, those who unknowingly virus, the blind adherence to ethics public health as reasonable and jus- commits an offence and is liable at the time that the Ministry of Investment, asks him why he wasn’t in quarantine at his the same undisclosed Molepolole 27 had contact with such people remain guiding the handling of patient in- tifiable in an open and democratic to a fine not exceeding P100 000 Trade and Industry shut down legal trade. house and as he struggles to find a credible year old patient. The first victim is a clueless while possibly spreading the formation remains likely to endanger society. Those against confidentiality or to imprisonment for a term not However, with stock fast running out in explanation, the woman, whose face partner to the gentleman, who had virus. many other innocent residents. have argued that in the same manner, exceeding five years, or to both. A some areas and having ran out in others, Although the National Health providing a means for disclosure of doesn’t appear in the frame, spots another returned home from the UK mid- The Health Minister told Sunday person who publishes any statement, that Plan B has run its course and Plan C Standard this week that their hands Act makes it an offence to divulge COVID-19 infected individuals’ sta- MP (Paulson Majaga of Nata/Gweta) and March. through any medium, including so- is being implemented across the country. Addressing the nation on televi- are tied in relation to disclosing the information about health service tus may also be reasonably and justi- communicates that information in the cial media, with the intention to de- The latter takes the form of home-brewing sion recently President Mokgweetsi identities of those patients. users without the user’s consent, fiably in the best interests of public ceive any other person about —(a) whose ingredients are bought from shops. video. The video would, like COVID-19, Masisi said the government was “It’s an ethical dilemma and we there may be permissible exceptions health. That while protection of pri- COVID-19 infection status of any One, as we reported last week, is alcohol go viral itself and at 1120 p.m. that day, working to trace at least 46 people in the health profession have taken when the law requires disclosure, or vacy is important, if such protection powder called Power that is still available in person; any measure taken by the an obviously panicked Moatlhodi posted who are believed to have had contact an oath,” Kwape has said. if non-disclosure would represent a becomes the means for public harm, some supermarkets and would most likely Government to address COVID- an apology on the Tonota-UDC Facebook with the Molepolole patient, current- By keeping the identity of the serious threat to public health. The the magnitude of such an impact have been hoarded by some. 19,commits an offence and is liable page. In the apology, he says that he called ly recovering at Sir Ketumile Masire positive cases away from the na- COVID-19 pandemic may be a case should be considered. Fruits are the main ingredient of these Tshipiyagae for guidance about quarantine Hospital. tion the government may be in- in point. Experts have argued that unlike to a fine not exceeding P100 000 or home brews, whose recipes are being protocols that he and other MPs were The third involves a nurse who advertently fueling the spread of In its implementation of the other diseases, infection with CO- to imprisonment for a term not ex- widely shared on social media on a global required to follow. After Tshipiyagae told had been screening suspected case at the Coronavirus among the public. mandatory quarantine of suspected VID-19 carries no inherent social or ceeding five years, or to both.” scale. Fruits that can be used to make alco- him to go home, Moatlhodi says that he hol include apples, plums, berries, pome- stopped off at Choppies to buy toiletries granates, pumpkins, kiwis and grapes. The for the emergency he found himself in. Internet itself has millions of pages that All that would make perfect sense provide step by step instructions on how but for the fact that there is another Botswana racing against time to to make different types of alcohol from ordinary food that one can still buy from video clip on social media that features supermarkets. What this means is that a the same Moatlhodi that was posted stave off COVID-19 mass starvation Facebook subscriber in Serowe can learn last month. In that video, he is sitting SUNDAY STANDARD REPORTER Alexandra, a township north of Jo- For example, rickshaw workers have no one faces hunger and should put week, let alone for a month, because how to trick out wine from plums courtesy in a vehicle and microphone in hand, hannesburg, residents took to the protested against the lockdown in social protection measures in place they have no financial means to of another subscriber in Osaka, Tokyo – or is providing public health education on Time is running out for Botswana to streets on 14 April, saying that they the north-eastern town of Tamat- to uphold human rights. No one stockpile,” said Deprose Muchena, pumpkin wine courtesy of a subscriber in COVID-19 to members of the public. avert mass starvation among thou- were hungry. Residents queued on ave which has led to clashes with the should be left behind.” Amnesty International’s Director for New York. For Botswana, this could com- This demonstration of leadership and sands of citizens who have lost their the streets after they were promised police. They claim they are unable to “Governments must assess their East and Southern Africa. pound the food-security challenge that the civic virtue was lauded by most, including livelihood sources as a result of CO- food by some non-governmental or- obey the lockdown as they live on capacity to protect people’s health, “Without support from the gov- country has long had. Shortage of fruits, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who, in VID-19 strict lockdowns. ganizations. Some of the residents their daily wages. livelihoods, and human rights and ernment, the lock down could be- his address to the special parliamentary A report by Amnesty Interna- told eNCA, a local 24-hour television Amnesty International observed request assistance from the interna- come a matter of life and death for session, singled out the Tonota MP for tional has warned that: “in Botswana news station, that they fear dying of that” media reports in different tional community for where they see those living in poverty. Currently, Fruits are the main ingredient having displayed exemplary leadership to informal sector workers and small hunger more than COVID-19. One countries across Southern Africa gaps or are unable to guarantee nec- many are being forced to choose woman said: “We want food. We are have highlighted the problems that essary protections. between complying with lock down of these home brews, whose help contain the spread of the disease. In businesses are facing devastating economic consequences as the lock- not going anywhere. We will stand lock down measures in the absence Amnesty International has measures and going hungry, or step- fairness to Moatlhodi though, he talks only recipes are being widely shared down means that bus drivers, car here until midday. Corona can be of adequate support from the gov- warned that, “millions of people ping out to access food and being about sneezing into the crook of the arm washers, hawkers and street vendors here, we don’t care.” ernment, have created for those across Southern Africa face hunger penalized for it.” on social media on a global in the video but his public address would are no longer able to earn a living. Another woman said: “We want living in poverty. Women, children as lockdowns imposed in the region “The vast majority of people in scale. Fruits that can be used certainly have been comprehensive – it has Approximately 20% of people are to eat. We are hungry. The corona and other vulnerable groups such as to help curb the spread of the CO- the region make their living in the to be. He would have talked about social unemployed and without much (lockdown) must be suspended. We those with disabilities are especially VID-19 pandemic mean they are un- informal economy, for example as to make alcohol include apples, distancing and there is no way that as needed social protection, are strug- want to go back to work. We sell to- impacted. able to access food, Amnesty Inter- street vendors or manual labourers. an MP, he would not know how suspect gling to access food, health care and matoes and potatoes (on the streets), “Lockdown measures in place national said today. Under the current lockdown regime plums, berries, pomegranates, COVID-19 cases are handled. other essential services.” now we cannot sell and we are un- across the region, intended to lessen “The organization is calling on these are considered non-essential pumpkins, kiwis and grapes. As most apologies, Moatlhodi’s own Botswana social workers are rac- able to make a living. We want food, the catastrophic consequence of governments to urgently put in place roles and people in this sector are lacks wholesomeness because he seeks ing against time, conducting a door we want to eat.” COVID-19, must be accompanied social protection measures to uphold prohibited from working. As a result, to absolve himself of some blame by to door means test exercise in a bid The Amnesty International re- with social protection measures for the right to food. The measures to many people cannot earn money to which is already becoming apparent, would providing a scenario that left him with no to identify those who are in need of port further revealed that, “ In Mad- those living in poverty and facing address food insecurity could include buy food. imperil those with medical conditions that choice but to go to Choppies. However, government support. agascar, one of the world’s poorest unemployment in order to mitigate food subsidies for those living in “While supermarket trips are require them to eat fruits. While Botswana still has a win- countries, there are growing con- the impact of this double jeopardy poverty, and directly providing food permitted under lockdown rules The instinct of officialdom has been to a COVID-19 educator like him and dow of opportunity to avert a star- cerns regarding people’s access to of lock down and hunger. Govern- to those who are unable to provide because food is deemed “essential”, unleash joint police-and-army patrol teams someone in his position should certainly vation crisis, the Amnesty Interna- food. There has been a sharp increase ments cannot criminalize people for for themselves. those who are found on the streets in to close down shebeens but Plan C offers have known and done better. tional report has revealed that in the price of basic food commodi- leaving their homes to look for food “With inequality and unemploy- townships trying to go and buy food a particular law-enforcement challenge. a number of neighbouring coun- ties following the lockdown. There or because they need to work in or- ment so high across Southern Africa, with whatever money they can find, This brewing is being done in the privacy tries are already starving as a result are also fears of growing tension on der to make a basic livelihood,” said the majority of people live hand to or those hustling for food, are often of homes by ordinarily law-abiding people, of the lockdowns. the streets as people are increasingly Deprose Muchena. mouth – meaning that they cannot criminalized and sometimes attacked some living in high-income areas. The po- According to the report, “In anxious about sources of livelihoods. “Governments must ensure that afford to remain in lockdown for a by the security forces. “ lice typically target low-income areas to enforce alcohol-related laws. The real an- Child swer to this problem lies in public health education and not in intensifying policing. Credible medical science says that drinking malnutrition alcohol is a very bad idea during this cri- Minister Kgafela’s inglorious past comes back to haunt him sis. Alcohol typically weakens the immune rates among Eight years after the fact, a man who Linchwe’s wife is also persistently meeting. system, making it easy for COVID-19 to is now the Minister of Infrastructure ill, and they suspect it could be one Eight years later, Kgafela is a rul- attack and ravage the human body. Unfor- and Housing Development and Mo- of the diseases associated with the ing-party MP and when parliament tunately, the public health education COV- Botswana’s chudi West MP was reminded about tower.” Thereafter, a contingent of met for a special COVID-19 session, ID-19 has not harped this point as much as a past incident he would rather for- a Bakgatla regiment “climbed up the he attempted to pre-empt a motion it does washing hands with clean water and poor likely to get. hill to inspect the Mascom tower so that the Leader of the Opposition, soap and sneezing into the crook of the In 2009, Kgafela, who is the that they can properly equip them- Dumelang Saleshando, had signaled arm. The public health element was also younger brother to the Bakgatla selves with the right tools to bring it he planned to table. Kgafela quoted missing when the announcement about spike kgosikgolo, Kgosi Kgafela II, was one down when the time finally comes.” the suspension of alcohol trade was made. provisions in the standing orders to CONTINUED FROM PG 1 of the speakers at a kgotla meeting in The tower, which was valued at There also appears to be inadequate Mochudi that discussed the presence P1.4 million, was not brought down back up his argument. Following a knowledge and confusion among some cannot afford or access enough nutritious of a Mascom Botswana cellphone but vandalised to such degree that it short debate, the Speaker, Phandu members of the public about how alcohol foods like fresh fruit and vegetables, meat tower on Phuthadikobo Hill. Kgafe- could no longer relay signals. Then Skelemani, ruled that the motion features in the whole COVID-19 story. and milk, while foods and drinks high in la’s royal position makes him a kgosi would follow an investigation and could be tabled. Upon having the A fortnight ago, a Sunday Standard article fat, sugar and salt are cheaper and more (traditional leader) and that was how court case in which Kgafela was one last word, Saleshando said that it was highlighted the pitfall of using “alcohol” in readily available, leading to a rapid rise in Mmegi referred to him in its report- of the accused. While there was no ironic that he was being quoted the “alcohol-based hand sanitiser” without the the number of children and adults who are age of this meeting: “Kgosi (chief) direct evidence, the Southern Re- law by someone who enlisted the proper cross-cultural context. There are overweight and obese, in Botswana. Mmusi, a lawyer by profession, told gional Magistrate Court convicted services of a tribal age-regiment to three types of alcohol: isopropyl, methyl the kgotla meeting that the tower is all accused people, who included Meanwhile Botswana’s cereal produc- vandalise public property. He said and ethyl. The latter is the alcohol that is tion declined to below-average levels dur- a serious health hazard not fit to be Kgafela’s younger brother, Bakgatla just that one sentence, that would the focus of this article, the other two are ing the 2019/20 season, which runs from erected in the middle of the village. Kgafela and President of the Cus- not. On the basis of what they know al- have sounded cryptic to those with- October 2019 to April 2020. The United He said the late Bakgatla Paramount tomary Court of Appeal (South), cohol to be, some people still mistakenly out this background. Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisa- Chief, Linchwe II, died of a brain Kgosi Mothibe Linchwe. The con- believe that the alcohol in “alcohol-based tion warned that this is expected to take a tumour associated with radiation viction was made on the basis of hand sanitiser” means ethyl and can be toll on cereal production prospects. transmitted by the tower. He said what had been said at the 2009 kgotla Mmusi Kgafela used to kill the virus. April 19 - 25, 2020 News 3 Amnesty International shrugs off Botswana’s police brutality reports SUNDAY STANDARD REPORTER “We are dying of hunger [because we are not allowed to trade]. [It] is un- lthough cases of police ha- bearable. I can’t take it anymore. Who rassment have been report- should solve this problem?” ed in Botswana during the In Angola, several incidents of COVID-19 lockdown, in- police violence have been reported dications are that they pale since security forces were deployed in comparison to harassment in other to the streets to ensure public compli- Aparts of the Southern African region. ance to the national response against An Amnesty international report COVID-19 on 27 March. Seven men released on Friday detail incidents of were arrested while on their way to police harassment and brutality in the buy food in the market in Cabinda on region, Botswana was however left out 4 April. The men were progressively of the report. released from 5 April and the last two According to the human rights men were released on 7 April. watchdog report: “Across the region, The amnesty International report a combination of civilian police and was published two days after The soldiers have been deployed to the Botswana Network On Ethics, Law streets to monitor the movement of and HIV/AIDS (BONELA) issued people and ensure they comply with a statement “ condemning brutal- lockdown measures implemented ity by law enforcement.” In a press by governments. However, security release, BONELA stated that it un- Gabriel Seeletso personnel are using disproportion- derstood and fully supported “gov- ate force in dealing with members ernments actions towards addressing of the public, including beatings and COVID – 19 and the threat it poses other forms of public humiliation to our very existence, actions such as Gabriel See- such as making people crawl on the these cannot and should not be toler- ground. In some instances, police are ated, particularly when perpetrated accused of entering people’s homes against PWD who need greater care letso returns and assaulting them. In Zambia, po- and support.. BONELA therefore lice were seen indiscriminately beating calls on the President of the Repub- up people on the streets, including in lic of Botswana, commander of the to the Gov’t pubs, after they were found in public. armed forces and his government to The national police spokesperson, Es- make sure that while they are enforc- enclave ther Katongo, later said on national ing the laws aimed at addressing the television that police in Zambia had virus, they do not subject Batswana to VICTOR BAATWENG adopted a strategy to “hit” and “de- abuse and degradation of their dignity. tain” anyone found on the streets. We strongly urge President Masisi to After spending just under two years away “We hammer you, we hit you, then we take swift action for the formation of from the corridors of the government do detention. If you escape, you are an independent Police Investigations enclave, Gabriel Seeletso – the former In- lucky,” she said in a media interview. Unit to ensure that officers who take dependent Electoral Commission (IEC) In Zimbabwe, police officers liberties during this time, are investi- Secretary has got his name back in the raided Sakubva vegetable market in gated and held accountable fortheir government pay-roll, thanks to the deadly Mutare at dawn on 3 April, causing Botswana police actions to the fullest extent of the law. disease - Covid 19. more than 300 vegetable vendors to This will allay fears that Botswana is Seeletso has been roped back to civil flee and leave behind their produce. lockdown, which meant that the mar- are yet to be compensated for their country before the pandemic. of the state of emergency to raid in- heading into a time where rule of law service by local government minister – Police carried out the raid despite the ket could continue to service people loss. According to the World Food In Mozambique the local televi- formal vendors’ tuckshops and steal and respect for basic human rights are Eric Molale through a tailor-made posi- agriculture sector being flagged as an who needed it to buy food. Police later Programme, some 4.3 million people sion station STV has reported cases their goods, even when the tuckshops no longer the cornerstone of our de- tion of Coordinator – Social Protection essential service during the 21-day burnt the vegetables and the vendors were in urgent need of food aid in the of police accused of taking advantage are closed. One informal trader said: mocracy.” packages for Covid 19 pandemic. On Wednesday, without stating his renumeration package, Molale confirmed Seeletso’s return further stating that his appointment has been endorsed by Presi- dent Mokgweetsi Masisi. Gov’t error over COVID-19 death costs BOPEU Amongst other measures to contain THOBO MOTLHOKA had tested positive for Coronavirus. motswa where the death certificate Gabobake says they had no reason to has also been quarantined since he has pay for salaries of its staff currently the deadly Covid 19 disease the govern- The matter, at the time, raised ques- erroneously indicated she was a vic- suspect there was any other cause of interacted with the workers. BOPEU on quarantine. With the mortuary cur- ment intends to roll out a relief pro- Botswana Public Employees Union tions about Botswana’s readiness to tim of asthma, a common respiratory death as it is common cause that those has full time mortuaries at; Ramotswa, rently closed BOPEU has to pay other gramme entailing supply of food baskets (BOPEU)’s investment arm Baber- handle the COVID-19 pandemic. health problem. who certify the death are by law and Thamaga, Gaborone and Molepolole. mortuaries to service its members and to thousands of families across the coun- eki Investments is left to pick up the All employees who were on duty Sunday Standard recently reported practice also obligated to state cause The Union have since fumigated their members who could under normal try. at the time were placed under a 14 about the fatal error in Botswana’s of death. pieces following the government’s ini- Ramotswa mortuary to prepare for re- circumstances be using the Ramotswa Addressing journalists through a vir- tial failure to correctly identify a CO- day mandatory quarantine where they testing systems that resulted in the ini- In this particular matter, Gabo- turn to business. branch.” They say this has come at a tual press conference on Wednesday, Mo- VID-19 positive corpse received by await COVID-19 test results. tial false negative diagnosis of the old kake says, it was not disclosed that the lale said he could not think of any other their Ramotswa based mortuary. The deceased, who passed on at woman who, it was later revealed, had deceased had died from Coronavirus BOPEU have decried loss of busi- huge cost as they also have to pay for person better than Seeletso to coordinate The Union are yet to re-open the the Bamalete Lutheran Hospital, was succumbed to coronavirus. hence the deceased was handled by ness with the management pointing interim staff, administrative and op- national operation centres which include mortuary which was closed after test transferred to the Babereki Ka Lor- Babereki Ka Lerato Funeral Ser- the mortuary like they would any other out that they have so far lost over half erational costs of a mortuary that is village extension teams and local authori- results of the deceased indicated she ato Funeral Services mortuary in Ra- vices Board Chairperson Martin corpse. The mortuary accounts officer a million Pula. “BOPEU continues to closed. ties. Molale said he vouched for the ap- pointment of Seeletso as the coordinator given his capabilities to handle crisis citing his battle with cattle disease outbreak in Ngamiland some two decades ago. Botswana records three cases of COVID-19 disinfodemic Despite the good rating by Molale, CONTINUED FROM PG 1 groups, most of which are worried He added that “in a time of high by the Botswana Editors Forum. Con- COVID-19 and fake news epidemic” mation spreading and undermining Seeletso enjoyed bad publicity post his that the continued spread of fake fears, uncertainties and unknowns, cerned about the threat fake news endorsed by the WEF board of direc- public trust at a crucial time.” job as Secretary of the IEC after his reap- forced through parliament by the rul- news raised the spectre of official there is fertile ground for fabrications and conspiracy theories posed to tors, Fernandez warns of wrenching In a press statement, the UDC pointment by government as the consul- ing party using its numerical strength, public health guidance aimed at curb- to flourish and grow. The big risk is Botswana’s fight against coronavirus, changes to come and urges urgent ac- however said the clampdown against tant for Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) totally disregarding the position of the ing COVID-19 falling on deaf ears, that any single falsehood that gains local editors: Spencer Mogapi of The tion to minimise damage to the media, COVID-19 fake news was, “a choreo- in 2017. During the same year, the integ- entire opposition that current statutes with possibly fatal consequences. traction can negate the significance of Telegraph, Outsa Mokone Sunday Stan- and democracy. graphed intention of the ruling party rity of Electronic Voting Machines got hit on public health and the penal code Renowned freedom of expression a body of true facts. dard, Aubrey Lute- The Weekend Post, “Amid the welter of information to trample upon constitutional rights when a supposed showpiece organised by accorded the state enough legal in- champion and Director for Freedom “When disinformation is repeated Emang Bokhutlo- The Voice Newspa- swirling about on social media, pro- and to instil fear in members of the the Independent Electoral Commission struments with which to combat Co- of Expression and Media Develop- and amplified, including by influential per, Rorisang Mogojwe- Gabz Fm and fessional newsrooms which have long public who are critical of the govern- descended into chaos. Seeletso, who at the vid-19. The opposition, in a spirit of ment at UNESCO, Professor Guy people, the grave danger is that infor- Sakaeyo Jane- Broadcasting Services invested in building expertise, have ment. The UDC wishes to remind the time was the public face of attempts to sell compromise even offered to accept Berger has expressed concern that mation which is based on truth, ends last months adopted a COVID-19 been meeting the public’s hunger for government to use the state of public the state of emergency if the ruling machines to a doubting public also had his these COVID-19 fake news is “put- up having only marginal impact.” media protocol aimed at among other objective reporting, based on jour- emergency for the sole purpose of re- party were to accept a period of 28 ting lives at risk.” Well before the outbreak of the things fighting fake news. nalists speaking to informed sources, integrity on the line. The government was inforcing efforts to combat Covid-19 days or 3 months. It is now becom- In an interview with UN News, he virus, UNESCO was issuing warn- The Botswana Editors Forum also providing context and perspective, to later shut the office that Seeletso was and not to ruthlessly stifle dissent. overseeing and announced that that the ing clear that the government forced explained that falsehoods related to all ings of the impact that political, “agreed to compile a list of media drawing on historical knowledge and The right to free speech is not only EVM will not be used during the 2019 through the state of emergency with aspects of COVID-19, have become technological, economic, and social houses that have made a commitment institutional memory. These have also entrenched in the Constitution of this general elections. an ulterior motive of using it to sup- commonplace. transformation has had on how we ex- to adhere to the COVID 19 reporting helped inoculate communities against country, but is also a globally recog- Meanwhile Seeletso is expected to press any dissent against its policies by “There seems to be barely an area change information in recent years, re- protocol in order to assist the public that other virus that is on the rampage amongst other things direct the use of the arresting commentators on social me- left untouched by disinformation in ferring to the “contamination” caused with a guideline of where to find cred- – fake news – which is sowing anxiety nised human right under the Univer- Covid Fund Monies within the local gov- dia and subjecting them to a humili- relation to the COVID-19 crisis, rang- by some orchestrated misinformation ible and reliable news.” and confusion, as well as undermining sal Declaration of Human Rights. As ernment as well as tap into the local gov- ating experience of being restrained ing from the origin of the coronavi- campaigns, which pose a threat to This position is further reiterated the public’s trust in the reliability of a consequence, we wish to alert the ernment ministry’s recurrent budget mon- with leg irons in public view. “ rus, through to unproven prevention fact-based journalism and, particularly by the World Editors Forum (WEF). information they receive at this criti- diplomatic community to take note of ies. In February 2020 the Finance ministry The UDC is however unlikely to and ‘cures’, and encompassing re- during the current pandemic, people’s In an Op-Ed by WEF President War- cal time…….. This has led the World these recent acts by the government pegged the local government ministry re- find support among local and -inter sponses by governments, companies, lives. ren Fernandez under the headline” Health Organisation to warn of a which violate the civic and political current budget at P7.15 billion. national media freedom advocacy celebrities and others.” The UNESCO position is shared Credible media vital in fight against coming “infodemic,” with misinfor- rights of citizens of this country.”

We’re here for Botswana during the COVID-19 crisis

Absa Bank Botswana has donated P1.5 million to the National COVID-19 Relief Fund in support of the efforts by the Government of Botswana in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. An additional P500,000 will be made available to support other government initiatives related to fighting the pandemic.

#StaySafe

absa.co.bw

Absa Bank Botswana Limited (registered number BW00001237900) is regulated by the Bank of Botswana. 4 April 19 - 25, 2020

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Limited Audited Financial Results for Year ended 31st December 2019 The directors have pleasure in announcing the Group (Standard Chartered Bank Botswana and its subsidiaries*) audited financial results of the Bank for the year ended 31 December 2019 together with comparative figures for 2018.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PROFIT AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF Key Financial Highlights Going into 2020, we expect the GDP growth to accelerate to 4.2% after At total balance sheet assets level there was a 5% decline, however the LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME OF FINANCIAL POSITION CASH FLOWS CASH FLOWS (continued) the slow down estimated for 2019. Driving the growth will be increased core lending book registered an impressive 6% as sales of our primary retail 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 1-Jan-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 Operating income remained relatively flat at P726 million, supported by strong (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) domestic consumption on the back of a successive increase in public lending products for the year crossed the P2 billion mark. Contributing to Restated Restated Restated Restated performance in non-interest income. Restated sector salaries, a boost in aggregated mining output supported by the reported decline in other assets is a booking related timing difference Interest income 762,047 783,862 Assets Cash flows from operating activities Cash flow from investing activities Interest expense (323,747 ) (343,718 ) Cash and balances with central bank 870,350 1,162,191 969,846 significant investments currently being rolled out. that is reflected in the reported other liabilities. Profit after taxation 54,8465 26,411 Acquisition of property and equipment (111,299 ) (1,464 ) Interest Expense down 6% as we re-profiled overall liquidity. Loans and advances to banks 3,458,459 3,488,495 2,577,528 Net interest income 438,300 440,144 Adjustments for: Acquisition of intangibles (16,873 ) (8,526 ) Investment securities 3,073,599 4,049,463 3,364,689 - Interest income (762,047 ) (783,862 ) Proceeds from sale of property 140 - Operating Expenses down down 11% as a result of continuing austerity on Fee and commission income 238,387 249,943 Loans and advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 7,589,863 - Interest expense 323,747 343,718 Net used in investing activities (128,032) (9,990 ) New challenges are however emerging, notably the COVID-19 scourge. Client liabilities saw a 4% increase, despite a reduced interest cost bill Other income 85,013 86,263 Other assets 182,512 244,138 359,969 spending and bedding down of operational efficiencies across the business. - Taxation 14,734 (3,370 ) The spread of the Coronavirus has been described as epidemic, crossing for the year. This reflects combined effects of a more stable deposit book Less: commission expense (35,459 ) (49,635 ) Tax refundable 1,665 13,926 1,408 - Depreciation 23,792 7,363 Cash flow from financing activities Pre-impairment Profitsup 4X to P102 million as a result of a modest increase Net fee income 287,941 286,571 Property and equipment 131,883 58,531 64,430 - Amortisation on intangibles 14,912 13,413 Issue of subordinated capital security - 400,000 over from the epicentre in China to Europe, East Asia, America and now characterised by a growth in CASA and a softer market-wide liquidity Intangible Assets and goodwill 31,327 29,366 34,253 - Profit on disposal of assets (140 ) - Redemption of subordinated debt (247,260) - in income across all primary lines, against a decrease in costs. Africa in a matter of weeks. Human movement is being curtailed; business scenario for a better part of 2019. Operating income 726,241 726,715 Deferred taxation 61,305 72,428 71,476 - Impairment loss on loans and advances 26,168 203,556 Interest paid on subordinated debt (32,293 ) (36,099 ) Total assets 15,730,327 16,603,773 15,033,462 Dividends paid (23,844 ) - and trade will slow down as value chains take a knock from wide ranging - IFRS 9 equity adjustment - (82,844) Impairment Charges up P32 million as the ECL models continue to settle, Operating expenses - Movement in operating lease accrual (5,908 ) 1,497 Distribution payment to holders of subordinated capital Staff expenses (225,119 ) (237,882 ) bottle necks. For Botswana in particular, diamond sales may suffer while Liabilities - Movement in provisions (30,674 ) 23,304 securities (30,889) - however this poses no concern as NPL remain lower than industry averages at ADR edged 100 basis points up, while the LAR closed the year down at Other expenses (399,356 ) 465,757 (334,286 ) Deposits from other banks 1,020,928 754,429 1,108,372 (340,571 ) (250,814 ) Net cash (used in)/ generated from financing activities 363,901 2.4%. tourism may take a downturn. This, as and when it crystallises, will have 24.5%. The decline in LAR is a result of gradual steps taken to improve Total operating expenses 624,475 703,639 Deposits from customers 12,875,805 12,340,661 12,238,929 Change in investment securities 974,490 650,516 (321,877 ) an obvious impact on the banking industry. liquidity allocation. Unsettled Treasury bills - 1,348,939 - (Decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,103,312 Profit before Tax up 3X, Profit After Tax up 2X both driven by sustainable Profit before impairment losses 101,766 23,076 Other liabilities 286,251 334,031 217,537 Change in loans and advances to customers (460,160 ) (98,928 ) Provisions - 30,674 7,370 Change in other assets 61,626 236,872 Cash and cash equivalents: (32,187 ) (35 ) improvements in the underlying business variables. Net impairment loss on financial assets Change in deposits from other banks 266,499 (354,455 ) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 4,650,686 3,547,374 Business and Financial Performance Review Taxation payable 496 - 17,504 2019 2018 Senior and subordinated debt 439,000 686,260 686,260 Change in amounts due from customers 535,144 101,732 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 4,328,809 4,650,686 Return on Equity rose by 400 basis points to 6% Profit before income tax 69,579 23,041 Payment of unsettled Treasury bills (1,348,939 ) - Total liabilities 14,622,480 15,494,994 14,275,972 * The financial statements of SCB Insurance and SCB Education trust have been consolidated using Risk Weighted Assets P’000 P’000 Income tax (charge) / credit (14,734 ) 3,370 Change in other liabilities (25,508 ) 84,908 uniform accounting policies for like transactions and other events in similar circumstances (337,419 ) Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stable at 19% against a regulatory limit of 15%. 2019 2018 Equity 369,830 By Risk Type Total comprehensive income for the year 54,845 26,411 ** Cash and cash equivalents are cash balances held with Central Bank and other financial institutions with The stable CAR is underpinned by its quality, with Tier 1 accounting for 13% Net Interest Income and margin P’000 P’000 Stated capital 179,273 179,273 179,273 maturity of 0-3 months. Credit 7,118,133 6,871,585 Capital Contribution 428,213 428,213 28,213 Tax refund received 13,150 10,217 Tax paid (5,883 ) (16,450 ) and CET at 8%. Reserves 500,361 501,293 550,004 Net Interest Income 438,300 440,144 Market 49,952 46,201 Number of ordinary shares in issue during the period at Interest received 762,047 662,821 Total equity 1,107,847 1,108,779 757,490 100 thebe per share 298,350,611 298,350,611 Interest paid (291,454 ) (277,017 ) Dividends up 2.3X to 18.4 thebe per share. Average Interest-earning Assets 15,411,708 14,952,106 Operational 761,215 825,808 Basic and diluted earnings per share (thebe) 18.38 8.85 Net cash generated from operating activities 140,441 749,401 Total Liabilities and equity 15,730,327 16,603,773 15,033,462 Average Interest-bearing Liabilities 14,058,361 13,907,456 Total RWAs 7,929,299 7,743,594 Dividend per share (thebe) declared and paid in the year Total income remained flat in 2019 while costs went down, portfolio 7.99 - rebalancing initiatives, supported by discipline over the quality of new asset Gross Yield (%) 5 5 origination led to a decline in NPLs. An improved liquidity, an enhanced Rate Paid (%) 2.3 2.5 Total risk weighted assets increased to P7,929 million driven by increased business efficiency in liability deployment and a more optimal asset pricing led to Net Yield 2.7 2.7 activity on the retail side of the bank, the growth is net of RWA efficiency drivers Statutory implemented during the year. The growth in market RWA is also reflective of higher Share Revaluation credit risk Retained Capital Treasury share Fair value improved returns. Net Margin (%) 2.9 2.9 capital reserve reserve earnings contribution reserve reserve Total activity with our financial markets during the year. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (P’000) (P’000) P’000 (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000)

Economic Environment Group Net interest income remained relatively flat against a 3% growth on average 2019 2018 Balance at 01 January 2018 as previously stated 179,273 23,691 19,152 471,037 28,213 (31,566 ) 16,928 706,728 World Economy interest earning assets. This translated into a 20-basis point climb-down in Capital Base and ratios P’000 P’000 Total comprehensive income gross yield. However, a much improved and stable liquidity profile resulted Impact of correction of error - - - (13,714 ) - - - (13,714 ) Initial economic projections before COVID-19 outbreak were positive and CET1 Capital 646,214 671,411 into a corresponding 20-basis point improvement in average rate paid, Restated balance at 1 January 2018 ** - - - 457,323 - - - 457,323 anticipated 2020 to be a year of soft but stabilising growth for the global Additional Tier 1 Capital (AT1) 400,000 400,000 Total comprehensive income economy. Global output growth estimated at 3.3%, slightly higher than the thus fully protecting the NIMs. The numbers however are averages and Profit for the year restated** - - - 26,411 - - - 26,411 Tier 1 Capital 1,046,214 1,071,411 3.1% estimate for 2019. China is likely to stabilise at the minimum rate do not yet reflect full effects of asset pricing optimisation that happened Profit for the year as previously stated - - - 23,844 - - - - in Q3. Tier 2 Capital 477,977 592,344 Impact of correction of errors - - - 2,567 - - - - required to double GDP in 2020 versus 2010 (the official target), before Other comprehensive income Total Capital 1,524,190 1,663,755 weakening further in 2021. The US economy to decelerate further to 1.8% Fair value adjustment: items measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ------(10,646 ) (10,646 ) in 2020 and euro-area growth to remain subdued. Cyclical positives for 2019 2018 Capital adequacy ratio (%) 19.2 21.5 Transactions with owners of the bank global growth should counter three long-term structural drags: debt, Credit Quality P’000 P’000 Regulatory Threshold (%) 15 15 Issue of subordinated capital securities - - - - 400,000 - - 400,000 Balance at 31 December 2018 179,273 23,691 19,152 483,734 428,213 (31,566 ) 6,282 1,108,779 demographics and de-globalisation. The cyclical positives include the Gross loans and Advances to customers 8,017,844 7,701,832 lagged impact of the global ‘dovish wave’ by global central banks in 2019, Of which Stage 1 and 2 7,925,357 7,451,215 The Bank remained well within regulatory capital thresholds. CET1 moved Balance at 01 January 2019 179,273 23,691 19,152 483,734 428,213 (31,566 ) 6,282 1,108,779 fiscal support from China and India, and the likely improvement in the Total comprehensive income Of which Stage 3 182,487 250,617 4% down mainly driven by dividend pay-out and Additional Tier 1 capital electronics cycle, and the likelihood of a US-China trade deal in 2020. Profit for the year - - - 54,845 - - - 54,845 distributions during the year, but this was partially offset by positive Other Movements*** - - - (1,675 ) - - - (1,675 ) Other comprehensive income - Expected Credit loss provisions 188,617 216,597 performance during the year. Regulatory adjustments were higher in 2019 In response to the rapidly accelerating global coronavirus pandemic The as day 1 IFRS 9 impact amortisation continues to taper down. Fair value adjustment: items measured at fair value through other comprehensive income - 2,005 - - - - (1,374 ) 631 Federal Reserve and Bank of England has implemented interest rate Of which Stage 1 and 2 91,114 84,907 Transactions with owners of the bank Of which Stage 3 97,503 131,690 Dividends to equity holders - paid - - - (23,844 ) - - - (23,844 ) cut. The EU economy is likely to shrink 1% in 2020 as a result of the Outlook Distributions to holders of subordinated capital securities - - - (30,889 ) - - - (30,889 ) coronavirus, but more pessimistic estimates point to a recession of about Early Q1 2020 performance has been encouraging, transitioning well Balance at 31 December 2019 179,273 25,696 19,152 482,171 428,213 (31,566 ) 4,908 1,107,847 2.5%. Net loans and Advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 from an impressive momentum run in the last quarter of 2019. Sales of ***Other movements relates to adjustments to two of the subsidiaries Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Insurance Agency and Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Education Trust retained earnings balance. Of which Stage 1 and 2 7,834,243 7,426,119 primary products, in particular reflect a positive trajectory for the rest of Regional Economy Of which Stage 3 84,984 59,116 the year, supported by increased disposable incomes for public sector Corporate and Corporate and Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is expected to accelerate in 2020 employees and general positivity in the economic outlook. A number of key Institutional Commercial Institutional Commercial from a weak base, despite global headwinds. The turnaround should be investments have been bedded down and expected to aide a rapid rollout Retail Banking Banking Banking Total Retail Banking Banking Banking Total Collateral 4,732,901 3,958,960 led by recovery prospects in the region’s largest economies, Nigeria and of key enablers during the year. These enablers will not only improve client CONSOLIDATED SEGMENTAL REPORTING (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) Stage 1 and stage 2 exposures 4,099,782 3,319,260 South Africa; while Angola is expected to see its first year of positive experience but contribute quite positively to the Bank’s revenue profile, 2019 Stage 3 exposures 633,119 639,700 2018 growth since 2015. Growth expectations for both South Africa and Nigeria particularly the non-funded income lines. Profit and Loss Profit and Loss are above consensus. Net Interest Income 328,599 87,464 22,238 438,300 Net interest income 312,455 106,462 21,227 440,144 Non Funded Income 190,421 72,622 24,898 287,941 Non funded income 192,732 75,125 18,713 286,571 The asset quality remained strong during the year, with NPL ratio declining There are headwinds though; the full effects of COVID-19 broadly remain In South Africa, balance-sheet repair by households and higher investment by 90 basis points to 2.4%. This comes as a result of continuing discipline a guess as the spread of the scourge appear far from over. Financial Revenue - external sources 519,019 160,086 47,136 726,241 Revenue - external sources 505,187 181,587 39,940 726,715 from an exceptionally weak base favour rising growth, despite low and credit-based portfolio rebalancing is crystallising into tangible benefits. performance could take a knock as the Bank continues to take appropriate Impairment charge (25,078 ) (8,337 ) 1,228 (32,187 ) Impairment charge 10,330 5,742 (16,107 ) (35 ) consensus expectations. As part of South Africa’s far-reaching reforms, The greater part of stage 2 and 3 exposures are collateralised. The Bank’s steps to protect its staff, clients and contribute to wider efforts in curbing authorities have agreed to end the long-running monopoly of state utility portfolio is reviewed and stress tested regularly to foresee impact of likely the spread. Net Interest Income after impairment 493,941 151,749 48,364 694,054 Net interest income after impairment V 515,517 187,329 23,833 726,680 Eskom. This should support rising renewables investment as South Africa horizon risks and manage them accordingly. seeks to increase the stability of its electricity supply. With the electricity Dividend Declaration Operating expenditure (417,695 ) (134,301 ) (72,479 ) (624,475 ) Operating expenditure (447,049 ) (177,136 ) (79,454 ) (703,639 ) availability factor still vulnerable, risks to this view would arise from 2019 2018 The Board has proposed the declaration and payment of a final dividend Profit / (loss) before taxation 76,246 17,448 (24,115 ) 69,579 Profit / (loss) before taxation 68,468 10,193 (55,621 ) 23,041 renewed load shedding on the scale seen in early 2019. Any evidence of Balance Sheet and Liquidity P’000 P’000 of 18.38 thebe per ordinary share, amounting to P54.8million, subject to weak commitment to reform, such as government backtracking on much- Assets final regulatory approvals. This dividend will be payable on or about 19th Statement of financial Position Statement of financial position needed public-sector compensation cuts or the functional unbundling of Loans and advances to banks 3,458,459 3,488,495 May 2020 to those shareholders registered at close of business on 7th Eskom, would exacerbate rating risks and weaken growth. Investment Securities - 3,073,599 - 3,073,599 Investment securities - 4,049,463 - 4,049,463 Loans and advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 May 2020 with an ex dividend date of 5th May 2020. Loans and advances to customers 6,674,082 1,027,225 217,920 7,919,227 Loans and advances to customers 5,963,708 1,272,334 249,192 7,485,235 Other assets for reportable segments 115,622 4,628,545 3,509 4,747,675 Other assets for reportable segments 41,493 5,025,229 2,353 5,069,075 Other Assets 4,352,641 5,630,043 However the anticipated growth rates are now in doubt following the Independent Auditors Report Total assets for reportable segments 6,789,704 8,729,368 221,429 15,740,501 Total assets for reportable segments 6,005,201 10,347,027 251,545 16,603,773 Total assets 15,730,327 16,603,773 outbreak of COVID-19, with negative effects across economies. Our independent auditors KPMG have audited the consolidated financial Deposits from non bank customers 3,851,931 8,022,577 1,001,297 12,875,805 Liabilities Deposits from non bank customers 3,077,290 8,102,907 1,160,464 12,340,661 statements for the year ended 31 December 2019. The audit opinion Other liabilities for reportable segments 14,352 1,789,892 (49,546) 1,754,698 Other liabilities for reportable segments (14,431 ) 3,207,629 (50,012 ) 3,143,187 Local Economy Deposits from other banks 1,020,928 754,429 report is available for inspection at our registered office. Total liabilities for reportable segments 3,866,283 9,812,469 951,751 14,630,503 Total liabilities for reportable segments 3,062,859 11,310,536 1,110,452 15,483,847 The economy faced some headwinds as diamond production was Deposits from customers 12,875,805 12,340,661 sluggish, with weaker local and global demand during 2019, and we Other Liabilities 725,747 2,388,904 By order of the Board Retail Segment Commercial, Corporate and Institutional Banking expect this to reflect in a slow down on GDP growth to 3.8%. Sectors Total liabilities 14,622,480 15,484,994 The retail segment remains an income leader for the business, Overall segment income was 6% down to P207 million as a decent registering a growth during the year were Finance and Business Services, Equity 1,107,847 1,108,779 reflecting the structure of our lending book. For 2019, retail lending 4% growth on the non-funded income line was totally offset by a 14% Trade, Hotels and Restaurants as well as Transport and Communications, closed at just above 80% of the overall client’s assets book, ahead de-growth in net interest income. This is a result of combined effects whereas contribution from the mining sector was softer. Inflation remained Doreen Khama Mpho Masupe of industry averages which hover around 63%. The retail book grew of subdued demand for corporate debt and the Bank’s strategy on at the lower end of the policy range for the better part of 2019, while the Advances-to-deposits Ratio (%) 62% 61% Chairperson Managing Director 12% year on year, broadly in line with total growth in loans and stepping up its non-lending business support to corporates. Loans Monetary Policy Committee slashed 25bps off the Bank rate to re-set it Gaborone Gaborone at 4.75% on the 30th of August 2019. In the twelve months to December The Bank’s balance sheet remained adequately resilient and stable advances to households at industry level. Total unimpaired income and advances went down 2% at industry level. The Corporate and 2019, the Pula appreciated against major currencies (notably the EURO, throughout the year; liquidity profile was optimised and well diversified. for the retail segment was up 3%, driven by improved margins on Institutional Banking (CIB) sub segment registered a 71% growth in British Pound and US Dollar), while it depreciated marginally against the Capital adequacy remained strong, with an improved quality. top line and a modest 1% increase in non-funded income. Improved profit before tax, while the CB sub segment materially cut down its South African Rand. margins came on the back of optimised average asset pricing losses from the prior year by more than half. against a reducing cost of funds. Impairments were higher than prior year at P25 million but remain very low in context of total retail client asset base. Profits for the segment were 11% higher despite a 2% up tick on operational costs ascribed to the segment ticked. April 19 - 25, 2020 5

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Limited Audited Financial Results for Year ended 31st December 2019 The directors have pleasure in announcing the Group (Standard Chartered Bank Botswana and its subsidiaries*) audited financial results of the Bank for the year ended 31 December 2019 together with comparative figures for 2018.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PROFIT AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF Key Financial Highlights Going into 2020, we expect the GDP growth to accelerate to 4.2% after At total balance sheet assets level there was a 5% decline, however the LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME OF FINANCIAL POSITION CASH FLOWS CASH FLOWS (continued) the slow down estimated for 2019. Driving the growth will be increased core lending book registered an impressive 6% as sales of our primary retail 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 1-Jan-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 31-Dec-19 31-Dec-18 Operating income remained relatively flat at P726 million, supported by strong (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) (P'000s) domestic consumption on the back of a successive increase in public lending products for the year crossed the P2 billion mark. Contributing to Restated Restated Restated Restated performance in non-interest income. Restated sector salaries, a boost in aggregated mining output supported by the reported decline in other assets is a booking related timing difference Interest income 762,047 783,862 Assets Cash flows from operating activities Cash flow from investing activities Interest expense (323,747 ) (343,718 ) Cash and balances with central bank 870,350 1,162,191 969,846 significant investments currently being rolled out. that is reflected in the reported other liabilities. Profit after taxation 54,8465 26,411 Acquisition of property and equipment (111,299 ) (1,464 ) Interest Expense down 6% as we re-profiled overall liquidity. Loans and advances to banks 3,458,459 3,488,495 2,577,528 Net interest income 438,300 440,144 Adjustments for: Acquisition of intangibles (16,873 ) (8,526 ) Investment securities 3,073,599 4,049,463 3,364,689 - Interest income (762,047 ) (783,862 ) Proceeds from sale of property 140 - Operating Expenses down down 11% as a result of continuing austerity on Fee and commission income 238,387 249,943 Loans and advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 7,589,863 - Interest expense 323,747 343,718 Net used in investing activities (128,032) (9,990 ) New challenges are however emerging, notably the COVID-19 scourge. Client liabilities saw a 4% increase, despite a reduced interest cost bill Other income 85,013 86,263 Other assets 182,512 244,138 359,969 spending and bedding down of operational efficiencies across the business. - Taxation 14,734 (3,370 ) The spread of the Coronavirus has been described as epidemic, crossing for the year. This reflects combined effects of a more stable deposit book Less: commission expense (35,459 ) (49,635 ) Tax refundable 1,665 13,926 1,408 - Depreciation 23,792 7,363 Cash flow from financing activities Pre-impairment Profitsup 4X to P102 million as a result of a modest increase Net fee income 287,941 286,571 Property and equipment 131,883 58,531 64,430 - Amortisation on intangibles 14,912 13,413 Issue of subordinated capital security - 400,000 over from the epicentre in China to Europe, East Asia, America and now characterised by a growth in CASA and a softer market-wide liquidity Intangible Assets and goodwill 31,327 29,366 34,253 - Profit on disposal of assets (140 ) - Redemption of subordinated debt (247,260) - in income across all primary lines, against a decrease in costs. Africa in a matter of weeks. Human movement is being curtailed; business scenario for a better part of 2019. Operating income 726,241 726,715 Deferred taxation 61,305 72,428 71,476 - Impairment loss on loans and advances 26,168 203,556 Interest paid on subordinated debt (32,293 ) (36,099 ) Total assets 15,730,327 16,603,773 15,033,462 Dividends paid (23,844 ) - and trade will slow down as value chains take a knock from wide ranging - IFRS 9 equity adjustment - (82,844) Impairment Charges up P32 million as the ECL models continue to settle, Operating expenses - Movement in operating lease accrual (5,908 ) 1,497 Distribution payment to holders of subordinated capital Staff expenses (225,119 ) (237,882 ) bottle necks. For Botswana in particular, diamond sales may suffer while Liabilities - Movement in provisions (30,674 ) 23,304 securities (30,889) - however this poses no concern as NPL remain lower than industry averages at Other expenses (399,356 ) 465,757 (334,286 ) ADR edged 100 basis points up, while the LAR closed the year down at Deposits from other banks 1,020,928 754,429 1,108,372 (340,571 ) (250,814 ) Net cash (used in)/ generated from financing activities 363,901 2.4%. tourism may take a downturn. This, as and when it crystallises, will have 24.5%. The decline in LAR is a result of gradual steps taken to improve Total operating expenses 624,475 703,639 Deposits from customers 12,875,805 12,340,661 12,238,929 Change in investment securities 974,490 650,516 (321,877 ) an obvious impact on the banking industry. liquidity allocation. Unsettled Treasury bills - 1,348,939 - (Decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,103,312 Profit before Tax up 3X, Profit After Tax up 2X both driven by sustainable Profit before impairment losses 101,766 23,076 Other liabilities 286,251 334,031 217,537 Change in loans and advances to customers (460,160 ) (98,928 ) Provisions - 30,674 7,370 Change in other assets 61,626 236,872 Cash and cash equivalents: (32,187 ) (35 ) improvements in the underlying business variables. Net impairment loss on financial assets Change in deposits from other banks 266,499 (354,455 ) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 4,650,686 3,547,374 Business and Financial Performance Review Taxation payable 496 - 17,504 2019 2018 Senior and subordinated debt 439,000 686,260 686,260 Change in amounts due from customers 535,144 101,732 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 4,328,809 4,650,686 Return on Equity rose by 400 basis points to 6% Profit before income tax 69,579 23,041 Payment of unsettled Treasury bills (1,348,939 ) - Total liabilities 14,622,480 15,494,994 14,275,972 * The financial statements of SCB Insurance and SCB Education trust have been consolidated using Risk Weighted Assets P’000 P’000 Income tax (charge) / credit (14,734 ) 3,370 Change in other liabilities (25,508 ) 84,908 uniform accounting policies for like transactions and other events in similar circumstances (337,419 ) Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) stable at 19% against a regulatory limit of 15%. 2019 2018 Equity 369,830 By Risk Type Total comprehensive income for the year 54,845 26,411 ** Cash and cash equivalents are cash balances held with Central Bank and other financial institutions with The stable CAR is underpinned by its quality, with Tier 1 accounting for 13% Net Interest Income and margin P’000 P’000 Stated capital 179,273 179,273 179,273 maturity of 0-3 months. Credit 7,118,133 6,871,585 Capital Contribution 428,213 428,213 28,213 Tax refund received 13,150 10,217 Tax paid (5,883 ) (16,450 ) and CET at 8%. Reserves 500,361 501,293 550,004 Net Interest Income 438,300 440,144 Market 49,952 46,201 Number of ordinary shares in issue during the period at Interest received 762,047 662,821 Total equity 1,107,847 1,108,779 757,490 100 thebe per share 298,350,611 298,350,611 Interest paid (291,454 ) (277,017 ) Dividends up 2.3X to 18.4 thebe per share. Average Interest-earning Assets 15,411,708 14,952,106 Operational 761,215 825,808 Basic and diluted earnings per share (thebe) 18.38 8.85 Net cash generated from operating activities 140,441 749,401 Total Liabilities and equity 15,730,327 16,603,773 15,033,462 Average Interest-bearing Liabilities 14,058,361 13,907,456 Total RWAs 7,929,299 7,743,594 Dividend per share (thebe) declared and paid in the year Total income remained flat in 2019 while costs went down, portfolio 7.99 - rebalancing initiatives, supported by discipline over the quality of new asset Gross Yield (%) 5 5 origination led to a decline in NPLs. An improved liquidity, an enhanced Rate Paid (%) 2.3 2.5 Total risk weighted assets increased to P7,929 million driven by increased business efficiency in liability deployment and a more optimal asset pricing led to Net Yield 2.7 2.7 activity on the retail side of the bank, the growth is net of RWA efficiency drivers Statutory implemented during the year. The growth in market RWA is also reflective of higher Share Revaluation credit risk Retained Capital Treasury share Fair value improved returns. Net Margin (%) 2.9 2.9 capital reserve reserve earnings contribution reserve reserve Total activity with our financial markets during the year. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (P’000) (P’000) P’000 (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000)

Economic Environment Group Net interest income remained relatively flat against a 3% growth on average 2019 2018 Balance at 01 January 2018 as previously stated 179,273 23,691 19,152 471,037 28,213 (31,566 ) 16,928 706,728 World Economy interest earning assets. This translated into a 20-basis point climb-down in Capital Base and ratios P’000 P’000 Total comprehensive income gross yield. However, a much improved and stable liquidity profile resulted Impact of correction of error - - - (13,714 ) - - - (13,714 ) Initial economic projections before COVID-19 outbreak were positive and CET1 Capital 646,214 671,411 into a corresponding 20-basis point improvement in average rate paid, Restated balance at 1 January 2018 ** - - - 457,323 - - - 457,323 anticipated 2020 to be a year of soft but stabilising growth for the global Additional Tier 1 Capital (AT1) 400,000 400,000 Total comprehensive income economy. Global output growth estimated at 3.3%, slightly higher than the thus fully protecting the NIMs. The numbers however are averages and Profit for the year restated** - - - 26,411 - - - 26,411 Tier 1 Capital 1,046,214 1,071,411 3.1% estimate for 2019. China is likely to stabilise at the minimum rate do not yet reflect full effects of asset pricing optimisation that happened Profit for the year as previously stated - - - 23,844 - - - - in Q3. Tier 2 Capital 477,977 592,344 Impact of correction of errors - - - 2,567 - - - - required to double GDP in 2020 versus 2010 (the official target), before Other comprehensive income Total Capital 1,524,190 1,663,755 weakening further in 2021. The US economy to decelerate further to 1.8% Fair value adjustment: items measured at fair value through other comprehensive income ------(10,646 ) (10,646 ) in 2020 and euro-area growth to remain subdued. Cyclical positives for 2019 2018 Capital adequacy ratio (%) 19.2 21.5 Transactions with owners of the bank global growth should counter three long-term structural drags: debt, Credit Quality P’000 P’000 Regulatory Threshold (%) 15 15 Issue of subordinated capital securities - - - - 400,000 - - 400,000 Balance at 31 December 2018 179,273 23,691 19,152 483,734 428,213 (31,566 ) 6,282 1,108,779 demographics and de-globalisation. The cyclical positives include the Gross loans and Advances to customers 8,017,844 7,701,832 lagged impact of the global ‘dovish wave’ by global central banks in 2019, Of which Stage 1 and 2 7,925,357 7,451,215 The Bank remained well within regulatory capital thresholds. CET1 moved Balance at 01 January 2019 179,273 23,691 19,152 483,734 428,213 (31,566 ) 6,282 1,108,779 fiscal support from China and India, and the likely improvement in the Total comprehensive income Of which Stage 3 182,487 250,617 4% down mainly driven by dividend pay-out and Additional Tier 1 capital electronics cycle, and the likelihood of a US-China trade deal in 2020. Profit for the year - - - 54,845 - - - 54,845 distributions during the year, but this was partially offset by positive Other Movements*** - - - (1,675 ) - - - (1,675 ) Other comprehensive income - Expected Credit loss provisions 188,617 216,597 performance during the year. Regulatory adjustments were higher in 2019 In response to the rapidly accelerating global coronavirus pandemic The as day 1 IFRS 9 impact amortisation continues to taper down. Fair value adjustment: items measured at fair value through other comprehensive income - 2,005 - - - - (1,374 ) 631 Federal Reserve and Bank of England has implemented interest rate Of which Stage 1 and 2 91,114 84,907 Transactions with owners of the bank Of which Stage 3 97,503 131,690 Dividends to equity holders - paid - - - (23,844 ) - - - (23,844 ) cut. The EU economy is likely to shrink 1% in 2020 as a result of the Outlook Distributions to holders of subordinated capital securities - - - (30,889 ) - - - (30,889 ) coronavirus, but more pessimistic estimates point to a recession of about Early Q1 2020 performance has been encouraging, transitioning well Balance at 31 December 2019 179,273 25,696 19,152 482,171 428,213 (31,566 ) 4,908 1,107,847 2.5%. Net loans and Advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 from an impressive momentum run in the last quarter of 2019. Sales of ***Other movements relates to adjustments to two of the subsidiaries Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Insurance Agency and Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Education Trust retained earnings balance. Of which Stage 1 and 2 7,834,243 7,426,119 primary products, in particular reflect a positive trajectory for the rest of Regional Economy Of which Stage 3 84,984 59,116 the year, supported by increased disposable incomes for public sector Corporate and Corporate and Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is expected to accelerate in 2020 employees and general positivity in the economic outlook. A number of key Institutional Commercial Institutional Commercial from a weak base, despite global headwinds. The turnaround should be Retail Banking Banking Banking Total Retail Banking Banking Banking Total Collateral 4,732,901 3,958,960 investments have been bedded down and expected to aide a rapid rollout led by recovery prospects in the region’s largest economies, Nigeria and of key enablers during the year. These enablers will not only improve client CONSOLIDATED SEGMENTAL REPORTING (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) (P’000) Stage 1 and stage 2 exposures 4,099,782 3,319,260 South Africa; while Angola is expected to see its first year of positive experience but contribute quite positively to the Bank’s revenue profile, 2019 Stage 3 exposures 633,119 639,700 2018 growth since 2015. Growth expectations for both South Africa and Nigeria particularly the non-funded income lines. Profit and Loss Profit and Loss are above consensus. Net Interest Income 328,599 87,464 22,238 438,300 Net interest income 312,455 106,462 21,227 440,144 Non Funded Income 190,421 72,622 24,898 287,941 Non funded income 192,732 75,125 18,713 286,571 The asset quality remained strong during the year, with NPL ratio declining There are headwinds though; the full effects of COVID-19 broadly remain In South Africa, balance-sheet repair by households and higher investment by 90 basis points to 2.4%. This comes as a result of continuing discipline a guess as the spread of the scourge appear far from over. Financial Revenue - external sources 519,019 160,086 47,136 726,241 Revenue - external sources 505,187 181,587 39,940 726,715 from an exceptionally weak base favour rising growth, despite low and credit-based portfolio rebalancing is crystallising into tangible benefits. performance could take a knock as the Bank continues to take appropriate Impairment charge (25,078 ) (8,337 ) 1,228 (32,187 ) Impairment charge 10,330 5,742 (16,107 ) (35 ) consensus expectations. As part of South Africa’s far-reaching reforms, The greater part of stage 2 and 3 exposures are collateralised. The Bank’s steps to protect its staff, clients and contribute to wider efforts in curbing authorities have agreed to end the long-running monopoly of state utility portfolio is reviewed and stress tested regularly to foresee impact of likely the spread. Net Interest Income after impairment 493,941 151,749 48,364 694,054 Net interest income after impairment V 515,517 187,329 23,833 726,680 Eskom. This should support rising renewables investment as South Africa horizon risks and manage them accordingly. seeks to increase the stability of its electricity supply. With the electricity Dividend Declaration Operating expenditure (417,695 ) (134,301 ) (72,479 ) (624,475 ) Operating expenditure (447,049 ) (177,136 ) (79,454 ) (703,639 ) availability factor still vulnerable, risks to this view would arise from 2019 2018 The Board has proposed the declaration and payment of a final dividend Profit / (loss) before taxation 76,246 17,448 (24,115 ) 69,579 Profit / (loss) before taxation 68,468 10,193 (55,621 ) 23,041 renewed load shedding on the scale seen in early 2019. Any evidence of Balance Sheet and Liquidity P’000 P’000 of 18.38 thebe per ordinary share, amounting to P54.8million, subject to weak commitment to reform, such as government backtracking on much- Assets final regulatory approvals. This dividend will be payable on or about 19th Statement of financial Position Statement of financial position needed public-sector compensation cuts or the functional unbundling of Loans and advances to banks 3,458,459 3,488,495 May 2020 to those shareholders registered at close of business on 7th Eskom, would exacerbate rating risks and weaken growth. Investment Securities - 3,073,599 - 3,073,599 Investment securities - 4,049,463 - 4,049,463 Loans and advances to customers 7,919,227 7,485,235 May 2020 with an ex dividend date of 5th May 2020. Loans and advances to customers 6,674,082 1,027,225 217,920 7,919,227 Loans and advances to customers 5,963,708 1,272,334 249,192 7,485,235 Other assets for reportable segments 115,622 4,628,545 3,509 4,747,675 Other assets for reportable segments 41,493 5,025,229 2,353 5,069,075 Other Assets 4,352,641 5,630,043 However the anticipated growth rates are now in doubt following the Independent Auditors Report Total assets for reportable segments 6,789,704 8,729,368 221,429 15,740,501 Total assets for reportable segments 6,005,201 10,347,027 251,545 16,603,773 Total assets 15,730,327 16,603,773 outbreak of COVID-19, with negative effects across economies. Our independent auditors KPMG have audited the consolidated financial Deposits from non bank customers 3,851,931 8,022,577 1,001,297 12,875,805 Liabilities Deposits from non bank customers 3,077,290 8,102,907 1,160,464 12,340,661 statements for the year ended 31 December 2019. The audit opinion Other liabilities for reportable segments 14,352 1,789,892 (49,546) 1,754,698 Other liabilities for reportable segments (14,431 ) 3,207,629 (50,012 ) 3,143,187 Local Economy Deposits from other banks 1,020,928 754,429 report is available for inspection at our registered office. Total liabilities for reportable segments 3,866,283 9,812,469 951,751 14,630,503 Total liabilities for reportable segments 3,062,859 11,310,536 1,110,452 15,483,847 The economy faced some headwinds as diamond production was Deposits from customers 12,875,805 12,340,661 sluggish, with weaker local and global demand during 2019, and we Other Liabilities 725,747 2,388,904 By order of the Board Retail Segment Commercial, Corporate and Institutional Banking expect this to reflect in a slow down on GDP growth to 3.8%. Sectors Total liabilities 14,622,480 15,484,994 The retail segment remains an income leader for the business, Overall segment income was 6% down to P207 million as a decent registering a growth during the year were Finance and Business Services, Equity 1,107,847 1,108,779 reflecting the structure of our lending book. For 2019, retail lending 4% growth on the non-funded income line was totally offset by a 14% Trade, Hotels and Restaurants as well as Transport and Communications, closed at just above 80% of the overall client’s assets book, ahead de-growth in net interest income. This is a result of combined effects whereas contribution from the mining sector was softer. Inflation remained Doreen Khama Mpho Masupe of industry averages which hover around 63%. The retail book grew of subdued demand for corporate debt and the Bank’s strategy on at the lower end of the policy range for the better part of 2019, while the Advances-to-deposits Ratio (%) 62% 61% Chairperson Managing Director 12% year on year, broadly in line with total growth in loans and stepping up its non-lending business support to corporates. Loans Monetary Policy Committee slashed 25bps off the Bank rate to re-set it Gaborone Gaborone at 4.75% on the 30th of August 2019. In the twelve months to December The Bank’s balance sheet remained adequately resilient and stable advances to households at industry level. Total unimpaired income and advances went down 2% at industry level. The Corporate and 2019, the Pula appreciated against major currencies (notably the EURO, throughout the year; liquidity profile was optimised and well diversified. for the retail segment was up 3%, driven by improved margins on Institutional Banking (CIB) sub segment registered a 71% growth in British Pound and US Dollar), while it depreciated marginally against the Capital adequacy remained strong, with an improved quality. top line and a modest 1% increase in non-funded income. Improved profit before tax, while the CB sub segment materially cut down its South African Rand. margins came on the back of optimised average asset pricing losses from the prior year by more than half. against a reducing cost of funds. Impairments were higher than prior year at P25 million but remain very low in context of total retail client asset base. Profits for the segment were 11% higher despite a 2% up tick on operational costs ascribed to the segment ticked. Analysis Indepth April 19 - 25, 2020 Disabled man with epilepsy claims police assaulted him during lockdown patrol Remonstrated with officers for insisting on searching a hut where his sister was culturally confined with a two-week-old baby

f everything that Mooketsi Goitsemodimo says that the that he protested bitterly when dragged me on the ground like a Goitsemodimo says hap- officers told him that they had the patrol team tried to enter the bag of maize and threw me into pened did really happen, been tipped off about illicit sale confinement hut, citing cultural the back of their patrol vehicle,” then he would be one of of alcohol at his homestead and protocols that forbade such he says. the people that the Minis- that to that end, they wanted to intrusion. By his account, the The vehicle took him to ter of Justice, Defence and Se- search all huts within it. soldier (whose name he still re- the police station where he Icurity, Kagiso Mmusi, has apol- “But they couldn’t produce calls) became very uneasy about was thrown into a holding cell ogised to both after the fact and a search warrant when we asked this intrusion and advised the and released a few hours later in advance. to see it and proceeded with the police officer against searching without being charged, by one Goitsemodimo claims that search regardless,” says Goitse- the confinement hut because of the officers who had earlier Maun police beat him during a modimo. “Basically, they used they would be violating a sacred assaulted him. He says upon re- night-time encounter at his fam- force to search the houses.” cultural protocol. The officers leasing him the officer told him: ily home in Sanyedi Ward in the A culturally sensitive is- wouldn’t listen and accusing “I don’t ever want to see you village. He estimates the time to sue arose when the officers Goitsemodimo of being rude, here again.” have been a little after midnight made for a hut in which Goit- bulldozed their way into hut to His body aching all over, when a lockdown patrol team semodimo’s sister is culturally conduct a search that ultimately Goitsemodimo later went to a called at his home, rousing him confined with a two-week-old yielded nothing. medical clinic and provided the and the rest of the family out baby. Across most indigenous A quarrel ensued when the nurse who attended him with of sleep. The team comprised cultures in Botswana, the con- officers came out of the hut. an account of the alleged as- of four police officers and one finement hut is a no-go area, Goitsemodimo says that he re- sault, that was transferred to his soldier. As part of effort to con- especially for men. It is believed monstrated with the officers medical card. The handwriting tain the spread of COVID-19, that intrusion might imperil a for violating his sister’s privacy, is characteristically hieroglyphic the sale of alcohol has been sus- baby’s health and in that regard, whereupon they fell upon him, code that is difficult to read but pended. Naturally, there are still the confinement is not just an taking turns slapping him hard some parts are clear enough: people who want to take their opportunity for a new mother across the face and kicking him “reports to be assaulted by the chances and the police have had to recuperate but is also a health all over his body as he fell to the police on the 8th April, 2020, to close down shebeens during measure to protect the new- ground. sustaining injury to the face … lockdown patrols. born baby. Goitsemodimo says “Then they handcuffed me, cheek bruises … forearm swol-

NOTICE OF TENDER CANCELLATION

Notice is hereby given to all prospective bidders that tender: BPOMAS/1-2020/Funeral Underwriting Services has been cancelled.

We highly regret any inconvenience caused.

Regards

Secretariat (BPOMAS Procurement Sub-Committee)

Minister of Justice, Defence and Security, Mmusi Kgafela

len … soft tissue injury … re- for what he claims happened of civilians by joint patrol teams lished. We call on all States to port that they were kicking him but these medical conditions – which, in an article headlined respect fundamental rights of in the face … pain on the ears put him in a special category of “By All Means Don’t Speak their citizens even as they tackle … reports discharging [circled people that should be spared English During Tense Police the COVID-19 crisis,” OSISA h] ear … reports some cracking police brutality. He says that Stops”, Sunday Standard predict- said in a statement three days sounds.” From reading the hi- he has reported the assault to ed would happen. Speaking at a before Botswana’s own lock- eroglyphic handwriting on the the Maun Police Station Com- press conference, the Minister down began. card, it is unclear to make out mander, who couldn’t immedi- of Justice, Defence and Securi- Similar assaults have been what he was discharging from ately attend the matter because ty, Kagiso Mmusi, apologised to reported in Kenya, Uganda and the ear but Goitsemodimo him- the officers involved were off- assault victims and promised to India and there is a particular self says that he was bleeding duty. However, when contacted take disciplinary action against reason why most offences seem from both ears after the police by Sunday Standard, the Superin- the culprits. to be occurring in Common- beat him up. tendent Chenamo Orateng, said Botswana’s joint patrol wealth countries. Police brutal- He suspects that his fore- that he knows nothing about teams are not alone in beating up ity is largely a result of a viru- arm is broken but has not been this issue. On being asked to civilians and a regional human lent model of policing (Royal able to ascertain that because clarify this point in a follow-up rights advocacy group called Irish Constabulary) that Britain when he spoke to Sunday Stan- phone call, Goitsemodimo said the Open Society Initiative for introduced in 1822 to police dard on Thursday, he had yet that when he called at the sta- Southern Africa (OSISA) has Northern Ireland. This model to undergo X-ray examination tion, he was led to believe that expressed grave concern about was later coarsened further and at the Letsholathebe Primary the senior officer whose office this situation. Hospital. He had gone there he was taken to, was the Station “Clear rules of engagement exported to British colonies – the previous day, he says, but Commander. that are in compliance with the which retained it when they be- was told that the radiographer Reports of police assaulting constitution and the law must came independent geo-political (he says “doctor” in an appar- civilians in enforcement lock- be established for the police entities. In that regard, what ent general sense) was not in. down restrictions have been and military. Perpetrators of Mmusi means by taking disci- Over and above the inva- coming from around the coun- violence must be withdrawn plinary action against culprits would basically take the form Botswana Public Ocers Medical Aid Scheme sion of the confinement hut, try and at least two members of and punished. National frame- of making cosmetic interven- bpomas_ocialbw www.bpomas.co.bw the other peculiarity in this case cabinet have given their reac- works for monitoring compli- is that Goitsemodimo has a leg tions. Through his press secre- ance with constitutional and tions (like demoting or expelling disability and also suffers from tary, President Mokgweetsi Ma- human rights standards during the offenders) while leaving Bo- epileptic fits. We can’t vouch sisi has condemned the assault the lockdown must be estab- tswana’s RIC model intact. April 19 - 25, 2020 7

THIS IS OUR PLEDGE. WE WILL CONTINUE TO PROVIDE YOU OUR VALUABLE CLIENTS WITH SERVICES DURING THE COVID-19 LOCKDOWN. APPROPRIATE PAYMENT CHANNELS ARE AVAILABLE DIRECTLY TO C.I.P.A , AND TO OURSELVES ARE IN PLACE TO DEAL WITH Farm THE LOCKDOWN. COMMUNICATE WITH US STRICTLY VIA THE FOLLOWING PLATFORMS:- WHATsAPP: 74325642 EMAIL: [email protected].

OUR BOUQUET OF SERVICES REMAINS THE SAME WITH MINOR CHANGES NAMELY:- WE WILL REGISTER YOUR COMPANY WITHIN 48HRS, ASSIST YOU TO OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT WITHIN 48 HRS, REGISTER YOUR For Sale COMPANY ONLINE FOR TAX WITHIN 1 DAY. BUY ONE OF OUR COMPANIES BY CHOOSING ANY OF THE APPROVED COMPANY NAMES LISTED BELOW. THIS INCLUDES COMPANY REGISTRATION, ASSISTANCE TO OPEN BANK ACCOUNT, 16,7075 ha fully fenced, TAX REGISTRATION & COMPANY PROFILE only 6 ha de-bushed PRICE: P1 500. PLATOS-GATE PTY LTD FIVE-O-ONE PTY LTD location Khudumelapye - Madikonyana GOLD LEAF FARMS PTY LTD BLACK-STONE CAPITAL PTY LTD ATLAS TECHNOLOGIES PTY LTD SYCAMORE VALLEY PTY LTD BLUE-SAVANNAH HOLDINGS PTY LTD SAKHUMZI CONSULTING PTY LTD PAN-AFRICAN DIAMONDS PTY LTD DRAGONFLY ENGINEERING PTY LTD MAPLE-RIDGE RESOURCES PTY LTD BLUE-DIAMOND CAPITAL PTY LTD SULTANS CREEK PTY LTD GOLD CRYSTAL HOLDINGSPTY LTD ACAPELLA INDUSTRIES PTY LTD GOLDEN-ARROW CREATIONS PTY LTD Price P200 k neg. SIYABONGA DRILLING PTY LTD BLUE-SAPPHIRE RESOURCES PTY LTD MANIFIQUE SCENTS PTY LTD WE DO COMPANY RE-REGISTRATION ONLOINE FOR P600 ANNUAL RETURNS FILING: P850 BY PROACTIVELY REPOSITIONING OURSELVES WE CAN REBUILD Contact 73315198 OUR LIVES POST COVID- 19. EMPOWER YOURSELF TODAY. CALL: 74325642/73871215 FOR FURTHER DETAILS. Ts & Cs APPLY.

TENDER PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE

BOTSWANA PUBLIC OFFICERS PENSION FUND TENDER FOR THE PROVISION OF THE PROPERTY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES TENDER NO: BPOPF/IM/2020/004 PUBLIC NOTICE REGARDING BPOPF TENDERS AND OTHER ADVERTS INTRODUCTION

The BPOPF would like to receive proposals for the provision of property investment management services for its local property portfolio. The tender is open to Botswana registered companies with The Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF) wishes to advise the at least 25% citizen shareholding. Qualifying companies should be currently managing a property public that in view of the national lockdown, all advertisements relating to portfolio of at least BWP500 million, of which 50% must owned by institutions. tenders, jobs and other opportunities will only be accessible on newspapers To receive the tender document, a non-refundable deposit of BWP 1, 000 should be paid into the bank that are still in print and in the BPOPF website at www.bpopf.co.bw, and account below and the following steps should then be followed: its Facebook and Twitter pages. Please visit the above media platforms for tenders, jobs and other opportunities. 1. Email the proof of payment to [email protected]

2. Indicate your preferred physical address, email address and contact person. The tender document will be delivered to the stated physical address and must be received and signed for by the contact person only.

BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS

Account Name: Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund Bank name: FNBB Branch: Corporate Account Number: 62098584967 Branch code: 282267

TENDER CLOSING

The tender will close at 12 noon on the 1st June 2020. The mode of delivery of the completed tender document will be communicated to all bidders by 5 pm on the 25th May 2020 via the stated email address for the attention of the contact person.

TENDER QUERIES

All queries relating to this tender must be emailed to [email protected]

Please also refer to the BPOPF website for this tender advert and others: www.bpopf.co.bw 8 Opinion & Analysis April 19 - 25, 2020

Editor: Outsa Mokone LETTERS: Sunday Standard welcomes letters from PHYSICAL ADDRESS: Deputy Editor: Spencer Mogapi readers. Letters will be edited for possible libel, Commerce Park; Business Editor: Victor Baatweng or length. The editor reserves the right to publish Plot 104, Moores Rowland, or reject a letter. Letters should be sent by e-mail Unit 21. Advertising Manager: David Seema to: [email protected], or be faxed to 3188795. They can also be posted to the postal POSTAL ADDRESS: Pictures Editor: Oaitse address on the right. Even where pseudonyms are Sunday Standard, Sejakgomo preferred writers should sign in their true names. Postnet Kgale View Head of Graphics: Boago Obuseng Only signed correspondence will be published. P/Bag 351, Suite 287, Gaborone TEL: 3188784 FAX: 3188795 opinion opinion

GUEST COLUMN Systems collapse is a MOETI MOHWASA wake-up call as government UDC worried by allegations of brutality fails to honour salary increment Public trust in government is running what situation obtains about paying country and government by skype. lieve that the government is not being Retired public servants are in a by security forces low. public servants their agreed salary in- In the time of a pandemic, clarity, honest with them. worse situation. We are living through a pandemic. creases. like transparency matters. It is also true that a good major- After serving their country in The Umbrella for Democratic to take note of these recent acts And for the grace of God, Botswana Whether or not Botswana Gov- Transparency, honesty and clarity ity of civil servants want the govern- absolute loyalty, many retired pub- Change (UDC) wishes to by the government which violate has up to now been saved the worst. ernment is going to honour its word by those power allows for a smooth ment to succeed. Almost all of the lic servants are today unsure of just express its serious concern and the civic and political rights of Yet what is clear is that our gov- to increase the salaries and wages of flow of information across the pub- them are patriotic. what is happening to their retirement apprehension with regard to citizens of this country. ernment has not used the time to pre- public servant remains totally unclear. lic. Resultant controversy risks erod- benefits. increasing reports of fellow What exacerbates the situation pare for the worst. Statements were issued and with- Most importantly it allows for ing whatever goodwill had accrued Many go for months without ac- citizens who have been arrested is also an attempt by government As it is now, it looks like situa- drawn. And by midweek it was clear trust, which is absolutely important to government as part of efforts that cessing their money. and detained by the Police for to make it next to impossible for tion is likely to get worse because of nobody in government really knew if victory against pandemics are to the public were seeing. Others even go to their graves be- alleged inappropriate posts in suspects to have access to legal events totally out of anybody’s con- what is happening. be won. What government is trying to do fore receiving their pension benefits. the social media. These posts representation by attempting to trol. Just over a week ago, the whole WHO advises that public trust in is going to end up costing govern- This issue should be addressed by have been deemed to be criminal impose onerous requirements The ongoing covid-19 is already of government and members of par- the time of pandemic is an absolute ment much more than it is worth. those in power. behaviour by the government for legal practitioners to obtain challenging the deep beliefs, deep liament went into quarantine. necessity. In Botswana suppliers and con- For far too long money due to allegedly because they are movement permits which would convictions and long held terms of We are seeing the effects and re- Nobody gets out of the pandem- tractors are known to charge gov- Botswana Public Officers Pension offensive to the government and enable them to offer the required relations between people and their sults of that. ic by telling lies. One needs empathy, ernment as much as four times more Fund have been stolen with abandon, leadership of this country. Our legal representation. governments. The whole state apparatus is on one needs trust. than due price, sometimes more. yet we have never heard a voice from concerns are magnified by the fact We call upon the government It is clear that after Covid-19, auto pilot. And these can only be achieved That is exactly what is going to those in power. that these arrests come close on to forthwith cease and desist from there is no going back to old ways. And it shows. by staying genuine and even with the happen with the food baskets. Nobody has been sent to jail over the heels of the adoption by the the tyrannical arrest, detention This week Botswana government The president, his deputy and public. Serving public servants are not it. And much worse the looting con- ruling party dominated parliament and torture of innocent citizens released a muddled information on ministers are now forced to run a A majority of civil servants be- alone in their confusion. tinues. of a 6 months state of emergency whose only fault is to criticise and the accompanying regulations. the government using social The state of emergency media. The Cyber Crimes and and its regulations were forced Computer Related Offences Act opinion through parliament by the ruling was not enacted to be used as a party using its numerical strength, tool for political suppression, but totally disregarding the position to address ordinary law crimes of the entire opposition that committed in cyberspace. We current statutes on public health demand that those who have COVID-19 Politics of the left and the penal code accorded the been arrested be released from CDE TIRELO MMOPI this recognition, of the crisis of through the ordinary Motswana’s life. remnants of the British capitalists compete successfully with settler state enough legal instruments detention and be allowed to enjoy capitalism itself, will fail. In Botswana But as the BDP is discovering, Capital interests. “The ‘moderate’ nationalist capitalists. The only resource that this with which to combat Covid-19. their freedom until they appear In this country globally known for its both government, the bourgeoisie has no friends, only accomplices in party chosen was the Bechuanaland petty bourgeois had was the control The opposition, in a spirit of in court to defend themselves diamonds, you work, but you might class and the ordinary citizen should its insatiable appetite to maximise Democratic Party, headed by Seretse of the new state and its resources. It compromise even offered to against the alleged offences. as well be on a treadmill, the harder reflect on this new realisation, that profit. Business will sack Batswana at Khama, who had recently returned was the new postcolonial state that accept the state of emergency if The UDC wishes to draw you work, the less the corresponding the historical adherence to the neo- any excuse. Businesses that reported from exile. Gosset (1986) argues that became a launching pad to grow the ruling party were to accept a the recent developments to rise if any, on your income. Studies colonial and neo-liberal paradigm billions profit only a month ago, have one of the BDP’s favourite tactics, and nurture this petty bourgeoisie period of 28 days or 3 months. the attention of the diplomatic indicate that the Botswana worker is has to be abandoned, if we are to turned on the working class, mass and one that must have endeared to enable it to grow into a ‘national It is now becoming clear that community and all Human one of the lowest paid workers in the create a new Botswana out of this sacking them purportedly for losses them to the colonial authorities, bourgeois’ that could participate in the government forced through Rights international organisations subcontinent, with an average of less crisis, and withstand any such crises they will make during the Coronavirus was their habit of always crossing world capitalist system, although the state of emergency with an represented in Botswana for than P5 000 per month according to in the future. In this analysis we show crisis. It is a ruse of course; capital the BPP picket lines when the BPP junior to the metropolitan bourgeois” ulterior motive of using it to appropriate action. We wish Statistics Botswana studies. Botswana that the crisis of the coronavirus is a has no regard for workers. It puts was organising a boycott of white argues Mogalakwe. The role of the suppress any dissent against its to underscore the right of any is also one of the most unequal class crisis and requires and an anti- the BDP in a difficult position, for in businesses. After its formation in BDP government therefore was to policies by arresting commentators suspects charged with an offence capitalistic solution and that a future recent times the party has been facing 1962, the BDP received unqualified societies in the world, according to develop a local chapter of global on social media and subjecting to legal representation and the Botswana, even world, would have decreasing electoral margins because logistical support from the colonial the thinktank Botswana Institute of capital. What later became the first them to a humiliating experience fact that torture or degrading to take a decisively pro-poor and of the high unemployment rates and administration as well as considerable Development Policy Analysis. That’s members of the local bourgeois of being restrained with leg irons punishment is prohibited not only pro-working class intent to not just poverty ravaging the country under financial and organisational support the situation and it is in that state class, whether property magnate in public view. under SADC protocols but also dispense with this crisis but ameliorate its misguided economic orthodoxy. from European and Asian business that the new pandemic Coronavirus David Magang, or motor magnate The UDC has always under the U.N. Conventions. against such crises in the future. The But like bourgeois political parties communities”, he writes. Ultimately found us. A state of shambles really. Ishmael Nshakashokwe emerged advocated for freedom of speech The UDC assures the nation Even the President Mokgweetsi silver-lining for us leftists, worldwide, worldwide, this conflict between the BDP worked overtime to create, which is a right enshrined in the of its complete and unequivocal and more specifically locally, is that the real masters, capital, and the out of its own financial morsels out of not just the conditions Masisi seemed to be panicking when prepared by this government but constitution of the Republic of support in all legitimate and he mused, threateningly, to the very the coronavirus crisis offers us with parties, often ruling ones, like BDP, accruing from its mandate, a local Botswana. We view these recent decent efforts by the government once again an example of the mortal is a false one. At the time when the version of capital. The founding were direct beneficiaries of their bossom friends of the BDP, capital direct involvement in the immediate arrests as a choreographed to combat Covid-19, but we will itself, ““Re buile le dikompone gore defects contained within capitalism. crisis of capitalism is exposed, as by fathers of local capital, other than intention of the ruling party to never condone any illicit acts In this article we argue that the BDP this virus, the elites engage in these the original beneficiaries of colonial postcolonial government. Former selo se ke seru se se wetseng lefatshe President Festus Mogae himself trample upon constitutional rights committed under the guise of lotlhe, mme bangwe ba bone ba re and capital, having been Siamese false confrontations to choreograph preference the European and walked from state house to join retail and to instill fear in members of such efforts. swabisitse . Ke bua ka batho ba ba twins of the creation of Botswana’s concern, so the masses stay passive Afrikaner land barons and Indian giant Choppies, which itself had been the public who are critical of the In conclusion, we would like tsileng ba rwala bo rampeechane developmental malaise to which and malleable. retail owners. The formation of the a beneficiary of BDP’s insistence on government. to ask the nation to continue mme gompieno ke bahumi ba coronavirus has latched, cannot be Masisi knows by now, or ought BDP was an organic product of the expected to provide solutions. We to know the history of his own rise of pan-Africanist nationalist low wages and low taxes, to become a The UDC wishes to remind to adhere to all advice from the dinaledi, ba re bontsha gore ga ba also argue that the crisis caused by the political party by now. The BDP is ferment exemplified rapid rise of the multi-millionaire. the government to use the state government and the medical kgathale ka Batswana. Mme re tla ba virus reflect the inherent flaws that a political creature that emerged out Botswana Peoples Party in the lead up But fundamentally as well the of public emergency for the sole profession related to prevention bontsha gore rona re Batswana. Ka capitalism contains, and ultimately of the self-preservation efforts of the to the liberation phase of southern government as obvious from its purpose of reinforcing efforts of this dangerous pandemic. Let us July ke batla go baya monwana molao we provide a solution to the crisis, colonial capital’s post independent African history. The negotiated so- foundations, was in government to combat Covid-19 and not to work together in an environment wa Citizen economic Empowerment. that is independent of capital’s self- insecurities. The BDP would have called independence was a perfect ruthlessly stifle dissent. characterised by the rule of law “ But Masisi is barking up the wrong to project and protect the interests serving strategies and also propose a never existed if fears for a new neo-colonial arrangement, whereby The right to free speech and respect for individual tree. The BDP’s development model, of capital, whether local or global. foundation for the building of a post- nationalist movement in the form the BDP in exchange for being is not only entrenched in the human rights and dignity. May based around the decimation of Its policy identity was that of a capitalist Botswana society. of the Botswana Peoples Party never chaperoned in by the British master, Constitution of this country, the Lord intervene in a special way working class (fighting unions, government poised to maximise The Botswana Democratic Party, existed. As the nationalist ferment would guarantee the protections and but is also a globally recognised to assist in bringing this pandemic opposition to living wages, the capitalist accumulation of this at least its leadership, is currently fanned by the BPP rose, stoking fears class structures permeating Botswana human right under the Universal to an end. dismantling labour friendly laws) class, through so-called pro-business engaged in what can only be called of a spat of nationalisation by a new colonial society. In addition the Declaration of Human Rights. has worked to create this very crisis policies, that maintained healthy a family feud with its bosom friends, Botswana government led by the pan- BDP would also neuter the feudal As a consequence, we wish to *Mohwasa is Head of UDC in which the pandemic found this profits for capital, through policies alert the diplomatic community Communications. local capital. The false conflict, which Africanist movement, local capital remnants of Tswana tribal social hostile to redistribution. Therefore country. A country of poorly paid will soon resolve itself with the and its small group of Batswana structures. “It was at this time that the workers, working in poor conditions, from the beginning was to stand for inevitable coalescence of the junior post-feudal royal interests in the form departing colonial state made political capital against labour. The finding of of poorly run public services, poverty partner in this partnership, the BDP, is of Ngwato and so-called majority independence arrangements with the diamonds allowed it the resources to stricken citizens and multi-billion about the fate of Batswana who have tribal interests, formed the Botswana fledgling Tswana petty bourgeois temporarily ameliorate the potential profits for the largely foreign owned rented their labour to the financial Democratic Party’s first permutation. elements in the Tswana nationalist uprising of the working class with enterprises. Botswana was a working interests of capital. The BDP which The BDP was founded to provide movement. In order to safeguard the relatively extensive public services class crisis before coronavirus even was founded for the sole purpose of a local front for the protection of interests of the white settler capitalists such as schools and health services. arrived. protecting capital in this southern neo-colonial capitalists interests and make sure that independent Follow us The Coronavirus crisis has turned African enclave of British business by parading a pseudo nationalist Botswana remained within the At the same time the BDP as a into more than a health pandemic but interests at the time, and so it cannot movement led by Seretse Khama. capitalist camp, it was necessary to government sought to keep “labour even more ominously an economic all of a sudden become the enemy of Political thinker Dr Monageng bring on board the petty bourgeois costs” for the benefit of capital. one. Like all bourgeoisie sponsored global and even local capital, over a Mogalakwe covers this dynamic fraction of the Tswana nationalists. Botswana’s salaries became some of on Twitter: political organisations worldwide, the simple feud regarding the populist in detail in his paper How Britain The characterise feature of this the lowest in the region as the BDP Botswana Democratic Party mistakes interests of the party itself, the fate Underdeveloped Bechuanaland Tswana petty bourgeois was that it held the working class in place for the symptoms for the sickness. of Batswana workers. The BDP was Protectorate: A Brief Critique of lacked both the material resources the benefit of capital. The difficult The reality is that coronavirus has hoping, at least for populist purposes, the Political Economy of Colonial to initiate economic growth and struggle by labour unions to gain @SunStd_bw become the vaccine that injects into capital would keep the workers for an Botswana. BDP could never exist the political experience to maintain recognition from an even violent the worldwide naïve, a realisation of extra month or two, while the BDP therefore without the urgent need, hegemony over the postcolonial BDP government over the history of the nature of the capitalism virus. scrambles for some sort of stopgap as African independence was gaining Tswana society. More importantly the country reflects this role of the Any solution that arises without measure to the economic fire burning momentum, for the protection of the this petty bourgeoisie could not BDP in government. April 19 - 25, 2020 Opinion & Analysis 9

THE WATCHDOG SPENCER MOGAPI & analysis DEPUTY EDITOR SUNDAY STANDARD cartoon In peace and in war, security agencies should be weaved to sing from Human Rights hymn book It is very important that in times ers to say “we told you so.” of uncertainty such as what Bo- Those are the stuck vulner- tswana and indeed the world is abilities with which Masisi enters going through, ordinary people the covid-19 battlefield. are able to count on the profes- He is a man on a cliff; as a sionalism of their security ser- result of the scale of ravages vices to win the day. caused by A few democratic countries covid-19. But also a result where the civilian population of political baggages that have has a seamless relationship with always been there, long before security services include India, covid-19. United Kingdom, United States Based solely on rationality, and Israel. it is very unlikely that he could Men and women of uniform risk his in those countries are held in political capital with such a both awe and admiration. huge price to pay. When the country is hit by But politicians never cease to any disaster, it is always the se- surprise. curity services that make up the The good thing for him is bulk of first responders. that Batswana are ready to give They are the first to arrive him all the benefit of doubt he and the last to leave scene; sav- requires. ing the most vulnerable includ- In the end this is really Masi- ing by making and serving them si’s show. And only he can make warm meals. Unless in very rare or break it. circumstances such as in riots, He might use that benefit security services never use force of doubt wisely. Or squander it. against their own people. Either a prize or a price awaits In short security agencies him depending on what choices should never see their people as he makes. Across the globe poli- enemies. tics in power are already facing Civilian population return public reprisals from their han- the favour with affection and ad- dling of coivid-19. Others may oration of the security services. yet lose power from the backlash And affection of security emanating from covid-19. services by the civilian popula- That is how high the stakes tion goes way beyond absence are. of just ill will. Reports of police excesses opinion It means an innate feeling of persist, even though upon scruti- attachment that often translates ny some such reports look more into a desire to see success of like thumb-sucking. these agencies beyond the battle- But still calls for restraint are field. in order. When all hope is lost- Coping with Anxiety amid COVID-19 It looks like in Botswana we State of Emergency needs to KERAPETSE LYDIA MATSHABA less of the fact that we didn’t show any connectedness. Family and friends play constantly holding our cellphones or den on our shoulders. Free your mind. are not there yet. And we should be looked at in its entirety. & SEFHAKO SEFHAKO signs. We were all convinced we have it. a role of our support system. There are electronic gadgets because we’re await- Stress and anxiety elicited by the ask ourselves why not. However generous one Being placed under quarantine tons of things to do while in isolation ing that message: “Hi, love, miss u!” As COVID-19 can be characterized by The media shares a portion wants to be - and Batswana have It is well. The world needs hope; the could pose devastating strategies. I to help distract our minds from going the pandemic is accelerating, many fear and worry; change in sleeping and of the blame in fueling a vigi- generally been generous - the world needs to hear hope; we all need intensely recall the quarantine experi- astray. For us we used to send each oth- face job loss, front liners succumb to eating patterns; difficulty in sleeping or lante-like scrutiny of the armed regulations as recently published to feel hope. The experience of being ence. It was the worst nightmare of er text messages, we prayed together, working for prolonged hours without a concentrating; experiencing worsening forces by the public. play into the hands of skeptics. under both lockdown and quarantine lockdown. It meant double the dose. we even wrote each other letters de- break. While we are busy complaining of chronic health conditions; mental There is a consensus that a Ostensibly they were drafted hasn’t been easy at all. Feelings of frus- We felt isolated from the rest of the spite living under the same roof. It has and anxious about lockdown, those on breakdown; increased use of alcohol Head of State needs the powers to give law some teeth and with trations and anxiety were thrown all community. No communication and been an amazing feeling to read those the front line wish they too could be and smoking, fatigue, irritability, poor given to Mokgweetsi Masisi by that create fear that government over the air. We suffocated, shouted at interaction with friends. The entire love letters. It was a healing therapy. under lockdown with their loved ones. concentration, palpitations, sweating. A the State of Emergency. means business, and that any- each, and blamed each other until there was quarantined while others had the The other thing that also contributed They too desire to be cuddled and tak- primary key issue then calls for family Long before parliament met body caught on the wrong side was no one left to blame for anything. privilege to make movements. We felt to maintaining healthy minds was be- ing part in the “pillow-challenge” or “girl- members to play key roles in provid- to debate the State of Emer- of the law would be summarily Twenty for hours in a day felt like a emotionally drained, helpless and des- ing proactive. We took turns cleaning friend-side-chick and wifey” challenge. It’s ing personal care, maintain a comfort- gency, President Masisi had gone dealt with. month. None of us has ever been in perate. We joked and experienced dry the house, and both took Chinese lan- normal, human beings are social crea- ing environment, as well as providing at length to say he “would not That applies to those clauses such a terrible state. We felt hopeless. throat for a moment. Every gland felt guage lessons online to help improve tures. All of a sudden nobody craves both emotional and social support. Ev- trample, abuse or obviate any- and sections dealing with fight- There seemed to be no solution to as if it’s swollen. One of us felt a burn- our communication proficiency levels. for “Weekend special” but now seems eryone plays a key role in times such body’s rights” on account of ing the spread of fake news. what we endured. With no access to ing sensation in the lungs and a string We would then laugh at each other as like being constrained in one place for as these. Under extreme circumstance State of Emergency. Botswana Police say anybody therapeutic interventions under such of sighing followed by a squeaky sound we practice orally. It was both fun and a very long time with the same people of COVID-19 lockdown, many people He said all the powers given caught disseminating informa- in the ears. Reality hit that we’re in an made us to bond especially that we or even being stuck alone. All these conditions, one had to remind them- may even struggle to have sufficient ac- to him would be used by the state tion deemed “offensive and de- selves of their inner ability and inner awful situation. We had some illusions needed distracting. Psycho-therapeutic have a tendency to trigger panic and a cess to medical facilities. Many of the machinery to fight Covid-19. grading” to leadership. strength in order to optimize func- of suffering and dying of COVID-19. intervention was necessary and we did sense of helplessness and desperation. elderly people, including those people It would be an ignominious That is heretic. This is like a tion and slow progression of anxiety. The whole entire building was placed the best we could for one another, in A helpless and desperate mind isn’t living with pre-existing medical con- somersault were he to abandon script adopted from a typical tin Despite the dire situation out there, under quarantine, tested for fever con- terms of reducing symptoms related to stable. ditions, having an additional burden his word hardly a week after the psychological consequences such as servatively for the entire 14 days of anxiety and panic. Stress and anxiety can have a nega- pot like the COVID-19 is a bit frightening. start of State of Emergency. African dictatorship of the anxious feelings need to be addressed quarantine period. Whatever we need- Being anxious about acquiring CO- tive impact on multiple areas of our These people need to hear constant as- Measured against his ambi- ed to buy had to be purchased online. VID-19 infection is palpable, and al- lives, including our relationship with mid-1960s. regardless. surance that they have external support tions to build a society predicat- Pickup deliveries were done by a single most everyone now is deeply worried those we are under lockdown. This is a Fighting fake news should When news started to spread to our which would cultivate internal strength ed on the rule of law, that would person for each apartment making sure about their own risks. Suddenly, that crucial time that for a moment, we are be a priority no matter how the area that there was an outbreak in Wu- of “I can overcome this challenge type truly be reckless. we adhere to strict rules of wearing visit to the medical doctor is not an highly conscious of our surroundings, leadership feels. han, Hubei Province, I remember we of mentality.” By combining few strat- President Masisi still has a had to cancel our Christmas Day din- masks and social distancing. The fact easy task. Many fear of being infected food rationing, being careful of our The police and other secu- egies, many can develop the ability to long way before he wins many ner program which we planned to have that we were placed under quarantine with a deadly and seemingly cunning diet, and constant noise made by our rity services read these laws and settle their nerves in order to relax and people’s trust. with fellow Batswana. Rumors spread and with immediate effect, without virus which its description fits its char- ever-present kids. Regardless, we need they decipher a world created lower their stress and anxious feelings. He still has an interest in around that it was just a serious type of warning and preparedness produced acter. The current world total lock- to be careful of how to respond to all with them in mind to rule with However, we react to stress and proving that he is a responsible flu, so we brushed it off not a bit wor- panic, fear and worry. We began to down has left humanity under great these negative effects brought along in an iron fist. This establishes in anxiety differently depending on our and trustworthy leader. ried. Life continued as usual for almost closely monitor each other. A simple fear. Today we fear giving our loved dealing with COVID-19. For instance, them an imaginary world of “us biological make-up including our cop- Of course that would include half a month when eventually we heard cough raised a spark. We became sus- ones that romantic kiss, we fear giv- in some cases, some people may feel against them.” ing mechanisms. Some people find it government paying its workers of massive deaths, people being hospi- picious of everything and everyone es- ing our grandparents a handshake. We extra worried or overwhelmed, due ex- all dues negotiated, agreed and To make matters worse the talized due to a deadly virus and almost pecially food deliveries. We were over- fear hugging that buddy. This is all due periencing past deep hurts as a result possible to have high tolerance of dis- promised long before covid-19. drip-drip allegations of over- everyone now restricted to wearing face whelmed with feelings of sadness and to one little tiny, microscopic creature of some real life issues encountered comfort and effectively manage their Vovid-19 should not be an ex- reach and possible abuse by state masks. We totally distanced ourselves frustration. This is a true scenario of which proves to be absolutely impos- before the lockdown. These anxious anxiety in a healthy manner. In most cuse for holding backs dues long agencies make for an unwelcome from this outbreak. All we knew was how powerful the mind is capable of sible to trace easily. Everyone is con- feelings could interfere with the pres- cases, people who underwent discom- agreed. distraction. there was a flu-type outbreak in Wu- doing in our lives during this challeng- stantly experiencing anxiety due to fear ent circumstances. Possibility is that fort of some sort prior in life have a strong resilience. Individuals who have This pandemic, and also the Add to that the frenzy of han. However, the lockdown gave us ing time. Some people can even start of contracting COVID-19, or having some of our present symptoms stem confusion spread by social media a serious pinch. We were frantic. Now experiencing the same encounter we their loved ones infected. from the past; it is essential not to let endured tremendous adversity and State of Emergency provide a trauma are able to demonstrate inner glorious on such things like abuse in pro- we were sensitized and made aware of had. It’s possible to even start develop- Seated in our apartment, we won- them govern how we necessarily feel curement and you have a perfect ing psychological signs of COVID-19 dered a lot about those taking medica- in the here and now. It is likely that, strength forged from those circum- opportunity for him to win some coronavirus. I vividly recall how storm of total suspicion of or- or any other related physical ailments tion on regular basis; many Batswana the presence of occurring anxieties, stances. This is entirely consistent with all the people that still doubt his one late evening a Chinese friend of dinary citizens against the state. mine called and rushed to give me a due to excessive thinking about any have ‘abandoned’ work involuntarily in turn, associate with a wide range of human abilities. This is the main reason sincerity. That is not what a democ- handful of N95 masks and two bottles deadly infectious diseases. and schools have switched to What- dysfunction, including academic prob- we send you our regards. We have been Covid-19 can easily make racy should nurture. of disinfectant. During our encounter, Despite this, refuse to give place to sApp online teaching. With an average lems amongst students, and even later there, we endured, we conquered and Masisi a president of conse- All these will live on long he emphasized social distancing, he fear, worry, anxiety, and doubt. During Motswana parent struggling with issues greater symptom severity. It is crucial remain victorious! quence. stretched out his hand and handed me your lockdown refuse to grumble and of mobile data or internet bundles. to know that anxiety is a causal risk Leaders often shape their after coronavirus has been de- the package. We couldn’t stop reading be instrumental in lifting up spirits, help Many Batswana had to cancel business factor for later depressive symptoms. Kerapetse Lydia Matshaba is a Ph.D times and era. But in equal mea- feated and gone. online news and quoting information your family and friends. A whole lot of trips and meetings; texting and calls At this moment, it is ideal to remind in Counseling Psychology student sure leaders are often shaped by They will lead to soil the we learnt form online media as we chat mental health problems are perpetu- cannot replace the usual chat over a ourselves of crucial separation, sever- while circumstances. reputation of the president, in- with each other on online social plat- ated by being alone too, which means cup of tea or a glass of beer. Talking ing the past from the present, as this But as it were, depending on cluding forms. We experienced the worst of self-isolation can be detrimental for about entertainment, one of the most might bring significant relief. Neither I Sefhako Sefhako is studying Masters how everything pans up over the undermining achievements panic mode during both the lockdown many especially those prone to stress. difficulties brought along with isola- nor you can afford to deal with both in International Communications. next few weeks, it might also be- during his tenure and beyond - and 14 days quarantine period regard- Believe it or not, we all need a sense of tion is boredom. We all find ourselves COVID-19 and lockdown with a bur- Both are in China come an opportunity for doubt- including his legacy. 10 April 19 - 25, 2020

VACANCIES

Lucara Botswana (Pty) Ltd operates the Karowe Diamond Mine at Letlhakane in the Boteti sub district. The plant was commissioned in April 2012 and has gone on to achieve exceptional performance. It is the source of some truly special diamonds. The plant completed major upgrades that include introduction of X-Ray Transmission (XRT) technology in diamond recovery. This is adding to the already existing innovative application of autogenous milling in diamond processing. The Company is embarking on projects, which entail enhanced large diamond recovery.

Lucara Botswana invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the following positions tenable in Letlhakane.

Qualifications and Experience: • Administration • Diploma in Metallurgy, Civil or Mining Engineering • Project Support PROCESS ENGINEER or related field is preferred, extensive background ASSISTANT ELECTRICAL • Budget and Resource Management Operations in TSF operations will be an added advantage. • Safety, Health and Environment • FOREMAN A minimum of 3 years ‘s experience at supervisor • Legal Compliance Job Summary level • Training in Tailings facilities management Reporting to the Senior Process Engineer, the Process • At least two years exposure to diamond tailings Job Summary Personal Attributes: Engineer is responsible for managing the Karowe facilities Reporting to the Electrical Foreman, the Assistant • Project Management Diamond Mine processing plant section, providing Electrical Foreman ensures equipment availability by • Safety, Health and Environmental Systems discipline specific technical and process assurance conducting electrical maintenance and repairs, ensur- • Working knowledge of diamond processing plants and control advice to ensure that the process plant ing operational safety and compliance to all legal re- • Adequate Communication skills performs efficiently and effectively to meet production SECTION SUPERVISOR quirements and company standards. • Innovative and analytical targets. The Process Engineer is responsible for • Result oriented approach ensuring that operations and engineering comply to Effectiveness Areas: Job Summary Quality Management standards to minimize production • Maintenance effectiveness. Qualifications and Experience: Reporting to the Plant Foreman, the Section downtimes, and to ensure operations is within triple • Subordinate effectiveness. • Recognized Technician qualification (NTC6, S4, Supervisor ensures safe and efficient operation of all constraints of time, quality and costs. The Process • Project schedule management. T3) or equivalent qualification. plant equipment. Monitors all plant production and engineer is further responsible for identifying process • People management. • Membership to a recognized Professional Body processing equipment and takes corrective action in bottlenecks and come up with technical projects key in • Safety, health and environmental compliance. • 3 years post qualifying experience, three of which close collaboration with CCR. This position will also de-bottling the operations. should have been in a similar position be responsible for ensuring effective communication Personal Attributes: • Experience with industrial instrumentation across all stakeholders, supervising the section Effectiveness Areas: • Planning and organizing. • Essential and knowledge of Communications sys- maintenance, minimizing plant down times and • Process Engineering Laboratory Effectiveness and • Accountability. tems, PLC & SCADA ensuring compliance to statutory, company policies Operations Support • Conflict management. • Knowledge of Diamond Recovery X-Ray machines and procedures. • Projects and Financial Management Effectiveness • Team leadership. (advantageous) • Process Design and Technology Effectiveness • Innovation and creation. • Understanding of equipment diagnostic tools Effectiveness Areas: • Management Effectiveness. • Experience with Control systems and Signals • • Business Improvement Effectiveness. Process maintenance and operational Qualifications and Experience: • Analytical effectiveness. effectiveness. • National Diploma, National Craft Certificate or • • Safety, Health and Environment. Subordinate effectiveness. equivalent qualification, plus Supervisory Develop- • • Legal Compliance. Trouble shooting. ment Program. PROCUREMENT • Maintenance schedule management. • Five (5) years post qualification experience in a • DATA CAPTURER Personal Attributes: Accountability. mining environment. Two (2) years of which should • • Leadership Safety, health and environmental compliance. have been in a supervisory level. • Excellent technical skills Job Summary • Team player Personal Attributes: Reporting to the Warehouse Supervisor, the Procure- . • Innovation (Proactive) Supervisory skills ment Data Capturer is responsible for providing . SERVICES FOREMAN • Strong knowledge of metallurgical processes Communication administrative support and assist the Procurement . • Good analytical Skills Innovation (Proactive) team with capturing inventory and related data • . Planning and organizing. Good Job / Work Ethics Job Summary in the ERP and any other required tool. This extends to • . Accountability. Accountability Reporting to the Recovery & Services Coordinator, data collection, verification, entry and • . Conflict management. Strong Computer/IT Skills the Services Foreman ensures that all scheduled and overall management of inventory and related data on . Team leadership. unscheduled mechanical maintenance activities in the the ERP system. . Innovation and creation. Qualifications and Experience: plant are properly planned and executed in a safe and • Diploma or Degree in Metallurgy, Mineral Process- efficient manner. Ensures maximum availability of plant Effectiveness Areas: ing, Chemical Engineering or related field. Qualifications and Experience: • Management of Procurement and Inventory Data. • and equipment by attending to breakdowns on time. • Membership of a recognized professional body “O” level or BGCSE or equivalent qualification, • Inventory Performance Measures & Reporting. • plus Supervisory Development Program. • 5 years post qualification experience with at least Effectiveness Areas: Budgeting and Cost Control. • Four (4) years operational experience in a diamond • 4 years operational and technical experience in a • Maintenance planning and scheduling. Commercial Awareness. processing plant, with at least three (3) years at • mineral processing production plant. • Contractor management. Compliance to Company Policies and Standards. • Plant Operator level. Previous experience as a Su- • Has sound knowledge of process engineering • Trouble shooting. Supplier Relationship Management. principles and application in diamond processing pervisor will be an added advantage. • • Cost Optimization & Collaboration • Project schedule management. plants. Plant Operator Training • • Ethical Standards • Financial effectiveness. • Supervisory/Management Development Pro- Safety, Health and Environmental Systems • • Safety, health and environmental compliance. • People management. grammes Metallurgical training will be an advantage • • Safety, health and environmental compliance. • Project Management and Systems Acquisition Working knowledge of SCADA systems Personal Attributes: • • Working Knowledge of Diamond Control proce- • Safety, Health and Environmental Systems Personal Attributes: Communicating with impact. • dures including search and diamond pick ups • Finance and Budgeting • Planning and organizing. Results Driven. • . Accountability. Teamwork. • . Strategic thinking. Building Relationships. • ELECTRICAL FOREMAN . Conflict management. Project Management Planning TAILINGS SUPERINTENDENT • . Change management. Challenging and Influencing. • . Innovation and creation. Dealing with Ambiguity. Job Summary Job Summary Reporting to the Senior Process Engineer, Tailings Reporting to the Maintenance Coordinator, the Elec- Qualifications and Experience: Qualifications and Experience: • Superintendent is responsible for coordinating and trical Foreman provides technical guidance and co- • Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or National Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Edu- managing productivity, manpower deployment as ordinate the operations and maintenance activities Craft Certificate in Automotive Engineering or Rec- cation (BGCSE) or equivalent. • well as marginal process engineering functions at the to ensure equipment availability, quality of power in- ognised 4 Year Apprenticeship in Automotive En- More than 1-year experience in Supply Chain or Karowe Diamond mine tailings dump and slimes dams. frastructure, operational safety and efficient supply of gineering or equivalent plus Supervisory Develop- Commercial or Procurement (Cross functional) and The position is responsible to understand and execute service delivery in the area of responsibility. ment Program. Data management in Procurement, warehouse and accountabilities of legal appointment under Botswana . At least eight (8) years post qualification experi- inventory in mining or manufacturing environment • Mining regulations with a view of ensuring deployment Effectiveness Areas: ence in a services workshop; preferably in a mining Good understanding of inventory management in of best practices and ensuring effective and efficient • Planning, Budgeting and Expenditure Control industry, three (3) years of which should have been mining operations and/or heavy manufacturing. • tailings management. • Maintenance Execution in a supervisory level. Experience working with the ERP System (Prefer- • Operations Management able SAP) and Microsoft Office Suite Effectiveness Areas: • Database Management • Class B Driver’s license . Production and operational effectiveness. • Warehouse and Direct Purchase Requisitions . Technical effectiveness. • Safety, Health and Environment INSTRUMENTATION . • Project & Contracts Management. Subordinate Effectiveness TECHNICIAN . Budget & Resource Management. STOCK RECEIVER . Maintenance schedule management. Personal Attributes: . • Legal compliance Ability to work under pressure Job Summary Job Summary . Accountability. • Good communication skill Reporting to Instrumentation Foreman, the Instrument Reporting to the Warehouse Supervisor, the Stock Re- . Safety, health and environmental compliance. • Good interpersonal relations Technician is responsible for maintaining the process ceiver is responsible for daily receiving • Ability to read schemas plant equipment to minimize breakdowns, ensure operations which include receiving of all deliveries, Personal Attributes: • Excellent planning and coordination skill achievement of the highest standard of maintenance . quality control and storage of product within Leadership to all plant control and instrumentation equipment, and . Lucama’s policy guidelines. This extends to updating Accountability Qualifications and Experience: maximize availability. This position will also be respon- . stock movements on the ERP. Communication • NCC or National Diploma in Electrical engineering sible for monitoring the plant Contractor and ensuring . Planning, organizing and scheduling. or related field that the Contractor complies with relevant instrumen- . Effectiveness Areas: Project planning & Accountability. • At least five (8) years post qualification experience tation standards and principles. . • Management of Inventory and Stock Data Conflict management. in power . • Inventory Performance Measures & Reporting Team leadership. • . environment, preferably five (5) in mining industry, Effectiveness Areas: • Budgeting and Cost Control Innovation and creation. • three of which in a supervisory position. Maintenance Execution • Commercial Awareness • Planning • Compliance to Company Policies and Standards April 19 - 25, 2020 Indepth 11

Bill and Melida Gates Foundation braces for a more vicious COVID-19 round in Africa

There is much we still don’t know about COVID-19, but we can be sure of this: the African experience with the disease will be different than anything we’ve seen so far. The continent’s health systems are less well-equipped than others, for instance. Data suggest that even a single Manhattan hospital has more intensive care beds than most African countries – Writes OUMAR SEYDI

Bill and Melinda Gates

ur Approach to outbreak. We’ve helped stand up itself but by lapses in routine health care workforce which COVID-19 in Africa Emergency Operations Centers care. Children die because means they’re more exposed to Since the virus (EOCs), for example, and have they don’t receive the standard the disease. At the same time, emerged late last been working with partners immunizations, and people of less attention is usually paid year, COVID-19 has like the World Bank Group and all ages suffer because they don’t to their health, and areas like largely been a disease of the the World Health Organization get medicines for diseases like family planning and maternal OGlobal North. Its worst and Regional Office for Africa. HIV, malaria, or TB. So, now care are typically the first to deadliest effects have been felt We know physical distancing we’re supporting ways to ensure be cut during an economic in Europe, East Asia, and North measures are necessary to slow that care continues even in the downturn, meaning that America. But that is likely to the spread of COVID-19, midst of the COVID-19 crisis. women and girls who manage change. As the pandemic reaches but we also know that those We’re also investing in long-term to navigate COVID-19 and its its peak and begins to slow in distancing measures – as they R&D like the efforts of national financial consequences may these places, epidemiological were applied in the United laboratory services to validate still face restrictions to basic models suggest it will accelerate States and Western Europe – new testing methods. This will care. There are also inequalities in developing nations— might not work in the African help us detect novel diseases between nations, not just including those in sub-Saharan context. Many more people down the road. Ultimately, within them. We’re seeing Africa. There is much we still on the continent face a terrible the short-term and long-term these inequalities play out now don’t know about COVID-19, choice – stay home or feed their components of our strategy in international bidding wars but we can be sure of this: the children. We know that genuine go hand-in-hand, and elements African experience with the community engagement might of an emergency response can for PPE. Often, a shipment disease will be different than help overcome this obstacle, be useful long after the crisis of masks or ventilators is anything we’ve seen so far. The and we’re working with our has passed. For example, we’re going to whomever can pay continent’s health systems are partners to support the effort. working very hard to help the most. This should not less well-equipped than others, We’ve also assisted in scaling stabilize the market for medical happen. We must make sure for instance. Data suggest up local disease surveillance supplies that COVID19 patients that all supplies – especially an that even a single Manhattan and testing in the past several need like oxygen. In the future, eventual COVID-19 vaccine hospital has more intensive weeks. At the start of the year, those same oxygen systems will – go to the areas of greatest care beds than most African for instance, only two countries also save the lives of newborns medical need, and not the ones countries. When I joined the Bill in sub-Saharan Africa had the and other people who need of greatest economic power. & Melinda Gates Foundation ability to test for COVID-19. them. Expanded testing capacity (We’re fortunate that there are last year as its Africa Director, In early February, the Africa for COVID-19 can be applied organizations like Gavi, which I never imagined that the Centers for Disease Control to fight other diseases too, and has 20 years of experience continent would be dealing with and Prevention started training our foundation is working with making sure that children a situation of this magnitude, health workers for how to test the Africa CDC, as well as other in low income communities and I salute the continent’s for the virus. Our organization regional centers and national get new vaccines at the same leaders for adopting measures to was very proud to support that public health institutes, to time children in high-income prevent the virus’ rapid spread work, and now 40 of 54 African strengthen that infrastructure. countries do.) Our partners amongst their populations. I also nations have the capacity to The private sector has also and frontline workers across stand ready to help. The entire analyze COVID tests. These quickly mobilized to fight this the African continent are Gates Foundation does. And, steps are vitally important but virus, and the capabilities they’re performing extraordinary feats, in fact, we are already working even as we work to tackle this developing will help later too. but a global pandemic requires with our African partners to emergency, we are also taking Many companies are figuring a global response, and the accomplish four goals during a longer-term view. Starting out new ways to finance and responsibility for action must this pandemic: protect the this week, the foundation is distribute food and drugs. rest with us all. This pandemic most vulnerable; accelerate devoting some resources to Others are innovating in the has shown what our partners detection and containment of answer questions like: How will health space, making advances in Africa have always known: the virus; develop treatments we make sure the pandemic in telemedicine. This work our global health is only as and a vaccine; and minimize doesn’t erase the progress that will bear fruit now, as well as strong as our most vulnerable societal and economic impact. the continent has made fighting later, and our foundation is community. We can defeat this That’s how we think of our poverty and other diseases? And committed to continuing our work inside the foundation – what can Africa do to emerge work with the private sector. virus, but it will require us to as being divided among those from this crisis better prepared In the end, our approach to fight it fairly. Not just with the four categories – but the easiest for others in the future? No fighting COVID-19 in Africa needs of the most powerful in way to understand what we’re one has all the answers to these is the same as our approach mind, but with the needs of doing might be just to split questions yet. But our partners to the all the foundation’s past all people, especially those in our work into two rough areas: do have some. The 2014 West work there: it’s about reducing Africa. the immediate response, and African Ebola outbreak, for inequality. Pandemics have a way longer-term efforts. The first example, taught us that during of magnifying inequalities. Look Oumar Seydi is Bill and area is where the bulk of our an epidemic most deaths aren’t at gender, for instance. Women Melinda Gates Foundations’ work has been focused since the caused by the infectious disease account for the majority of the Africa Director 12 April 19 - 25, 2020

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA RESPONSE TO COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS)

The University of Botswana (UB) has joined hands with government in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS). The mitigation entails developing innovative solutions, provision of facilities and human resources in the care of COVID-19 patients.

CLINICAL CARE Development of ventilators The University is providing clinical care to COVID-19 quarantined and infected patients admitted The Faculty of Engineering and Technology is developing a portable ventilator. The faculty at Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital (SKMTH). The University is using its resident skills in is prototyping a ventilator hood, a low technology medical device that enables the increase specialist nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technologists, anaesthetists, critical care specialist, of air pressure into the hood/helmet to help keep a patient’s airways and lungs open to emergency physicians, paediatricians and other physicians to look after very sick patients. improve oxygen levels. UB specialist doctors and specialists in training are also providing care at Princess Marina Referral Hospital, Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital, Mahalapye District Hospital and S’brana Development of face shields and masks: Psychiatric Hospital. The Faculty of Engineering and Technology is developing face shields and masks as part of the response to the epidemic. The face shields and masks are important for protection of PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE frontline workers. The University of Botswana, at the request of Gaborone District Health Management Team (DHMT) has assembled a psychosocial care team comprising counsellors, social workers and TESTING FOR COVID-19 psychologists. Psychosocial needs have been identified as a significant challenge resulting The University of Botswana through the Department of Biological Sciences is working from COVID-19 epidemic. The team looks after all frontline workers at SKMTH, Princess Marina with Botswana Harvard Partnership and Botswana National Health Laboratory to increase Hospital staff as well as high level officials and diplomats. COVID-19 testing capacity to 2500 per day.

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA DEVELOPS THREE COMPUTER TOOLS RESEARCH FOR MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING OF COVID-19 BY MINISTRY UB scientists are exploring extraction of medicines from indigenous plants used OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS historically as inhalants to open chest airways. The research by the Faculty of Health The Faculty of Engineering and Technology has developed a Web map visualization and live Sciences is on medicinal plants such as aromatic plants that have been historically tracking dashboard that records data and shows real time trends of information on COVID-19 rubbed on the chest to aid breathing. cases in Botswana. The dashboard was developed in collaboration with the Botswana Institute of Geomatics (BIG) and is manned by the University of Botswana personnel from FET. The UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA (UB) COLLABORATES WITH dashboard can be accessed on the government portal www.gov.bw under the Maps and MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS (MOHW) TO RECRUIT Statistics link. The platform is live and already receiving positive feedback from the members of public. STAFF TO PROVIDE CARE AT SKMTH UB in collaboration with MOHW is recruiting health professionals to look after patients The Faculty of Science (Department of Computer Science) in collaboration with the Faculty of at SKMTH. This is meant to augment and support UB medical and health specialist Medicine (Department of Public Health) has developed two self- assessment applications for staff already providing care at SKMTH. the remote monitoring of those in and out of quarantine as well as frontline health workers. PROVISION OF ADVISORY SERVICES TO GOVERNMENT INNOVATIONS TOWARDS FIGHTING COVID-19 UB professionals are providing advisory services to various COVID-19 response organs such Production of hand sanitizers: as the National Response Command Centre. The University through the School of Pharmacy has commenced production of hand sanitisers. These will help address the inadequate supply in the market. April 19 - 25, 2020 13

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA RESPONSE TO COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS)

The University of Botswana (UB) has joined hands with government in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 (CORONA VIRUS). The mitigation entails developing innovative solutions, provision of facilities and human resources in the care of COVID-19 patients.

CLINICAL CARE Development of ventilators The University is providing clinical care to COVID-19 quarantined and infected patients admitted The Faculty of Engineering and Technology is developing a portable ventilator. The faculty at Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital (SKMTH). The University is using its resident skills in is prototyping a ventilator hood, a low technology medical device that enables the increase specialist nurses, pharmacists, laboratory technologists, anaesthetists, critical care specialist, of air pressure into the hood/helmet to help keep a patient’s airways and lungs open to emergency physicians, paediatricians and other physicians to look after very sick patients. improve oxygen levels. UB specialist doctors and specialists in training are also providing care at Princess Marina Referral Hospital, Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital, Mahalapye District Hospital and S’brana Development of face shields and masks: Psychiatric Hospital. The Faculty of Engineering and Technology is developing face shields and masks as part of the response to the epidemic. The face shields and masks are important for protection of PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE frontline workers. The University of Botswana, at the request of Gaborone District Health Management Team (DHMT) has assembled a psychosocial care team comprising counsellors, social workers and TESTING FOR COVID-19 psychologists. Psychosocial needs have been identified as a significant challenge resulting The University of Botswana through the Department of Biological Sciences is working from COVID-19 epidemic. The team looks after all frontline workers at SKMTH, Princess Marina with Botswana Harvard Partnership and Botswana National Health Laboratory to increase Hospital staff as well as high level officials and diplomats. COVID-19 testing capacity to 2500 per day.

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA DEVELOPS THREE COMPUTER TOOLS RESEARCH FOR MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING OF COVID-19 BY MINISTRY UB scientists are exploring extraction of medicines from indigenous plants used OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS historically as inhalants to open chest airways. The research by the Faculty of Health The Faculty of Engineering and Technology has developed a Web map visualization and live Sciences is on medicinal plants such as aromatic plants that have been historically tracking dashboard that records data and shows real time trends of information on COVID-19 rubbed on the chest to aid breathing. cases in Botswana. The dashboard was developed in collaboration with the Botswana Institute of Geomatics (BIG) and is manned by the University of Botswana personnel from FET. The UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA (UB) COLLABORATES WITH dashboard can be accessed on the government portal www.gov.bw under the Maps and MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS (MOHW) TO RECRUIT Statistics link. The platform is live and already receiving positive feedback from the members of public. STAFF TO PROVIDE CARE AT SKMTH UB in collaboration with MOHW is recruiting health professionals to look after patients The Faculty of Science (Department of Computer Science) in collaboration with the Faculty of at SKMTH. This is meant to augment and support UB medical and health specialist Medicine (Department of Public Health) has developed two self- assessment applications for staff already providing care at SKMTH. the remote monitoring of those in and out of quarantine as well as frontline health workers. PROVISION OF ADVISORY SERVICES TO GOVERNMENT INNOVATIONS TOWARDS FIGHTING COVID-19 UB professionals are providing advisory services to various COVID-19 response organs such Production of hand sanitizers: as the National Response Command Centre. The University through the School of Pharmacy has commenced production of hand sanitisers. These will help address the inadequate supply in the market. 14 Business April 19 - 25, 2020

BusinessAnalysis | Markets | News April 19 - 25, 2020 An economy in crisis

Thapelo Matsheka, Minister of Finance

BONNIE MODIAKGOTLA quarterly growth since 2017. ministry officials forecasted the The ministry officials had closing down businesses that in February, which plunged by 36 Masisi administration has huge deficit has put an abrupt end Overall, the country’s annual economy to grow by 3.6 percent projected growth for 2020 to are considered non-essential. percent from the year’s first sale, unveiled a P2 billion seed capital to what has been an impressive otswana’s economy real GDP grew by 3 percent to in 2019, down from the initial grow by 4.4 percent, but this The government has further and 28 percent lower than 2019’s to the COVID-19 Relief Fund recovery, marked by five straight slowed down last P99.4 billion, a decrease from projected 4.3 percent. projection faces major revision banned travellers from entering corresponding sight. aimed at stalling retrenchments years of trade balance surpluses. year following the previous year’s 4.5 percent The sluggish economic on the face of the havoc caused the country, especially from The lucrative tourism through offering support to On top of the trade turbulence in the growth. Nominal GDP, which growth last year was attributed to by COVID-19, the disease which high risk countries, affecting sector which targets wealthy businesses, some in the form shortfall, Botswana is expected diamond industry, uses current prices, advanced by the US-China trade wars, and the has infected over 2 million major economic activities that tourists from USA, European of wage subsidies. However, to run budget deficits in the and while growth was expected 3.6 percent to P197.3 million, yet distress in the diamond industry, people and killed hundreds of contribute to the economy. and Asian countries also found economists have signalled that next two financial years, and Bto peak this year, the coronavirus still lower than 2018’s 5.7 percent the country’s top revenue earner, people, forcing many countries The sectors that have been hit itself devastated by coronavirus should the situation persist given the latest developments, pandemic has thrown off those growth. which had its most challenging to enforce stringent measures the most include rough diamond containment measures, as for months, the government, experts warn that the deficits expectations outside the window, The 3 percent growth in year since the 2008 financial such as lockdowns and restriction sales and tourism. Global mining tourists cancelled all their which is running massive budget will widen in size and affect setting in motion a potential output is lower than previous crisis. The crisis in the diamond in movements that have battered giant De Beers was last month bookings. The sector, which is deficits, might find itself with a some of government’s planned massive contraction in growth. estimates even after several industry saw sales volume economies worldwide. forced to cancel its third sales the second largest contributor damaged economy that will take interventions to stimulate the Statistics Botswana’s latest revisions which occurred last decline, resulting in lower Though Botswana has only cycle of the year, citing global to GDP, is feared to bleed years to fix. economy. The budget deficit gross domestic product (GDP) year when signs began to revenues, and the developments recorded 15 confirmed cases movement restrictions imposed thousands of jobs should the Botswana ended 2019 with a for 2019/20 is estimated at P7.9 figures for 2019 reveal that emerge, with quarterly economic have put a strain on Botswana of the virus, it has taken an by various countries. This was a situation not improve. cumulative trade balance deficit billion, while the expected deficit growth was subdued in the last growth lower than previous government which has been aggressive approach to impede serious setback for the company In response to the economic of P14.3 billion, the second for 2020/21 was set at P5.2 quarter of the year, registering corresponding periods. In late running consecutive budget the spread of the virus, enforcing that was still reeling from a impact caused by coronavirus highest since 2012’s trade deficit billion, with another deficit of a 1.6 percent growth, the lowest November, the country’s finance deficits since 2017. a nationwide lockdown, and disappointing second sales sight pandemic, the Mokgweetsi of P16.3 billion. The country’s P4.4 billion expected in 2021/22. Inflation subdued for the fourth straight month SUNDAY STANDARD rate since 1975. The highest goods and services, thus The rapidly spreading practices. Furthermore, the in public service salaries. REPORTER inflation rate recorded in limiting investments as well. COVID19 virus has affected risks of inflation increasing But with the advent of Botswana was 16.4 percent in The central bank anticipates global supply key chains, are also mitigated by closure coronavirus and subsequent Consumer prices in Botswana 1981. consumer inflation to remain slowing economic activities and of businesses not considered measures put in place to curb maintained the same rate for The low inflationary below the lower bound of affecting consumer sentiments. essential. This has forced it, such as suspending planned the fourth consecutive month. environment in Botswana, the objective range for the The lockdown enforced by businesses to furlough workers, increases in administered The prices are projected which extends as far as 2011, remainder of the year. Though, the government beginning of with some employees taking prices and government’s to remain suppressed as has been marked by consecutive BoB authorities anticipated April has restricted movements wage cuts during the period of announcement to slash fuel consumer demand wanes amid annual decreases. The country’s that inflation rate will increase of consumers, while also lockdown. prices, chances of the rate a nationwide lockdown, which average inflation rate was 2.9 slightly in the second quarter of disrupting production and Absa Bank Botswana, spiking the second quarter of has restrained spending. percent in 2019, down from 3.2 2020 on the back of increase in distribution of staples, with the country’s second biggest the year have been hampered. The most recently available percent in 2018 and 3.3 percent prices of electricity and water some store shelves already commercial bank, has sounded In addition, ABSA Consumer Price Index (CPI), in 2017. tariffs expected in the same showing shortage of fresh warning bells that Botswana’s Botswana said the risks of which measures the change in The latest rate is trailing quarter, this will likely not be produce. economic outlook for 2020 an increase in prices are prices, shows that inflation rate below the Bank of Botswana the case. Though there is also remains highly uncertain. The moderated by prospects of for March was 2.2 percent, the (BoB)’s medium objective While electricity tariffs were upside risk of consumer prices bank expects headline inflation weak global economic activity same rate which has prevailed range of 3 – 6 percent. This has hiked by 22 percent beginning surging due to constrained to remain subdued until the and continuance of modest since December. The 2.2 been attributed to diminishing of April, the impact that could supply, Botswana’s Trade second quarter of 2020, domestic economic growth. percent rate has been constant disposable incomes and rise spur the inflation rate might be ministry has warned against explaining that upside risks to “High levels of since a slight uptick from in unemployment which has counteracted by the outbreak price gouging, threatening to inflation include the possibility unemployment limit the extent November’s 2.1 percent rate dampened consumer demand, of the coronavirus, cited as a take punitive actions against of an increase in administered of consumer spending growth - the lowest annual inflation leading to less people buying key risk to inflation projections. sellers who engage in such prices and the expected increase in the country,” added the bank. April 19 - 25, 2020 15

VACANCIES CONTINUED

• Supplier Relationship Management • Communicating with impact • Cost Optimization & Collaboration • Teamwork Qualifications and Experience: Qualifications and Experience: • Ethical Standards • Building Relationships • Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Manage- • “O” level plus a Certificate in Accounting & Business • Safety, Health and Environmental Compliance • Project Management and Planning ment or Inventory Management or Engineering or Studies Or equivalent accounting qualification. • Challenging and Influencing related qualification. AAT will be added advantage. Personal Attributes: • Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Mem- • Computer skills with relevant accounting courses. • Communicating with Impact Qualifications and Experience: bership (CIPS) or equivalent would be an added • At least three (3) years accounting post qualifica- • Results Driven • Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Manage- advantage tion experience in a computerized accounting en- • Teamwork ment or Inventory Management or related qualifi- • Three (3) years’ working experience preferably with vironment of which at least 2 years’ will have been • Building Relationships cation. a store supervisor background working with inven- at the same level. • Project Management and Planning • Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Mem- tory data, of which two (2) years should have been • Relevant accounting system experience. • Challenging and Influencing bership (CIPS) or equivalent would be an added working with TOMRA X-ray transmission (XRT) • Dealing with Ambiguity advantage technology and sorting machinery. • Four (4) years’ working experience preferable as a • Experience working with the ERP System (Prefer- Qualifications and Experience: warehouse supervisor, with; able SAP) and Microsoft Office Suite ACCOUNTS SUPERVISOR . Botswana General Certificate of Secondary • Three (3) working experience with ERP systems • Ability to evaluate large amounts of information - PAYROLL Education (BGCSE) or equivalent. (Preferable SAP) and MS Office especially working leading to high degree of accuracy to sound con- . More than 1-year experience in Supply Chain/ with data clusion for effective decision making. Commercial/Procurement (Cross functional) role in • Valid Class B Driver’s License • Valid Class B Driver’s License Job Summary mining or manufacturing environment. Additionally, Reporting to the Assistant Accountant the Accounts the candidate should have data management Supervisor – Payroll will assist with the administration experience within Procurement, warehouse and of Lucama Botswana employee compensation by gen-

inventory management. BUYER ASSISTANT SHE OFFICER eration of payroll inputs and review process, payroll . Good understanding of inventory control preferably calculation, and inputting data in the Payroll system. in mining operations and/or heavy manufacturing Job Summary: Job Summary Effectiveness Areas: processes. Reporting to the Procurement Coordinator, the Buyer Reporting to the Occupational Health and Safety Of- . • Payroll Administration Experience working with the ERP System will effectively and efficiently manage and support the ficer, The Assistant SHE Officer will aid in managing • Stakeholder Management (Preferable SAP) and Microsoft Office Suite day-to-day operational procurement and contracts health and safety programs under the mine require- . • Audit Support Class B Driver’s license call-off activities specifically purchasing and expedit- ments and relevant standards. Responsibilities will in- • Safety, Health and Environment ing. clude aiding on occupational health and safety issues, • Subordinate effectiveness safety training, and routine safety and occupational Effectiveness Areas: hygiene monitoring for compliance with occupational STOCK ISSUER Personal Attributes: • Procurement of goods and services exposure limits to provide a safe and healthy environ- • Attention to detail • Prompt receipt of placed orders ment for employees; contractors; and visitors in Lu- • Sound communication skills Job Summary • Supplier performance Evaluation cama Botswana. • Results Driven Reporting to the Warehouse Supervisor, the Stock Is- • Tendering and Overseeing the tendering process • Teamwork suer is responsible for daily stock issuing as needed • Operational Procurement Performance Measures Effectiveness Areas: • People management and authorized. The Stock Issuer will receive all ap- & Reporting • Supports the planning, coordination, development • Upholding confidentiality proved stock requests and issue stock out to the re- • Contracts Management Support and implementation of effective safety programs questors, then update the ERP with stock movements. • Budgeting and Cost Control and initiatives Qualifications and Experience: • Commercial Awareness • Assist in the development and implementation of . Diploma in Accounting / AAT, or equivalent Effectiveness Areas: • Compliance to Company Policies and Standards Hazard Assessments and Safe Work Practices. qualification. . Management of Inventory and Stock Data • Supplier Relationship Management • Promoting the maintenance of safe working condi- . Computer skills with relevant training on basic . Inventory Performance Measures & Reporting • Safety, Health and Environmental Compliance tions and recommending ways to improve on over- payroll administration software . Budgeting and Cost Control all safety conditions. . Three (3) years accounting post qualification . Commercial Awareness Personal Attributes: • Carrying out periodic site inspections to assess experience in a computerised accounting . Compliance to Company Policies and Standards • Negotiation and Communicating with Impact risks and ensure internal controls are in place. environment of which at least two (2) years will . Supplier Relationship Management • Results Driven • Safety, Health and Environmental Compliance. have been at the same level. . Cost Optimization & Collaboration • Teamwork . BICA Membership . Ethical Standards • Building Relationships Effectiveness Areas: . Safety, Health and Environmental Compliance • Project Management and Planning • Safety and Health Programme Development and • Challenging and Influencing Coordination Personal Attributes: • Dealing with Ambiguity • Risk Management HUMAN RESOURCE CLERK – OD . Communicating with Impact • Risk Management and Commodity Modelling • Occupational Health Program . Results Driven • Safety Administration . Teamwork Q u a l i fi c a t i o n s a n d E x p e r i e n c e : • Planning and Budget Control Job Summary . Building Relationships Diploma in Supply Chain Management or Engineering Reporting to the Human Resources Practitioner - Or- . Project Management and Planning or Finance, Accounting, Commerce or related qualifi- Qualifications and Experience: ganizational Development, the Human Resources . Challenging and Influencing cation. • Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety or En- Clerk- Organizational Development is responsible for . Dealing with Ambiguity • Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Mem- vironmental Health/Science or related field. providing clerical and administrative service to the Or- bership (CIPS) or equivalent would be an added • At least three (3) years relevant experience in a ganizational Development section. Qualifications and Experience: advantage Mining Environment. . Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Edu- • Four (4) years’ experience in Supply Chain in a • Knowledge and experience in implementing re- Effectiveness Areas: cation (BGCSE) or equivalent. mining or manufacturing environment with Two (2) quirements of ISO 45001, ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 . Training and Development administration . More than 1-year experience in a Procurement years’ Procurement (Cross Functional) with knowl- will be an added advantage. . Training Reimbursements (Cross functional), Supply Chain or a Commercial edge in ERP System (Preferable SAP) and Micro- . Work and Residence Permits role in mining or manufacturing environment. Ad- soft Office Suite . Security and Procurement Systems (Bittrex, Delta, ditionally, the candidate should have experience • Valid Class B Driver’s License etc.) in Data management within a Procurement, ware- • Good understanding of purchasing in mining op- ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT - . Resources Management house and inventory environment. erations and/or heavy manufacturing processes CORPORATE . Customer satisfaction . Good understanding of inventory control prefer- . Records Management ably in mining operations and/or heavy manufac- . Safety, Health and Environment and Security turing processes. Job Summary . Experience working with the ERP System (Prefer- STORE SUPERVISOR XRT Reporting to the Financial Accountant, Accounts Personal Attributes: able SAP) and Microsoft Office Suite Assistant is responsible for performing effective . Attention to detail . accounting transactions, in accordance with . Teamwork Class B Driver’s license Job Summary: organisational policies and procedures, in the areas . Tenacity Reporting to the Warehouse Supervisor, the Store of Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Payroll, . Personal Effectiveness Supervisor-XRT will be responsible for effective day Asset Accounting, Cash Management, General Ledger to day management and coordination of all store ac- WAREHOUSE SUPERVISOR and Reporting. Qualifications and Experience: tivities including receiving and issuing stock, loading . Certificate or Diploma in Human Resources and shipping as well as stock level control. This in- Effectiveness Areas: Management or equivalent Social Science Job Summary: cludes overall inventory and extends to XRT and re- . Accounts Payable Certificate / Diploma Reporting to the Procurement Coordinator, the Ware- lated spares. . Bank and Cash . Knowledge of Security and Procurement house Supervisor will be responsible for day to day . General ledger reconciliations computerized systems management and coordination of all warehouse ac- Effectiveness Areas: . Accruals and Prepayments . Customer Care Courses tivities including supervising team members, ensuring • Overall store management implemented according . OWHT and CMS submission . Safety, Health and Environmental Systems efficient processes and maximizing warehouse pro- to procurement and inventory policy . Petty Cash Management . Computer skills, relevant accounting courses 3 ductivity. This role is the custodian of the smooth op- • Compliance to Company Policies and Standards . Records Management years post qualification experience. erations of the warehouse and will work collaboratively • Supply Relationship Management . Customer Care . At least three years post qualification experience with mine operations as a business partner. • Continuous Improvement . Project Management preferably in training of which at least 2 years’ • Cost Optimization . Safety, Health and Environment experience should have been in a similar position. Effectiveness Areas: • Ethical Standards . Self-Management & Development • Supplier Relationship Management • Safety, Health and environmental compliance Only candidates who meet the above requirements • Compliance to Company Policies and Standard Personal Attributes: need to apply enclosing detailed curriculum vitae • Continuous Improvement Personal Attributes: • Sound Communication skills and certified copies of certificates, clearly indicating • Cost Optimization • Communicating with impact • Good client service skills the position applied for on the email subject line to; • Ethical Standards • Teamwork • Attention to detail [email protected] • Warehouse Management • Building Relationships • Results driven • Safety, Health and Environmental Compliance • Project Management and Planning • Teamwork Closing date for applications is May 2, 2020. Only • Challenging and Influencing • Upholding Confidentiality short-listed candidates will be responded to. Personal Attributes: • Analytical Skills 16 Business April 19 - 25, 2020 Morupule B shows signs of improvement

SUNDAY STANDARD REPORTER indicator of electricity production - in 2018’s corresponding period. demand, with the slight shortfall met stood at 132.4, an increase of 22.9 On a quarterly basis, this reflects through power imports. The physical ocally produced electricity percent from 2018’s fourth quarter. an increase of 18.9 percent from volume of imported electricity in 2019 accounts for half of the Based on observed long trend, the third quarter’s 467,974 MWH. fourth quarter was 531,036 MWH, a total power distributed as local power generation has been The increase has been attributed to slight increase of 4.1 percent from Botswana continues to rely growing steadily over time, and more improved performance of power 2018’s corresponding period under on power imports to meet importantly, a slight increase was generators at the 600 MW Morupule review. The increase was due to the demand, Statistics Botswana data recorded during the quarter under B power station, the country’s biggest need to augment local generation Lreleased recently shows. review, the data agency said. power generator powered by four of electricity due to accommodate The electricity and generation Local power generation was units, and 132MW Morupule A. distribution and transmission system report for 2019 fourth quarter 556,576 MWH in the last quarter of Though overall domestic power losses experienced during the last (Q4 2019) reveals that the index 2019, representing a yearly increase generation improved, it was not three months of the year. of Electricity Generation - a key from the 452,938 MWH generated enough to meet total domestic Most of the imported electricity

Morupule B

was sourced from South Africa’s rejected the defective plant after the Eskom which supplied 78 percent of contractor tried to hand it over and the power, while 15.9 percent was has since instructed the contractor in sourced from the Southern Africa 2019 to fix the plant. Power Pool (SAPP), and the rest The contractor, China National came from cross boarder markets Electric Engineering Company (4.8 percent), and Nampower (1.4 (CNEEC SBW), clinched the $970 percent). million (P10.6 billion) contract to We stand with you Distributed electricity – made up build the 600MW Morupule B power of domestic and imported power – station in 2010, with the completion jumped to 1,087,612 MWH in the date set for 2012. However, the fourth quarter, up by 12.9 percent project took longer than expected, from 2018’s reference period. Power and ten years later, the country’s generated locally contributed 51.2 biggest coal powered station still percent to electricity distributed, needs some remedial work to make it compared to 47 percent recorded for fully functional. 2018’s fourth quarter. The remedial works are Our customers have stood with us for the past 70 years and we stand with them during the Based on the past data, Botswana anticipated to take three years at the COVID-19 outbreak. We know that the COVID-19 crisis has affected a lot of our customers is yet to be fully rely on locally contractor’s cost. The power plant generated electricity. In 2017, the is made up of four 150 MW units, financially. That’s why we’ve created a COVID-19 Relief Programme to help ease the strain during power utility firm revealed that it and the fourth unit is scheduled for this difficult time. was constantly upgrading its power commercial operation in September generation plants to ensure they after a three months trial run. The operate efficiently and sustainably. other remaining three units will also Absa’s COVID-19 Relief Programme for Retail customers: BPC’s two main power stations, the be fixed, with the project expected to Morupule A and Morupule B have end in January 2023. been undergoing remedial works. However, the outbreak of the Payment holiday will be offered for the following products; Personal Loans, Mortgages and Vehicle and The troubled Morupule B plant coronavirus has been singled as the 1 has been fraught with problems biggest risk to fixing Morupule B in Asset Finance and will be reviewed for eligible customers affected by COVID-19 since inception. The power station the scheduled period, threatening to was supposed to be an answer to extend the struggling power plant’s 2 Free Absa to Absa funds transfer on mobile and internet banking as well as on the Absa Banking App Botswana’s chronic power shortages woes. The power plant custodian, but is yet to operate at full capacity Botswana Power Corporation (BPC), since it was commissioned in 2014, has recently increased electricity Free ATM funds transfer to your own Absa accounts 3 with only two units operating at tariffs by 22 percent to meet most. The Botswana government operational costs. 4 25% discount on ATM cash deposits, purchase of airtime, bill payments and Cash Back at POS Machine We have also launched the Absa Bot, a virtual assistant available 24/7 to answer customers most 5 commonly asked questions Botswana records first Absa’s COVID-19 Relief Programme for Business Banking and CIB customers: monthly surplus but

Loan payment holiday relief, restructuring of existing facilities and short term liquidity requests will be 1 reviewed for sectors and eligible customers affected by COVID-19 little to celebrate BONNIE MODIAKGOTLA the coronavirus pandemic that has 2 Free new installations for Absa Integrator and Absa Internet Banking affected global trade. After finishing last year with the Last year’s deficit was fuelled by worst trade deficit last seen seven a 15.6 percent plunge in diamond Free monthly membership fees for new Absa Integrator and Absa Internet Banking customers 3 years ago, Botswana has opened the exports, going from 2018’s P60.4 year with a monthly surplus, but billion down to P51 billion in 25% off on all Absa Integrator and Absa Internet Banking Domestic electronic transfers recent developments and previous 2019. Diamond account for at 4 data suggests that the country is not least 90 percent of the country’s in the clear yet, total exports. The diamond market Fresh information from appeared to be improving from the Statistics Botswana’s first monthly 2019’s slump, with rough diamond Who can benefit from the Absa Covid 19 relief programme? report of the International sales up in De Beers’ first sales cycle Merchandise Trade Statistics shows of the year, which is part of the ten- Customers in the Retail, Business and Corporate and Investment Banking segments. that Botswana has recorded its first sales cycle held in Gaborone. monthly trade surplus following However, COVID19, the disease a slew of consecutive monthly caused by a strain of coronavirus, deficits, spanning six months. gained prominence in February, When is the Covid 19 relief programme starting? This was also a remarkable throwing the markets in disarray, change in fortunes after 2019’s so much that De Beers’ second It’s effective April 1 2020. overall trade deficit of P14.3 billion, rough diamond sales plunged by the second highest since 2012’s trade 36 percent from the year’s first sale, deficit of P16.3 billion. Botswana and 28 percent lower than 2019’s had only three-monthly trade corresponding sight. De Beers was deficits last year, while the rest were forced to cancel its third sales cycle How do I access the Covid 19 programme offer? deficits, which appeared to have in March. gotten worse as the year progressed. Though most countries strive to For Retail customers, you should be signed up for our digital banking channels to enjoy the free offers. Trade data for January shows keep their imports down, Botswana’s that the country’s total imports were second top revenue contributor is Furthermore, affected customers should send their Omang/Passport and the official letter from the employer valued at P4.8 billion, a 22 percent the customs and exercise revenue, indicating the changes in remuneration to [email protected] for assistance or drop them decline from December’s imports with the bulk of the money coming valued at P6.2 billion. On the other Southern African Custom Union off at the nearest branch. hand, Botswana exported goods and (SACU) revenue pool. The regional services valued at P5.2 billion, down body, made up of five member For Premier, Business and Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) segments, talk to your by 10.5 percent from December’s states, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland Relationship Manager. P5.8 billion exports. and South Africa, are required to This meant that with exports pay all the collections of customs receipts greater than the imports duties, excise duty and additional bill, Botswana recorded a trade duties into a Common Revenue For all your questions and queries, our Contact Centre is available on +267 315 9575 or visit our website absa.co.bw surplus of P333.6 million, higher Pool (CRP), which is the shared than 2019’s January trade surplus among members. Together, we can beat Coronavirus. of P130 million. Though ordinarily Botswana gets the largest share this could be a good indication that of the revenue after economic giant #StaySafe the country might be returning to South Africa, but with the pandemic trade surplus - which had a good hindering efficiency in clearing streak run from 2013 until 2018 – imports, economists have warned the same pressures that caused the that the SACU revenue for this Terms and conditions apply. Absa Bank Botswana Limited (registered number BW00001237900) is regulated by the Bank of Botswana. massive trade deficit in 2019 are still year will be greatly reduced, dealing at play, even more worse now with another heavy blow to Botswana. April 19 - 25, 2020 Business 17 Botswana beef finds its way to Norway despite Covid 19

Beef

KABELO SEITSHIRO prelude to recession. The cattle The answer is no, according to exporting agency continues to the national lockdown, BMC is by the Covid 19 pandemic is supply of 1,600 metric tons contact. industry has its own name for a Botswana Meat Commission’s procure cattle for slaughter reported to have slaughtered Norway. which runs for the whole year”, Meanwhile BMC says here are lots of downturn: a wreck. Chief Strategy Officer - Brian from local farmers. over 1,300 cattle, with a plan to “So far Norway supplies are says Dioka. through its internal medical terms to describe the As the COVID-19 Dioka. BMC continues to receive slaughtered atleast 3,500 cattle moving without any logistical At the same time, the local facilities (Lobatse & Maun) market meltdown the pandemic persists, local Dioka says despite the cattle from farmers weekly on by the end April 2020. challenges, even outside market is also being supported continues to screen both global village has seen farmers have started asking limited movement of people Monday’s and Tuesdays, and Dioka says amongst the Botswana borders with a supply either through retail-outlets engaged-staff and visitors over the past three whether the local cattle industry and animals both locally and slaughter same on Tuesdays and international markets that of 184 metric tons for now orders or walk-in-customers, for signs of COVID-19, with Tmonths or so: a crash, a dip, a will also experience a wreck. globally – the state-owned meat Wednesdays. To date, ever since BMC supply that is not affected against the annual contracted albeit with limited physical 0-detection thus far. Covid 19: Botswana’s grain reserve well covered

PORTIA NKANI we are expecting,” reassured Dr Strategic Grain Reserve statutory and services will be allowed Dikoloti. During this harvest there is a minimum that should during the extreme social There are serious concerns that season, the Minister said the be maintained at any point. distancing period. further spread of COVID-19 expected output of Sorghum is Botswana Agricultural Supply chains for fruit and could jeopardize food security in over 150 000metic a tonne whilst Marketing Board chief executive vegetables, which are highly many economies. Maize expected is over 60 000mt. Leonard Morakaladi has also dependent on seasonal and Fortunately, thus far, for During the media briefing in the local national television migrant labourers, are likely to Botswana, the tiny sub Saharan on COVID-19 updates a week assured the nation that, come under pressure. country has not recorded any ago, Finance Minister Dr Botswana will be safe during this Meanwhile, the Government signs of COVID-19 causing Thapelo Matsheka announced period as there is still enough through the Ministry of food shortages. a P200million budget reserved supply. He also said that they will Local Government and Rural Minister of Agriculture, for the procurement of grain ensure that the grain prices are Development has started Food and Security - Dr Edwin reserves particularly maize and monitored. distributing the COVID-19 food Dikoloti said recently that pulses during this hard time of Food distribution channels basket to those families who Botswana is compliant in all its the COVID-19 should there be a could face some problems are mostly affected during this grain reserves. shortage. Dr Dikoloti told Sunday from transport disruptions and period. The programme which is “We are compliant and have Standard that even though there quarantine measures, although currently ongoing countrywide, enough to sustain us for the is enough in the reserves, “we the Government has given full is assisting with food, sanitary next 18 months. This will also are going to still buy some from assurance not to expect any and health necessities to the be helped by the bumper harvest the allocated budget.” As per the disruptions. Movement of goods families. 20 Business Business April 19 - 25, 152020

Lifestyle April 19 - 25, 2020 De-caffeinated Victor Batatweng’s soliloquy Everyone has their own passions and indulgences. For Sunday Standard’s VICTOR BAATWENG journalism and coffee jostle for the pride of place at the top of the list. Here is how his passion has temporarily toppled his indulgence.

am writing this piece from unease by COVID-19 police night, the earliest discovery I coffee is the easiest to prepare, my my isolation room. It is an that we could have come into made I was that it does not serve answer to Mokone was, “Bring auberge at a government contact with an infectious agent “proper” coffee. By proper I me JACOBS”. He did exactly monitored coronavirus - a coronavirus positive nurse mean coffee made from beans. that and I was happy again. I was quarantine center in on duty at Parliament last week For the whole of Thursday night happy not because I had gotten Gaborone. I am one of the lepers Wednesday. it felt like the end of me. On the best Coffee out there, but Igovernment is trying to protect For now, the fateful day and Friday morning as I reflected on because my boss was kind enough you from. Well, maybe that is COVID-19 are the least of my the regulations given by health to serve me at the moment, I was pushing it too far, but Botswana worries. Top of my mind is how officials the previous night, I possibly low - this is a rare gesture Police and Botswana Defence I am going to make it through could not help but think about the in Botswana working culture. The Force officers would kill just to today. For the first time in as coffee cabinet at my rented house boss is served, not the other way keep me away from you. long as I can remember, I have and even at the office. I could round. So that mid-morning on I am a single digit lost in the to survive without my mortal not resist thinking about a variety Friday, soon after Mokone called whooping 2,081 jillion placed crutch - a drink that has kept my of tastes, scents, and strengths me to say, “Vic, I have dropped under institutional quarantine. ticker thumping and my veins that those coffees always offered the stuff at the reception, they But I am more than just a pumping for most of my adult me. But here I was, stuck in a said they will drop them off at statistic. In my other life I am the life – COFFEE. hotel room with strict rules – “1. your room”, I peeped through the Business Editor of the Sunday The only other time I have Do not leave your room. 2. No only window my hotel room has, Standard newspaper and a coffee had to go “for long” without a visitors allowed”, which in a way which luckily is on the parking- connoisseur with a love for dark sip of this magical liquid beans is suggested that I cannot “import” lot side. I saw Mokone’s vehicle roasts. when I made the annual visit to any of my collection or get any leaving and all that brought Unfortunately, in the heat of my dentist. And for long, I mean “complicated” coffee except for gratitude to my inner being. As the moment officials got their three hours. My tooth fairy’s instant one. Mokone’s car made the last dash lines crossed and failed to give advice has always been, “do not Luckily as I was wondering towards Western Bypass road I us much of a heads up before take hot liquids for the next three on how I was going to handle could relate to the grace that his the quarantine. The result was hours”. I always felt this was anxiety and stress in the next 14 holiness The Dalai Lama of the that I didn’t have time to stock more than flesh and blood could days I received what I could call a Tibet nation had -- to be grateful up on my java. So, in my new stand. Coffee is my get up and go. “call of hope”. On the other end of the opportunities that existed incarnation, I was reduced to an It gets me started in the morning of the line was my boss – Outsa even when in exile. unworldly coffee drinker who had and keeps me going all day. Even Mokone. Apart from snack, Like the Dalai Lama who to make do with Ricoffy like the when I have one cup in my hand, Mokone enquired which coffee went for exile, being in Covid other 2,080 coffee gauches. I always look forward to that next he should drop-off for me at 19 quarantine has helped make a My new normal, which is one. At my peak, I chain-drink my temporary home. The health profound shift in life perspective. means a decaffeinated torment coffee all day, usually 4-6 cups authorities had given a thumbs It helped me to not just accept begins and ends in this gilded cage. of “long black” curtain-raised by up for delivery of such, as long the reality of the circumstances The only window to the outside Café Americano and later in the as it was sealed. So, fast forward I am in now but also see the world is my cellular phone and the day a shot of Espresso. to mid-morning of Friday. I opportunities in every experience television set that keeps repeating In short, this drink has given had a member of the Botswana I am going to gain here for the programmes like a broken record. life to my mornings and has been Defence Force (BDF) delivering next seven days. Acceptance This modest Statesville I call a life saver throughout the day JACOBS coffee at my hotel room means not fighting reality. My home is my office, lockup and more especially on work deadline doorstep. JACOBS belongs to reality at the moment is that I playground following official days. But here I am, stuck in a the “instant coffee” family of will not be sipping the drink that trepidation over my exposure to hotel room and with no access to this brown colored water. Some keeps my veins pumping as often Covid 19. the glue that keeps me together, at caffeine snobs, including yours- as I wish, at least in the next seven Since January 2020 this least access to the variety that I am truly usually turn their nose up days. But the good outcome is epidemic has dominated global used to. I am not taking as many at Instant coffee but if you are that while here, I will be following news headlines. Now it is in our cups as I am used to, and I am hiking or confined to a hotel what the speaker of the national shores. At the time of writing this not taking the many varieties I am room like I am now instant coffee assembly – Phandu Skelemani piece – (16 April 2020, 1700hrs) used to – Espresso, Americano, like JACOBS is an answer. Those ordered Members of Parliament Botswana had recorded 15 Filter, Long black-----all the kinds with coffee culture will tell you to do, “Keep the Eyes on the positive cases with one fatality. I would take if I was either at that Instant coffee, like JACOBS ball”. The ball in this case is the Thursday last week I, a my rented house, our office in is coffee that had all the water fight against Covid 19. I know number of media colleagues and Commerce park or at my favorite removed, leaving behind just the once Covid 19 is gone, I shall a handful of parliamentarians coffee shop - Mugg n Bean. soluble coffee flavour. But having HAVE and SIP my favorite drink were sent for mandatory Covid This is how it all started. On come to terms with the reality at home, coffee shop and at the Victor Baatweng 19 quarantine. This followed arrival at this hotel on Thursday that where I am only, instant office.

Closure of nightclubs means very bleak future for DJ Small & Co. A Zoom Nightclub customer, drawn to the world of music and There is no way in the world would, like almost everybody else for a full month. The government about what the future holds. One be his homeboy, has suggested straits. To get to the dance floor who also happens to be his nightclub deejaying. The point any DJ anywhere in the world in Botswana, begin a 28-day civil- has promised that it will give real possibility is of his employer that as a collective, DJs should – or the bar counter, you first homeboy, has suggested that as a of entry was via a waiting gig at would have known what was imprisonment term handed down a 50 percent wage subsidy to deciding to close down the explore the possibility of plying have to go past bouncers who, collective, DJs should explore the Zoom Nightclub in Tlokweng. headed their way that they started by Masisi via a national stay-at- employees of the worst COVID- nightclub. Indeed such possibility their trade digitally. Step 1 would in some instances have to strip- possibility of plying their trade When Zoom was gutted by fire, spinning discs when the first home order. 19-affected businesses and for this is real because it doesn’t make be to secure a sponsor, Step 2 to search revellers who look like they digitally via partnership with the he relocated to Grand West COVID-19 case was reported in The latter order expires at the month, DJ Small says that would business sense to continue paying secure a spot on Btv and Step 3, might be carrying what the police government Nightclub in Gaborone West China on December 1, 2019. That end of this month but the recent be all the income he is expecting. rent for commercial property that to take turns playing to a national describe as a “sharp instrument” Think life is tough right now? shopping mall. Grand West was a Sunday and DJ Small would special session of parliament DJs across supplemented their you are not trading in – especially audience. in their crime reports. Like Then hustle for a COVID-19 (alongside the coterminous if you don’t know when the “That way we would get paid deejays, bouncers will not be local travel permit and walk a Satchmos Nightclub) would also pandemic will end. There is a and be able to pay bills,” DJ Small working for the next six months. mile in DJ Small’s shoes. So long be gutted by fire, whereupon he possibility – remote but probable says. Some of those bouncers also as the beat [went] on (x2), DJ relocated to Zoom Nightclub in – that all nightclub owners might There are many reasons worked as gym instructors during Small has always been absolutely Maruapula shopping mall. go down this route. why the government should be the day. What this means for the certain about where his next meal The nightclub business went As it is, there was acute receptive to such proposal. One latter is that two revenue streams was coming from and has always into a coma between 2008 and shortage of jobs even before the is that Botswana has ratified the have been closed off and they will fended for himself. The beat 2018 as President Ian Khama pandemic hit and it would be Universal Declaration of Human not be able to pay bills. has not gone on since March 20 implemented stringent laws extremely difficult for DJ Small Rights whose Article 24 provides Nightclubbing is just one this year when the government to curb alcohol trade. DJs get to get a painter-decorator job for the right to rest and leisure, of the many industries whose closed down nightclubs and will paid by the number of days and in the post-pandemic recession which activities are important for employees will not be able to not be going on for the next six hours they play and reduction economy. What might make his one’s overall health. pick up the pieces even after the months. That basically means that of trading hours for nightclubs job search even more difficult is What DJ Small would really like lockdown ends. If nightclubs while he will retain a trade name badly affected them financially. that he never really practised that to see happen is for COVID-19 to are going to stay closed because he has used for the past 13 years, Fortunately for DJ Small and trade after completing his course. blow over and for life to get back a month-end Friday night DJ Small (whose real name Selefo fellow disc-spinners, Khama’s “This thing really did catch us to normal. To that end, he pleads would imperil efforts by the Keikepe) will effectively be out of successor, President Mokgweetsi off guard,” says DJ Small, adding with members of the public Ministry of Health and Wellness the game for the entire no-groove Masisi, restored alcohol and that while it has always been to comply with coronavirus to contain the spread of this period. nightclubbing rules to their have had earphones clamped delivered yet more bad news for income by playing at weddings, possible to blame someone when public health guidelines. For a disease and ultimately eliminate DJ Small’s situation might factory settings. Once more the around his head at Zoom at the DJ Small – no alcohol sale for corporate events and parties. The things go wrong, that option telephone conversation revolving it, the same goes for beauty and have been a lot different had nightclubbing business boomed, DJ stand, bobbing his head to a the next six months. He says that social distancing regulations limit doesn’t exist this time around. around a very grim subject, the hair salons. Hundreds, if not he sought a regular job as a more nightclubs (some taking the beat as he pressed and pushed his industry is the worst affected gathering to 10 people, which So how do DJs meet their interview ends on a very positive thousands, of salon workers who painter-decorator upon obtaining hip name of “lounge”) opened buttons on his console. In just 110 because nightclubs closed down has results in the cancellation of financial obligations during the note: “There is life ahead of this make customers look 20 years qualifications for that trade and one more, nightclub DJs days, Zoom would go radio silent even before the lockdown. those events and loss of income pandemic? DJ Small, who is from disease.” younger, may also have to live on from the Construction Industry always knew where their next for the time since its opening. Personally, he earned less than he for DJs. Molepolole, says that a Zoom Another nightclub worker government hand-outs for the Training Fund. He was instead meal was coming from. Twelve days later, DJ Small would have had the club operated DJ Small worries even more customer who also happens to group also finds itself in dire next six months. April 19 - 25, 2020 Sports 19 AFCON 2012 – The Untold Story – Part 1 Botswana Sports he lockdown should on to record an impressive draw Inherited from previous Zebras appointed. Whatever issues arose domestic international friendly situation was not helped by Ofentse provide us with an against Ivory Coast. regime, there was also Professor in the team were referred to the match against Zimbabwe. On ‘Size 10’ Nato’s injury earlier in the Post COVID opportunity to reflect Later that year, 2008, David Leapetswe Malete, who continued captains, who would then involve arrival back home, the problem that match. He had to be substituted. and come out of it a lot Fani took over as president of the to volunteer his services to the the players’ technical team, failing had been fermenting started to rear As the technical team was battling wiser. It is not time to BFA. Although the Zebras did not team as a sports psychologist and which they would be referred to its face. Players wanted money, and hard to cope with Nato’s injury and 19 – What Does shut off. It is time to look at what do enough to qualify for either one Onkemetse ‘Slinger’ Rannau, security officer Charles Chilisa, in they would not take to any field the marauding opponents, Patrick Thas gone right for us to this point AFCON or World Cup 2010, Fanis’ who was a spy sorts. his capacity as the ‘father’ of the before being paid. The Gaborone Motsepe received a red card just and work on perfecting it and also BFA were impressed enough to ‘Slinger’ was apparently team. Should it fail at that level, the Sun camp just turned into a feeding, before half time. All come back The Future to look at what has not gone right offer Stan a contract extension to introduced to the BNSC as a quality issue would be taken up with the loitering and sleeping holiday. A hopes fizzled away at that point. At and work on improving on it. This lead the team through the AFCON driver, who could drive officials team manager Patrick Zibochwa, day before the match, late in the that time, the Zebras were trailing challenge is across the board, in 2012 qualifiers. Nobody, including around in their vehicles with failing which it would be elevated afternoon, the BFA came forth 1-3. The match ended 6-1 in favour Hold? all sport structures from national the BFA, knew that this was the utmost safety. To that end, as part to the coaching staff. Matters with something that they had been of Guinea, with Botswana’s only down to local including clubs. beginning of the journey to the of Stan’s spying mission, ‘Slinger’ referred to the coaching staff able to raise. goal a penalty scored by Selolwane. CONTINUED FROM PG 20 i.e multiyear contracts with I take advantage of this biggest African showpiece. It was would drive opponents’ heads of would normally be addressed by Once they had received their The team’s last match was a 1-2 sponsors, television networks period to look back at our most more of yet another business as delegation around, including to assistants Mogae and Motang. The ‘dues’, the players’ commitment loss to Mali, with Botswana’s only sectors, ‘as well as conferencing, and luxury box renters,” he says. memorable period in Botswana usual appointment. their teams’ practice sessions. The long communication route freed was back to normal. They insisted goal scored by Mogakolodi ‘Tsotso’ sports and entertainment ‘Therefore, we are likely to football, qualifying for the 2012 Stan made a proposal to the innocent-looking ‘driver’ would Stan from petty issues to focus on that they were not going to play Ngele, the Zebras’ only goal from activities.’ have few grants and support by Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). BFA, detailing out his needs in order normally sit around waiting for the in-the-field activities. Clandestinely, Zimbabwe without even a single open play at the tournament. Ngele For Botswana sports, which international federations. This Nothing has come any closer to the for him to meet the obligations visiting team’s training sessions to Stan would get to know about the training session. A last gasp session earned a professional contract is struggling for sponsors, what means us, as the BNOC will feel top in our football than the moment proposed by the contract. One end. Once he had dropped off the issues without players knowing that was organised at the UB stadium, following that match, joining the does the current situation mean? the effects. This will extend to when we finally joined the best of of the things he requested for head of delegation, he would then he does actually know. Sometimes with lighting from several officials’ already established professionals in What are the challenges and BFA and all other Federations Africa in football for a continental was a series of relevant high-level under the cover of darkness meet the players would be cautioned at vehicles to break the darkness; a the team such as Modiri Marumo, opportunities, if any? who gets grants from their showpiece. training camps. Mooketsi Tosh with the Zebras’ coaching staff for lower levels that, for their own sake training session that ended around Selolwane, Mogogi Gabonamong, Former Botswana Premier mother bodies, your Botswana For me it started in the Kgotlele, BFA CEO then, took a a full briefing on the opponents’ as individuals, matters should not 9 o’clock in the night. and Boitumelo Mafoko among League (BPL) Board Member morning of 2nd July 2010 with brave step to give him a go ahead key strengths and weaknesses. In reach Stan as he would be ruthless The match ended in a goalless others. Athletics Association (BAA), Solomon Ramochotlhwane Botswana Boxing Asociation Stanley Tshosane’s signature slow in anticipation of an approval by some of the undercover moves, in dealing with them. Somehow this draw, with the players displaying The team headed home to map believes local sports will be hard and very original lonely voice on the his principals at their next meeting when he was not driving heads worked. a good measure of hunger ahead a new way forward. Stan had all (BoBA) and others,” he adds. hit. The BNOC vice president other side of the phone in a radio as he saw in this a national project of delegation, arrangements Throughout the preparations, of departure to the final camp in along been preparing a group of “Sport economics predict interview, breaking the rare and that has to be supported at all costs. would be made for him to play a Stan used the (then) South African Cameroun. youngsters among them Kabelo however says the current crisis the repercussions or Post unexpected news that his Zebras In the meantime, Kgotlele directed groundsman at training grounds based Diphetogo ‘Dipsy’ Selolwane Under the leadership of Mme Dambe, Galabgwe Moyana and will also bring new opportunities Covid 19 economic recession has beaten Tunisia the previous him to work with the then Technical for visiting teams. In one of those, as his remote captain, handing him Tshepo Mphoeng, then BFA NEC Ntesang ‘Mirror’ Simanyana to take for sports to rebrand and align aftershocks. It therefore mean day. Not many knew or even cared Director Losika ‘Six’ Keatlholetswe arrangements were made with the armband for a good number of member, the team took off for over from the obviously ageing itself to lure new that the sport will be immensely about the match in the first place. to put together a composite the UB Stadium management to matches. But, most importantly, he Cameroun, en route to Gabon. To AFCON 2012 troop. As would “We as sports have to affected,” he opines. The few who did expected the AFCON 2012 proposal to aid him allow him and kit manager Mmoni used Dipsy as the main technical everybody’s dismay, players were to be expected of every coach, at demonstrate that we are not just Ramochotlhane points out usual result (a loss) against a North (Kgotlele) when he finally presents ‘States’ Segopolo early access to the advisor especially on the PSL-based share beds, an arrangement totally the end of the tournament, the social responsibility but we can that as companies take the, they African football giant. The journey the proposal to his principals. stadium ahead of Tunisia’s training players who were part of the teams different from the one Tshosane coach and his technical team had also contribute, for example, will seek to prioritise where they to Gabon/Equatorial Guinea had To Stan’s pleasant surprise, session on their return match with the Zebras were to play against. had made on his advance trip. The prepared a report to share with the reduce health bill,” Sitale says. spend their monies and sports begun, at least in the minds of Bra the plan was approved, right from the Zebras. Not known to many of Dipsy was also the mentor of the menu was also something else, far leadership. Although this was never “Sport curb non- will not be a priority. Stan and his troops, and perhaps a his spying trip to Angola 2010 to us, kitted in overalls, ‘Slinger’ and players whenever he turned up for from the one initially agreed. Upon made possible at the NEC level, communicable diseases, so “Companies as stakeholders, few believers out there. the main event, AFCON 2012 in ‘States’ sneaked into the stadium international camps. Although he inquiry, the hotel management said an expectation was created to the putting money in sport means The unexpected journey gained Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. and pretended to be groundsmen, did not play in all the matches at the that they were merely acting on effect that a slot would be created at being the partners or investors we reduce money spent by traction with every qualifying match To kick off the programme, sprinkling water around and main tournament, he was a major instructions from the BFA office the forthcoming general assembly may be forced to streamline their insurance and medical bills. to the delight of many natives, Stan went to the Angola 2010 de-weeding some parts of the factor in giving the team direction back in Gaborone. It took some for the coach to present the report. sponsorships or terminate,” he Therefore, we should have citizens and compatriots, with the AFCON as planned. The gods ground. On arrival at the stadium, throughout the preparations. further tossing and turning for This apparently was never to be. An says. insurance companies sponsoring big animal Jerome Ramatlhakwane’s continued to smile on him when it Tunisia wanted the ‘groundsmen’ As part of the preparations, things to be restored to what was opportunity to present the report AS for the supporters, who sport for their benefit and the goal in our 1-0 win against Chad turned out that the centre he was to leave the stadium, but the the BFA supported a series of originally agreed. to the leadership was also never he defines as the number one Government also realizing that on 26 March 2011 putting things based at hosted Cameroun, Tunisia stadium ‘authorities’ refused as friendlies involving the usual To compound it all, key to come until Stan was shown the stakeholders in terms of revenue giving more money to sport beyond doubt. and several African football big the ‘groundsmen’ were there to suspects Lesotho, Swaziland striker Joel Mogorosi got injured door by the (then) new regime of generation through the gate actually reduces the health bill,” Unsurprisingly, words shots, crowning it with watching ready the stadium for the match the and Namibia, as well as tougher at training in Cameroun, an injury Tebogo Sebego, who had edged out takings, Ramochotlhwane says he says. of praise were showered on Egypt against Ghana at the finals. following day. Tunisia capitulated campaigners such as Nigeria, Niger, that threw all the team’s plans into David Fani during the course of the will take a little more time ‘to for her part, Botswana Tshosane, the head coach of Having watched several matches, and went ahead with their training Iran and even Sweden. disarray. Mogorosi had to be sent year. cushion their disposable income the team, who only three years including the final, his belief that session, with the ‘groundsmen’ As a show of commitment, back home for care and further Like Julius Caesar who refused Basketball Association (BBA) before we see them again at the earlier had been appointed to the these countries’ players were just covertly taking notes. Once the players would wake up on their medical attention and was replaced the crown in no less than three president Boineelo Hardy says grounds.’ hot seat. His appointment to the human was reinforced. He had training had ended, the duo found own at 5 o’clock in the morning for by Abednigo Powell. occasions, to this day, in his usual while the economy looks set “These two will have an Zebras coaching position was not apparently had this belief since his their ‘under cover’ way to the training, whether rain or sunshine, More problems laid ahead. modesty, Stan still refuses to solely to enter into a recession, new impact on the other stakeholders, celebrated by many; especially days with BDF XI, playing in Africa. Zebras camp to deliver their report. hot or cold. On arrival in Libreville, the team’s accept the responsibility of sending opportunities will arise for being players and teams. They against the background of his last His confidence was bolstered. Come match day, Tunisia did not On qualification, the BFA reserved accommodation had Botswana to her maiden AFCON sports. will go through a very lean period club coaching assignment, where Soon after signing on the know what hit them. Adios for now. approved a pre-AFCON 2012 been allocated to Cameroun, with finals. He puts it to all those who “This period means a time his BDF XI escaped relegation in his view worked tirelessly to of lack of financial resources and this will drive sports to for renewal and a change of through a play-off; never mind his deliver the qualification. He argues landscape in terms of how sport sparkling record with the club for that the teamwork behind the team amateur stage thus defeating the has been running and how sport the previous eight years to that from all angles played a role that quest to professionalism,” he has been done,” Hardy opines. point. His entry at the Zebras was saw the Zebras rub the shoulders opines. “Right now athletes are made even more lukewarm by the with the best at the biggest African While the challenges are fact that Batswana were still in a showpiece. big, Ramochotlhwane however hungry to play. So, I believe frenzy following better Zebras The BFA played their part to believes the current situation there will be a lot more passion performances under Veselin ‘Vesco’ support the preparations in a way gives sport an opportunity to because to have something Jelusic, never mind the lacklustre never seen before. The technical reflect and strategise. taken away from you really gives showing by one Colwyn Rowe who team and the players also did “It is high time the Ministry it a lot of meaning and you value had briefly taken over from Jelusic. their part, as well as the support of Sport sets up a Post COVID it more when you get it back It could be that this is the kind team and most importantly the 19 Taskforce to strategise on again.” of entry Bra Stan needed; one supporters. The Zebras supporters’ how sporting codes will deal “I am quite positive and where the nation expected nothing club was a big factor in the team’s with the aftermath of the upbeat that sponsors will come else but business as usual, and an campaign, traveling with the team expected recession on sports,” on board and do as much as accelerated return to the days of wherever it played; especially he concludes. possible to be seen or to be the whipping boys of Africa. where transport logistics were For his part, Botswana visible. Sport is one tool we Stan was not new to the Zebras favourable. On occasions, courtesy National Olympic Committee can use for social solidarity as camp, however, having been earlier of the overwhelming support the we have seen in most countries invited in 2001 to spearhead the Zebras received from the then state (BNOC) Vice President Tshepo Sitale also concurs that ‘sport is since this COVID 19 crisis,” selection of a local Foreign XI to president Ian Khama, the BDF Hardy says. test the Zebras, then under Major came to the rescue by providing one sector that is going to be The BBA president goes David Bright. He was later invited air transport at subsidised rates for hard hit.’ on to add that ‘coming out of as Zebras coach to take the team supporters who wished to travel “Just using the 2008 the crisis, sport will be a vehicle through a 4-nations tournament in with the team. Where supporters recession as an example, sport Molepolole which the Zebras won, could not travel with the team, took a knock and even after used to lift people’s moods and a project in which among others they would at least see it off at the the recession it took a few get people, and especially young he worked with Isiah ‘Sthanda’ airport, even if the team had to years for sport to pick sponsors people and children active again.’ Mogwadi, the late Joseph ‘Banks’ take off from the Johannesburg again,” Sitale says. “This means “A lot of sponsors will want Panene and Zambian Kaizer international airport. Supporters even after the recession, sports to be seen to be part of that Kalambo. A few more low profile would also be at hand to welcome will suffer longer even after kind of activity and to be seen wins (important to us though) the team back from away matches, economic upturn.” to be active in that way,” she spurred one Lekofi Sejeso of the dotted line, one of the first things AFCON 2012 – THE UNTOLD training camp in Cameroun for the Zebras being pointed to some with the qualifying match against “During the last 2008 adds. “I really believe sponsors now defunct Afro Sunshine band he did was to assemble a technical STORY – PART 2 similar climatic conditions and incomplete section of the hotel. Chad the most memorable as recession, ‘the United States will want to be seen to be part fame to compose ‘Zebras are team composed of Kenneth Mogae On his way back from the proximity to Gabon, as this would Now the players were becoming the airport security had to work Olympic Committee laid off of some kind of movement and Winning’, a song dedicated to the (assistant coach), Thabo Motang spying mission in Angola, Stan ease travel into Gabon at the hilarious and agitated at what they overtime to manage a blue army workers to cut millions from its some kind of social solidarity Zebras that was later to become the (goalkeeper coach), Professor summoned his technical team to beginning of the tournament. Stan thought was ill treatment by their of the supporters that came to the budget. The PGA Tour (Golf) post this crisis.” rhythm and the heartbeat of the Ignatius Uche Onyewadume brief them on his training plan timed his trip to collide with the own leadership, especially recalling airport to receive the team. lost 3 title sponsors but no Hardy says local sport Zebras matches. (physical trainer), Patrick Zibochwa and also share his experiences and AFCON toss in Gabon, in advance the Cameroun camp trials and Throughout the campaign Dr. events. Even Honda dropped should use this time positively He was then to work with (welfare manager), Dr. Mothusi learnings in Angola. of which players, obviously fired tribulations. They were becoming Vom’s ‘Tsaya Thobane’ and Lekofi its Formula 1 sponsorship,” he for change to do things Veselin Jelusic as assistant at Mogatle (team doctor), Patrick The first four or so camps up for war, openly expressed their restless. Sejeso’s rhythmic ‘Zebras are adds. differently and ‘do them better.’ the Zebras when the latter was Chaba (physiotherapist), Mmoni focused more on development desire to have Ghana, Equatorial In the meantime, the team winning’ were a factor, charging up “Even though we will appointed head coach at the end of ‘States’ Segopolo (kit manager) players to create depth in the team. Guinea and Mali in their group. uniform had not arrived as it the supporters and hypnotising the “In the case of Botswana be getting into an economic 2002. Within two years of working and Charles Chilisa (security Captains designates Mompati Tshosane broke off from a was apparently ordered late from opponents to yet another Zebras we are yet to see companies recession, I am not scared. I with ‘Vesco’, BDF recalled him officer), later replaced by Billy ‘Apache’ Thuma, Pontsho ‘Piro’ team camp in Rustenburg to set the supplier. When the uniform victory. increasing funds they give to back to work as he had just been Mabophiwa. The technical Moloi and Ndiyapo ‘The Bulldozer’ off on a trip to Cameroun and arrived, some of the names on the To some, this was the Sport, and remember some really believe it will be a new promoted, demanding of him to be team held a series of meetings Letsholathebe remained the Gabon to identify suitable camping shirts were not what was initially sweetest of Botswana’s football do it as just Corporate Social dawn and a better one for at hand to carry out his new office throughout the preparation period foundation of the team throughout facilities, stopping over in Duala, agreed, apparently because of achievement, driven by a native, responsibility. So companies sport across the world,” she responsibilities. where each member of the team so that they could create the before proceeding to Gabon the last minute changes that were Stanley Hunter Tshosane, easily will not have surplus to spend concludes. He retired from the army in made a presentation, participating necessary camaraderie between the for the toss and also to select a agreed with those responsible as showing what locals are capable in non-core business operations, Meanwhile, BFA Chief April 2008 and immediately called in everything technical including youngsters and the senior players. suitable hotel for the team during the desired names could not fit the of. Botswana football leadership of more so that in Botswana we Executive Officer (CEO) Mfolo back by the BFA under the guise that selection of the team of the day. Most of the youngsters were drawn the tournament. At the end of space provided on the shirts. the time needs to be commended do not have CSR Policy or Act Mfolo says signs are already he was coming to assist Rowe who Behind the scenes there from Bright’s ‘Dream Team’ that the exercise, he reported back to After the commotion the and thanked for their bravado in forcing them to spend in Sport, there that ‘we will go into an had taken over from ‘Vesco’ when was also a strong support team at some stage camped in China. his principals, with the only slight mood settled, just ahead of the picking on and standing by one Arts and so forth,” the BNOC economic depression.’ he left at the end of his contract. that included veteran journalists The team included the likes of concern being the hotel in Gabon first match. The Zebras took the of their own. Current and future VP observes. “Companies which are Little was it known at that time Sakaeyo Jane and Dikarabo Ramatlhakwane, Musa ‘Kakapa’ that was still a month or so away field against the Black Stars of leaderships should also take note Sitale says that with major contributors to the that the BFA needed an immediate Ramadubu, both of whom were Ohilwe and Mosimanegape ‘Twizer’ from completion. Otherwise, all Ghana, in what was arguably the and think wisely to recognise and the possible withdrawal of sports industry in terms of replacement for Rowe, whose exit very instrumental in accessing Ramohibidu among others. Also was well, at least up to this point. team’s match of the tournament. appreciate locals with the necessary sponsorships, professional sport sponsorships will likely not door had already been unlocked. videos and information about each inherited from the ‘Dream Team’ To crown it all, the players had their Although the Zebras lost 0-1, the credentials who have been a part of people will feel the effects. escape the depression,” Mfolo Apparently Rowe’s undoing was a of the Zebras’ opponents. There was assistant coach Mogae, who wish as the toss came out exactly team’s performance created hope Botswana football. “We will have few races or opines. 0-0 home draw against Madagascar. was Rrenyane ‘Bomba’ Dikole came to play the same role under the way they wished. for the next matches. Not only was 2012 the country’s competition which then stall The BFA CEO says as such, Under Philip Makgalemele, and Odirile ‘China’ Matlhaku to Stan. The Mogae factor, together Excited at the unexpected An injury to Ramohibidu maiden AFCON appearance, the sport growth. We also have companies are likely to prioritise Stan was offered a seven months do technical spy works on the with the presence of the captain qualification, from all angles, the against Ghana and the tactical Zebras won the ‘CAF Team of the amateur players and some partly where they get a better Return contract to see off the 2010 opponents. The latter two ended up designates at all times, made the corporate sector started making approach to the match dented the Year’ Award. Sadly the only thing make a living from sport. So on Investment and sport will AFCON/World Cup qualifiers. His joining the team in Gabon. There blending of the youngsters into the financial pledges to the team. This team’s chances in the next match to show for it is a little plaque in first assignment as head coach of was also Oaitse Joseph Mathiba of senior team a lot easier. is where problems started. Money against Guinea. On the day, Stan the BFA cabinet, with nothing to the impact goes a long way,” he feel the pinch. the Zebras was a qualifying match Personal Management Academy To reinforce communication started being a factor to the players fielded arguably the best attacking appreciate those who fought for observes. Mfolo is however optimistic against Mozambique, one of the as the team’s motivational speaker and governance in the team over as expectations were now created. team with Pontsho Moloi and it. Perhaps with time, the BFA will “At the highest levels, that post COVID 19, sport and countries that had hitherto been and Moruti Kebase who would and above the three captains, At the end of the Rustenburg Diphetogo Selolwane introduced think of a roll of honour for those organizations like the football in particular due to the unbeatable, at least by Botswana. travel from Thamaga using his a players’ technical committee camp the team returned back home to add a sting to the attack, only for who delivered that Award. Our International Olympics large following it commands, The Zebras beat the Mambas 2-1 in own resources to support the team manned by Joel Mogorosi and to continue camp at the (then) Guinea to come up with a different 2012 heroes surely deserve better. Committee (IOC) and FIFA ‘will be a perfect vehicle for their own backyard. The team went with prayers whenever necessary. Jerome Ramatlhakwane was Gaborone Sun ahead of a final plan that numbed the Zebras. The Adios amigos. operates with financial cushions, investment.’ April 19 - 25, 2020

Sports Analysis | News | Results April 19 - 25, 2020 BPL players join queue for COVID-19 relief fund bailout

DUNCAN KGANGKENNA BFA Chief Executive Officer assist the players because they not complying with laws of the (CEO) Mfolo Mfolo said the are the most hit. It is a natural country, football laws let alone otswana Premier BFA has submitted cumulative catastrophe which should be the club licensing,” observed League players are wage bill of the premier league addressed by all. We didn’t Glazer. rubbing their hands teams to the Botswana National expect this. I feel players should He is of the view that for the optimistically in Sport Commission (BNSC) for be helped to overcome the sake of fairness all the premier anticipation of a bail their consideration. situation,” said Mfolo. league teams should be classified out from the COVID-19 relief “We have used the players He advised that going as informal sector so that they Bfunds. contracts with each team and forward teams need to take can benefit from the COVID Permanent Secretary cumulated the wage bill and insurance policies for their relief fund. “Everybody is in the Ministry of Youth submitted it to the BNSC players for eventualities like the affected by COVID-19 and if Empowerment, Sport and so that they can further the COVID-19. “Had the teams teams are to individually benefit Culture Development, Kago requisition with the ministry insured players they could it might be a tough call because Ramokate however says of sport for the relief fund,” be getting money from the of not adhering to some Botswana Premier League he said. He also said there was unemployment benefit which regulatory demands hence the (BPL) teams will have to wait another suggestion that those was able to cushion them for at need for them to get equal share for government to come up who comply with tax can apply least six months,” he advised. and players also getting equal with guidelines on how they are share,” opined Glazer. going to be assisted to recover He said this pandemic from the coronavirus through should be a wake-up call the COVID-19 relief fund. to all the elite teams and In an interview with administrators because in future Sunday Standard sport he said they might forfeit everything discussions are ongoing and if they are not complying with they are yet to conclude on the laws, and government and how clubs will benefit from other organisations will not the COVID-19 relief fund. assist because they will demand With regards to allegations certain documents to be that only teams that have been submitted before plea to assist complying with the register of is fulfilled. societies and paying tax through According to the ministry the Botswana Unified Revenue of Finance and Economic Services will be assisted, he said: Development, businesses are “we will make pronouncement expected to supply payroll when ready.” information to BURS, which There are allegations within directly to the COVID19-19 Football commentator will administer the subsidy. All football circles that those teams relief fund. Molatlhegi Glazer Mangole said claims will be subjected to audit. that did not comply with some Mfolo is of the view that though premier league teams are Mfolo advised football regulatory bodies will not be COVID-19 has affected all professional teams that should lovers and players to abide by assisted. and there is need for all to be be adhering to professional the advice from the government “Yes, we have had assisted. ethics in Botswana, they are not. and ministry of health officials consultations with the BFA “We have to look at the “The majority, if not all of to save the nation. He added leadership whether we are in players who are currently the premier league teams are not that there is need for all football any position to help them. The at home with nothing. We running professionally. They are loving people to all come back decision to assist can only be shouldn’t look at whether the going to make it difficult for from the pandemic and continue made by government not just team was complying with set authorities to help them during thronging the football matches MYSC,” explained Ramokate. regulations or not but fight to this pandemic because they are for entertainment. Mfolo Mfolo

Botswana Sports Post COVID 19 – What Does The Future Hold? BOTLHALE KOOTHUPILE ‘anticipate the worst economic ‘partial recovery’ in 2021, ‘with diamonds.’ is just a ‘baseline scenario.’ country’s economic outlook. 2021. This is assuming that the channels, among others, probable downturn since the Great growth expected at 5.8 per cent.’ “Higher mining production Depending on many variable According to BoB, ‘the spread of Covid-19 is contained local infections. As the war against the spread of Depression.’ For Botswana, it predicts could provide some upside, but factors, including the depth and prognosis by forecasters suggests, and vaccines are developed. The other channels, according the coronavirus rages, the world While there is tremendous that ‘widespread and prolonged this could be offset by climate duration of the pandemic, things in the short-term, a big negative BoB went on to project that to the BoB include travel and economy is taking a massive hit. uncertainty around the forecast, disruptions from the coronavirus shocks, which would also weigh can get even grimmer. impact in the first two quarters as Botswana is an open economy social gathering restrictions In one of its recent forecasts, the IMF says expectation is for could lower growth and on agricultural output and The Bank of Botswana (BoB) of 2020, with expectations of which is integrated with regional affecting tourism and hospitality the International Monetary Fund global growth to fall to -3 percent mining revenue through slower tourism,” the IMF projects. in a press release dated 1st April recovery of economic activity in and global economies, Botswana (IMF) said the world should this year. The IMF projects tourism activity and demand for According to the IMF, this expressed the same views on the the latter part of the year and into will be affected through several CONTINUES ON PG 19

CONVENIENCE. SIMPLICITY. EFFICACY... SERVED. Bespoke Cloud Solutions And Designs That Resonate With Your Brand.

Web Apps Systems

T: +267 39 22 111 www.mind-q.com [email protected]