The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 SAVE THE OKAVANGOPage 1 Protest against exploration goes global

Wednesday 05 May 2021 FREE! Page 8 “Kitso ke maatla” “Nothing Would Stop Us From Investigating Masisi” – DCEC

Story On Page 3

GOV'T TO ROLL OUT P500M PULA Masisi's Endorsement For Peggy Serame STIMULATION PACKAGE Page 2 Divides Goodhope-Mabule Constituency Page 2

Asians only’ rental advert Global Jeweler To Shun Botswana Mined Page 5 causes uproar Page 2 Diamonds In Favour of Synthetic Diamonds

EWETSE KHAMA TO ASSUME DUTIES AT BANGWATO ROYAL HOUSE Page 17

Check the Botswana website Check the Botswana website Visit sc.com/bw/bankmore/ Visit sc.com/bw/bankmore/

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Ltd is regulated by Bank of Botswana Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Ltd is regulated by Bank of Botswana

Check the Botswana website Visit sc.com/bw/bankmore/

Standard Chartered Bank Botswana Ltd is regulated by Bank of Botswana Page 2 news Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette Nata/Gweta Identifies Majaga’s Challenger • The son of the Kgosi of Nata, Mompati Seitiso comes with the trappings of aristocracy • Majaga dismisses his potential

The minister of youth sports and culture development Tumiso Rakgare briefs the media in Gaborone on 4 May 2021 on the prepara- replacement as “a council-seat reject” tion of Team Botswana for the Tokyo Olympic. BNSC chairman Marumo Morule and BNOC President Col. Botsang Tshenyego, MYSC permanent secretary Kabo Ramokate and BNOC acting chief executive officer eduW Motswetla were present during the briefing. SESUPO RANTSIMAKO (Pic:Monirul Bhuiyan/PRESS PHOTO) lthough it might be too early to prepare for 2024 general elections, Botswana Democratic Party A(BDP) constituents in Nata/Gweta have already identified youthful Mompati Seitiso to replace the incum- Gov’t To Roll Out P500m bent MP, Polson Majaga, The Botswana Gazette has es- tablished. As the son of Kgosi Rebagamang Rancholo of Nata, Seitiso comes with the trappings of royal birth. Sources close to this development say Seitiso is capable of “de- Pula Stimulation Package throning” Majaga and that the incumbent MP is no longer the favourite because he has shown that he does not have the interests of the constituency at heart. Perhaps most • The first tranche of P500m to be disbursed before this year is out importantly, nativity is a factor in that Majaga is from Nata while Seitiso is a prince of Nata by birth. • The second tranche of P500m to follow after an assessment “It is high time we send someone who originate from this constituency to Parliament because they will have our best interests at heart, unlike the incumbent MP who GAZETTE REPORTER originates from Tutume,” said a source. “Seitiso might be The source added that a large portion of the stimu- youthful but his leadership qualities and educational back- lus package will go to the tourism sector because it overnment intends to roll out a stimulation ground speak volumes. Besides that, what frustrates the has been especially impacted by the pandemic. “The constituents even more is that Majaga’s political career has package of half a billion to support ailing government is hard at work to ensure that taxes are been surrounded by scandals, the latest being one of alle- businesses in the country before end of this G collected and put into the economy to help create gations of defilement.” year, The Botswana Gazette has established. jobs,” the source added. “The intention is to encour- Sources say the government will review the im- age more businesses to stay afloat because there are “It is high time we send pact of the stimulus package after this year and then fears that more companies are feeling the brunt of roll out another half a billion pula in furtherance of someone who originate from this pandemic and may shut down.” recovery “We continue to engage stakeholders such as this constituency to Parliament “Because many jobs have Business Botswana to assist in mapping out ways because they will have our best been lost under the impact of assisting the business community. The point is that if people lose jobs, they become a burden on interests at heart, unlike the of COVID-19, the government the state. So the idea is to help businesses financially to safeguard jobs.” incumbent MP who originates decided to support companies It recently emerged that over 900 jobs have been lost since the outbreak of COVID-19 and that more from Tutume,” said a source. in the private sector with funds companies are planning to retrench before end of this year. Meanwhile, during commemoration of In- Majaga has been the subject of several controversies, for expansion tied to jobs,” said ternational Workers Day over the weekend, Presi- including allegations of stock theft, threat to kill and a dent Masisi said government has committed billions notorious defilement case from which he was eventually a source. “Details will be shared of pula to resuscitation of the economy in order to absolved for lack of evidence. The MP of Nata/Gweta has consistently maintained all the cases were the result of a create jobs. soon.” political witch hunt by his opponents. “I am cognisant of the fact that as we emerge from Seitiso has confirmed that he has been approached by President Mokgweetsi Masisi broached the ques- the impact of this scourge, there is a need for us to “constituency elders” about running in the BDP primaries tion of committing economic transformation and job ensure that we create an opportunity for sustainable for 2024. “I can confirm that I have been approached by creation during commemoration of the International job creation in our country,” the President said. many elders about me representing the constituency in Workers’ Day over the weekend. “The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has Parliament,” he told The Gazette. “Some came from Tso- The first package will target companies seeking to exacerbated the challenge of unemployment, par- kotshaa over the weekend. Their reasons are that they want expand their operations and thus create more jobs. ticularly amongst our young people. To this end, as someone with vibrant ideas and initiatives for the constitu- ency. They say I am just such a person.” “Because many jobs have been lost under the im- you may be aware, government has developed an pact of COVID-19, the government decided to sup- Reached for comment, Majaga responded: “If Seitiso is Economic Recovery Transformation Plan and com- sent by the party leadership, let it be so. It does not bother port companies in the private sector with funds for mitted billions of pula in the long-term to resuscitate me that Seitiso is the son of the Kgosi. I do not have the expansion tied to jobs,” said a source. “Details will the economy, thereby creating jobs for our youth.” time to talk much because I am busy with Kgotla meet- be shared soon.” ings. What I know is that he is a council-seat reject.” The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 news Page 3

else. We do not serve anyone’s interests. fice as president in April 2018. At the moment we have nothing on him.” Nonetheless, some sections of the me- “Nothing Would Stop He pointed out that according to the dia and opposition parties have accused law, Botswana’s head of state is only im- Masisi of possible corruption and abuse mune from prosecution and not from in- of office since declaration of the first State vestigation. of Emergency (SOE) on 1st April 2020. Us From Investigating Katlholo was appointed by President He came under serious criticism after he Masisi late last year following the trans- pitched for and won a prime portion of fer of Brigadier Joseph Mathambo to the government-owned Banyana Farms last Botswana Defence Force (BDF). Sources year. say he was highly recommended by the Masisi” – DCEC His business dealings with foreign head of the DISS, Brigadier Peter Mago- businessmen have also come under the si. He served as the Director General of Says DCEC isn’t investigating DCEC from 2001 to 2009. microscope of the media and the political vestigations or report on the President,” he The Ombudsman Augustine Makgonat- opposition. Companies associated with Masisi at present emphasised. “If we were to have any cor- sotlhe has also previously told this pub- some of his business partners have been ruption investigations on him, we would lication there has not been even a single directly awarded COVID-19 supply ten- LETLHOGILE MPUANG gladly follow it up. As I have said before, complaint of corruption or abuse of office ders. All COVID-19 procurement is done we are guided by our mandate and nothing filed against Masisi since he assumed of- at the Office of the President. othing would stop the Direc- torate on Corruption and Eco- Nnomic Crimes (DCEC) from investigating President Mokgweetsi Masisi if investigating the President was warranted, the Director General of the corruption busting agency, Tymon Katl- holo, has said. “No sir, we do not have any investigations or report on the President,” he emphasised. “If we were to have any corruption investigations on him, we would gladly follow it up. As I have said before, we are guided by our mandate and nothing else. We do not serve anyone’s interests. At the moment we have nothing on him.”

In an interview with The Botswana Gazette this week, Katlholo said DCEC is not actively probing the President for corruption or anything else at the mo- ment. “No sir, we do not have any in- Page 4 advertisement Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 NEWS Page 5 Pandora To Shun Mined Diamonds In Favour of Synthetic Diamonds BONGANI MALUNGA production being a source of national and global pride. However, the latest n a move that is set to have long report of Pandora’s switch to synthetic term effects on the diamond min- diamonds has raised a lot of uncertainty Iing production industry across the about Botswana’s readiness to adapt to world, leading diamond jeweller Pan- the consumers’ new demands of labora- dora has elected to switch to laborato- tory-made diamonds. ry-made diamonds and no longer sell De Beers, a diamond mining giant mined diamonds. According to UK with a long standing partnership with based media outlet BBC, the world’s the Botswana government, experienced biggest jeweller will now start sourcing an 18 % decline in production last year diamonds that are laboratory-made that according to a report published by UK are somewhat similar to the naturally media outlet BBC News. De Beers has produced diamonds. in the past embraced synthetic diamond With the world’s biggest jeweller tak- production but they have always main- ing a bold step to abandon mined dia- tained that they have no plans to ditch monds, there is widespread expectation mining production altogether. that many will follow suit. This could In 2018, De Beers Executive Vice Botswana receives 200000 doses of Sinovac Corona virus Covid 19 protective vaccine from China as have ripple effects on diamond min- President (Corporate Affairs) David a donation on 25 April 2021 in Gaborone. Minister of health and wellness Dr Edwin Gorataone Dikoloti ing giants such as Botswana, Russia, Prager told The Botswana Gazette that receives the vaccine consignment from the ambassador of China to Botswana Wang Xuefeng while Canada and Australia who have already minister Kabo Neale Sechele Morwaeng, Dr Lemogang Kwape, permanent secretary Grace Muzila were they “have no intention of abandon- present among the others at the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport while the consignment arrives seen a decline in production due to CO- ing their long-held business operations with an Ethiopian airways flight. VID-19. in natural diamonds and that this long For years Africa has been plagued term strategy is buttressed by the fact by reports of child labour or diamonds that De Beers will, over the next five produced with human rights violations years, spend 10 billion US Dollars in AG Concludes being prevalent in the processes of pro- setting up new mines and expanding ducing the precious stones. The BBC their existing operations in the explora- report states one of the key reasons for tion, mining and marketing of natural COVID Funds Audit Pandora’s switch is that, “Concerns diamonds.” Prager was speaking to this about the environment and working publication following the announce- practices in the mining industry have ment of De Beers’ decision to selling • Two separate audits conducted led to growing demand for alternatives synthetic diamonds at the time. to mined diamonds.” Efforts to get a response from De • Relevant recommendations to be forwarded to DCEC Botswana, on the other hand, has a Beers and Debswana on this developing and DISS unique story with conflict free diamond issue were futile by time of press. • Winter Parliament to debate reports • Rampant corruption around COVID funds reported Interest Rates for LETLHOGILE MPUANG May 2021 he Office of the Auditor General (AG) is expected release an audit report on performance and use of COVID-19 funds, the Permanent Secretary (PS) at Tthe Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Wilfred Mandlebe, has confirmed. In fact, according to information reaching The Botswana Gazette, two separate audit reports are expected – a performance audit and the a management audit of COVID-19 funds. These reports will be presented in the winter sitting of Parliament. “The Auditor General recently confirmed to the Ministry (of Finance) that the audit of the COVID-19 funds is ongoing,” revealed the finance PS. “One is the First National Bank Savings and Investments Rates performance audit report, which will assess the management of the pandemic by the country, successes and challenges. The other report is the management of the The following standard Savings and Investment rates will apply COVID-19 fund, which will determine the extent to which the fund was managed in accordance with the Fund Order and Financial Regulations.” Type of Deposit Nominal Actual Interest Minimum Mandlebe added that the first of the two reports had already been concluded. “I Account Interest Rates(%) Rates(%) Opening Balance am informed by the Auditor General that the first report is ready and is undergoing (Lowest – Highest) (Lowest – Highest) (Pula) validation within their office while the second one is also at an advanced stage of Current (Individual) Nil Nil Nil completion,” he said. “Once completed and submitted to the minister responsible Call 0.025% to 0.025% 0.025% to 0.025% 1,000.00 for finance, these reports will be tabled in Parliament as per the requirements of the Savings (Poloko) 0.10% to 0.75% 0.10% to 0.75% 500.00 law.” Flexi Fixed (3 Months) 1.50% 1.51% 100.00 Where relevant, recommendations made in the reports will be forwarded to inves- tigating agencies (the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crimes (DCEC) and Flexi Fixed (6 Months) 2.50% 2.53% 100.00 the Directorate of Security and Intelligence Service (DISS) to pursue and determine Flexi Fixed (12 Months) 3.15% 3.20% 100.00 any acts of crime or corruption. 91-Days Fixed Deposit 0.75% 0.75% 1,000.00 Concerns of corruption around COVID-19 funds have been growing since decla- 6 Months 1.25% to 1.30% 1.26% to 1.31% 1,000.00 st ration of the first State of Public Emergency (SoPE) on 1 of April 2020. Govern- 12 Months 1.30% to 1.90% 1.31% to 1.92% 1,000.00 ment set aside over P2.4 billion to help capacitate the health sector in its fight against 24 Months 2.00% to 2.25% 2.02% to 2.27% 1,000.00 the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before he was redeployed, former DCEC Director General, Brigadier Joseph Over 24 Months 3.37% 3.42% 1,000.00 Mathambo, told The Botswana Gazette in May last year that his office had received Prime Lending Rate 5.25% documents of possible corruption at the Ministry of Health and Wellness. His suc-

cessor Tymon Katlholo has also told the media that they were following up alleged For term deposits the minimum amount is BWP 1 million to qualify for a special rate. corruption cases linked to COVID-19 funds. It has been reported that the levels of corruption at the Ministry of Health since the For more information please enquire at your nearest FNB branch advent of the novel Coronavirus had upset President Mokgweetsi Masisi to the point or visit www.fnbbotswana.co.bw where he eventually corralled all COVID-19 procurement under the purview of the Office of the President. Page 6 news Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette Court orders in favour of Butale in BDP suspension case P1,000 per hour, and copies of documents containing 64 pages filed at P1,280. Orders BDP to pay P72,945 As the MP for Tati West under the BDP in 2018, Butale instructed Monthe MPHO MATSHEDISO allegedly telling voters in Tati West that Marumo and Associates to take the BDP he would contest the general elections as to court to appeal the primary election re- he Gaborone High Court has or- an independent candidate. He was subse- sults as recommended by the North East dered in favour of Botswana Patri- quently suspended from membership of regional committee. Totic Front (BPF) president, Biggie the BDP for six months. “When the matter was supposed to go Butale, in a case where he had taken the The court recently ordered the BDP to to the courts, I was suspended from the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), the cover the costs of the case that amount to BDP and my lawyer advised that I with- Chairman of the BDP Appeals Board, and P72,945. The Botswana Gazette has cop- draw the case because even if we had Butale’s opponent in the primaries Simon ies of court documents which state that the won, I would not have been able to stand Moabi to court over the results of the 2018 costs for the bill were accumulated from as a candidate because I was now sus- primary elections. perusal of notice of motion, a draft order pended and could not take part in party After losing the primary elections to and power of attorney which comprised activities,” he said in an interview. So we Moabi, Butale appeared before the BDP 100 pages at P2,500, attending at the Ga- withdrew and they (BDP) were awarded disciplinary committee to face charges of borone High Court for a status hearing at the costs of the case.”

ADVERTISEMENT Butale says ORANGE BOTSWANA STAFF PENSION FUND ADVERTISEMENT FOR AN INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES bill for his The Trustees of Orange Botswana Staff Pension Fund (‘the Fund’) are in the process of appointing a qualified and experienced individual to serve on the Fund as an Independent Trustee. case is Qualifications and Eligibility of Candidates “ridiculously The candidate should be an individual who is not an employee of Orange Botswana, its subsidiaries or related entities or any service provider to the Fund.

The incumbent will be responsible for the following: high” To work with the Board of Trustees in achieving the objectives of the Fund, actively participate in • The case only went Trusteemeetings with the intention to add value and bring innovative ideas that can assist the Fund to deliver sustainable long-term results to the members of the Fund. as far as a status Requirements- You will have relevant experience and expertise in the following areas hearing • Ability to understand strategic issues, accept legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of a Trustee • Sound knowledge of corporate governance, sufficient time and commitment to fulfil the role • BDP to settle the bill • At least 7 years working experience in the financial services environment • Should be well vested in pension and insurance issues MPHO MATSHEDISO • Basic knowledge of the NBFIRA Act, Retirement Funds Act, Trust Act and any other relevant Acts • The individual must be of good standing to be approved by the Non-Bank Financial Institutions he president of the Botswana Pa- Regulatory Authority (NBFIRA) to be a Trustee triotic Front, Biggie Butale, has Tdescribed the bill of costs for his Applicants with a professional and/or working background in finance, investments, risk management and case against the Botswana Democratic compliance will be favourably considered. A previous experience in Board membership and Trustee ship as Party (BDP) a stifling of democracy be- well. cause it is too high. “Just as they did to the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), they want to Board Tenure stifle democracy,” Butale said in anin- terview with The Botswana Gazette this The Independent Trustee shall hold office for a three (3) year period. week. The bill of costs, which is to be paid The qualified candidates are to submit their detailed curriculum vitae with a covering letter and certified by the BDP is, is P72, 945.00 before tax copies of qualifications to the following, with a clearly marked heading ‘Orange Botswana Staff Pension deductions are made. Fund – Independent Trustee’ no later than 14 May 2021. The Botswana Gazette has copies of court documents which state that the Orange Botswana Staff Pension Fund - Independent Trustee costs were accumulated from perusing the notice of motion, a draft order and the Pension Consulting power of attorney which comprised 100 Aon Botswana (Pty) Ltd pages at P2, 500, attending at Gaborone Aon House High Court for a status hearing at P1,000 Plot 50368, Showgrounds per hour and copies of documents filed Gaborone, Botswana containing 64 pages at P1, 280. In 2018, Butale, at the time the MP for Or email to: [email protected]/ [email protected]. Tati West under the BDP, instructed the legal firm Monthe Marumo and Associ- ates to take the party and the Chairman of Closing Date for applications: 14 May 2021 the BDP Appeals Board to court over pri- NB: Please note that only short-listed applicants will be contacted. mary elections appeals as recommended by the North East regional committee. The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 NEWS Page 7 Gerrie Nel completes ‘P100bn mission’ • State reportedly gave him contradictory versions of the matter • State’s accounts believed to be giving Nel a headache • Much depends on his legal opinion of the matter

TEFO PHEAGE

hile Advocate Gerrie Nel was has completed the first round of his Wmission to assess the high profile P100 billion case, he is left with making sense of a litany of contradictions among state insti- tutions that he interviewed before giving his legal opinion about whether to proceed with the matter or otherwise. “He is done and we don’t know when he will come back to the DPP on the way forward,” a highly placed source at the Directorate of Public Prosecutions told The Botswana Ga- zette. “What we know is that he was shocked at some of the weaknesses he observed in responses to the several probing questions that he asked dur- ing interviews.” “He is done and we don’t know when Western Life Insurance Botswana appoints he will come Mr. Boikanyo Kgosidintsi as CEO back to the Mr. Boikanyo Kgosidintsi Speaking on his appointment, Mr. Boikanyo Kgosidintsi has been appointed as said, “I have been an executive in financial services for over 20 years and I am extremely excited to be joining the first DPP on the the new Chief Executive 100% citizen owned insurer in Botswana. The Non-Bank Officer of Western Life Financial Institution sector has historically been dominated Insurance Botswana. by majority foreign owned companies. This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate that with the right leadership way forward,” in place, customer- centric solutions and shareholder support it is possible for citizen owned entities to compete and deliver world class service to the sector.”

The Director of the DPP, Stephen Mr. Boikanyo Kgosidintsi joins Western Life Insurance Botswana from Letshego Holdings Tiroyakgosi, did not take this publica- Limited where he was Group Head of Investor Relations; a position that he has held since November 2014. Prior to that, Boikanyo was Vice-President, Investment Banking Division: tion’s calls. Sub-Saharan Africa Coverage at Absa Capital based in Johannesburg. While proponents of the case say that Nel - who is the head of the pri- A lawyer by profession, Boikanyo has deep domestic financial services experience having been involved in stakeholder management, structuring, execution and vate prosecutions unit at South Af- marketing of debt capital market raisings in excess of US2bn for sovereign issuers, rica’s Afikaner nationalist organisa- blue chip corporates and Government related entities across sub-Saharan Africa. tion, AfriForum - may help tighten the In 2019, Boikanyo was appointed member of the Investment Committee of case, critics say he is actually here to Aleyo Capital Fund 1. He was also appointed Vice President Botswana Bond rationalise the state’s strategy before Market Association in the same year. arriving at what is known as “unwill- ing to prosecute” or nolle prosequi in He completed his LLB from the University of Botswana in 1997. legalese. “They will say they are with- drawing acting on Nel’s advice,” said ABOUT WESTERN LIFE INSURANCE BOTSWANA Western Life Insurance Botswana is a long-term insurance company registered and regulated by the one legal guru linked to the defence. Non-Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority Page 8 news Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette Protest Against Exploration In The Okavango Reaches International Movement • UK-based movement joins protest • Worried about harmful eff ects on fragile ecosystem and gas inevitably risks polluting the delta and con- pany that it should stop.” sequently killing the wildlife and harming people. The granting of exploration and mining permits to SESUPO RANTSIMAKO There is also strong conviction that oil exploration Reckon Africa has spawned a backlash from envi- and mining have the potential to contribute to cata- ronmentalists and people of the Okavango who fear K-based Extinction Movement has joined strophic levels of climate change, risking the death harmful effects on the fragile ecosystem. hands with Batswana abroad to publicise of billions of animals and people. While the Minister of Mineral Resources, Green the protest against exploration and po- U “We launched this campaign upon realisation that Technology and Energy Security, Lefoko Moagi, tential mining for oil and gas in the wildlife-rich Batswana are silent about the mining project that could not be reached, he attempted to dispel these Okavango Delta, The Botswana Gazette has estab- has the potential to damage the world heritage site,” lished. fears earlier this year. Moagi told the local media Cooke said in an interview with The Botswana Ga- that the company would carry out an Environmental Dubbed “Save the Okavango Delta,” the protest zette. “The Botswana Government cannot tell us that Impact Assessment before any drilling could take comes after the Botswana and the Namibian gov- they want to create employment yet it is busy with place. ernments granted Canadian company Recon Africa the project that might bring poverty in the long run.” “Botswana will learn from drilling activities in oil drilling rights along the main rivers that flow “We recently held a protest in front of the Cana- into the delta. dian Embassy in order to lodge our concerns about Namibia, which is already upfront with activities of According to one Motswana based in the UK, this looming oil mining. We want this campaign to oil and gas mining by the same company that has Joy Crooke, at the top of concerns of the Extinction reach as many stakeholders in Botswana as possible been granted the rights (here),” he told journalists Movement is that exploration and mining for oil as it could eventually click on this Canadian com- early this year. The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 news Page 9

mission to elect their own Kgosi. More- over, the villagers (Claimants) allege that High Court they do not know how the appointment of Ketlareng Lekhutile as their Kgosi came about as they were never consulted. Adjourns Information gathered by The Botswana Gazette reveals that a group of villagers in Mmutlane formed a coup to oust Loomat- Mmutlane soga Gaogane from the chieftaincy. More- over a section of the villagers in the low- est tribal lineage in the village had gone to Serowe and informed Serogola Lekhutile’s Chieftainship children that they are the rightful heirs to the chieftainship in Mmutlane. It has emerged that the villagers through a Kgot- Case la meeting held on 12 December 2020, the people of Mmutlane cried foul of lack of consultation from government. Botswana Building Society (BBS) shareholders elected new board members during the annual Respondents show up in general meeting held in Gaborone on 30 April 2021. (Pic:Monirul Bhuiyan/PRESS PHOTO) court unprepared

MPHO MATSHEDISO

he Lobatse High Court has post- poned a case in which representa- Ttives of Mmutlane Village in the Central District are suing the Ministry of Local Government, the Attorney Gener- al, and Ketlareng Lekhutlile for interfer- ing in their bogosi affairs. Justice Modiri Letsididi has set trial for 12 May 2021 because representatives of the respondents provided documents written in Setswana and were unprepared for trial. The Botswana Vaccine Institute Ltd is a Botswana PURCHASING OFFICER- FIXED The Botswana Gazette is in possession Government wholly owned company with a high of petition which states that Albert Mo- international reputation. It is committed to the TERM 12 MONTHS gaetsho, Robert Mosetlhe and 51 other production of high quality livestock vaccines which village representatives say they want the are exported worldwide. Botswana Vaccine Institute MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB people of Mmutlane Village to vote for To purchase goods and services in accordance with their own chief without interference from is now seeking to recruit a qualified and experienced person to fill the following vacant position specifications and procedures to maximize value for government or Serowe. According to the money and production continuity. petition the residents of Mmutlane would like to autonomously decide who to lead HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS: them without interference from Serowe. • Cost effective procurement of goods and MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB outsourced services “We would like you to Reporting to the Human Resource Manager, the remove Ntshadi Dlodlo incumbent will implement HR processes and • Availability of material activities aligned to the BVI strategy to support a high • Timely and accurate processing of purchase from calling herself performance culture. She/He will drive PMS, Payroll orders and invoices. Administration, Recruitment, Talent Managemment • Timely distribution of non stock material to user our Kgosi and she and staff support activities. departments

should refrain from KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: Talent Management Education: Minimum Degree in Logistics and Supply calling herself chief of Payroll Administration Chain Management/CIPS Level 6 Performance Management Mmutlane and thus she Recruitment and Onboarding Professional Membership should not be conducting Training and Development Chartered Institute of Purchasing Supply General HR Administration Management or relevant membership Kgotla meetings in our Employee Relations Availability of HR data and Management Information Experience: At least three (3) years in a developed village in the pretense Reports supply chain environment of a mature entity

she is the chief of the JOB REQUIREMENTS: Competencies: Education: Bachelor Degree in Human Recource, • Excellent Communication Skills village. Business Administration or equivalent • Organisational skills • Analystical skills “We would like you to remove Ntshadi Experience: Dlodlo from calling herself our Kgosi and • interpersonal skills 5 years post graduate experience in a mature HR • Negotiation skills she should refrain from calling herself environment chief of Mmutlane and thus she should Experience in ERP HR Modules Applications, Certified copies of certificates, ID and not be conducting Kgotla meetings in our Proficiency in MS Word and Excell village in the pretense she is the chief of CVs containing two names of referees and their Exposure to Talent Management and Succession the village. Her presence has only caused contact details should reach the address below not conflict between residents of Mmutlane,” Planning later than 13 May 2021 says the petition. According to court documents that The Competencies/Skills: Human Resource Manager Botswana Gazette has a copy of, the clus- Analytical skills Botswana Vaccine Institute ter through their attorney Ndadi Law firm Human Resource Plot 6385 Lejara Rd. B/Hurst Industrial Ests. want the Minister of Local Government People Management P/Bag 0031 to set aside the appointment of Ketlareng Interpersonal relations Gaborone. Lekhutile or any other person currently Employee Relations appointed as kgosi of Mmutlane. They Email: [email protected] would like the court to grant them per- Page 10 news Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette

Donald Molosi

ne of the cornerstones of cultural diploma- gives people role models they can follow in their cy is open dialogue between cultures. This own behaviour. But the real change for the nation Oyear, Botswana turns 55. When our coun- would in fact have to come from ordinary people, try was formed 55 years ago, there were no women from every parent raising their boys to respect in cabinet (or leading Botswana missions abroad) girls, from every father empowering his daughter until Dr. Gaositwe Chiepe joined cabinet almost and considering her equal to her brother. In Ger- a decade later. In 1986, Emang Basadi Women’s many we have recently discovered that empower- Association came into formal existence to lobby ing girls also means that you have to care for boys against laws that discriminated against women in in schools and kindergartens and give them good Botswana. Therefore, in commemoration of the male role models. Something else which has been 35th birthday of Emang Basadi, I speak below to the established in Germany to help women in distress Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany is to offer shelter in so called “Frauenhäusern“, to Botswana, Her Excellency Margit Hellwig-Botte. meaning shelters or houses paid for by the com- This conversation is reproduced with gratitutde to munity or the city where women can move in with the Upright African Movement. their kids and live there for some time in case they DM: Thank you so much, Ambassador, for are severely harassed by their husbands or part- this conversation. Despite COVID-19’s re- ners. strictions on gathering, it remains crucial to DM: Emang Basadi’s 35th anniversary is cru- create conversation about gender parity. With cial to us at the Upright African Movement a global pandemic raging, was your office able as we seek to decolonize our thinking around to commemorate the International Women’s gender norms. I personally grew up admiring Day this year like in other years? women Dr. Unity Dow because she took the MH: As you know we are operating under Co- government to court and won, ensuring that vid protocol in Botswana so there was not much Batswana women can transmit citizenship to possibility to celebrate with other women. We ba- their children. She was hugely supported by sically passed our messages online, and decided Emang Basadi, of course.When you were grow- to highlight that at our Embassy, many positions ing up in Kassel, Germany as a young woman, have been taken over by women that, for a long who were the women who inspired you and time, were entirely occupied by men, like the why? head of mission, the head of admininstration, and MH: I grew up as a single child. My family the driver and administrative assistant of the Em- lived in a small town near the city of Kassel, quite bassy. a rural area, and I think that the first people who DM: Those developments calm my anxieties inspired me were both my parents. My mother about inequality. They must certainly make taught me how to cook and to work in the garden, you feel proud. and my father taught me how to change the tyres MH: I am extremely proud that my driver is of the car and to use a hammer and a screw-driver. a lady who is not only an excellent driver, but So I didn’t really have the experience of being dis- she also knows how to find her way in the men’s criminated against as a girl. Of course my mother world of all the other drivers of the diplomatic used to say things like „girls don’t do that“ when community in Gaborone. I climbed onto trees and tore my clothes but I just DM: Ambassador, you took up your post at didn’t care and continued climbing on trees be- the mission here in Gaborone last year. You cause it was fun. Later, at school, I looked up to have served around the world and across cul- some lady-teachers because they were very inde- tures. What have you observed about the sta- pendent in their thinking, also quite demanding tus of women in Botswana? in the courses of English language and German MH: Botswana seems to be a country of dif- literature which they taught. ferent and complex realities. There are women in DM: Botswana is internationally renowned high-ranking positions like cabinet ministers or for peace and stability. Before we can have chairpersons of companies – though not many peace at a global scale, I believe peace begins women are members of Parliament. The young in our lives, whether we live in dignity and professionals whom I met recently at the Embas- with access to peace in our homes. Global sta- sy before they were going to work or do research tistics show that the COVID pandemic has in Germany with grants of German companies wreaked havoc on peace in Botswana house- or the German government were all women. So holds, prompting many world leaders to make that means there is a lot of potential among well- connections between the pandemic and the rise educated women in Botswana to assume high po- The in domestic abuse. What role can and does di- sitions as much as men do. But at the same time plomacy play in today’s world towards gender I keep on reading reports about violence against parity in the world at large? women and girls, on the rise especially in times MH: In my view diplomacy is the art of talk- of Covid, about women feeling insecure in the ing and listening to people from different cultural city when walking alone – that seems to indicate Anxiety Of and political backgrounds and, if all goes well, that there are issues for women in Botswana and to bring people together for a common objective. they are not considered equal to men. I have not The UN are a case in point. They do that on many been able to travel much in the country yet, but occasions, also for the cause of women. Resolu- I would assume that this is especially true in the tion 1325 of the UN security council on women, rural areas. Inequality peace and security is such an occasion where the DM: There are certainly urgent issues as Security Council agreed on the need to better pro- we have become a society that is unsafe for tect women in armed conflicts and also to make women. In fact, Botswana has the second high- Botswana seems to be a country better use of the abilities of women to moderate est incidences of gender-based violence in the and de-escalate in conflict situations. Of course, world. His Excellency President Masisi has of different and complex realities. individual states have to translate this into nation- repeatedly pleaded with the nation to support al action plans and promote activities with and for his mandate to combat gender-based-violence. There are women in high-ranking women in their respective societies. But they can In your opinion, what can ordinary Batswana be held accountable by the UN and that is a clear do to make that change for the nation? How positions like cabinet ministers progress. At the end of the day, diplomacy can are such challenges comparatively addressed only raise awareness but that is already better than in Germany? or chairpersons of companies not doing anything for the cause of women. MH: I commend President Masisi and the First – though not many women are *Donald Molosi (@donaldmolosi) is an actor, Lady very much for leading by example and tack- writer and public intellectual. He is the author of ling the issue of GBV from the top. I think that members of Parliament. We Are All Blue and Dear Upright African. The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 news Page 11 DPP Boss Ignores LSB Resignation Calls • He has not communicated anything to us -LSB • Calls were made to sensitise the nation on the sanctity of the DPP

TEFO PHEAGE

he Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) di- rector, Stephen Tiroyakgosi, has not made any Tattempt to engage the Law Society of Botswana (LSB) since calls were made by the institution for him to do the honourable thing and resign to safeguard the integrity of the institution. LSB has been on Tiroyakgosi’s neck after it emerged that the State may have fabricated evidence in the P100 billion high profile case dubbed the ‘Butterfly case’ im- plicating the former President and former Directorate of Intelligence Services (DIS) director, Isaac Kgosi. Despite LSB's calls that Tiroyakgosi should resign with immediate effect for bringing the institution into disrepute, the former says they have not heard anything from the latter, “we have never heard anything from the DPP director. And this is not to say we expected any- AP Caution BPF/BCP Brawl? thing from him. The statements were made for the entire nation to sensitise them on what is going on and what should happen to protect the DPP. The calls were not • Warns against battle for North and Central constituencies only meant for the DPP director , but his bosses, stake- holders and entire nation,” said LSB Chairman, Tsheki- • Wants Khama, Butale at the helm of BPF so Tshekiso in an interview with this publication. Despite LSB's calls that Tiroyakgosi • BPF says they are not at war with BCP should resign with immediate

LETLHOGILE MPUANG perative that the BCP avoided displaying the “big effect for bringing the institution brother mentality” when dealing with the BPF as it into disrepute, the former says ne of the Alliance for Progressives (AP) could widen the divisions. He further pleaded that lieutenants Sedirwa Kgoroba has strongly the BPF should desist from any attempts to push they have not heard anything from Owarned against the alleged looming battle out either its patriot- former president Ian Khama or for the Northern and Central constituencies between party president Biggie Butale. He believes it has the the latter, “we have never heard Botswana Congress Party (BCP) and Botswana Pa- potential of having a negative impact on the ongoing triotic Front (BPF). opposition coalition talks. anything from the DPP director. Reports suggest that the BCP and BPF are al- And this is not to say we expected ready waging war over increasing their popularities “We are working hard and we will in most of the North and Central constituencies of anything from him. the country ahead of the 2024 general elections. The continue to work that we unite as two parties command most of the North and Central opposition parties. We also wish Tiroyakgosi was not available for comment and his constituencies following the last elections in 2019. mobile phone rang unanswered. He has since engaged South Africa’s Afriforum lead Advocate Gerrie Nel for In a social media post Kgoroba, who is a former to state it as a matter of fact that advice on the controversial case. Member of Parliament (MP) for Mogodistshane, According to the powerful body that regulates the le- believes the alleged clash between the two parties we are not any war with the BCP, gal profession, Tiroyakgosi has dismally failed to main- could cause further divisions in the opposition front. it is nonsense. We have a common tain the prosecutorial independence of his office and has “Re utlwa gore gatwe bangwe ba lona ba setse brought the institution into disrepute. “There are now bana le ditoro tsa ha ba sa tshwanelang go lorela enemy and that is the BDP.” doubts in the minds of right thinking members of the teng. Ka gore BPF le BCP le laola the northern part public in respect of whether prosecutorial powers are of Dibete, re utlwa gotwe gatwe le eletsa go ja BCP.” In their response, BPF through their Secretary routinely used in the pursuit of partisan political objec- (We understand that some BCP and BPF members General Lawrence Ookeditse dismissed talks of tives and in advancing other nefarious interests,” LSB have started to become over-ambitious. Since the possible conflicts between the two parties. In fact, said. BPF and BCP control most of the northern constitu- he told this publication yesterday that the BPF was There is an urgent need for restoration of public con- encies, we understand that the two parties are al- committed to making sure that the opposition is fidence in the workings of the prosecutorial arm of the ready fighting over these constituencies.) more than united come the 2024 general elections. State, the statement added. “In our respectful view, such He added that; “It is important for the opposition “We are working hard and we will continue to restoration is not possible so long as Mr. Tiroyakgosi continues to occupy the office of DPP,” it said. “The that the two parties bring those votes in that part of work that we unite as opposition parties. We also Law Society of Botswana therefore regrettably calls for the country in the 2024 elections. I understand that it wish to state it as a matter of fact that we are not any the immediate resignation of Mr. Tiroyakgosi from of- is mostly some BPF members at the forefront.” war with the BCP, it is nonsense. We have a common fice so that much needed work to restore public confi- Kgoroba carried on to warn that it was also im- enemy and that is the BDP.” dence in the work of the DPP can start.” Page 12 news Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette

The Botswana Gazette Page 12 Wednesday 05 May 2021 Opinion Forum SINCE 1984

Botswana’s Response to COVID-19 exposes chinks in its armour: A neglected informal economy/sector

he modern welfare state or to be more precise the remnants of it as we know it today was established in the post-World War TII era. The fall of the Bretton Woods regime and the infamous marriage of Thatcher and Nixon heralded the beginning of an aggressive move to systematically to dismantle the welfare state. This would lead to rising inequality in the world with the developing countries experienc- ing the highest rates of inequality. The repercussions of the rise of the Neoliberal reforms has never been greatly felt as we do now during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is not about the politics of the SOPE but I wish to confine myself to an issue that has not been adequately by the powers that be. This ar- ticle is cry for help for the informal sector. In my previous writing I had indicated that the informal sector seems to have been neglected by government when drawing an economic re- sponse policy to mitigate against the effects of the COVID-19 pandem- ic. For the last two weeks I have been listening and reading with keen interest to see if a well-articulated plan or policy would be brought to the fore. The rationale for protecting the informal sector should be obvious for any developing country as most people find themselves ‘employed’ in this sector. We must not forget that informality has also been mak- ing its way into the formal sector. For developing countries, the infor- expressed in the form of protests that sometimes be- mal economy is key. However, Botswana much like its neoliberal kin come violent. But while I am still BDP Youth Wing has found a bulk of its response package going to the ultra-rich and A Case For National Executive Committee Chairman, I refuse to the SMEs picking up crumbs while the informal economy or sector is allow such to happen. I remain with my constituents largely neglected. All this a result of the neoliberal economic structuring and share with them great things that are ahead so of the means of production. The inadequacies we see are embedded in that they do not to despair. the Washington Consensus economic mechanics. Undoubtedly there is a need to encourage youth It is my belief that the failure by the Masisi administration to respond Empowering to build a network of politically active peers and to adequately is born out of ignorance of what constitutes informality. I participate in the country’s political process. A BDP- have listened time and time again as Ministers and some government led government needs to have a strong focus on the officials alike tried to respond to questions regarding the informal sector. personal development of its activists. With increased What I discerned was a confused understanding of Small and Medium Young skills and deepened knowledge, these people would Enterprises and the informal worker or sector. One would have thought be better equipped to make an impact on the growth that just the word informal, without going into technical definitions, of this great nation. would have brought light in a dark house but that would not be the case. In many quarters, there has been an outcry by po- Constant references to possible beneficiaries needing to be tax law and litical activists that they have been hoodwinked and companies act complaint was, for me, a clear indicator of their lack of Activists ignored by political leaders. Some have gone to the understanding of the subject matter. extent of labelling this as betrayal. To be honest, we Who then are informal workers? According to the ILO these are all need to start building a network of young political workers (regardless of where they worked), if their employment rela- The Chairman of the National Youth tions were not subject to controls, conditions set by labour legislation actors keen to make a difference in their communi- regarding taxation, social security contributions and social protection Executive Committee of the BDP, KARABO ties. There is so much potential to create political (holidays, work-related illnesses, redundancy payments, etc.). These GOMOTSEGANG, says he will consider it a change by working together with our peers. I must workers are faced with precarious work and their work is most often openly state that we need the decentralization in the undeclared. Remember the guy who your employer engages to wash personal failure if there is no BDP youth going youth ministry, local government and elsewhere in his cars once in a while? That the informal worker. These are the people to the 13th Parliament and every district council order to create employment opportunities for young who are at the fringes of the formal economy even though in some cases activists. Yes, BDP youth activists because they are they serve as suppliers of the formal economy (Please consider visiting when results of the 2024 general elections are competitive. the ILO literature for an in-depth discussion). announced. I have heard in many instances people saying that The point I am making in this piece, is that owing to the economic government should not be politicised but who are we structure of our country which is meant to prioritise big business over trying to fool here? How is the ruling party going to the ordinary Jack and Jill many people fall through the cracks. The dis- deliver its promises to Batswana when those tasked mantling of the welfare state not only shrunk the fiscal provisions for so- osition is a very intriguing thing. You actu- with implementing those promises do not share its cial protection but increased labour market deregulation plunging many ally exist in no other capacity but in position. sentiments? How is the ruling party going to be ac- into informality. For developing countries, financial aid (loans or grants) It is far worse for us politicians. A year ago countable to Batswana who cast their votes for us often come with conditions that require reform (deregulation) plunging P when I won the BDP Youth Wing National Executive when we do not know exactly what is happening in those countries into further crises. As a consequence of our neoliberal Committee Chairmanship, I made a vow to fight day government? posturing our economic rescue packages often neglects the most vulner- and night to ensure that my constituents, the youth, For the past couple of months, I have had the op- able. Don’t get me wrong, Botswana has social protection mechanisms specifically Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) ac- portunity to share a table with some of the most bril- in place which I recognise. Be that as it may, the do very little to address tivists, are empowered. I live today proud to pursue liant minds that our country has produced. Some of peculiar needs of the informal worker and of the informal economy. this goal. them are actively involved in various sectors of our Even with my observations as stated above I refuse to believe that an entire government would lack the understanding of what the informal A BDP-led government should empower its activ- country’s economy. We have agreed on designing economy is. I refuse to believe that they don’t have the requisite exper- ists but the youth are often excluded or overlooked strategies for inclusion of young people, ensuring tise. Even if they didn’t, I believe that the University of Botswana has as political candidates. Politics is typically regarded diversity among youth, and addressing the dispari- a few labour economists who would have lent them their expertise. The as a space for politically experienced men, and while ties between the number of young men and young economic system is designed, methinks, to be cavalier to the needs of women are often disadvantaged in accumulating ex- women entering Parliament. informal economy. perience to run for office, youth are systematically Yes, I would have failed my generation when the To adequately address the singular and peculiar needs of the informal marginalised because of their young age and lack of results of the 2024 general election are announced economy, our government first needs to appreciate the importance of experience. But as the increased political participa- and there is no BDP youth in the 13th Parliament. this part of the economy. Countries like India have developed elaborate tion of women benefits society as a whole, the pres- I would have failed my generation when there is no policies aimed at developing this part of the economy. We can’t afford ence of young people in decision-making positions youth leading a district/town/city or subdistrict coun- to have the informal economy to be reduced to a paragraph in national would benefit all citizens as well. cil in this country. development plans (e.g NDP11) and national visions while there is no The exclusion of youth has often led to young The BDP-led government at all levels of gover- marked effort to provide the requisite support for those employed in people seeking alternative means of expressing their nance needs to recognise that young democrats as- the informal economy. The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed our lack frustrations with government and other forms of pire to express their dreams through inclusive par- of support of the informal economy and informal workers. We should authority. When frustration reaches unbearable pro- ticipation in all decision-making processes, from the do better. portions, the youth often turn to civil disobedience To Page 13

The Gazette Newspaper is published by News Co. Botswana (Pty) Ltd, Plot 125 Sedimosa, Gaborone, Int. Finance Park (next to Game City). P. O. Box 1605, Tel: 3912833/3900451/3180701, Fax: 3972283. Managing Director: Shike Olsen , Editor: Lawrence Seretse, Email: [email protected], Advertising Manager: Joyce Mohurutshe , Email: [email protected] www.thegazette.news

The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 Page 13 opnion

INVITATION TO TENDER Young SuitablyINVITATIONINVITATION Qualified and Experienced TO TENDERCitizen TO Owned TENDER Tendering on SAP Ariba Suitably qualified, experienced and fully registered Companies are hereby invited to ServiceSuitablytender Providers/ forqualified, the following Companies experienced services are and hereby to fully Debswana invited registered Diamond CitizenDebswana OwnedCompany has (More adopted (Pty) than Ltd SAP at50% OrapaAriba Citizen – a cloud based toOwnership)Mines: tender for theCompanies following areservices hereby to Debswanainvited to tender biddingfor the followingand supplier services management to Debswana solution for all Activists Diamond Company (Pty) Ltd Orapa Mine. its tendering and supplier registration requirements. Diamond Company (Pty) Ltd at Orapa Mines: From Page 12 RFP Doc587013780 - PROVISION OF TRENCHLESSThere PIPE is no REHABILITATION requirement to purchase FOR the Tender SEWER OUTFALLS AT ORAPA MINE conception of policies and all the way to imple- RFPRFP -Doc620579917- 247086740: MANAGEMENT PROVISION OFOF LAUNDRY SERVICESdocument AT OLDM AND in the Event a bidder is billed by SAP mentation. Young democrats need platforms CONTRACTORS CAMP FOR ORAPA, LETLHAKANE ARIBA Discovery, Debswana will refund in full upon BriefBrief where they can influence policy decisions con- &The DAMTSHAA scope of MINESwork shall comprise of all services necessaryproducing forreceipts the provision of payments. of the During the Site Visit, TheRehabilitation service to be of rendered some Outfalls in terms Sewer of the contractpipelines for using theAll provisionprospective TrenchlessTenderers of a Bidders laundryTechnology, who will serviceare be already takenwhich shall through registered the SAP with Debswana cerning their welfare and opportunities through include the following: BriefINVITATIONshall entail the following: TO TENDERARIBA Platform. on SAP PleaseAriba Contactshould Mr.just Oteng register Chelane their interest on which they can actively pursue their political • General washing and ironing of clothing, linen and towels, for the single quarter and socio-economic priorities, which may of- The1. projectPiperesidents; Cracking includes provision of all skilled labour, at [email protected] RFP as per instructions, Telephone 3648008 on Part and2 below. Those equipment,SuitablyINVITATION qualified, materials, storesexperienced and services and to fully manage TOregistered Mrs. TENDER Theresanot registered Sillah-Silwawa as Debswana at Suppliers on SAP Ariba ten differ from those of their older counterparts. Citizen2. • Cured-in-Place Linenowned and entitiesbathroom (CIPP) pipe towels(More lining for than the hotel 50% guests; Citizen and maintain• Personal the clothesestablished of hotel contractor’s guests camp at [email protected] will need to, completeTelephone the2902232 following steps in The youth want to be respected and embraced Ownership) are hereby invited to tender for the to forge a meaningful partnership towards mak- OrapaThe • ContractorMine.Linen for theshall Itekeng be expected bar and Conference to conform Centre to forall support applicablePart around 1 & laws2. SAP andARIBA guidelines Platform. followingregarding• Any servicesthe other services laundry to Debswanaas as well may asbe conformanceinstructedDiamond byCompany the to purchaserDebswana standards and procedures ing those aspirations and priorities a reality. including C0VID-19 regulations. It is not only a call on government only but •(Pty) ProvisionLtd at Orapa of accommodation: Mines: The contractor TenderersPart will 1: then Registering have to complete as a vendor the following on SAP Ariba ThePre-Bid Contractorshall Meeting: provide shall allbe furniture,expected tobedding, conform laundry, to all applicable steps inlaws the andDebswana guidelines SAP regarding Ariba Platform: the on leaders in civil society, business, other po- services as well as conformance to Debswana standards andTo procedures participate including in any C0VID-19event on SAP Ariba, a supplier litical parties, organized labour, academia and Doc650002254Prospectivehousekeeping tenderers and- RFP_Provisionarerelated required services to attend requiredof aWaste Compulsory will Pre-Bid need toMeeting be registered in order toon SAP Ariba and have a regulations.get more clarity on the scope of services and the conditions under which the services other formations because there is need to invest Managementfor the effective Services provision at of Orapa,this service. Letlhakane The Part 1:valid Registering SAP Ariba as Network a vendor Supplier on SAP account Ariba and profile are tominimum be executed. size of bedsTenderers shall be will single also beds have for an opportunityPlatform to ask questions on the in young people through mentorship and coach- andPre-Bidscope Damtshaa of Meeting: services. Mines. by following the steps below: ing. It is the mentorship that unleashes the po- Prospectiveunskilled, tenderers semi-skilled are required and skilledto attend personnel a Compulsory To Pre-Bidparticipate Meeting1. inGo any in to orderevent Debswana to on get SAP more Ariba,SAP Aribaa supplier self-registration (Juniors) and double beds for supervisory will need to be registered on SAP Ariba and have a tential in the youth to ignite change in society. BriefclarityOwing on to the the scope on-going of services COVID-19, and the pandemic, conditions the under Pre-Bid which Meeting the services willpage: beare conductedto be executed. via It is the mentorship that can help them navigate TheTenderersMicrosoft scope(Seniors) will Teams® of also workand have platformshallmanagement an opportunitycomprise in lieu personnel. ofofto Siteaskall servicequestions Visits. The Thenec validon - invitationthe SAP scope Ariba toof Network services.participate Supplier in the account and profile Pre-Bidcamp meeting currently will has be senta capacity to bidders of 1016 who beds have registeredby following their the stepsinterest(https://s1-eu.ariba.com/Sourcing/Main/ below: to participate the crisis of the moment while preparing for a essaryas per forinstructions daily waste below. management The details including of the Pre-Bid the col Meeting- are asad/selfRegistration/?realm=debswana follows: ) changing world. The time to invest in the next Owingbut to themay on-going be extended COVID-19, during pandemic, the life the of Pre-Bid the Meeting1. Go will tobe Debswanaconducted viaSAP Microsoft Ariba self-registration lection,Teams® platformtransport in lieuand of disposal Physical ofSite general Visits. Theresidential, invitation to participate2. Initiate in the Classification:Pre-Bid Account meeting creation Confidential generation of leaders is now. Mentors can play Datecontract. : 2nd Occupation March 2021 is restricted to employees page: operationalwill be sent to and bidders construction who have registered/ building their waste interest for the to participate 3. as Completeper instructions account below. registration a significant role in preparing young people for Timeof Debswana: 09:00 and– 1100 its contractors hrs only. (https://s1-eu.ariba.com/Sourcing/Main/ad/ •entireTheVenue detailsProvision Orapa : ofOnline thelease Pre-Bidof through areamessing Meeting including Microsoft arefacilities: as but follows: Teams not limited The ® Meeting to selfRegistration/?realm=debswana)4. Once you have SAP Ariba Network Supplier politics and political leadership. Account and access credentials, proceed to the township,contractor certainshall provide identifiedth all stock, residential equipment, houses 2. in Initiate Account creation Some people view the youth as a threat to TenderingDate: on AribaTuesday 30 March 2021 Part 2 below: their ambitions. This mist simply stop because Letlhakane,DebswanautensilsTime: has and adopted09:00 furniturethe mine – 1100SAP required operations Ariba hrs for – anthe onlineat effective Orapa, bidding Letl3. and- Complete supplier managementaccount registration solution when a young person is empowered, a democrat hakanefor allprovision its Venue:and tendering Damtshaaof Online this service.andthrough mines, supplier The Microsoft andcontractor registration any Teams other shall ® requirements. areasMeeting4. Once Thereyou have is noSAP requirement Ariba Network Supplier Part 2: Indicating Interest to Participate in the for that matter, it brings life to both country and asto willpurchaseprovide be set a theminimumout Tenderin the of scope 14document. days of menu work, Please cycle. all said ContactThe areas Mr. AccountOteng Chelaneand access at OChelane@ credentials, proceed as party. I have never said this before but I believe Tenderingdebswana.bwcamp onhas Ariba ,two Telephone catering facilities,3648008 each specifically of which for supplierperRFP Part registration (for 2 below: Ariba onRegistered SAP Ariba Suppliers) fallingPlatform consists within and ofMrs.the a Orapakitchen, Theresa lease storage Sillah-Silwawa area, facilities and atandLetlhakane [email protected] a , Telephone it is very important to set the record straight. Debswana Corporate Centre 1. Register your interest by sending an email andDebswana290 Damtshaa dining2232 has hallfor adopted supportthat mine sits operations.SAP uparound toAriba 250 SAP– andiners. ARIBAonline biddingPlatform. andPart supplier 2: Indicating management Interest solution to for Participate all its in the As a true believer in democracy and the will Plot 64288, Airport Road, Block 8 | P.O. Box 329 Gaborone Botswana to Gape Masilonyane at GMasilonyane@ •tendering Management and supplier of registration Entertainment requirements. facilities: There isRFP no (forrequirement Ariba Registereddebswana.bw to purchase Suppliers) the before Tender 12noon on Wednesday of people, I felt downright betrayed by demo- T:document.Interested +267 361 4200 Please tenderers | F: +267 Contact 3952941 who Mr. wish Oteng to Chelaneparticipate at [email protected] the tender should ,follow Telephone the Steps3648008 in ThePart Theproposed2 and/or contractor Part contract 1. shall shall provide run forall threestock, years1. If you are12 alreadyth May 2021a SAP as Ariba follows: registered crats months ago when an article was published www.debswana.comspecifically for supplier registration on SAP Ariba Platform and Mrs. Judith Maoto at JMaoto@ with equipment,rate review utensils on annual and furniture basis. requiredContractor for shall supplier, log into the Debswana SAP Ariba insinuating that the BDP National Youth Wing debswana.bw, Telephone 290 3217 for support around SAP ARIBA Platform. beTenderers expectedthe effective who to are conformprovision already toof registered allthis applicable service. with These Debswana laws and onplatform: SAP Ariba should just register Executive Committee was contemplating hav- their interest on the RFP as per instructions on Part 2 below. Thosei. notSubject registered of asthe Email should be ing the next elective congress postponed until guidelinesInterestedDebswanaconsists tenderers Suppliersregarding of two whobars, on wastewish braaiSAP to Aribafacilities, managementparticipate platform gym in andthe willservices tendera need shouldto completehttps://s1-eu.ariba.com/ follow thethe Steps following“Doc650002254 in Part steps 2 and/ in - RFP_Provision 2024. asorPart Partwell swimming1 1. &as 2. conformance pool. to Debswana standard and Sourcing/Main?realm=debswana-of Waste Management Services at This is outrageous. If there is anything I am •procedures Camp groundincluding Maintenance: C0VID-19 regulations. The Contractor D&passwordadapter=ThirdPartyUserOrapa, Letlhakane and Damtshaa TenderersPartshall 1: Registering whomaintain are already the as entire registered a vendor outdoor with on areaDebswana SAP of Aribathe on SAP2. AribaGo should to ‘Ariba just Discovery’ register their and interest search for the RFP thankful for, it is the vote and trust that the BDP Mines – Expression of Interest” on theCamp, RFP asincluding per instructions all pathways, on Part breezeways, 2 below. Those car not registeredyou wish as to Debswana participate Suppliers in by using on the above youth bestowed on me a year ago to be their Pre-BidTo participate Meeting: in any event on SAP Ariba, a supplier will need to be registered on SAP SAP Aribaparks, platform barbecue will needareas, to recreationcomplete theareas following and steps in RFPPart number1 & 2.ii. or searchState usingName key wordsof the Company as Chairman. Should a need arise for me or any- ProspectiveAriba and have tenderers a valid SAP are Ariba required Network to Supplierattend accounta and profile registeredby following in thePart 1 above. stepsgarbage below: compounds in a clean, tidy and litter- 3. Once you have located the RFP, register your one else on this committee to seek another term CompulsoryPart 1: Registering Pre-Bid as Meetinga vendor inon orderSAP Ariba to get more iii. State Name of contact persons in office, the congress shall be the deciding fac- free condition each day interest to participate in the RFP and the clarityTo1. participateGo on to the Debswana in scopeany event ofSAP on services SAPAriba Ariba, self-registration and a supplier the conditions will needpage: to be registerediv. on SAPState Ariba Contact and have Details of the Contact tor. I cannot under any circumstances borrow a •undera validCamp SAPwhich Aribabuildings the Network servicesmaintenance: Supplier are account Theto contractor andbe profileexecuted. by following deadline the stepsfor registering below: interest is the 21st (https://s1-eu.ariba.com/Sourcing/Main/ad/selfRegistration/?realm=debswanashall coordinate the general maintenance and June 2019. person (i.e.) phone numbers, email leaf from Robert Mugabe’s political playbook. Tenderers2. 1.Initiate Go willto Account Debswana also creationhave SAP Aribaan opportunityself-registration to page: ask repair of all camp equipment and facilities 4. Debswana will thenaddress, invite youpostal to participate & physical in address) If we are to address youth matters and talk of questions 3. Complete (https://s1-eu.ariba.com/Sourcing/Main/ad/selfRegistration/?realm=debswana on the account scope registration of services. ) reformation of government and party, we are 4. 2.Once Initiate you have Account SAP creation Ariba Network Supplier Account andthe RFPaccess and credentials, bound to exercise democracy to the letter. COMPULSORY3.proceed Complete to SITE Part account VISIT 2 below: registration 5. Once 2.invited Debswana by Debswana, will thenyou will invite receive you an to participate Owing4. toOnce the you on-going have SAP COVID-19,Ariba Network pandemic, Supplier Account the and access credentials, proceed to Winning the BDP NYEC Chairmanship was BiddersDebswana are Corporate required Centre to attend a Compulsory site email notificationin the RFP. that you have been invited to visitPre-Bid in order PartMeeting to2 below:familiarize will be themselves conducted with viathe site,Microsoft participate3. Once in the invited RFP, Respond by Debswana, to the RFP youand will receive not an easy thing but democrats spoke and it PartPlot 64288, 2: Indicating Airport Road, Interest Block 8 | P.O.to ParticipateBox 329 Gaborone in theBotswana RFP (for Ariba Registered theTeams® scope platform of works inand lieu the of conditions Site Visits. under The which invitation submit throughan email SAP Aribanotification platform from SAP Ariba that you was their victory. The hardships that I experi- toPartSuppliers) participate 2: Indicating in Interestthe Pre-Bid to Participate meeting inwill the be RFP sent (for Ariba Registered Suppliers) enced then are the hardships that I do not want theT: works+267 361are 4200 to be | F: executed. +267 3952941 The site visit will be have been invited to participate in the RFP to bidders1. Register who your have interest registered by sending their an interestemail to Judithto Maoto at [email protected] any young democrat to ever have to face when held1.www.debswana.com Registeron beforeTuesday your 12noon 25th interest onJune Monday by 2019sending 29 atth Marchan08:00hrs email 2021 .to TheresaasSubmission follows: Sillah-Silwawa4. Respond at toTSillah- the RFP and submit through SAP participate as per instructions below. The details of they seek to be part of the youth leadership. I [email protected] are to meet Mr. Bryan before Makhwaje 12noon at onthe Monday Tenderers 1st are March requiredAriba 2021 platformto submit as follows: their respective bids the Pre-Bid Meeting are as follows: am bound to remain committed to apirations ItekengSubject ofRecreationali. theSubject Email should of Hall, the be EmailOrapa “ RFP shouldMine Doc620579917. Tenderers be “Doc587013780 on - PROVISION or before - PROVISION TuesdayOF LAUNDRY 23rd OF SERVICES July 2019 , 1200Hrs of this young generation. I am most optimis- areAT OLDMrequired – Expression TRENCHLESSto arrange of their Interest PIPE own REHABILITATION” transport and throughFOR SEWER Submissionthe Debswana OUTFALSS SAP AribaAT platform as per the accommodationDate: 19i. th MayState (if 2021required). Name of theTenderers Company are as furtherregistered instructions in Part 1 above. to be provided. tic that with a properly prepared report to the ORAPA MINE – Expression of Interest” Tenderers are required to submit their respective expectedTime: 09:00ii.to bringState – 1100 PersonalName hrs of contactProtective persons Equipment leadership of the party on matters concerning ii. State Name of the Company as registered in Partbids 1 onabove. or before the 2nd June 2021 at 12 noon (reflectiveVenue: iii.Online overalls,State through safetyContact Microsoft boots, Details helmets ofTeams the andContact ® Meetingsafety person Tenders (i.e. phonereceived numbers, via telephone, email address, telex, email or the need to empower our youth activists, much iii. Statepostal Name & physical of contact address) persons googles at a minimum). The Site Visit Agenda will facsimilethrough will not thebe considered.Debswana DebswanaSAP Ariba reserves platform as per the shall be achieved. iv. State Contact Details of the Contact person (i.e.instructions phone numbers, to be provided. email His Excellency the President Dr Mokgweetsi startTendering 2.with Debswanaan ECOHS,address,on Ariba will Security postalthen invite and & physicalSocial you to Performance participate address) in thethe RFP. right to accept or reject any tender and does not Eric Keabetswe Masisi has created an open InductionDebswana2. 3.Debswana Onceat 0800Hrs.has invited adoptedwill then by Debswana, SAPinvite Ariba you you to– anwillparticipate onlinereceive bidding an in email bindthe RFP. itselfnotification to accept from the SAP lowest Ariba or that any you portion of any tender. Tenders received via telephone, telex, email or door policy in his administration regarding in- and3. supplierOncehave invited managementbeen byinvited Debswana, to solutionparticipate you for will in allthe receive its RFP tendering an email notification from SAP Ariba ACCESS4. PERMITS INTO THE LEASE AREA facsimile will not be considered. Debswana reserves novation and youth empowerment. It is through and thatsupplierRespond you have registration to beenthe RFP invited andrequirements. submit to participate through . SAP Therein the Ariba RFPis platform such that I and me committee will present our Before the tenderer’s representatives will be allowed For any theenquiries right pleaseto accept contact or reject Mrs. Theresa any tender and does not noSubmission4. requirementRespond to theto purchaseRFP and submit the Tender through document. SAP Ariba platform case for empowering BDP youth activists. To onPlease site, theyContact will have Mr. to Oteng be security Chelane cleared at atOChelane@ least Sillah-Silwawabind itself at –to Tel: accept +267 the290 lowest2232 or or e-mail: any portion of any 48hrs before the site visit date. Persons who have [email protected] some it may sound as ditching those not aligned debswana.bwSubmission , Telephone 3648008 specifically for tender. notTenderers been security are required cleared to submit shall nottheir be respective allowed tobids before 12 noon on Tuesday 20th April to the BDP but we are not going to be apologet- supplier2021Tenderers through registration are the required Debswana on SAPto SAP submit Ariba Ariba theirPlatformplatform respective as and per Mrs. the bids instructions on or before to be provided.the 23rd March enter the company’s security areas. Enquiries and This tender notice can also be viewed at: http:// ic about this because opposition activists have Gape2021 Masilonyanethrough the Debswana at [email protected] SAP Ariba platform as per, theFor instructions any enquiries to be please provided. contact Gape Masilonyane been the beneficiaries of the BDP-led govern- applicationTenders received for Security via Clearancetelephone, shouldtelex, beemail forwarded or facsimile www.debswana.com/Supply-Chain/Pages/Current- willat not – Tel:be +267 290considered. 2239Debswana or e-mail: GMasilonyane@ TelephoneTenders received 2902239 via fortelephone, support aroundtelex, email SAP ARIBAor facsimile will not be considered. ment. toreserves Ndileka the Mabuthoe-Taolo right to accept orat rejectTel no. any +267tender 290and doesPublic-Tenders.aspx not binddebswana.bw itself to accept the lowest or 2696Platform.Debswana or email: reserves [email protected]. the right to accept or reject The any tender and does not bind itself to When a democrat seeks an opportunity and anyaccept portion the of lowest any tender. or any portion of any tender. applies for a job, the narrative has always been, following details are required: First Name, Surname, Interested tenderers who wish to participate in the This tender notice can also be viewed at: http:// “Kana batho ba ya go tsosa modumo gotwe go DateForFor any anyof Birth,enquiries enquiries Residential please please contact Address, contact Judith Company Theresa Maoto Name,Sillah-Silwawaat – Tel: +267 290 at 3217– Tel: or+267 290 2232 or tendere-mail: [email protected] follow the Steps in Part 2 and/or www.debswana.com/Supply-Chain/Pages/Current- hirilwe MoDomkraga.” Democrats have been Omange-mail: Number [email protected] (All Botswana Citizens) or Passport numberPart 1. (Non-Citizens) Public-Tenders.aspx denied opportunities based on this. Man, have I ThisThis tendertender noticenotice can can also also be be viewed viewed at: at: http://www.debswana.com/Supply-Chain/Pages/ http://www.debswana.com/Supply-Chain/ said a lot? Definitely I have much to share with Current-Public-Tenders.aspxPages/Current-Public-Tenders.aspx you. However, I have to dash to a meeting with a couple of young people who are aspiring en-

trepreneurs. Orapa, Letlhakane and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM) Karabo Gomotsegang Private Bag 001 Orapa BDP NYEC chairperson T: +267 290 2000 | F: +267 297 0243 Contact: +267 77 044 458 www.debswana.com Page 14 Letters/opnion Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette TAEF Statement On World Press Freedom Day n World Press Freedom Day, The African Edi- tors Forum celebrates and pledges solidarity Owith all African editors and journalists who continue to produce excellent world-class journalism under difficult conditions, brought on by repressive governments, tough economic conditions and the CO- VID-19 pandemic. African editors and journalists also celebrate the re- turn of World Press Freedom Day celebrations to the Af- rican soil. The 30th anniversary takes place in Namibia, the birthplace of the Windhoek Declaration which was this Continent’s gift to the world. The Windhoek Declaration, this African product, did not only go on to become the benchmark used by the United Nations General Assembly, to declare May 3, the date of its adoption, as International Press Freedom Day celebrated all over the world. No, it was used as a basis to organise similar regional seminars leading to declara- tions such as The Alma Ata Declaration for central Asia, Sana’a Declaration for the Middle East, and the San- tiago Declaration for Latin America and the Caribbean, all relying heavily on the Windhoek Declaration. The editors, journalists and media activists that gath- SAEF believes that for this Declaration to remain ered in Namibia in 1991 sought the opening of demo- relevant or true to every resident in southern SAEF Statement cratic spaces and the introduction of more diverse and Africa more needs to be done in terms of the flow pluralistic voices in the media around the world. This of information from government agencies to the media and the public to media. mission has, by and large, been achieved. The challenge On World Press SAEF is happy to announce that the decisions that the media generation of 2021 faces is to ensure that reached during its consultative process earmarked by both the advantages and disadvantages brought on by the hosting of three webinars on 12, 13 and 16 April technological developments, the global media econom- Freedom Day 2021 in collaboration with UNESCO, in which about ics downturn, aided and abetted by COVID-19, does not 200 journalists, bloggers, editors, and information pol- reverse the gains made as a result of the work done in s the world comes to terms with living under icy makers across southern Africa participated, were response to the historic Windhoek Declaration. the new normal of the novel Coronavirus (Co- incorporate in the Windhoek +30 Declaration. It remains important for the African media to continue vid- These decisions were similar to those reached else- to practice excellent ethical and fact-checked journalism A where on the globe. They called for theunconditional 19) conditions, the Southern Africa Editor’s Forum to hold governments accountable. To do this, the media (SAEF) today celebrates the World Press support of credible, trustworthy, and independent me- needs to remain viable. Freedom Day (WPFD) and the 30th anniversary of dia founded on verifiable, transparent, and public inter- TAEF believes that the challenges of the 2021 genera- the Windhoek Declaration with every journalist, re- est ethos as these would withstand the test of viability tion include but are not in these challenging times. porter, editor, and content creator in the region. restricted to the change of media economics as a result In 1991 from 29th April – 3rd May, a group of Afri- This year’s theme for the WPFD of, among others, digital revolution and COVID-19. It can editors met in Windhoek, Namibia at a UNESCO also includes finding solutions to dealing with infodem- seminar focused on “Promoting an Independent and celebrations which just ended ic so that people’s access to trustworthy fact-checked Pluralistic African Press, leading tothe well-known information continues without any obstacles. proclamation of the Windhoek Declaration. The challenges also include the continued criminali- Whereas in 1991, the seminar was a physical gather- in Windhoek this afternoon sation of journalism by some states in Africa and the ing with some journalists who were jailed at the time world. This criminalisation has led to harassment deten- such as Pius Njawe of Cameroun being flown in to with another ground-breaking attend and co-chair the seminar, this year’s ceremony tions and the murder of journalists. To deal with this par- was a hybrid celebration in line with the COVID-19 document, the Windhoek +30 ticular aspect, TAEF and UNESCO, together with other restrictions. SAEF remains proud of the region as it partners, have launched the Digital Platform for the Pro- continues to be a shining example to the continent Declaration was “Information tection of African Journalists, which works through the with Namibia consistently finding itself at the num- office of the African Special Rapporteur, to ensure that ber one (1) spot in Africa on the world press freedom as a public good” impunity is ended. rankings by Reporters without Borders, while South On this day, TAEF once again commits itself to work- They also emphasised the need for media content Africa and Botswana are also among the top 10 in ing with other partners to come up with solutions of how that incorporates principles of participation, engage- Africa. a media struggling for survival can continue to provide SAEF, however, has noticed that some member fo- ment, and media literacy as important for media vi- ability while the infrastructural deficits and the digital information as a public good without a financial burden rums continue to suffer under repressive governments on people. with journalists harassed and arrested for highlight- divide that affects the majority of rural African popula- tions, were also noted as areas that need to be sorted Amilcar Cabral, the great African scholar, said every ing corruption around the procurement of COVID-19 generation must define the challenges of its time and supplies. out urgently for long term media viability. then fulfill its mission or abscond. Countries like Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe As a forum, we remain confident that Africa and spe- The World Press Freedom Day taking place in Na- and Eswatini are a major concern to the forum as they cifically southern Africa will soon be in the top 10 on seem to slide further down in the rankings, demon- the World press Freedom Index. We salute every jour- mibia is a defining moment for Africa editors. Our chal- strating that press freedom is not flourishing there. nalist or media practitioner who put their life on the lenges have been defined and as African Editors, just SAEF is ready in this regard to engage with its line to ensure that the news reaches the citizens of the as our predecessors before us, we have no intention to members and state actors to help find the right solu- of their country and the world. We thank you for your shirk our duty but to ensure we meet the challenges of tions and regulatory mechanism that will make ethical commitment to press freedom. our time. journalism flourish in those country. For more information please contact: For more information please contact: This year’s theme for the WPFD celebrations which Willie Mponda: Chairperson Jovial Rantao: Chairperson @ [email protected] just ended in Windhoek this afternoon with another @ [email protected] Joseph Ailonga: Secretary General ground-breaking document, the Windhoek +30 Dec- Makan Kone: Secretary General @ [email protected] laration was “Information as a public good”. @ [email protected] The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 Page 15 The Botswana Gazette columnbusinessadvertisementnews Page B1 Wednesday 05 May 2021 BusinessNews SINCE 1984 This is the Group that had offered a rent relief amounting to P12.2 million to its tenants in order to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Turnstar in its financial results. “These restrictions led to disruptions of trade resulting in rental rebates being granted by the Turnstar Group. Turnstar con- siders its tenants as partners in its business, and their Turnstar Rentals existence and continuity are paramount in the suc- cess of Turnstar. A strategic decision was made to grant substantial rental concessions to our retail and commercial tenants who could not operate during the initial lockdown periods. The rentals revenues of Revenue Down By the Group reduced by approximately P12.28m dur- ing the year under review.” The Group noted that the US Dollar appreciated against the Botswana Pula during the year under re- view. This resulted in Turnstar having a net forex loss on a US$ loan for the year 31 January 2021 of P12 Million P2.6 million, compared to a net forex gain of P10.44 million in the corresponding previous year end Janu- GAZETTE REPORTER P257.7 million in the period under review, compared ary 2020 when Turnstar had a corresponding US$ to P269.3 million of the prior year. intercompany loan in Mlimani. entals amassed by Turnstar Holdings Limited, This is the Group that had offered a rent relief Botswana recorded substantial Fair Value Gains. the operators of the glamorous Game City amounting to P12.2 million to its tenants in order to Fair values are calculated on current rentals project- RMall in Gaborone, reduced by approximately mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. ed into the future on a discounted cash flow basis. P12.28 million during the year that ended 31 January On the other hand, Turnstar’s operational expenses They do not reflect the actual cost of the buildings 2021, the Group has said. increased by P4.1 million from P116.9 million in the and may change from year to year, depending on The Turnstar Group consists of Turnstar Holdings prior year to P121 million in the period under review. occupancy levels. Limited (Botswana), Island View (Proprietary) Lim- The Group’s profit for the year amounts to P81.3 mil- “Due to the vacancies in the commercial of- ited (Botswana), Mlimani Holdings Limited (Tanza- lion, a P34.9 million decrease compared to P116.2 fice space, and the reduction in conference centre nia), Turnstar Investments Limited (UAE) and Pala- million of the prior year. income due to COVID, Mlimani Holdings has zzo Venezia Holdings Limited (UAE). According to “The Governments of Botswana, Tanzania and Dubai reported a Fair Value loss for the year,” Turnstar Turnstar, they collected rental income amounting to implemented lockdowns and various restrictions to noted. Orange Money, CEDA Clinch Bill Payment Solution Simply dial *133# and go to Loan Payments, choose Orange Money and follow the prompts to submit your payment

range Money has collaborated with the Citi- The bill payment service affords CEDA customers zen Entrepreneurial Development Agency total control, flexibility and freedom when making O(CEDA) to introduce a bill payment solution their CEDA loan repayments. To use this solution, one targeting CEDA customers. needs to be a registered Orange Money user and an With the COVID-19 restrictions of social distancing existing or new CEDA customer. and staying at home, this solution will enable custom- To make Orange Money payments to CEDA, simply ers to repay their loans through Orange Money from dial *133# and go to Loan Payments, Choose Orange the comfort of their homes. Money and follow the prompts to submit your pay- Said Orange Money CEO, Seabelo Pilane: “We are ment excited to have partnered with CEDA to drive greater “At Orange Money, we continue to explore new av- financial inclusion by bringing our financial services enues to help bridge the financial gap in Botswana,” closer to Batswana. This partnership allows both Or- Pilane noted. “Collaborations such as this one are of- ange Money and CEDA to leverage their strengths ten the most effective and value-adding. We believe to contribute positively to the growth of the informal in improving, supporting and bettering the lives of all sector and the finance sector. As Orange Money, we Batswana, and our partnership with CEDA here is a are committed to providing Batswana with seamless testament to that. Indeed, Orange Money continues solutions that give them peace of mind and thus bring- to grow its payment partnerships, helping businesses ing them closer to what matter most to them.” grow through payment enablement.” Photo Credit: Botswana Unplugged Page 16 business Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette BoB Maintains Bank Rate At 3.75 percent

straints, if that happened, could hinder the effectiveness Projects that domestic inflation will breach the upper bound of the Bank’s of policy stimulus and the ERTP initiative, thus resulting in lower inflation. 3 – 6 percent objective range in the second quarter of 2021 Meanwhile, Botswana’s Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted by 7.9 percent in 2020, compared to a growth of 3 percent in 2019. “The decline in output is at- GAZETTE REPORTER jective range in the first quarter of 2022. “Overall, risks tributable to the contraction in output of both mining and to the inflation outlook are assessed to be skewed to the non-mining sectors, mainly resulting from the impact of he Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the upside,” Botswana’s central bank said. the strict COVID-19 pandemic containment measures,” Bank of Botswana (BoB) has decided to maintain BoB said. “Mining output contracted by 26.2 percent in Tthe Bank Rate at 3.75 percent, The Botswana Ga- “Nonetheless, the economy is 2020 compared to a lower decline of 4.1 percent in 2019, zette has established. mainly due to weaker performance of the diamond, soda According to a statement from the central bank released projected to have performed ash, coal, prospecting and other mining subsectors.” recently, inflation increased significantly from 2.4 percent According to BoB, non-mining GDP contracted by in February to 3.2 percent in March 2021, reverting to better in the first quarter of 2021 5.9 percent in 2020 compared to a growth of 3.9 percent within BoB’s medium-term objective range of 3 - 6 per- in 2019. BoB said the decline in non-mining GDP was cent. “The increase in inflation largely reflects the upward compared to the fourth quarter of mainly due to contractions in output of the Trade, Hotels adjustment in domestic fuel prices in March 2021,” BoB and Restaurants, Construction, Manufacturing, Trans- noted. 2020, given the gradual easing of port and Communications, Social and Personal Services, BoB also stated that domestic inflation is forecast to and Finance and Business Services sectors. breach the upper bound of the Bank’s 3 – 6 percent objec- COVID-19 movement restrictions “In addition, the deceleration in growth of General tive range in the second quarter of 2021, driven mainly Government and Water and Electricity contributed to by supply-side factors. The second quater began on April and vaccine rollouts in the first the overall output decline of the non-mining sector,” the 1 when the adjustment in fiscal policies became effective central bank said. as announced by the former Minister of Finance and Eco- quarter,” BoB noted. Pertaining to COVID-19, BoB said the lingering ad- nomic Development, Dr. Thapelo Matsheka, in his budget verse effects of pandemic containment measures pose speech on 1 February 2021. Dr. Matsheka noted that for “Upside risks include the potential increase in interna- uncertainty and challenges, given Botswana’s high vul- the country to achieve fiscal stability, Value Added Tax tional commodity prices beyond current forecasts, aggres- nerability to three external shocks, notably, on diamond (VAT) would be increased from 12 percent to 14 percent sive action by governments (for example, the Economic prices and demand, tourism and delays in the importa- effective of April 1. Recovery and Transformation Plan [ERTP] ) and major tion of supplies. The second quater also saw the fuel levy being increased central banks to bolster aggregate demand, including suc- “Nonetheless, the economy is projected to have per- by P1 per litre and a levy on sweetened beverages being cessful rollout of vaccines. Persistence of supply con- formed better in the first quarter of 2021 compared to introduced at the rate of 2 thebe per gram of sugar above straints due to possible travel restrictions and lockdowns the fourth quarter of 2020, given the gradual easing of

a content of 4g of sugar per 100 milliliters. However, BoB could also lead to higher prices.” COVID-19 movement restrictions and vaccine rollouts noted that inflation is projected to revert to within the ob- BoB said emergence of implementation capacity con- in the first quarter,” BoB noted. Botswana’s Export Bill Declines By P2.3 Billion Export of diamonds dropped by 28.1%

GAZETTE REPORTER value of P7.2 billion. According to Statistics Botswana, the decline of 37.7 percent (P1.2 otswana’s total export value decreased billion) in importation of diamonds had a sub- by P2.3 billion (27 percent ) from the stantial effect on the overall drop in total im- Brevised figure of P8.6 billion recorded ports value. in January 2021 to P8.5 billion during Janu- Diamonds nevertheless contributed the most ary 2021 to P6.3 billion recorded in February to imports at 33 percent (P2.086 billion) fol- 2021, this publication has established. lowed by Food, Beverages & Tobacco and According to the International Merchan- Fuel followed at 12.4 percent each, with val- dise Trade Statistics Digest of February 2021 ues of P784.2 million and P784.1 million re- recently released by Statistics Botswana, the spectively. considerable decrease in the country’s export According to Statistics Botswana, the SACU bill is largely due to a drop of 28.1 percent in region contributed 63.8 percent (P4 03 bil- the value of exports of diamonds from P8.2 billion to P5.9 billion. lion) to total imports during the reference pe- But diamonds remained the most exported riod. The topmost imported commodity groups commodity group. They were followed by Ma- from the SACU region were Food, Beverages chinery & Electrical Equipment at 2.3 percent & Tobacco and Fuel with contributions of 18.7 of total exports. Statistics Botswana says for percent each at values of P754.4 million and “These exports were the period under review, the country’s exports P752.1 million of total imports from the region went mainly to Asia that received 66.7 percent respectively. mostly destined to the (P4.2 billion) of total exports. “South Africa contributed 55.3 percent (P3.4 UAE and India, having “These exports were mostly destined to the billion) to total imports during February 2021,” UAE and India, having received 31.3 percent Statistics Botswana noted. “Food, Beverages received 31.3 percent (P1.9 (P1.9 billion) and 17.1 percent (P1.08 billion) & Tobacco contributed 21.3 percent (P744.4 of total exports respectively,” said Statistics million) of imports from that country. Fuel and billion) and 17.1 percent Botswana. “Diamonds accounted for 100 per- Machinery & Electrical Equipment accounted cent of exports to each of the countries (UAE for 17.7 percent (P617.0 million) and 15.1 per- (P1.08 billion) of total and India).” cent (P526.9 million) respectively. Chemicals On the other hand, Botswana’s import bill & Rubber Products made a contribution of exports respectively,” said stood at P6.3 billion, reflecting a reduction of 12.5 percent (P437.5 million) to imports from Statistics Botswana. 12.3 percent from the revised January 2021 South Africa during the month under review.” The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 feature Page 17 How A Career In Public Relations Porridge In A Pandemic – Citw Zimbabwe Restarts Helped Shape An African Royal School Feeding Scheme PO Group’s Ewetse Khama is trading in his career Group has given Ewetse a grounding, and a sense of After a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 in the PR industry to claim his birthright and serve normality. It has also broadened his horizons interna- Ahis people as a member of a prominent royal fam- tionally, and given him new perspectives on Africa after pandemic, Zimbabwean schools are open ily in Botswana. being educated in Europe. Ewetse believes his PR ca- again and Children in the Wilderness (CITW), To some, it might seem like an unusual career trajectory, reer - and his time at APO Group - will help make him but for Ewetse Khama, working in the Public Relations in- a better leader. Wilderness Safaris’ non-profit partner, has dustry in Africa has been the perfect preparation for the “I’m a good listener, which is essential in PR. You lis- provided two tonnes of nourishing porridge next step in his unique journey. ten to what somebody has to say, then you help them to primary schools in Matabeleland North develop their ideas, and connect with their audiences. The key appeal to me is that Public Relations is really province, ensuring each child has a nutritious about creating opportunities for people.” start to the day. Ewetse’s work with APO Group has certainly helped him do that. He has offered a guiding hand to many eliveries of the fortified porridge to Zimbabwe multinational organizations looking to navigate the di- schools after they recently re-opened took place verse African media landscape. His experience and local between 30 March and 7 April at St Mary’s, knowledge has enabled those companies to succeed in D Dinde, Jabulani, and Lesedi primary schools, situated markets that are often difficult to crack. Like all his APO between Victoria Falls and Wilderness Safaris’ camps in Group colleagues, Ewetse is passionate about Africa, Hwange National Park, resulting in 2 000 primary school and provided customers with ‘on-the-ground’ network- children receiving an essential energy-packed breakfast ing and support. for the next few weeks. The instant porridge, Mighty As APO Group Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pom- Meal, is made from 100% Zimbabwean-grown ingredi- pigne-Mognard explains: “Not everyone in our team is ents, including white sorghum, nyimo beans (bambara from African royalty! But they are all deeply attuned to nuts), groundnuts and baobab fruit powder, and simply the people, country and region in which they live and requires hot water to prepare. operate. Ewetse’s extraordinary story epitomises our “We are so pleased that schools have now returned and commitment to local expertise, and is also a testament the children can get back to learning again. Furthermore, to APO’s talent pool across Africa.” the importance of food cannot be underestimated, as it is APO Group holds a unique position in the Public Re- impossible to learn anything on an empty stomach. The lations industry in Africa. Formerly known as the Afri- porridge makes such a difference to the children, helping can Press Organization, it has been providing content to them through the school day, and also easing some of the pressure on the parents. We are so grateful to the Grand media in all 54 African countries since 2007. Journalists Circle Foundation who provided the funding”, said Sue in Africa know and trust APO Group, making them the Goatley, Children in the Wilderness Zambezi Programme perfect partner for companies looking to develop their Co-ordinator. presence on the continent. The porridge donation follows 170 tonnes of food dis- Ewetse is now looking to bring the communications tributed by Wilderness Safaris and CITW between Au- skills he honed in the PR industry into his new role as gust 2020 and March 2021 to some of the most vulner- a Kgosi - a Batswana term meaning ‘Chief’, ‘King’ or able families in the Zambezi region, still struggling with ‘Elder’ - where his responsibilities include fostering the devastating economic effects of the COVID-19 pan- local consensus and governance while also promoting demic. A total of 4 191 food hampers have been handed social welfare and the economic empowerment of dis- over to-date, positively impacting 17 000 community advantaged groups. members. The hampers contain essential food items, in- cluding maize meal, rice, peanut butter, sugar beans, salt, From today, Ewetse is stepping down from his role at “As a Khama, I had so much cooking oil, and soya chunks and will help to alleviate the APO Group, the leading pan-African communications pressure placed on household breadwinners while provid- consultancy and press release distribution service, to ing much-needed sustenance to their dependants. serve his country and his people. choice in life because many The latest round of donations, which took place in This year, Ewetse’s father, Sekgoma Tshekedi Khama, March, saw 506 hampers donated in Zimbabwe and 60 retired from active duty in the Bamangwato tribe. This doors were always open to in Zambia. “With tourism being the predominant source made way for the eldest son, Ewetse to assume his of income in these villages, the challenges brought about father’s role as a Kgosi - a Batswana term meaning us, I could do or be anything I by the pandemic have been particularly difficult and have ‘Chief’, ‘King’ or ‘Elder’ - in the Khama Family, one of motivated us to raise crucial funds to help particularly Botswana’s most prominent royal families. wanted. But I have always felt vulnerable families,” Sue noted. The Khamas have a long and illustrious history in In another CITW initiative to further ensure food secu- Botswana. Ewetse’s paternal uncle, Sir Seretse Khama, strongly about communications rity, community members have also planted donated sor- served as the country’s first President after indepen- ghum and millet seeds at all the community and school dence in 1966, and was the subject of a Hollywood and working with people, so PR gardens, which will make a significant difference to the school children’s and teachers’ lunch time meals. The blockbuster - A United Kingdom - about his marriage early preparation of the gardens, worm beds and fertility to English woman Ruth Williams. Sir Seretse’s eldest seemed like the perfect choice.” trenches by the dedicated community members, coupled son, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama was th with the good rainfall received this year, promise to en- Botswana’s 4 President from 2008-2018. “My time at APO Group has been an important part sure a successful crop. Botswana is one of the most peaceful countries in Af- of my career, and I am proud of the work we have done CITW has also been providing hygiene products as well rica, which Ewetse attributes partly to the role that tra- to help our multinational clients and drive business into as educational assistance in the form of student allowanc- ditional leaders play as a conduit between government African economies. I have great memories of the people es since the onset of the pandemic. While eco-clubs and and the people, especially in promoting harmony and and the experiences I’ve enjoyed along the way. They other school projects have had to wait for the resumption understanding. will stand me in good stead as I take this next exciting of schools, CITW has continued driving various other im- That might be one of the reasons the PR industry has step!” portant empowerment initiatives during this time, such as been such a good fit for Ewetse, helping prepare him for Even though Ewetse has now moved on to serve his the worm beds and fertility trenches. A community meet- the big challenges that lie ahead. community and country, he will be remembered fondly ing hall was also completed in Jabulani, providing shelter “I felt that I needed to do things for myself and forge by his former colleagues. for income-generating groups to gather and work on their my own career, instead of relying on my name or sta- “Ewetse will always be a valued part of the APO projects and to display and sell their products once tour- ism resumes. tus,” Ewetse says. “As a Khama, I had so much choice Group team - a colleague and a friend,” Nicolas Pom- “As the future of our continent is in the hands of these in life because many doors were always open to us, I pigne-Mognard says. “We will miss him, of course, but young children, CITW’s efforts to support them, the com- could do or be anything I wanted. But I have always APO Group’s loss is Botswana’s gain. His nation is felt strongly about communications and working with munities themselves, the schools and other learners in the lucky to have him. I am grateful for the fact that, thanks Zambezi region is as steadfast as ever, and we will contin- people, so PR seemed like the perfect choice.” to our fantastic team, our clients across Africa will con- Working within the PR Agency division of APO ue to provide much-needed relief and a glimmer of hope tinue to receive a royal standard of quality service!” during these turbulent times,” Sue said. Page 18 ADVERTISEMENTadvertisementtimeoutBtimeoutUSINESSTIMEOUT Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette

T1 The Botswana Gazette Wednesday May 05 2021

The King of Kwasa releases new music • Franco has delayed his album due to the pandemic • The legendary artist celebrates 20 years in the music industry this year

GOSEGO MOTSUMI We survive through music and we want it to feed us.” n his quest to prove that he is still the Lesokwane’s new single, which King of Kwasa-kwasa in Botswana, is currently available on most online IFranco Lesokwane recently released streaming platforms, is a milestone for a new song titled “Motho yo ke ofe?” the legendary artist whose music has much to the delight of his legion of fans. been missing from the digital sphere. Lesokwane had taken a music hiatus af- For the past few years, the artist’s loyal ter his carefully laid out plans to fill the fans have made numerous requests for national stadium full with revelers last his songs to be availed online. year were detonated by COVID-19. “I am currently working on loading “I was supposed to release an album all of my music online to sell,” he told immediately after the Soul Fill Up Fes- Time Out. “What I have observed about tival but corona came and stopped ev- these online platforms is that people do erything,” he said in an interview. “Since buy but it is not satisfying. Most people then my fans have awaited the release of prefer to download and share content for my album but it wouldn’t have made fi- free, which is not motivating.” nancial sense. It got to a point where they This year marks a 20-year milestone asked if I still existed as an artist and this for the rhumba legend who has managed new song is my response to say I am here to remain one of the country’s best-loved and will never quit.” musician. Lesokwane’s debut album, The “Tshutshumakgala” crooner ex- “Ke Lela le Lona,” in 2001, took the plained that he was forced to stay quiet country by storm. Sixteen albums later, because he was adjusting to new times of the Gabane-born star remains the darling COVID-19 after the pandemic came and of the masses. ended the CD era, disrupting the perfor- “The plan was to celebrate big with my mance industry. beloved fans,” he said. “It would have “Our source of income was through been huge. We are still planning how we events and CD sales,” he said. “With could work around celebrating without those two wiped out, I was forced to violating the COVID-19 rules and regu- push back the release of my album and lations. It has been the most beautiful 20 find innovative ways to earn an income. years of my life.”

pic credit (Botswana Unplugged) The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 timeout Page 19

Botswana isolated from cautious revival of events? Event organizers around the world are beginning to test the waters by staging small scale concerts while the local industry is still stuck in a rut, writes GOSEGO MOTSUMI

hen the coronavirus pandemic hit last year, and no masks this month as part of a government trial music festivals and concerts were among that offers a peek at how large events can operate in a Wthe first activities to be cancelled because post pandemic world. Attendees will not have to dis- of concerns for public health. But after months of try- tance from each other, but will be required to present a ing to find innovative ways to adjust to the new nor- negative COVID-19 test taken before the event. mal, event organizers around the word and the neigh- They are also being asked to take tests after the show bouring countries are beginning to test the waters by while any potential transmission between among rev- staging small scale events while revellers are sharing elers will be tracked. Other trials will see 3000 people their nightlife experience online. pack into a nightclub in Liverpool, 5000 people attend By contrast, nothing has changed on the events front an outdoor concert and 21 000 football fans watch the in Botswana. “Countries in the SADC region are stag- FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on May 15. ing events but we remain as hopeless as ever,” said the Another key industry player who commented on president of Botswana Entertainment Promoters Asso- terms of anonymity said Botswana’s COVID-19 Task ciation (BEPA), Gilbert Seagile. Force is not sufficiently to the industries of creatives, “We have not given up and continue to plead with sports and food and beverages, hence the needle is not our leadership to look into allowing our creatives to moving. make a cautious return. Our artists and deejays are “We are not saying they should become reckless but now going to South Africa to work, which I hope is a cautious return to life for creatives is what is going not the beginning of a brain drain south. I don’t under- on around the world,” said the artist. “Creatives want stand why we remain completely shutdown.” their jobs back but the Task Force team keeps misin- CNN News publication last month reported that UK’s forming themselves about what needs to happen. We flagship music awards ceremony, the Brits, would go are not doctors but we see what is going on in South ahead with a 4000 strong crowd, no social distancing Africa, Zimbabwe and other countries.” Page 20 TIMEOUT Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette Women pen their “Pandemic Diaries” The stories in the book are about the changes that the world experienced when the pandemic hit

from the pandemic while others noted the optimism and the silver lin- ings in the dark clouds of COVID-19. “It is important to share such experiences in stories because they communicate compassion, understanding, empathy and how joy can at times come as a surprise to remind us that there is God,” Nteta said in an interview. “Whilst some are not based on true events, they none- theless ring true and are worth sharing with the world.” As a keen writer, Nteta has always made time to create and capture memories, experiences and encounters with people and situations. When COVID-19 hit the world in the most unexpected ways, her dai- ly journal entries became numerous, long and full of mixed emotions. Each day she was inspired to put pen to paper or type away. So when 10 pages became 20, she figured it was time to write in all earnest. “A published author, I wondered if anyone out there during the world of COVID-19 is journaling and feeling that they too need to pour out, exhale and deposit their feelings, thoughts and emotions somewhere,” she said. While the mind was exploring, her itchy fingers got to write a full story in three non-stop hours. At the end of the story, she was con- vinced that a book was in the making that would also involve others who behind the masks of COVID-19 with mouths sealed and noses hidden wanted to scream, breathe, exhale and express all that they were going through. “I found myself writing a second story not based on personal events but imagined and fictional situations,” Nteta explained. “At the end of the second story, I was convinced a book project was being birthed.” The book explores a mélange of many profound themes such as pa- triotism, community, optimism, acceptance, self-awareness, betrayal, deceit, loss, gratitude, joy, faith, strength, solitude, attitude, mindset, realisation, emotional purge and resilience. The invitation to contrib- ute was extended to women because they wanted to tell the stories through a woman’s lens, especially that the first lockdown in April was preceded by the International Women’s Month. This was done to continue with the acknowledgement and celebra- tion of women and girls but Nteta says a men’s version is in the mak- ing. The 10 women who were invited to partake in the anthology have something to say to humanity and were ready to share their life sto- ries, experiences and visions. “In my life, I meet very amazing people who I often wish can be met and heard by the world because they have very interesting life stories, are on some inspiring paths and their visions are unfolding in the most beautiful of ways,” Nteta said. “I have sat and enjoyed GOSEGO MOTSUMI the changes that the world experienced after the listening to such people and always marvel at how they are constantly COVID-19 pandemic hit. seeking their own self-improvement, care about others and strive to hat started off as a solo book project for Tshepo Ntshole, Dabilo Mokobi, Mimi Modi- make a difference every day.” book enthusiast Mabu Nteta developed makwane, Ketsile Molokomme, Reneilwe Nteta, The Pandemic Diaries is available for P280 by ordering on the Winto a family anthology that features 10 Thuto Ramasankate, Nasreen Essack, Pato Kelesi- WaveWomenandGirls Instagram page, emails made to wavewom- other women contributing their daily entries. Titled tse, Imelda Molokomme and Samantha Matlhagela [email protected] or cellphone orders +267 71310399. “Pandemic Diaries,” the book features stories about penned down stories about the sadness that resulted

IN THE MAGISTRATES COURT OF THE FIRST CLASS FOR THE DISTRICT OF FRANCISTOWN LESETEDI J HELD AT FRANCISTOWN IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA HELD AT LOBATSE Case No: CCMFT-001026-18 CASE NO: CVHLB- 001052/12 In the matter between: In the matter between: NONOFO CONSTANCE KORONONIO PLAINTIFF Pogiso Vasco Ntshekang Plaintiff And And TRINITY MEDICAL LCC (PTY) LTD 1ST DEFENDANT Orelebe Mosalagae Defendant REUBEN MBATSHI TLHABANO 2ND DEFENDANT

SUMMONS FOR CIVIL IMPRISONMENT NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION

TO: Orelebe Mosalagae BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to the judgment of the above Honourable Court, immovable property of the above named 2nd Defendant shall be publicly sold in execution by the Deputy Sheriff as You are hereby summoned to appear before this court at FRANCISTOWN on the 26th MAY 2021, follows:- court 1 at 0800 hrs to show why a decree of civil imprisonment should not be made against you at DATE OF SALE : 05 June 2021 the suit of Pogiso Vasco Ntshekang in respect of non-payment of the sum of P5,913.00 (debts VENUE : Plot 4686, Lenganeng Ward, Tlokweng and costs) recovered against you by the said Pogiso Vasco Ntshekang by a judgment of the TIME : 10:00 a.m court bearing date 7th day of April 2021. PROPERTY TO BE SOLD : A certain undeveloped industrial property being Tribal Lot 4686, situated Dated at FRANCISTOWN THIS 04- MAY -2021 near Lenganeng Choppies Mall, Tlokweng measuring 708 square meters held under Memorandum of Agreement of Lease No. TL 247/ 2003 issued in favour of Reuben Mbatshi Tlhabano.

CLERK OF COURT TERMS AND CONDITIONS : Cash or bank guaranteed cheque.

DATED AT GABORONE THIS 19TH DAY OF APRIL 2021. ______DEPUTY SHERIFF D.J MOYO P.O.Box 20572 GABORONE TELL: 3914511, CELL: 72192666 CLASSIFIED Plot owner 1111 in Tatisiding Newstance intend to change land use from residential to multi-residential. Neighbors are informed. Any complaints must be directed to North East District council within 14 days of this notice. The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 NEWS Page 21 ‘Asians only’ rental advert causes uproar Debate ranged from total rejection of inherent racism to nothing wrong with pursuing free choice

Staff Writer

rental advert insisting on ‘Asian only’ has caused an uproar on social media after Batswana expressed Adisapproval of its racial overtones and condemned it strongly. The matter ignited intense debate on social media yes- terday as subscribers slugged over acceptability, morality and even legality of this aspect of conditions stipulated in the controversial advert. “By nature Asians prefer to stay as a community for ease of life and cultural reasons. The community does this to MASISI’S APPARENT ease life and for convenience purposes,” a high profile In- dian who did not want to be identified said when engaged on the matter. ENDORSEMENT OF Those opposed to the strictures of the advert said Bo- tswana is a country of equal opportunities that frowns upon any form of racial discrimination whereas the advert SERAME RUFFLES sought to promote something unheard of. Some yet argued that as long as private property is in- volved, private rules may apply in pursuit of freedom of FEATHERS IN choice if no specific law is being broken. This raised another debate about whether the govern- GOODHOPE-MABULE ment has done or is doing enough to protect citizens through laws to curb instances that may offend against the Commentators say aspirants have begun to position themselves to replace Eric Molale Tswana moral or racial sensibilities. and are unlikely to be willing to make way for anyone imposed from the top again because that has happened too many times before in Goodhope-Mabule “By nature Asians prefer

GAZETTE REPORTER the party in Goodhope-Mabule, hence Molale was easily defeated by Kgosi Lotlaamoreng (of the to stay as a community resident Mokgweetsi Masisi’s apparent en- UDC). Imposition of candidates by the leadership dorsement of specially elected MP Peggy results in divisions and such people never get the PSerame as his choice of the next elected par- support of fellow party members.” for ease of life and liamentary representative for Goodhope-Mabule Although the Secretary of the Southern Region has reportedly stirred uneasiness in the constitu- of the BDP, Moutlwatsi Moeti, says he is not aware ency. of Serame’s interest in becoming the next MP of cultural reasons. The Masisi recently paraded Serame in the constitu- the constituency, it is widely believed that she has ency as a part of his entourage as he the First Lady such ambitions. “Many party activists compro- Neo donated food hampers there. Because it is now mised in the last primary elections to allow Molale common knowledge that the incumbent legislator to run,” Moeti said. “I don’t think they would be community does this Eric Molale will not be in the running in the next willing to do so again. There are aspiring candi- general elections, aspirants had begun subliminal dates already. They were denied the opportunity to moves to position themselves to replace him. Ac- run in the primaries last time and are unlikely to be to ease life and for cording to sources in the constituency, Masisi’s willing to make way anyone again.” apparent endorsement of Serame, who hails from A former BDP councillor in the constituency Phitshane-Molopo, has not gone down well with who preferred anonymity said although it would convenience purposes,” such people and their supporters. be a welcome development to have Serame in the “It appears that Masisi wants to sell Serame as running, she should compete for the seat with ev- the next BDP candidate in the constituency but I erybody else. But some Batswana actually said they saw nothing can assure you that this will destroy the fortunes of “I have also come across information that Mo- wrong with the advert, adding that people were being jeal- the party,” one source said. “In the lead-up to the lale will not be running and that he proposed a deal ous in accordance their pull-him/her-down-syndrome that 2019 general elections, compromise was preached to those who wanted to challenge him in the pri- and all aspiring candidates allowed Molale to rep- maries that he would not run in the next elections contrasts with the Asian spirit of mutual assistance. resent the party. I doubt that will happen this time in 2024,” the former councillor said. “I suppose The advert also ignited the debate over the rise of pow- around.” he will have to stick to his promise. We have had erful Asians who are regarded with a sense of trepidation The source added that the party leadership people compromise for cabinet ministers during should not be seen to be rooting for certain indi- my tenure. Two people dropped out of the race to for allegedly bankrolling the country’s elites and threaten- viduals because this could drive a wedge among allow Kitso Mokaila to run.” ing to take over control of the country in what has come to staunch party members and supporters. Some say For her part, Serame said she is currently focus- be known as state capture. the party’s failure to win back the constituency in a ing on her ministerial duties, adding that she will by-election was a reflection of what had transpired decide on her next political move at the right time. The publishers of the advert, The Botswana Advertiser, in the primary elections when candidates were not “I am currently focusing on my duties as a minister could not be reached for comment. happy with the way the elections were conducted. for now,” she said. “I have not thought much about It is significant that the contact details that were on the “You will recall that at the time when Molale lost running for elections. If I do, I will announce my advert were subsequently removed possibly due to the to Kgosi Lotlaamoreng in the by-elections, there decision. Time will tell.” were protests from those he defeated in the primary The incumbent MP, Eric Molale, declined to controversy that the advert spawned. elections,” another source said. “That destabilised comment. Page 22 sport Wednesday 05 May 2021 The Botswana Gazette

SportsBriefs Botswana Tennis With Bongani Malunga OCK Fails To Seize Duo Crowned Another Opportunity Conference Champs

abelo Seakanyeng and Tumisang Orebonye’s club OCK Khouribga failed to seize another op- Kportunity to go top of the Botola 2 (Moroccan First Division) this weekend as they let a 1-0 lead slip to draw 1-1 against Kawkab Marrakech. Previous log leaders Olympique Dcheira lost once again this Saturday, their slip up presented an opportunity for OCK to ascend to the top of the table but they dropped points once again. The new log leaders are now Riadi Salmi FC while OCK dropped to the third spot again. The third spot would guarantee a Playoff spot while the first two positions result in automatic promo- tion to the premier league.

Jwaneng Galaxy AGM Set For May 23rd

TC Premiership champions Jwaneng Galaxy have announced that their Annual General Meeting (Elec- Btive) will take place on May 23rd. The AGM will take place at the Albert Milton Hall (from 8am) carrying a theme of “Seamless Transition”. The club has previously not been able to stage their AGM due to COVID-19 restric- tions but this time they are expected to finally stage it with a more safety friendly approach to adhere to health guidelines for gatherings.

Cooper and Co. Brought Back From Cloud 9

BONGANI MALUNGA

otswana tennis duo Thato Holmes and Tshepo Mosarwa were recently crowned Conference Champions in the The 2021 USA South Men's Tennis Conference BTournament. Holmes and Mosarwa helped North Carolina Wesleyan College win a 12th consecutive title in the NCAA Division 3 category. The Botswana duo's college has had a strangle hold on the tournament for 12 years in a row and their involvement in the team has further strengthened their grip on the title with another impressive collective display. Holmes formed a doubles duo with John Falke and they won in their section. Mosarwa formed a doubles pair with Augusto Roca as they won othusi Cooper and his Lusaka Dynamos team- mates were brought back from cloud 9 as they 6-0, 6-0 in their section. In total North Carolina Wesleyan defeated Cov- lost 3-1 against Red Arrows in the Zambian Super enant College 9-0 to win it all. M League. Cooper and Co. recently made club history by win- They had adanced to the Conference Finals after defeating number ning the 2021 ABSA Cup but their elation was short lived as two seed (second ranked) Averett University 7-2 in the semifinals. The they registered a second league defeat in the last three league Botswana duo's temmates made the all conference first team rankings, games. As a result, Lusaka Dynamos are now 15 points be- hind log leaders ZESCO United. Cooper’s club is now situ- which means the Players of the Tournament in each category for their ated in the 7th spot on the log. singles and doubles exploits. The Botswana Gazette Wednesday 05 May 2021 timeout Page 23

Wednesday 05 May 2021

Podium Finish • Botswana relay team clinched Olympic qualification before the final • Botswana’s relay team records first World Relays podium finish since 2017 • Quartet gets P50 000 each for their eff orts

BONGANI MALUNGA competitive action Team Botswana displayed an impressive showing as they outclassed many nations that were able to he Botswana men’s 4x400m made up for the Yo- resume competitive action a lot earlier. kohama 2019 IAAF World Relays disappointment Team Botswana won their first ever silver medal at the Tby earning a respectable podium finish at the 2021 World Relays in the Bahamas in 2017 with a team consist- World Relays in Poland. Botswana’s quartet of Isaaka ing of Isaac Makwala, Baboloki Thebe, Onkabetse Nkobo- Makwala, Leungo Scotch, Ditiro Nzamani and Boitumelo lo and Karabo Sibanda. With Sibanda, Thebe and Nkobolo Masilo finished third in the men’s 4x400m final to earn a missing, the likes of Scotch, Masilo and Nzamani have fit- bronze medal. They recorded a time of 3:04.07 behind the ted well into the team with ease and they have mixed their Netherlands (gold) and Japan (silver). youthful exuberance with the experience of Makwala who Although they did not win the ever craved gold medal they shows no signs of slowing down. still made a positive impression by qualifying for the To- The quartet will be amongst the favourites at the Olym- kyo Olympics after setting a national record (2:59.06) in the pics and very few would bet against them recording yet an- qualifying heats. Botswana’s main rivals are usually Jamai- other podium finish if they can stay injury free. On Mon- ca and USA, with those two nations missing in the final they day the quartet got yet another dose of good news as it was were expected to win the final but they gained new rivals in announced that they would each pocket P50 000 for their the Netherlands and Japan. With over a year of little to no bronze medal exploits. TWISTER COMBO for 9990 2 Twisters + 2 Regular Chips + 2 Drinks