ADVERTISE THE AFRICAN STORY WITH US DON’T BE LEFT BEHIND

ISSUE NUMBER 736 VOLUME 2 07 -13 SEP 2020

African Countries ‘RE-OPEN Engaging in Ground- Breaking COVID-19 Vaccine BORDERS Initiative TO REVIVE ECONOMY’ page 4 • IATA calls on governments to re-establish global The Africa connectivity to save jobs Automotive Forum: • Botswana amongst African countries that remain closed Jumpstarting the • Reopening borders with global health protocols key in economic recovery industry through • UNTWO pegs global tourism losses at over US$300 billion insight, dialogue and debate

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Hilton Garden Inn launches Clean Stay Programme

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THE AFRICAN STORY

News, Finance, Travel and Sport Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6. E-mail: newsdesk@echo. co.bw Advertising Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6 E-mail: [email protected] ‘Re-Open Borders To Revive Economy Sales & Marketing Manager Ruele Ramoeng [email protected] And Save Massive Job Losses ’

Editor Botswana and most Africa international tourists to revive governments. But too many policies focus on enabling a safe Bright Kholi countries remain closed to their economies. The two governments are fighting during re-start, aviation is well-prepared [email protected] international travel even when countries joined Benin, Egypt, a global pandemic in isolation to deliver. Risk-management is Head of Design calls for the reopening of borders to Ethiopia, Rwanda, Seychelles, with a view that closing borders a well-developed discipline that Ame Kolobetso ensure a meaningful resumption Tanzania, Tunisia is the only solution. It is time for airlines rely on to keep travel [email protected] and recovery of economic and According to the latest edition governments to work together safe and secure,” said de Juniac. social life are mounting. The of the UNWTO World Tourism to implement measures that will With the exception of some Distribution & Circulation Mogapi Ketletseng re-opening of borders to allow Barometer, Covid-19 travel enable economic and social life domestic markets there is little [email protected] international travel, is seen as restrictions have led to 98 per to resume, while controlling evidence of an early industry key in reviving tourism and the cent fall in international tourist the spread of the virus,” said recovery. Airlines continue to Echo is published by economic activity to save jobs numbers in May when compared Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s lose billions of dollars and are YMH Publishing that have been lost globally due to 2019. Director General and CEO. facing difficult decisions to resize YMH Publishing, Unit 3, Kgale Court, Plot 128, to the effects of the pandemic. The Barometer also shows a The world remains largely their operations and workforce GIFP, Gaborone The International Air Transport 56% year-on-year drop in tourist closed to travel despite the for the future. Postal address: Association (IATA) has added its arrivals between January and availability of global protocols “Many airlines will not have P O BOX 840, voice to these calls, highlighting May. This translates into a fall of to enable the safe re-start of the financial means to survive Gaborone, the need for governments to 300 million tourists and US$320 aviation (Take-off guidance) an indefinite shutdown that, for Botswana Telephone: (267) 3933 805/6. re-establish international billion lost in international developed by governments many, already exceeds a half- E-mail: [email protected] connectivity by reopening tourism receipts – more than through the leadership of the year. In these extraordinary www.echo.co.bw borders to sustain airlines during three times the loss during the International Civil Aviation times, governments will need the pandemic. This is a common Global Economic Crisis of 2009. Organization (ICAO) with the to continue with financial and DISCLAIMER: call that has been made by the “This latest data makes clear support of the World Health other relief measures to the Echo Newspaper welcomes concise letters from readers. tourism industry, domestic the importance of restarting Organization (WHO). greatest extent possible. It’s a Letters must carry the and international which has tourism as soon as it is safe “Airlines have been largely solid investment in the recovery full name and address of been heavily hit by the effects to do so. The dramatic fall in grounded for a half-year. And because each airline job saved the sender. Letters must of COVID-19. international tourism places the situation is not improving. supports 24 in the broader conform to the laws of “Specifically, IATA calls for many millions of livelihoods at In fact, in many cases it is economy. And a functioning Botswana and to the Press Council of Botswana’s Code governments to grasp the risk, including in developing going in the wrong direction. airline industry will be a critical Of Ethics. Letters will also be seriousness of the crisis facing countries. Governments in We see governments replacing enabler for economies to regain edited for length, libel and the airline industry and its every world region have a dual border closures with quarantine their full power,” said de Juniac. language. consequences for their citizens; responsibility: to prioritize public for air travelers. Neither will “Governments have cooperated and IATA urges governments to health while also protecting restore travel or jobs. Worse, to set the guidelines for a safe re- focus their attention on these jobs and businesses. They also governments are changing the start of aviation. But they have key issues.” need to maintain the spirit of entry requirements with little not cooperated to actually make Botswana has opened its cooperation and solidarity that notice to travelers or coordination a re-start happen. That’s why domestic air travel, with the has defined our response to this with their trading partners. This 90% of international flying has national carrier Air Botswana shared challenge and refrain uncertainty destroys demand. stopped. The demand is there. plying the domestic routes. from making unilateral decisions Ten percent of the global economy When borders open without However, some of the country’s that may undermine the trust is sustained by travel and tourism; quarantine, people fly. But there routes like Maun and Kasane, and confidence we have been governments need to do better is too much uncertainty in how are prime tourist routes and are working so hard to build,” The to re-start it,” said de Juniac. governments are managing the Read more Echo not being fully serviced without UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab The prerequisite to open situation for passengers to re- stories on our international tourists. Pololikashvili has said. borders is the ICAO Take-off build the confidence to travel. Facebook page by Tourism in Botswana is a key According to IATA the situation guidance. Additionally, IATA “The global protocols for safely sector of the economy which can improve with reopening is proposing travel bubbles to re-starting aviation are agreed scanning the QR relies heavily on international of borders. IATA has called on mitigate risks between specific and no industry is as experienced code below with tourists and while government governments to work together to markets and foresees a much in successfully implementing your mobile phone approach to reviving the industry urgently find ways to re-establish wider and strategic use of global safety programs as aviation. is to encourage domestic travel, global connectivity by reopening Covid-19 testing as technology But we need governments to take some players in the industry borders and to continue with improves accuracy, speed and on the leadership to manage posit that this will not help the relief measures to sustain airlines scalability. risks and adopt a mindset of industry. The pundits argue that during the Covid-19 crisis. “No government wants to not being defeated by this virus. international tourists are the IATA’s call reflects deep industry import Covid-19. Equally, no Then, with testing, technology, backbone of the industry and frustration as government policies government should want to see science and determination we therefore there is need to start such as closed borders, travel the economic hardships and can reopen borders and get the a cautious and gradual process restrictions and quarantines associated health impacts of mass world moving again,” said de of reopening the borders. continue to annihilate travel unemployment. Successfully Juniac. Zambia and Nigeria recently demand. getting through this crisis requires announced partial opening “Protecting their citizens careful risk-management with Additional Reporting by of its air borders to visiting must be the top priority of effective measures. If government Bizcommunity, UNTWO. Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 3 4 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 African Countries Engaging in Ground-Breaking COVID-19 Vaccine Initiative

While the race to find safe and COVAX Facility, the initiative vaccines,” said Hon Mitoha global initiative which will have passed regulatory approval effective COVID-19 vaccines seeks to ensure access for all: Ondo’O Ayekaba, Vice Minister include African countries and or WHO prequalification continues, African countries are both higher and middle-income for Health and Social Welfare, ensure they are not left at the will be delivered equally to signing up to a ground-breaking countries which will self-finance Equatorial Guinea. “We are back of the queue for COVID-19 all participating countries, initiative, which aims to secure their own participation, and concerned as some wealthier vaccines,” said Dr Matshidiso proportional to their populations. at least 220 million doses of the lower-middle income and low- countries have made moves to Moeti, WHO Regional Director Health workers and other vaccine for the continent, once income countries which will have secure their own interests. We for Africa. “By reaching beyond vulnerable populations will be licensed and approved. their participation supported believe that through this initiative the continent to work together prioritized and then vaccine All 54 countries on the by the COVAX Advance Market we can access successfully tested with other governments and availability will expand to cover continent have expressed Commitment (AMC). vaccines in a timely manner and manufacturers on a global scale additional priority populations interest in COVAX, a global There are eight countries at lower cost.” and pooling buying power, in participating countries. initiative which is co-led by in Africa that have agreed to In addition, 46 countries in countries can protect the people African countries will need to the Coalition for Epidemic self-finance their vaccine doses Africa are eligible for support most vulnerable to the disease have in place the right systems Preparedness Innovations through the COVAX Facility. This from the financing instrument, in Africa.” and infrastructure to define (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine expression of interest will turn the COVAX AMC which has CEPI is leading COVAX the regulatory and ethical Alliance (Gavi) and the World into binding commitments to join raised approximately US$ 700 vaccine research and aims to pathways for a quick approval Health Organization (WHO). the initiative by 18 September, million against an initial target develop up to three safe and of a candidate vaccine. They The partners are working with with upfront payments to follow of securing US$ 2 billion seed effective vaccines which will will need to have logistics and governments and manufacturers no later than 9 October 2020. funding from high-income donor be made available to countries supply chain systems which can to procure enough vaccine doses “Equatorial Guinea has signed countries, as well as private participating in the COVAX reach not only the traditional to protect the most vulnerable up to COVAX as it’s the most sector and philanthropists by Facility. Nine candidate vaccines target populations for routine populations on the continent. effective way to ensure that our the end of 2020. are currently being supported immunizations and campaigns Through the Gavi-coordinated people can access COVID-19 “COVAX is a ground-breaking by CEPI; two are currently being but be ready to vaccinate a much tested in South Africa, in addition larger target population. to other regions around the “To roll out a vaccine effectively world. across countries in Africa, it is “It’s critical that countries critical that communities are in Africa participate in vaccine engaged and understand the trials, in addition to the clinical need for vaccination,” said Dr trials taking place in other regions Richard Mihigo, Programme of the world,” said Dr Richard Area Manager, Immunization Hatchett, Chief Executive and Vaccine Development, Officer, CEPI. “Testing vaccines Programme Area Manager, on the continent ensures that Immunization and Vaccine sufficient data is generated on the Development, WHO Regional safety and efficacy of the most Office for Africa. “It is important promising vaccine candidates to already start working with for the African population so communities to prepare the they can be confidently rolled way for one of the largest out in Africa once vaccines are vaccination campaigns Africa approved. CEPI is investing in has ever experienced.” the research and development Dr Mihigo, Dr Hatchett and of a diverse range of vaccine Vice Minister Mitoha Ondo’O candidates, with the aim of Ayekaba participated in a virtual delivering safe and effective press conference on COVID-19 vaccines to those who need vaccine access in Africa today them most through COVAX.” facilitated by APO Group. Through COVAX, vaccines that Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 Echo Report 5

Kenyans fear ‘ecological disaster’ if two (Reuters.) swollen lakes merge The fresh waters of Kenya’s nine acres of land and his home. Lake Baringo teem with birds, fish, hippopotamuses and crocodiles and sustain tens of thousands of people. But none of them can survive in the alkaline Lake Bogoria nearby. Now heavy rainfall and ecological destruction means the two lakes are rising and may merge. “It will be an ecological disaster if the two lakes meet ... There is only a small gap left,” said Jackson Komen, senior warden for the government-run Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for Lake Baringo conservation area. Baringo, which irrigates land and provides driking water, has expanded 60% to 270 square kilometres (105 square miles) in the last seven years, he said. Lake Bogoria has swollen by a quarter to 43 square kilometres. Conservationists said the rising waters are due to combination of unusually heavy rains and the silting up of the lakes. Tor-Gunnar Vanegen, a scientist at the Nairobi-based World Agroforestry centre, said deforestation was causing erosion on nearby Tugen hills and the soil was washing into lake. “That siltation is causing the shallow lake to rise,” he told Reuters. The flooding is driving farmers from their land and residents from their homes. Three generations of Roberts grew up on Baringo’s shores but the thatched roofs of their safari camp are now forlorn islands surrounded by water. The distance between the two lakes has halved. “It is disheartening to watch the work that was done by your father and mother, and the work we have done ourselves, being destroyed by water,” said Murray Roberts, whose Farmers say their grazing has been destroyed. “I now have to start all over at new grounds. For now I live with my son close by,” said Lechaki Parsaalach, who has lost 6 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020

for financial institutions that

These are just some of the questions that will‘‘ be the focus of the upcoming virtual conference series, the AAAM Africa Automotive Forum, hosted by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) and presented by Deloitte. Expert stakeholders from across the world will be providing their insight at panel discussions, that

Dave Coffey (left) and Martyn Davies (right). seek to unpack how Africa can jumpstart The Africa Automotive Forum: its automotive Jumpstarting the industry through industry. supports affordable asset-based vehicle financing and alternate insight, dialogue and debate mobility solutions that stimulate demand,” said Coffey. “Prices are also inflated by bad Africa has the potential of speakers from the automotive nodes/hubs in the South, West, industrial hub in West Africa. infrastructure and taxation, so to become the world’s industry in Africa is lined up East and North of Africa and a However, other countries are the first step is to reduce this next automotive industry with various topics. spread of value adding activity failing to realise the potential dramatically – as we’ve seen powerhouse. The opportunities “The opportunities for growth (e.g. component manufacture) benefits, and are focusing more in Ghana. –The importation are there – with a young, are there, but there are still to neighbouring economies on the imported, used vehicle of pre-owned, dumped and growing population and challenges across Africa. This based on their resources industry. unroadworthy vehicles, needs to rapid urbanisation across the conference is about unpacking or comparative industrial “The political will to support be controlled through legislation continent. But how can this those issues, finding solutions, advantages. Partnerships the significant medium-term that protects the consumer and potential be unlocked? What and lighting the way to ensure between countries have been economic and good job creation the local economy,” said Davies. obstacles does the continent our shared vision for the key to the development of auto benefits of an effective auto Interest rates on new vehicles face in growing vehicle demand continent is achieved,” said industries across the world; industry is often overshadowed also remain an obstacle for and becoming a true industry Dr Martyn Davies, Managing this facilitates scale which by the short term gains of prospective buyers. competitor? And how can regions Director of Emerging Markets is necessary in this globally customs revenue for imported “In Africa, you generally unite to write the legislation that and Africa at Deloitte and who competitive industry. used vehicles - when duty is have interest rates above 20%, could see hundreds of thousands will be facilitating the sessions. “Not every African country is actually paid,” said Coffey. and that’s not affordable. It of jobs created? Dialogue throughout the able to grow and industrialise To create a cross-continental is important that we explore These are just some of the conference will be split between a fully-fledged automotive industry, getting governments solutions with governments. questions that will be the three major themes: industry sector. So, beyond these on board to support legislation The question is, how can we focus of the upcoming virtual hubs, we need to build a hub that elicits investor confidence work with financial institutions conference series, the AAAM Regional Value Chains and spoke model, where a hub is paramount. and the value chain to offer Africa Automotive Forum, hosted The plethora of fragmented, such as Kenya, for example, can “The pending African interest rates of 10% or less? by the African Association of small automotive production be supported by a supply spoke Continental Free Trade That is fundamental to driving Automotive Manufacturers facilities rather than a singular in a neighbouring country,” Agreement could hold much affordability,” said Coffey. (AAAM) and presented by force across the continent said Davies promise for deeper value chain Deloitte. Expert stakeholders appears to be the result of creation for the automotive value “We hope that the African from across the world will be ineffective automotive policies, Enabling Policy Through chain creation going forward,” Automotive Forum can be a providing their insight at panel with only Morocco and South Government said Davies . platform that allows us to find discussions, that seek to unpack Africa standing out as having A lack of political will can be solutions to these burning how Africa can jumpstart its fully fledged industries. the death knell for any industry, Driving Affordability questions, by bringing together automotive industry. “However, even these two which is why Coffey believes that Creating vehicle demand is some of the industry’s greatest Ghana Trade and Industry countries are heavily reliant on it’s time for automotive sector about affordability, because for minds and using their lessons minister Alan Kyerematen will the export of high-volume models across the continent to push for many Africans consumers, the and applying it to the African give a keynote address and Mike to non-African markets, though legislative change, much like high cost of new vehicles is the context,” said Davies. Whitfield, AAAM President, the long-term sustainability what has recently been seen in main obstacle to ownership. “This conference, in Chairman of Nissan Group of of this is questionable,” said Ghana. The Ghana Automotive Poor infrastructure and high partnership with AAAM, is yet Africa and Managing Director of Dave Coffey, CEO of AAAM. Development Policy, through its logistics costs do not support another strategic initiative to Nissan Egypt will lead a discussion One of the solutions to this Ministry of Trade and Industry a competitive value chain, promote the automotive industry on enabling government policy is the development of a pan- has already laid the way for but this can be changed with and automotive industrialisation with automotive industry African automotive sector with the country to become a fully enough political will. “This in Africa” he concluded. practitioners. A whole array the establishment of assembly integrated and competitive could include effective polices -- Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 7 8 Business & Finance Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020

terminal that is equipped with contactless payment technology. A further alternative to using an actual card is using a smartphone or smartwatch with a payment application (like Apple Pay), transactions are completed by tapping the smart phone to the point of sale terminal. Online or Ecommerce is another option that does not require handling of any cash or card and allows transaction of large amounts at a time. The shift in payment methods has also driven retailers and malls to improve their online offering. In response to rising online demand, e-commerce platforms were also compelled to improve or expand their delivery and payment services. Mobile wallet are applications available on many mobile devices to store your payment information, such as credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, points cards and even tickets. Transactions through mobile devices has seen exponential Cashless Transactions - the growth since the introduction of Mobile wallets. With more and more New Normal post COVID-19 transactions moving digital there is the emergent risk of criminal activity and fraud. It is essential By Emmanuel Allottey money, especially if handling the ability of individuals to most convenient, time saving to guard your password and or eating food has fuelled fears perform cashless transactions. means of buying a product or only make secure transactions Digital banking has been the that handling cash may lead to The Internet, Mobile financial service. at reputable merchants to biggest winner during COVID-19. infection and driving the adoption services, and Applications (Apps) Point of Sale transactions safeguard against identity theft The restrictions in movement of digital as the new preferred have become a popular means for performed using a credit or when performing all online and social distancing rules has method for transacting. conducting financial transactions. debit card is the most prevalent and digital transactions. The accelerated the adoption of Businesses are increasingly form of cashless transaction. pandemic has undoubtedly digital solutions for everyday The ease of access to debit, investing in an online presence The transaction is authorised accelerated the uptake of cashless transactions. The World Health credit and prepaid cards from to promote, advertise and sell either through manual entry of transactions and staying safe Organisation advise to the public Financial Institutions and Mobile their products and services. For a signature / PIN or the card can post the COVID-19 pandemic to wash their hands after handling network operators has supported digital savvy customers this is the be tapped near a point-of-sale will remain top priority.

Governments have directed The biggest drawback to Central Banks to reduce interest borrowing from unlicensed rates through monetary policy to money lenders are their stimulate economic activity. This illegitimate collection methods. means it should be cheaper to Money lenders are vicious and borrow from licensed Financials go to the extent of threats and Institutions with interest rates harassment just to recover their linked to the central bank rate. money. This added pressure However, this benefit is may lead to mental distress and forfeited by Individuals when emotional breakdown. they seek financial assistance If you have borrowed money from unlicensed money lenders. from an unlicensed money Individuals struggling financially lender, the most important that have resorted to getting things to remember are: support from money lenders They are not allowed to do and other non-licensed micro anything illegal to collect the financiers face aggravated money they have lent you, financial woes due to exorbitant such as threatening violence interest they get charged. or taking away your bank cards One of the challenges or valuables. preventing the use of Financial If you are threatened or Institutions is the perceived attacked by anyone to whom arduous documentation required you owe money, then you should and rigorous assessments before contact the police straight away. approval. This is a myth and If you are struggling to repay needs to be dispelled. Financial consider renegotiating your Money Lenders profiteering from Institutions continue to innovate payment arrangements, get and enhance their product and advice from a specialist before service delivery. you make a decision. Financial Institutions have There are many other ways COVID-19 Economic downturn demonstrated their contribution you can borrow money. Consult to the economy during the the nearest registered Financial By Emmanuel Allottey by government-imposed suspension of contracts with COVID-19 pandemic by offering Institution to explore your lockdowns and movement some non-essential staff being various relief programs for options. Remember borrowing COVID-19 has ushered in an restrictions introduced to curb made to stay at home to avoid individuals and businesses. more than you can afford can unprecedented contraction the spread of the coronavirus. collapse. Individuals impacted Unlicensed money lenders and lead to financial hardship. in economic activity across Business have resorted to cost by reduced income are having other micro-financiers have the world. The livelihoods of reduction initiatives including to resort to borrowing to meet not been able to offer the same Individuals have been impacted pay cuts, unpaid leave, and even their obligations. reprieve. Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 9 10 Echo Report Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020

encourages employee retention institutions such as mortgage, because they feel taken care of personal and car loans. When the and most importantly it covers individual dies or is permanently employees who otherwise would disabled, the insurance provider not be able to afford individual pays out the outstanding amount life insurance policies. Grouping for the loan including the interest individuals together allows the loan would have accumulated. insurance companies to give Research as well as past cases in causes permanent disability, more competitive pricing. It Botswana have shown that some or even death, this contract allows higher risk individuals to companies find it more beneficial would cover every member be given life insurance coverage, and cost-effective to get group life affected. All individuals are awarding insurance to all cover rather than the company covered within the same benefit Batswana. Group Life normally paying out lump sums to families. 24 hours a day, whether in the covers all individuals up to the It is only ethical that an employer line of duty or at their respective age of 65 even though the cover offers a contribution towards homes. maybe extended to individuals an employee’s family after they Group Life When a company wants to up to the age of 75 under special have passed on, and therefore it insure its employees, it sends requests. is imperative to narrate the need its employee data through their How does contract termination to further educate Batswana on Assurance - a broker, who then submits the occur? Just like any other policy, Group Life Assurance benefits. data to various life insurance there are rules and regulations Even though this policy has companies for quotes. The that have to be observed and been taken up at a higher rate in need or a want? company’s quote is determined carried out. When premiums other developing countries (such by various factors. This includes, are not paid the contract can as South Africa), recent research By Joseph Kuaho - Botswana but is not limited to, size of be terminated. When cover is has indicated that only 20% of Life’s Executive Head of For many, understanding the the selected scheme, profile restricted to a calculated cover organisations are enrolled with Corporate ins and outs of various insurance of the employees in-terms of (known as free cover limit), Group Life Assurance, making it solutions can feel overwhelming gender, the type of occupation individuals who exceed this a necessity to keep combining and even confusing at times. or job description, age and cover are requested to undergo efforts and spreading awareness. It is important to know what the company’s claim history medicals and if they do not, their Group Life Assurance was solutions exist, how they work experience. cover will be restricted. developed to be able to ensure and what works for you. Here, Some may argue that the With that being said, what that every Motswana has some we look at one solution, Group employee has little to no control makes Group Life really stand form of insurance, ultimately Life Assurance, and unpack what over their individual coverage out from other assurances? It is assisting with the National Agenda it offers as well as how it works. and that the cover does not important to note that Group Life (Government strategy) and Group Life Assurance is a type of continue or follow the employee and Credit Life are two different financial inclusion aspect. Local insurance policy in which a single if they decide to leave their job. insurances with different companies are therefore urged to contract covers an entire group However, Botswana Life does purposes. Group Life covers continue creating solutions and of people in an organisation. The offer a conversion option where groups of people in terms of death advocating for financial literacy. policy owner is an employer or one can pay a calculate premium and disability, whereby their Conclusively, it is imperative an entity, and the policy covers for the specific cover with no dependents benefit after their to get more information, seek the employees or members of additional medical underwriting beneficiary passes away, whereas expert advice, and make more the group. In the event of any required. Credit Life covers loans that informed decisions, one that type of accident or illness that Group Life Assurance individuals take from financial looks at more than just price. Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 Echo Report 11 The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that per- Standard Bank Botswana well capita GDP in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) could fall back to 2010 levels as a result of the pandemic, Capitalised amidst Covid-19 reversing gains from almost a decade of growth. Africa should see a technical bounce back Standard Bank Botswana (SBB) 3 loans, as expected. Global growth forecast for of 3.5 percent in 2022, falling in real GDP in 2021 from this has reported in its half year The Bank however reports that 2020 has been revised to -3.3 below the 25-year average pace year’s low base as containment results for the period ended it maintains adequate collateral percent (from -2.6) to reflect of 3.7 percent. Regional Economy measures are eased. However, June 2020 that it has remained cover over significant exposures, further downgrades for most Sub-Saharan Africa is expected the results state that outlook well within regulatory capital and the entire portfolio is regions, apart from Asia. Global to contract by 3.2 percent in beyond 2021 is less certain, given thresholds and registered a 25 reviewed and stress tested Gross Domestic Product (GDP) 2020, with contraction in Nigeria rising public debt profiles and percent Overall Net Interest regularly to foresee impact of is forecast to recover to a 5.5 and South Africa expected at the risk that this constrains Income (NII). likely horizon risks and manage percent expansion in 2021, 4.3 percent and 8.0 percent investment. The results show that Common them accordingly. followed by a slower growth respectively. Equity Tier (CET1) moved 11 percent down mainly driven by dividend pay-out and Additional Tier 1 capital distributions during the period as this was partially offset by positive performance during the period. Regulatory adjustments were higher in 2019 as day 1 IFRS 9 impact amortisation continues to taper down. “We expect that Get the second half of the year will be punctuated by intermittent Within! lockdowns of localities while the disruptions on global supply chains will likely persist, albeit with some level of reprieve,” said Managing Director (MD) of SBB Is 2 0 2 0 the Beginning Or End Of A Decade? Mpho Masupe. He highlighted Answer: well, that is neither here nor there. Join #TeamIDM where we make complex things simple.ENROL now for the that there is a consensus on a IDM prestigious Block Release programmes for the September 2020 intake tenable at both Francistown and Gaborone pronounced contraction in the campuses. 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30 bps drop-in rate paid. He • Diploma in Human Resources Management Gaborone further explained that driving • Association of Accounting Technicians Gaborone improved margins were a range of strategic portfolio return • Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Francistown /Gaborone management measures across • Bachelor of Project Management Francistown /Gaborone certain classes of assets, built on • Bachelor of Public Finance and Accounting Francistown /Gaborone a more supportive, lower cost • Bachelor of Education (Management) Francistown /Gaborone stable liquidity profile. Although the bank remains • Bachelor of Archives and Records Management Francistown /Gaborone well capitalised, Masupe notes • BA (Hons) Early childhood Studies Francistown /Gaborone that this reflects a need to turn • Bachelor of Office Management Gaborone to post Covid-19 reconstruction, • Bachelor of Accountancy Gaborone against a backdrop of significantly expanded Government and • Bachelor of Community Development Francistown /Gaborone Central Bank financial position. • BSc Supply Chain Management Francistown /Gaborone However, he explains that there • Bachelor of Public Health Francistown /Gaborone is a glimpse of hope as early signs • Post Graduate Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation Gaborone of economic activity recovery • MSc Project Management Gaborone are beginning to emerge albeit amid a resurgence of Covid-19 • MSc Supply Chain Management Gaborone infections. The results state that Global What is Block Release? growth is expected to improve This is a mode of study where leaners are allowed to attend classes for a blocked number of days after which they are released to go back to their in the Third Quarter (Q3) as work stations. At IDM our learners usually attend classes for 2- 4 days, every 4-6 weeks depending on their programme of study. With the advent output gaps are likely to keep of COVID19, IDM uses blended learning, that is a combination of both online and the traditional face to face tutorials. unemployment relatively high and inflation low adding that You can apply online at www.idmbls.com. Access the application form through the downloads section. weak energy prices will also CLOSING DATE: 30th September 2020 likely cap inflation. The results state that overall APPLY GABORONE OFFICE FRANCISTOWN OFFICE credit growth remained The Admissions Office The Admissions Office concentrated in the good book, Institute of Development Management Institute of Development Management NOW! with a 15 percent overall growth P.O. Box 1357 Gaborone P/Bag 244 Francistown Plot 21222, 21254 Mobuto Road, Village Plot 6434, Botho Park Tati River Plots, Block 10 in stage 1 and 2 advances against a 26 percent drop in stage 3 Tel: (+267) 3612171/38 Fax: (+267) 3913296 Tel: (+267) 2410300 Fax: (+267) 2410315 loans. This the MD explains Email: [email protected] Facebook: institute of development management corresponds to a 15 percent drop in overall Expected Credit Loss (ECL) provisions on stage 1 and 2 advances, albeit a 28 percent acceleration on ECL against stage 12 Travel Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020

Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone Team

the hotel “I’m pleased to confirm as Letsema Board, as Hilton Garden Inn launches well as BPOPF we have been continuously pleased with the performance of the Hilton Garden Inn since it started operating, Clean Stay Programme it had an excellent start and its performance has been consistent throughout 2019 until end of 1st The Hilton Garden Inn in enjoy a cleaner and safer stay, increased frequency of cleaning feeling of safety. Guests to Hilton quarter 2020, when the global Gaborone has launched the Hilton building on the standards in and disinfecting public restrooms, Garden Inn may enjoy contactless pandemic, Covid-19 hit the Clean Stay, an industry leading place before. fitness rooms, laundry rooms, check-ins and unlock their rooms industry.” programme of cleanliness and restaurant surfaces, meeting using smart phones with the Moses said Hilton Garden Inn disinfection, which will apply The new hotel standards include rooms and staff areas. Two-meter digital key via the Hilton Honors - Gaborone has created jobs for to all its hotels across the globe Hilton CleanStay Room seals that social distance markings are Application. Guests need not 100 people and 99 percent are in an effort to mitigate the risks indicate to guests who are the visible throughout the hotel touch any menus as restaurant locals, adding that the jobs have of Covid-19 transmission. ones to break the seal that the including in elevators, which menus are available via QR code remained safe even with the The programme was developed room has not been interfered allow only two guests maximum scanning available on each table. effects of COVID-19 pandemic. in collaboration with RB, the with since thorough cleaning at a time. The Hilton Garden Inn is The launch was graced by makers of Lysol and Dettol. and disinfection. There is provision of sanitizers Botswana’s first and currently various tourism industry players Amidst a global pandemic, the There is also extra disinfection and disinfecting wipes throughout the only Hilton hotel and is a and hospitality stakeholders. Hilton Clean Stay ensures guests of frequently touched areas, the hotel to provide an extra proud investment of the Botswana The Clean Stay programme Public Officers Pension Fund was launched at the same time General Manager of Hilton Garden (BPOPF). with the introduction of the Inn Gaborone - Ms Thabani Ndlovu Rutang Ruth Kerumile new General Manager, Thabani Moses, Chairperson of Letsema Ndlovu, who is ranked among Hospitality, an investment the top 100 women in tourism holding company that manages in Africa by ATQnews. BPOPF investments said of Board Chairperson of Letsema Hospitality - Ms Rutang Moses Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 13 Travel

delegates. Available as well is a bar and restaurant fit for smaller meetings and private dining events. For those who enjoy Maun Lodge – exercise, Maun Lodge has a gymnasium and swimming pool. Maun is a tourism town and in many ways a frontier Gateway to the Okavango town, and at Maun Lodge you have guidance on the numerous travel and tour operators in the area and where you can find camping and safari equipment.

Different ways to stay There are three different options when it comes to your stay at Maun Lodge. There are budget chalets, standard hotel rooms and riverfront rooms. With the rise of the Thamalakane River’s water levels, riverfront rooms are particularly attractive at the current time.

Activity Tours Exploration is often what draws people to Northern Botswana and as such a number of tour activities can be arranged a country filled to the brim at Maun Lodge. Among the best with excellent lodges is Maun ways to glimpse the waterways Lodge. Maun Lodge is a great and the massive expanse of the place to visit and to unwind. islands, tributaries, floodplains As Maun is the gateway to the and rivers that form the delta Okavango, a visit on a tour is through scenic helicopter of Botswana would be all the flights. Alternatively, such more immaculate having visited exploration can be done with Maun Lodge. light aircraft. Another activity to engage in during your stay Facilities includes day trips into the Maun Lodge offers Okavango Delta, ideal to satisfy conferencing facilities capable one’s urge to immerse oneself Tourism has always been big business in Botswana and among the most iconic of lodges in of hosting an audience of 500 in nature.

YOUR GATEWAY TO THE OKAVANGO DELTA CONTACT US Maun Lodge is a 140 room hotel offering different styles of accommodation that cater for both Tel: +267 686 3939 Fax:+267 686 3969 international, local tourists and people visiting Maun on business. With Various dining options Cell: +267 71363986 ; 72881581 and conference facilities on offer, which can seat up to 500 delegates. Maun Lodge aims to Email: [email protected] meet the best standards and has quickly become a first choice for the diverse market, from local Visit us: www.maunlodge.bw government officials, residence and to international tourists. Follow us on: 14 Sports Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020

same goalscoring feat during the just-concluded European competition, which was won by Lyon. Her appearance in the CLASSIFIED 2019/20 Champions League marked her fourth outing with Minsk and eighth since 2009, having previously represented Rossiyanka twice, Energiya ADS Voronezh, and BIIK Kazygurt once. See Upcoming Sales, Her latest feat summed up her remarkable year 2019 as Employment Options, she netted 29 goals in 17 league outings for Minsk, totaling Announcements And More. 44 goals in all competitions, including five in the Belarusian Women’s Cup. Call 3933805/6 She inspired Minsk to a Oghiabekhva makes domestic treble in 2019, To Advertise. including the Women’s FA Cup history in UEFA Women’s and Super Cup, and saw her being crowned the Belarusian Women’s League Best Player Champions League of the Year. Nigeria striker Emuidzhi Oghiabekhva netted six goals She has already continued HONOURABLE JUSTICE TAFA Oghiabekhva has become in the qualifying rounds from where she left off last IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA the first African to clinch the before adding four in the main campaign, scoring 17 goals in HELD AT LOBATSE golden boot in a UEFA Women’s tournament despite Minsk were 11 outings in all competitions CASE NO. CVHGB-000632-17 Champions League following eliminated in the Round of 16 this season before an injury her exploits for Minsk. by Spanish side, Barcelona. forced her to part ways with The 30-year-old netted 10 She will have to share Minsk in August. AUTO SUECO BOTSWANA (PTY) LTD Plainti

goals in seven Champions League the prize, however, with outings for Minsk in the 2019/20 Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema (Cafonline.) NEXT SUPPLIES AND LOGISTICS (PTY) LTD Defendant season to share the golden boot. and Breidablik’s Berglind Bjorg To achieve the feat, Borvaldsdottir recording the NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE THAT DEPUTY SHERIFF OMPHEMETSE PETER KAISARA

DATE OF SALE: ‘Mozambique Means VENUE:

TIME: So Much To Me’- Mexer TERMS OF SALE: PROPERTY TO BE SOLD:

DATED AT GABORONE ON THIS 25TH DAY OF AUGUST 2020 time top goalscorer. From his three goals for his country, shadow emerged a talented has gained additional respect Deputy Sheri Omphemetse kaisara young defender by the name for having established himself Tel: 3973799/72195113 of Edson Andre Sitoe. Born in Europe, the promised land c/o RAHIM KHAN & COMPANY in the capital, Maputo, in for every young Mozambican Plainti ’s Attorneys Oce # 1, Plot 50362 1988, he has built on the early player. Showgrounds Oce Park promise he showed to become a After proving his worth in P O Box 1884, Gaborone Tel. No. 3188988/9 mainstay of the national team. the Portuguese league with Fax No. 3188951/990 More commonly known by his Olhanense and National, Mexer E-mail: [email protected] [GAN/sm/AUT5/0017] nickname Mexer (‘The Restless made his mark in France, One’), he is one of the few impressing first of all with members of the current line- Rennes, where he won the up who featured at the 2010 Coupe de France in 2019, and means so much to me,” he country,” said Mexer of a Africa Cup of Nations. then with Bordeaux last season. stressed. “The emotion never qualification campaign in “When you experience highs “I’ve been in France for changes when you play for the which the Mambas have now like that, it makes it you feel six years now and I feel as national team. It is special. It’s been drawn with Cameroon, even more sad that we’ve gone settled in the league as I do overwhelming.” Côte d’Ivoire and Malawi in the last ten years without in the country itself,” he said Aiming high Group D. “It’s in our blood It has now been ten years since tasting the joy of qualifying in French with a Portuguese That is just as well given to give our all, though, and to Mozambique last appeared for a tournament again,” he twang. “And if the experience the imminent return of believe that we can do it. You at the CAF Africa Cup of said. “We’ve been through I am picking up in Europe can international football after it just never know.” Nations, when the qualifying some tough times but we’ve help Mozambique, then so was put on hold by the Covid-19 In his eyes, a place at next competition also doubled up now got lots of reasons to be much the better. That’s what pandemic. In Africa that means year’s Africa Cup of Nations as the preliminaries for the optimistic about the future of our national team is lacking. qualifying matches for the is much more of a realistic 2010 FIFA World Cup South the national team. Just as we Obviously, the Mozambique 2022 Africa Cup of Nations and goal for Mozambique, with the Africa™. Though the Mambas had back then, we’ve got some fans expect a lot of me because Qatar 2022, in two separate Mambas currently sitting top missed out on a place at the quality youngsters who want to I play in Europe, but I feel that competitions. of a group that again features world finals, they sprang a succeed and who are benefitting brings me more support than Mozambique are well Cameroon, as well as Cabo surprise by taking points off from playing in Europe, most pressure. I feel like there’s a positioned in both of them, Verde and Rwanda. “We’ve Nigeria and Tunisia to earn a of them in Portugal.” lot of respect for me.” having kicked off their bid to missed too many continental ticket to the continental finals Mexer is not someone to mess reach the continental finals finals in the last few years and for the first time in 12 years. Just as in 2010, the current with on the pitch. Standing 6’1 with a 2-0 win over Rwanda it’s time we made amends,” said It was quite an achievement Mozambique line-up boasts an (1.86m) tall, the rugged centre- and beaten Mauritius 3-0 on Mozambique’s Mr Experience. for the Mambas and was inspired iconic player of its own: Mexer. half is quick and combative with aggregate in the first round of “I get the sense that the wind is by Manuel Jose Luis Bucuane, And while Tico-Tico played his it. Off it, however, he is an easy- the Qatar 2022 preliminaries. blowing in a different direction better known as Tico-Tico, a best football for the national going character who lets his “Let’s be honest and accept now. I’m optimistic.” legend of Mozambican football team, the central defender, who emotions show when talk turns that reaching the World Cup and the national team’s all- has won 50 caps and scored to his homeland: “Mozambique is a bit of a tall order for our (Fifa.com) Echo Newspaper 07 - 13 Sep 2020 15 THE AFRICAN STORY

Sport30 AUGUST - 6 SEPTEMBER 2020 Echo Newspaper

BANDA: Zambian Packing a Punch in China

Barbra Banda defied her parents just inside her own half, racing wanted to play football,” she said. It is fair to say that her parents Inspired by compatriot on the way to becoming the past two defenders and slotting “I thought it was my career are now fully behind her. Catherine Phiri, who held a world first Zambian woman to play home as Shanghai won 5-0. She so I wouldn’t mind what people “It’s just brought the happiness title in 2016-2017, Banda tried professional football in Europe, scored twice more on Wednesday. say, I’ll keep on playing with in the country and everyone now boxing at the age of 16. then as captain led her country “I started playing football the boys.” is talking about women’s football Perhaps unsurprisingly, she to a maiden Olympics. when I was a very tender age, Her parents, concerned that because in Africa it’s not really had the talent for it, racking up She is also an undefeated boxer. it was somewhere between football was damaging her that developed,” said Banda, who five victories in five professional Not bad for someone who is still six or seven years old,” Banda schooling and saying it was not has scored at least 28 goals in 32 fights. only 20. The latest chapter in told AFP by telephone from the a sport for girls, were another games for the “Copper Queens”. “Actually I’m good, I’m very Banda’s journey saw her leave southwestern Chinese city of obstacle. “So, they were only good,” she said. Spain for China, where she had Kunming, where the league is “In fact, I just used to run concentrating on men’s teams, Banda then had to make a to quarantine in a hotel for two taking place behind closed doors away,” said Banda, who was born but now at least they’re talking choice, but after all she had weeks ahead of the new season because of the pandemic in the Zambian capital Lusaka, about women.” Cafonline. battled with, there could be only because of the coronavirus. “Actually, by the time I started, laughing at the memory from The Tokyo 2020 Games were put one winner-woman. Underlining that Banda is not I used to play with boys because when she was a single-minded back a year because of the virus, “My mind was too much into one to waste time, the prolific the academy that I was playing 11-year-old. delaying also Zambia’s historic football so that’s why I couldn’t striker scored just 23 minutes for didn’t have the lady’s team.” “I just had to get my boots (from tilt at a medal, but Banda says concentrate much into boxing,” into her debut Sunday in the That made Banda tougher. home) without them knowing it means they now have more she said. Chinese Women’s Super League “Whether anyone made a that I’m going to play football time to prepare. “I said I have to go with the for Shanghai Shengli. It was some comment about me I was just because if they know this, they It is a reflection of Banda’s way I’m more comfortable with.” goal, Banda picking the ball up determined because I really won’t allow me. sporting prowess that it is not “I would throw them (boots) inconceivable that she could out the window, then go out the have made it to Tokyo by another door, and they’d think maybe route -- as a boxer. (Cafonline). she’s just going outside, and then I’d go round to get them.” Banda has justified her devotion to football, spending 15 productive months in Spain Her parents, concerned that football was with EDF Logrono before moving to China in January. damaging her schooling and saying it was not a In March, just as coronavirus sport for girls, were another obstacle. was bringing almost all sport “In fact, I just used to run away,” said Banda, to a halt, the then-19-year-old ‘‘ captained Zambia’s women to qualify for their first Olympics, upsetting the odds.