Venson-Moitoi invokes Mogae in defence of Khama
Minister for International Affairs and Cooperation, Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi has said that President Ian Khama’s no show at African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) summits draws its roots from former President, Festus Mogae’s globetrotting escapades.
Moitoi suggested that Khama’s absenteeism from AU and UN was as a result of him caving in to media pressure and public opinion of the Mogae era. She stated that Khama then decided that since the Mogae administration had a strong pivot toward international affairs, the fourth presidency will be grounded at home, attending to domestic and regional affairs.
“What I would like to remind you of what we were saying during the argument, Rre Mogae used to be called the absent president during his term, so when president Khama came into office, he said, because of Mogae’s stigma, I would pay attention to home and to SADC and I will assign my Vice President to AU and the UN,” Moitoi explained.
She however said that Khama would only attend to continental and world summits that dealt only with environmental issues. Moitoi further conceded that in the election of the AU Commission Chairperson and its Commissioners, it was difficult to explain this concept to other states.
She further defended Khama stating: “Yes my president was not there, but there were people whose presidents were there, they didn’t win either. So the question is, do you win because your president is there? And the answer is clearly no!” She also added: “Maybe it would have helped, but it doesn’t make any difference whether the president was there or not.”
Moitoi who is Member of Parliament for Serowe South constituency further noted that, after viewing the curricula vitae of her opponents she knew hers was competitive and that if it was just about applying for the job, without the politics at play, she could have won. “It had nothing to do with who the best person was; it was who the politics wanted on the day. I have absolutely no regrets and I have learnt a lot,” she reiterated.
Moitoi also highlighted that, the country would not be affected by the statement that states would now be represented by either vice presidents or prime ministers, as stated by new chairperson of the bloc, Moussa Faki Mahamat. According to Moitoi, the belief that her loss was due to Khama’s absence at AU was a mere excuse put forth by other African states to undermine her candidacy.
“If you studied the politics at AU this time around you will understand the reasons for the vote, so the fact that President Khama was not there had nothing to do with how they voted, they had to find an excuse. They didn’t have any reason to reject us.” Moitoi also blamed the media for influencing the Khama administration’s diplomatic thinking, stating that: “what you portray as the media is what the world knows of us. We are in this together and it always comes back to bite all of us.”
She further continued: “The problem with explaining it is that you knew at home why he didn’t go, because the former president was always away. You (media) even parodied the situation by drawing Mogae in the newspapers.” Moitoi also said that when the next leader changes approach, the media will still complain.
“I’m sorry, but we have to make up our minds. Sometimes we confuse ourselves and our leaders. Something is going to crash, somewhere. I don’t blame him (Khama) and as far as I’m concerned I qualified for the job.” She also stated that they were caught in a catch 22 situation because; even if Khama had attended the election, “they would have said he has come this time around because his candidate was contesting.”
Moitoi reiterated that Khama was in full support of her candidacy saying that she continued earning her salary and had another cabinet minister acting in her place. She also stated that even though she had not been availed direct cash to fund her campaign, the government sponsored her official continental assignments which she also used to campaign. She also revealed that Botswana does not have a blueprint for financing Batswana who step up for international contests.
“We didn’t have it and it was very difficult to craft it when I was the candidate. It would have looked wrong because it would have looked like I was tailor-making it for myself. The next day you were going to write (media) that the blueprint was crafted because I was contesting.” Moitoi also confirmed that she will be standing down when her term ends in 2019 and she will be approaching her future with an open mind. However, when asked about Zimbabwean President, Robert Mugabe’s comments on her defeat, she stated:
“Rre Mugabe le tautona wa rona ke motho le rraagwe ba na le go gakololana ka fa ba gakollanang ka teng,jaanong ga ke tsene thata mo go tsone. Yo mongwe o a bo a utlwisitswe ke yo mongwe botlhoko a bo a mo tika ka lefoko.” Loosely translated she said,” Mugabe and our president are like father and son so I’m not going to comment on that .They have ways through which they advise each other. The other will lob a harsh word when aggrieved by another.” She said seemingly referring to Mugabe.
News
19 Bokamoso Private Hospital nurses graduate at Lenmed Nursing College
The graduation of 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College marks a significant milestone in their careers. These nurses have successfully completed various short learning programs, including Adult Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Nursing Care, Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing, Anaesthetic Nursing, and Recovery Room Nursing. The ceremony, held in Gaborone, was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Lenmed Nursing College, a renowned healthcare group with a presence in South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Ghana, has been instrumental in providing quality education and training to healthcare professionals. The Group Head of Operations, Jayesh Parshotam, emphasized the importance of upskilling nurses, who are at the forefront of healthcare systems. He also expressed his appreciation for the partnerships with Bokamoso Private Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and various health training institutes in Botswana.
Dr. Morrison Sinvula, a consultant from the Ministry of Health, commended Lenmed Health and Lenmed Nursing College for their commitment to the education and training of these exceptional nurses. He acknowledged their guidance, mentorship, and support in shaping the nurses’ careers and ensuring their success. Dr. Sinvula also reminded the graduates that education does not end here, as the field of healthcare is constantly evolving. He encouraged them to remain committed to lifelong learning and professional development, embracing new technologies and staying updated with the latest medical advancements.
Dr. Gontle Moleele, the Superintendent of Bokamoso Private Hospital, expressed her excitement and pride in the graduating class of 2023. She acknowledged the sacrifices made by these individuals, who have families and responsibilities, to ensure their graduation. Dr. Moleele also thanked Lenmed Nursing College for providing this opportunity to the hospital’s nurses, as it will contribute to the growth of the hospital.
The certificate recipients from Bokamoso Private Hospital were recognized for their outstanding achievements in their respective programs. Those who received the Cum Laude distinction in the Adult Intensive Care Unit program were Elton Keatlholwetse, Lebogang Kgokgonyane, Galaletsang Melamu, Pinkie Mokgosi, Ofentse Seboletswe, Gorata Basupi, Bareng Mosala, and Justice Senyarelo. In the Emergency Nursing Care program, Atlanang Moilwa, Bakwena Moilwa, Nathan Nhiwathiwa, Mogakolodi Lesarwe, Modisaotsile Thomas, and Lorato Matenje received the Cum Laude distinction. Kelebogile Dubula and Gaolatlhe Sentshwaraganye achieved Cum Laude in the Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing program, while Keletso Basele excelled in the Anaesthetic Nursing program. Mompoloki Mokwaledi received recognition for completing the Recovery Room Nursing program.
In conclusion, the graduation of these 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College is a testament to their dedication and commitment to their profession. They have successfully completed various short learning programs, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their respective fields. The collaboration between Lenmed Nursing College, Bokamoso Private Hospital, and the Ministry of Health has played a crucial role in their success. As they embark on their careers, these nurses are encouraged to continue their professional development and embrace new advancements in healthcare.
News
BNF secures 15 constituencies in UDC coalition, wants more
The Botswana National Front (BNF) has recently announced that they have already secured 15 constituencies in the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition, despite ongoing negotiations. This revelation comes as the BNF expresses its dissatisfaction with the current government and its leadership.
The UDC, which is comprised of the BNF, Botswana Peoples Party (BPP), Alliance for Progressives (AP), and Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), is preparing for the upcoming General Elections. However, the negotiations to allocate constituencies among the involved parties are still underway. Despite this, the BNF Chairman, Patrick Molotsi, confidently stated that they have already acquired 15 constituencies and are expecting to add more to their tally.
Molotsi’s statement reflects the BNF’s long-standing presence in many constituencies across Botswana. With a strong foothold in these areas, it is only natural for the BNF to seek an increase in the number of constituencies they represent. This move not only strengthens their position within the UDC coalition but also demonstrates their commitment to serving the interests of the people.
In a press conference, BNF Secretary General, Ketlhafile Motshegwa, expressed his discontent with the current government leadership. He criticized the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) for what he perceives as a disregard for the well-being of the Batswana people. Motshegwa highlighted issues such as high unemployment rates and shortages of essential medicines as evidence of the government’s failure to address the needs of its citizens.
The BNF’s dissatisfaction with the current government is a reflection of the growing discontent among the population. The Batswana people are increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress and the failure to address pressing issues. The BNF’s assertion that the government is playing with the lives of its citizens resonates with many who feel neglected and unheard.
The BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, even before the negotiations have concluded, is a testament to their popularity and support among the people. It is a clear indication that the Batswana people are ready for change and are looking to the BNF to provide the leadership they desire.
As the negotiations continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the interests of the people. The allocation of constituencies should be done in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are represented. The BNF’s success in securing constituencies should serve as a reminder to the other parties of the need to listen to the concerns and aspirations of the people they aim to represent.
In conclusion, the BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, despite ongoing negotiations, highlights their strong presence and support among the Batswana people. Their dissatisfaction with the current government leadership reflects the growing discontent in the country. As the UDC coalition prepares for the upcoming General Elections, it is crucial for all parties to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the people. The BNF’s success should serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of the citizens and working towards a better future for Botswana.
News
Children’s summit to discuss funding of NGOS
One of the key issues that will be discussed by the Childrens’ Summit, which will be hosted by Childline Botswana Trust on 28th – 30th November in Gaborone, will be the topical issue of financing and strengthening of civil society organizations.
A statement from Childline Botswana indicates that the summit will adopt a road map for resourcing the children’s agenda by funding organizations. It will also cover issues relating to child welfare and protection; aimed at mobilizing governments to further strengthen Child Helplines; as well as sharing of emerging technologies to enhance the protection of Children and promotion of their rights.
According to Gaone Chepete, Communications Officer at Childline Botswana, the overall objective of the summit is to provide a platform for dialogue and engagement towards promoting practices and policies that fulfil children’s rights and welfare.
“Child Helplines in the region meet on a bi-annual basis to reflect on the state of children; evaluate their contribution and share experiences and best practice in the provision of services for children,” said Chepete.
The financing of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by the state or its functionaries has generated mixed reactions from within the civil society space, with many arguing that it threatened NGOs activism and operational independence.
In February 2019, University of Botswana academic Kenneth Dipholo released a paper titled “State philanthropy: The demise of charitable organizations in Botswana,” in which he faulted then President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama for using charity for political convenience and annexing the operational space of NGOs.
“Civil society is the domain in which individuals can exercise their rights as citizens and set limits to the power of the state. The state should be developing capable voluntary organizations rather than emaciating or colonizing them by usurping their space,” argued Dipholo.
He further argued that direct involvement of the state or state president in charity breeds unhealthy competition between the state itself and other organizations involved in charity. Under these circumstances, he added, the state will use charity work to remain relevant to the ordinary people and enhance its visibility at the expense of NGOs.
“A consequence of this arrangement is that charitable organizations will become affiliates of the state. This stifles innovation in the sense that it narrows the ability of charitable organizations to think outside the box. It also promotes mono-culturalism, as the state could support only charitable organizations that abide by its wishes,” said Dipholo.
In conclusion, Dipholo urged the state to focus on supporting NGOs so that they operate in a system that combines philanthropic work and state welfare programs.
He added that state philanthropy threatens to relegate and render charitable organizations virtually irrelevant and redundant unless they re-engineer themselves.
Another University of Botswana (UB) academic, Professor Zibani Maundeni, opined that politics vitally shape civil society interaction; as seen in the interactions between the two, where there is mutual criticism in each other’s presence.
Over the years, NGOs have found themselves grappling with dwindling financial resources as donors ran out of money in the face of increased competition for financing. Many NGOs have also been faulted for poorly managing their finances because of limited strategic planning and financial management expertise. This drove NGOs to look to government for funding; which fundamentally altered the relationships between the two. The end result was a complete change in the operational culture of NGOs, which diminished their social impact and made them even more fragile. Increased government control through contract clauses also reduced NGOs activism and autonomy.
However, others believe that NGOs and government need each other, especially in the provision of essential services like child welfare and protection. Speaking at the Civil Society Child Rights Convention in 2020, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Setlhabelo Modukanele said government considers NGOs as critical partners in development.
“We recognize the role that NGOs play a critical role in the country’s development agenda,” said Modukanele.