Dikgosi refuse to report directly to Khama
Members of Ntlo ya Dikgosi (House of Chiefs) have this week turned down attempts to surrender more of their powers by placing their house under the auspices of the Office of the President (OP).
The bid, through a sponsored motion, was to give more powers to OP and for dikgosi to report directly to President Lt. Gen. Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama. The motion brought to Ntlo ya Dikgosi debate floor, by Kgosi Galeakanye Modise of Tswapong Region, sought to restructure the department of Tribal Administration such that it reports to OP, not the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, as it is the current case. The motion essentially claims that by moving the Tribal Administration to operate under OP, the Ministry and to some an extent, Dikgosi’s voices, will be more effective, as they will be dealing directly with the country’s first citizen.
When presenting the motion before the house, Kgosi Modise explained that after thorough observation and consultation and research, they found out that the Tribal Administration does not perform its duties effectively under the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
“Therefore we will be placing the department at the OP precisely because, as the president is running the country, it means he would connect well to a larger extent with other village leaders across the country and this will make his duty easier, quicker and more flexible,” Kgosi Modise contended.
“My belief is that,” he continued: “as the head of government, the president, although ministries represent and run his government, if you look at the Tribal Administration which is in every village around the country, it would be more effective if it can report directly to the president.”
In terms of re-structuring, he added that since the department is everywhere, his thinking is that since it is a huge and crucial department, it should be at the most powerful Ministry. “As it stands, the Tribal Admin is to a larger extent deficient of relevant skills and expertise that are needed to allow it to run the department smoothly and efficiently. If under OP like its counterparts in the judiciary, I believe it can match the latter,” he highlighted during his presentation.
On this restructuring exercise, Kgosi Modise further contended that the position of the Tribal Administration Secretary should be elevated in terms of responsibilities and wages while adding that this will attract qualified candidates to those prevailing portfolios.
“Once they have that capacity, which it is clear they currently they lack, they can be allocated a good budget and in turn, the department will be efficient,” Kgosi Modise emphasized.
The other reason he advanced was that since the department of Tribal Administration also deals with the rule of law, it would be better placed at the OP “like other Justice departments at the Ministry of Defence, Justice and Security.” It is worth noting however that, the Administration of Justice is an independent entity, which does not fall under OP. The Ministry of Defence, justice and Security also does not fall under OP. The Office of the President falls under Ministry of Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration.
Nonetheless, the tribal leader’s point was that it is important to harmonize both customary law and common law. “They can look at them while closer to each other and listen to each other and have a common ground,” he debated. Kgosi Modise further added that, the current status quo, sometimes is a road block against progress as those at the Tribal Administration are seen as not at par in terms of qualifications, skills and expertise with regard to the law as compared to the Administration of Justice.
“We all know that the Administration of Justice is versed with closer assistance of the know-how expertise in terms of the law,” he observed. According to Modise, it will also be easier for OP to align the plans and roles of Ntlo ya Dikgosi with dikgosi whom are not sitting in Ntlo ya Dikgosi, and that in addition the implementation will be easier too.
“They (Tribal Administration) perform a lot of functions which includes judicial tasks, assists in governing the country as well as prioritizing the developments. So it appears that even though it is an ancient department, contemporary Botswana derive pleasure in it because there is a Kgosi and complementing staff,” he highlighted.
Kgosi Modise said when it comes to systems in place and running of the country, it is clear that department of Tribal Administration does not run efficiently as similar departments are placed at different ministries. While they both perform the judicial function, Administration of Justice is well equipped at the Ministry of Justice while Tribal Administration lacks a mere budget as it relies from the always inadequate budget of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
When dismissing the motion, Kgosi Tshipe Tshipe of Mahalapye region said in terms of the roles of a kgosi there is no relevance in them being transferred from the Local Governance ministry to OP. “Ministry of Local Government speaks more to dikgosi, their roles are mostly defined by Ministry of Local Governance and Rural Development,” he said.
Instead, he emphasized that Tribal Administration should be equally capacitated enough to match the standards of today. Specially Elected member, Kgosi Maruje III Thabo Masunga highlighted that bogosi on its own is Local Government. “Local government is the embodiment of the institution of Bogosi,” he stressed and added, “So I am wondering whether if they transfer bogosi to the OP, it is going to work. I also wonder if there is need to establish bogosi as a stand-alone ministry of bogosi and culture, or should we leave it to Local Government?”
Masunga said cabinet does not have a requisite authority and they don’t have the right and understanding of bogosi and “I believe an independent researcher can carry out an audit and this will bring a comprehensible audit that will inform government on what to do.”
His contention is that, since Executive and parliament are political appointees, they cannot perform the function of research. Bogosi and politics, he said, have a conflicting interest as they are competing and continue to have conflicting, different needs at different times.
On his part Assistant Minister in the Office of the President Thato Kwerepe told the house that they too found that the department of Tribal Administration is properly placed in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development. He said the government has over the years carried Organization and Methods (O&M) Studies in Ministries and Departments to determine the relevance of their mandates and grouping of their related functions.
“These exercises do sometimes result in re-location of such functions to ministries or departments where they can be performed efficiently and effectively.” The Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM) has carried out such exercises in Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, the most recent being in 2010 which was approved by Upper panel in 2010.
According to the findings and analysis of the mandate and functions of the department of Tribal Administration, it was found to be facilitating the offices of dikgosi to promote development and security through direct engagement of their tribesman and to prosecute any matters in relation to customary laws in order to maintain law and order in their communities.
In addition to this, Tribal Administration was found to be responsible for community development and local governance through citizen engagement at the lowest level of decentralized governance structures and as such is appropriately linked with local authorities.
The mandate of the Department of Tribal Administration is to ensure that all Tribal Administrative institutions across Botswana are made more effective and efficient.
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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.
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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.
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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.