Molefhi, Tshekedi team up
President Lt. Gen. Dr.Seretse Khama Ian Khama has hinted that he will compose and lead a campaign team inside the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) to ensure that they win the next 2019 General Elections.
Khama has been the leading campaigner for BDP as the “poster boy” taking the party to victory in both 2009 and 2014 amid a dwindling popular vote. The country’s fourth president retires on March 31, 2018 and as per rule of the automatic succession he will hand over to current Vice President Mokgweetsi Masisi.
According to Khama, when he retires he will quickly form a campaign team in which Mahalapye East Member of Parliament Botlogile Tshireletso– who was present at the celebrations –will feature. Tshireletso and few other party lawmakers have declared that they will not seek re-election in 2019 and therefore will join Khama’s campaign team.
The BDP leader revealed this at Moshupa on Saturday during the victory celebrations of Moshupa/Manyana legislator and his VP pick, subsequent to the 2014 General Elections, Mokgweetsi Masisi. “In 2018, when he leaves office he said he will form a campaign team in which he pronounced the name of Botlogile Tshireletso in it,” a highly placed source in the party that attended the celebration confirmed to WeekendPost this week.
BDP Secretary General Botsalo Ntuane also confirmed separately to this publication in an interview on Thursday that Khama will continue to play a meaningful role even after his retirement in 2018. He continued to state that it is befitting for Khama to lead a campaign even after he retires because he (Khama) has been mobilising party structures since July 2015. Ntuane explained that Khama has undertaken over 50 party activities as part of revitalising the structures which are now in much better and stronger shape while adding that the exercise is ongoing.
“It must be noted that the president is going to play a very useful function in the 2019 General Elections campaign. His contribution to the BDP is not necessarily going to stop with his retirement in March 2018,”Ntuane highlighted.
Ntuane was missing in action at Moshupa and it is understood that BDP Publicity Sub-Committee Chairman Thapelo Fish Pabalinga who is very close to Masisi was in charge. Ntuane is said to be sympathetic and rooting for the Nonofo Molefhi and Tshekedi Khama mounting faction.
However when defending his absence from Masisi’s victory celebrations, the BDP SG pointed out that “I was representing the party at the funeral of Councillor Richie Kenosi in Palapye. But this is not to say it’s mandatory on me to attend victory celebrations. I attend when I choose to,” he asserted.
It is understood that tensions are already mounting to great levels and rivalry is playing out between the supporters of VP Masisi as well as of Selebi Phikwe West and Minister of Infrastructure and Housing Development Nonofo Molefhi as well as Serowe West and Minister of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism Tshekedi Khama.
Molefhi’s supporters even took their campaign to Masisi’s backyard and were seen with caps screaming “BDP e nonofile” with the postulation that they stand for team Molefhi. “Heela rra, tensions between Molefhi and Masisi supporters have started and this was evident at Masisi’s victory party. While Molefhi is playing it silent and cool, his supporters are on another level and it seems it won’t be long before he (Molefhi) decides if he is standing for any top position or not,” the BDP insider highlighted to this publication.
Meanwhile, in his campaign role, it was unclear whether the outgoing president would back any of the factions that are said to be brewing inside the party or would wait until the party has decided on the new leaderships billed for 2017 and 2018.
It is understood that Molefhi who came late at the celebrations and President Khama’s younger brother Tshekedi Khama who was wholly absent are planning to form an alliance to face Masisi post 2018.
The Selebi Phikwe West Member of Parliament has however not publicly declared interest in any position including that of the Vice President even as Masisi will be elevated to the presidency. He has adopted a silent approach instead.
When reached for a comment, Molefhi played his cards safe and only chose to respond with: “no comment.”
Masisi’s victory party was also graced by former BDP Secretary General Mpho Balopi, former Botswana Defence Force (BDF) commander and BDP activist Tebogo Masire, and Kgalagadi South law maker and Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Frans Van Der Westhuizen.
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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.