Tebelelo Seretse: Classic example of sidelining of women in Botswana politics
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The only woman in the race for the BDP chairmanship seemingly remains unfazed by the drama and willy-dealing within that party. She is currently hot on the campaign trail and will push through the D-Day. In the societal context, she is a lily among thorns!
Tebelelo Seretse did not beat about the bush in making her intentions known about running for the BDP executive top post. Interestingly, it is not her first time running for that office. The last time she ran for that seat was in 2009 and she was defeated by Daniel Kwelagobe.
The clock is ticking fast and the tide is clearly shifting away from her.
Vice President Masisi has pulled all stops, apparently with the approval and assistance of President Khama, and is giving the other contenders a full run for their money. Some big-wigs and veterans at the party seem to also endorse Masisi by virtue of his being the hand-picked Vice President.
Seteng Motalaote has gone on to withdraw from the race, either because he feared the inevitable or as a sign of respect for the party leadership.
Seretse, however, is not ready to bow out. Of all the candidates, Seretse stands out as the one with the most experience and knowledge of the inner workings of the party.
Undoubtedly, her party record is impressive.
Graduating from the BDP Youth Wing, Seretse was a member of the Central Committee who then went on to head the party’s Women’s Wing. A former Member of Parliament, she crowned her illustrious presence in the BDP with a diplomatic post to the United States – a country to which most countries always send their best, knowledgeable and most articulate representatives.
Now, Seretse is once again daring herself into a tough situation. Many people believe she is destined for yet another disappointment at the BDP’s congress coming in July.
But Seretse has never shied away from challenges; win or lose, she relishes a fair fight. She has lived for the party; she has long been a party activist and has significant strategies and achievements attributed to her within the BDP.
It is going to be a bruising fight.
The BDP Youth Wing, among other committees in the BDP, has pledged full support for Masisi. Most of the membership seems to have been swayed to the VP’s side, mostly because of his campaign machinery which has gone all out and did a masterful job.
There is no doubt, however, that Seretse would be a more fitting candidate and could possibly brew a shocker but, as always, being a woman, she is almost guaranteed to lose.
It would have been a very interesting race if Masisi had not ploughed into the race using the VP card.
Only two women, including Seretse herself, have tried before but no woman has ever held this position in the BDP.
Seretse was the first woman to try her luck in 2009 but lost to party veteran and former MP for Molepolole South, Daniel Kwelagobe.
More recently, Dr. Pelonomi Venson Moitoi also tried in 2012 but lost to one of BDP’s richest men, Samson Guma Moyo.
Botswana is one of Africa’s top performers in many governance indicators but has dragged its feet on women representation in politics. According to the World Economic Forum’s 2014 Global Gender Gap Report and Index, the country has made great strides in achieving gender equality.
In 2014, Botswana ranked 51 out of 142 countries surveyed. In terms of female participation in the economy, it was ranked number 8 in the world; and with regard to equality of educational attainment, it stood at first place over five years.
That notwithstanding, Botswana has the lowest rate of participation and representation of women in politics in the Southern African Development Community region.
Botswana women held only 27 per cent of cabinet positions in 2002 – a low figure that further declined to 17 per cent in 2012, signifying a major reversal.
In 2014, the figure further decreased to less than 10%.
In parliament, women representation has since decreased from 18.2% in 2002 to the current 7%.
The BDP, being the dominant party, should demonstrate its support for women participation in politics and leadership. Technically, women in the BDP should stand a better chance to win, should they be afforded required support and opportunities.
It is sad that the BDP has denied women candidates like Bonolo Motsumi (who tried to become secretary general) and Dr. Margaret Nasha (who ran for the same post).
Now the same fate seems to be happening to Seretse.
None of the women who have contested have used the gender card, not that they should. As seen, Seretse’s resume speaks for itself, she has achieved as much, or even more than the other contenders, the VP included.
Ironically, only Daniel Kwelagobe has come out to openly pledge his support for Seretse. Gender activist and former Speaker of the National Assembly, Margaret Nasha, in a recent media report could not reveal who she supported but did align herself more with Seretse by indicating that suspicions that she could support Seretse, who is a woman like herself “could be true”.
After being elected Chairperson of the Women’s Wing, Dorcas Makgato did not want to speak openly about who her committee endorsed.
Seretse’s entry into the same race in 2009 was marked as historic in the party books and yet the BDP does not seem to be in any mood to make actual history with Seretse.
Not surprisingly, however, the Botswana government has not ratified the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development and this has been interpreted as government’s lack of commitment to women’s rights and their participation in politics.
In Articles 4, 12 and 13 of the SADC Gender Protocol on Gender and Development, adopted by SADC Heads of State and Government in August 2008,emphasis is placed on the importance of a “50:50 target” on representation of women and men in politics and decision making positions in SADC.
“Enhancing Political representation of women requires changes within the political party systems, national policies and the legal framework to allow for the inclusion of women,” wrote Keneilwe Mooketsane in a 2014 BIDPA Policy Brief, Gender and Political Representation in Botswana.
“The creation of opportunities for representation of women or the provision of political space for decision making does not necessarily translate into political influence or gender equity policies particularly in an environment where the government is yet to inculcate a gender sensitive perspective in its policy making. However, it would be a commendable effort and a starting point towards political empowerment of women.”
The BDP will hold its elective congress in Mmadinare this July. MP Biggie Butale, former MPs Ramadeluka Seretse and Tebelelo Seretse, Moemedi Dijeng, Dithapelo Tshotlego and Vice President Mokgweetsi Masisi are contesting for the hot seat.
Masisi, the latest entrant in the race, is expected to automatically succeed President Khama as Head of State when the President retires in 2018.
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BTC launches the 3rd Francistown Marathon 2024 and handover proceeds to the 2nd Francistown Marathon beneficiaries
Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) has announced that its 3rd Francistown Marathon will be held on Saturday 20th April 2024 at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown. The BTC Francistown Marathon is officially recognised by World Athletics and a Comrades Marathon Qualifier will offer race categories ranging from 42.2km, 21.1 km, 10km, 5km fun run, 5km peace run for children and has introduced a 5km and 10km categories for wheelchairs athletics.
BTC also used this opportunity to announce beneficiaries who received donations from proceeds made from the 2nd BTC Francistown Marathon that was held on April 23rd 203. BTC donated a play area, plastic chairs and wooden tables for pupils worth a total of thirty eight thousand, one hundred and three pula, fifty thebe each (P38, 103.50) to Monarch Primary School, Tatitown Primary School, Mahube Primary School and Gulubane Primary School. Ditladi and Boikhutso clinics each received a donation of benches, television sets and 10, 000 litre water tanks worth thirty seven thousan, eight hundred and ninety eight pula (P 37, 898.00). Additionally, BTC also donated seventy thousand pula (P70,000.00) to their marathon technical partner, Francistown Athletics Club (FAC) which will be used for daily operations as well as to purchase equipment for the club.
The BTC Francistown Marathon aligns seamlessly with BTC’s corporate social investment programme, administered through the BTC Foundation. This programme is a testament to BTC’s dedication to community development, focusing on key areas such as health promotion. The marathon, now in its third year, not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also channels all proceeds to carefully chosen charities as part of BTC’s commitment to impactful and sustainable projects.
Speaking at the launch, the BTC Managing Director Mr Anthony Masunga stated that the marathon underscores BTC’s commitment to community upliftment and corporate social investment. He stated that “the annual event which has been in existence since 2016, having taken a break due to the covid and other logistical issues, is instrumental to the economic upliftment of the city of Francistown”. He congratulated all the beneficiaries for having been nominated to receive the donations, adding that “the donation of proceeds from the 2023 marathon aims to highlight BTC’s commitment and heart for Batswana and our continued impact in the different industries”.
He further stated that through this marathon, “we demonstrate our steadfast commitment to having a good influence on our communities, this event is a manifestation of our dedication to promoting education and a healthier, more active society”. He concluded by stating that “BTC looks forward to another successful marathon that will leave a lasting positive influence on the greater Francistown community and the country at large” he said.
Giving welcome remarks, the Councillor for Donga, Honourable Morulaganyi Mothowabarwa stated that “he is ecstatic that BTC is collaborating with the City of Francistown on yet another installment of the Marathon”. He continued to offer his support to BTC to enable this marathon to continue over the coming years, stating that the “CSI element is a welcome development that helps empower our communities”, he said.
The 3rd BTC Francistown Marathon is officially open for registrations and athletes may use the following platforms to register and pay; through Smega by dialling *173# and choosing opton 5, then choose Option 3 for the Francistown marathon, at any BTC store or by visiting the BTC website and clicking on the BTC Francistown Marathon and choosing the relevant options.
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Letsholo lauds President Masisi’s digitization in fight against corruption
Thapelo Letsholo, Member of Parliament for Kanye North, delivered a moving speech at the United Nations International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration, praising President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption. Letsholo highlighted the importance of embracing digitalization in governance as a crucial step in curbing corrupt practices.
According to Letsholo, the implementation of digital systems in government services can significantly reduce direct interactions between citizens and officials, which often serve as fertile grounds for corruption. By minimizing these opportunities for illicit activities, the efficiency and transparency of public services can be enhanced. Letsholo pointed to Estonia’s success in digital governance as an example, where public services have become more transparent, accessible, and efficient.
The MP commended President Masisi’s commitment to digitalization and E-Governance, emphasizing that it aligns with global anti-corruption standards. He called for full support and active participation from all sectors to ensure the success of this initiative.
Letsholo also stressed the importance of improving detection methods and refining whistleblower laws to effectively combat corruption. He highlighted the unseen and unspoken facets of corruption as its lifelines, emphasizing the need for robust detection mechanisms and a system that encourages and protects whistleblowers.
Addressing the societal role in fighting corruption, Letsholo focused on the crucial role of everyday citizens and civil servants who often witness corrupt practices firsthand. He acknowledged the existing reluctance to report corruption due to the perceived risks of repercussions. To change this narrative, Letsholo advocated for creating an environment where staying silent is deemed more detrimental than speaking out. He called for a cultural shift where the potential benefits of exposing corruption outweigh the risks, ensuring that whistleblowers are protected and feel secure in coming forward.
Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a system that not only detects and reports corruption but also supports those who stand against it. He expressed hope that under President Masisi’s digitalization initiatives, the future of governance in Botswana will be characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability. Letsholo’s speech resonated with the sentiments of hope and determination that permeated the commemoration, emphasizing the need for unity in the fight against corruption.
In summary, Letsholo lauded President Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption, highlighting its potential to curb corrupt practices, enhance efficiency and transparency in public services, and align with global anti-corruption standards. He emphasized the importance of improving detection methods, refining whistleblower laws, and creating an environment where speaking out against corruption is encouraged and protected. Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a future characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance.
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FaR property assets value clock P1.47 billion
FaR Property Company (FPC) Limited, a property investment company listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, has recently announced its exceptional financial results for the year 2023. The company’s property asset value has risen to P1.47 billion, up from P1.42 billion in the previous year.
FPC has a diverse portfolio of properties, including retail, commercial, industrial, and residential properties in Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. The company owns a total of 186 properties, generating rental revenues from various sectors. In 2023, the company recorded rental revenues of P11 million from residential properties, P62 million from industrial properties, and P89 million from commercial properties. Overall, the company’s total revenues increased by 9% to P153 million, while profit before tax increased by 22% to P136 million, and operating profit increased by 11% to P139 million.
One notable achievement for FPC is the low vacancy rate across its properties, which stands at only 6%. This is particularly impressive considering the challenging trading environment. The company attributes this success to effective lease management and the leasing of previously vacant properties in South Africa. FPC’s management expressed satisfaction with the results, highlighting the resilience of the company in the face of ongoing macroeconomic challenges.
The increase in profit before tax can be attributed to both an increase in income and effective control of operating expenses. FPC managed to achieve these results with fewer employees, demonstrating the company’s efficiency. The headline earnings per linked unit also saw an improvement, reaching 26.92 thebe, higher than the previous year.
Looking ahead, FPC remains confident in its competitiveness and growth prospects. The company possesses a substantial land bank, which it plans to develop strategically as opportunities arise. FPC aims for managed growth, focusing on consumer-driven developments and ensuring the presence of supportive tenants. By maintaining this approach, the company believes it can sustainably grow its property portfolio and remain competitive in the market.
In terms of the macroeconomic environment, FPC noted that inflation rates are decreasing towards the 3% to 6% range approved by the Bank of Botswana. This is positive news for the company, as it hopes for further decreases in interest rates. However, the fluctuating fuel prices, influenced by global events such as the war in Ukraine and oil output reductions by Russia and other Middle Eastern countries, continue to impact businesses, including some of FPC’s tenants.
FPC’s property portfolio includes notable assets such as a shopping mall in Francistown with Choppies Hyper as the anchor tenant, Borogo Mall located on the A33 main road near the Kazungula ferry crossing, and various industrial and commercial properties in Gaborone leased to Choppies, Senn Foods, and Clover Botswana. The company also owns a shopping mall in Mafikeng and Rustenburg in South Africa.
The majority of FPC’s properties, 85%, are located in Botswana, followed by 12% in South Africa and 3% in Zambia. With its strong financial performance, competitive position, and strategic land bank, FPC is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the property market.