BONELA, LEGABIBO rebuke churches
Human rights organisations, the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA) and Lesbians, Gays and Bisexuals of Botswana (LEGABIBO) have not taken kindly to the position and remarks uttered by Evangelist Fellowship of Botswana (EFB) and their attitude towards minority group of gays and lesbians.
Recently the church umbrella body, EFB, has been lobbying the government of Botswana to appeal a High Court ruling that ordered the gay organisation to legally register. However the government did not appeal the matter during the stipulated time given by the courts to do so.
LEGABIBO went to court following the registration rejection by the department of Civil and National Registration under the auspices of Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs under the pretext that homosexuality is unlawful in Botswana. Consequently, LEGABIBO went to court for intervention – and court ruled in favour of the gay movement.
The church movement has since poured scorn at the court judgement arguing that ordering the registration of LEGABIBO whose objects are to advocate for recognition and protection of homosexuality is a hammer to the society’s moral conscience, adding that “the judgment is likely to cause a spin in an acceleration of moral deterioration and moral bankruptcy which will add to the already burden of lawlessness and social ills in our society.”
In response BONELA and LEAGABIBO this week fumed at the church movement during an interview with the WeekendPost. They stated that, “EFB should not and must not be allowed to dictate or influence who can or cannot be registered with the registrar of societies.” The two human rights organisations argue that LEGABIBO were applicants just like any other body that wanted to register.
“The moment EFB is allowed to do so; we can all kiss our freedoms goodbye because we will wake up to the entire nation being run by a certain church denomination.” They continued: “should this happen, we are at the risk of having institutions that are different to them being outlawed; it could be a church that does not fall under their church body or an organisations that deals with women rights, any religion outside its belief being banned in Botswana and certain constitutional provisions stricken out.”
LEGABIBO Coordinator, Caine Youngman urged all Batswana to respect each other and to respect rights provided for by the Constitution. He referred the EFB ‘for their convenience,’ to the constitutional provisions of Section 13 which provides for the protection of freedom of assembly and association, Section 12 which provides for the protection of freedom of expression and also Section 15 which provides for protection from discrimination.
According to LEGABIBO Coordinator, Botswana is a constitutionally run sovereign state and its sovereignty trickles down to individual autonomy of every Motswana hence all are recognised as individuals. “Every Motswana is protected and respected before the law,” he told this publication, adding that respect before the law means one has the platform to point out where he/she thinks he has been hurt or prejudiced.
“The lesbians, gays and bisexuals of Botswana did just that. The registrar of societies denied this community their constitutional right to associate and they pointed it out. The High Court of Botswana following the law, agreed with these Batswana. The ruling was that this community has the right to associate as provided by the Constitution of Botswana. The Constitution of Botswana has made provisions that are to be respected and adhered to for peace, tolerance and justice.”
Youngman attacked the EFB saying they are toying around with such provisions and highlighted that EFB is a body that followed the same processes LEGABIBO engaged with to get registered. “They used the same legal provisions to register as a way to exercise their freedom of association.”
The gay organisation lamented that it is hypocrisy for EFB to then turn around and call for LEGABIBO not to be registered considering they benefitted from the same provision.
BONELA and LEGABIBO reminded EFB that there are people who do not believe in the existence of EFB, its mandate and its practices but they all respect their existence because they have a right to associate despite being different from them.
Some of people are from traditional churches, some spiritual, and some are non-Christian believers but they tolerate EFB’s existence not because they agree with them, but merely because it is EFB’s right to associate with like minded people.
According to the two human rights organisations, the difference between the Constitution and EFB is that the constitution caters for everybody – be it a Muslims, Catholics, Zion followers, non religious person, gay, heterosexual, worker, student, children, senior citizens etc. As long as one is a human being in Botswana, they contend the Constitution applies to them. However, they highlighted that same cannot be said about EFB as it only caters for those who associate themselves with EFB.
EFB is an Umbrella body of Evangelical, Pentecostal and Para Church organizations in the country that has a membership denomination currently standing at seventy nine.
BONELA and LEGABIBO believe that if we start singling out who can be protected by our laws and who cannot, who has the right to be heard and who doesn’t, who has the rights to express themselves and who doesn’t, then we are making ourselves vulnerable to all sorts of abuses by overzealous bodies.
“Since it is not your liberties at stake it might seem okay. Today they are calling for LEGABIBO not to be registered. Tomorrow it will be you and those you peacefully associate with. The question to all of us is ‘who is next on their hit list?’ Will it be radio stations because they are said to be playing ‘ungodly music?” or who, they asked.
Meanwhile LEGABIBO Coordinator confirmed that his organisation has submitted all the documentation necessary to process their registration and now awaiting respond from the department (Civil and National registration).
LEGABIBO is a human rights organisation whose mandate is to represent the interests and protect the rights of the Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Transgender and Intersex community in Botswana while BONELA is a non-governmental organisation committed to integrating an ethical, legal and human rights approach into Botswana’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
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.