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Masisi defied cabinet on dangerous Namibia trip

President Mokgweetsi Masisi was advised by his cabinet not to travel to Namibia in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, but the President acted against the advice.   Masisi had announced at a press conference held at Mass Media in Gaborone last week that all trips have been suspended indefinitely including government official trips.

However, two days after delivering the statement Masisi together with his protocol clandestinely travelled to Namibia.  There was no statement from Office of the President — which has always been a norm— with regard to Masisi’s trip to Namibia. Sources close to this publication have revealed that prior to his travel, Masisi had engaged his cabinet together with Permanent Secretary to the President (PSP) Elias Magosi on the matter of which they advised against.

“He was warned not to travel but he refused, we were all shocked to hear about this. It was a bad reflection on the President, and it has become a habit for him to say one thing and then do another,” revealed a source. Social media platforms went abuzz over the weekend when the news that Masisi has travelled abroad to attend the inauguration of President of Namibia, Hage Geingob broke out.

The office of the President released a statement upon his return to inform the public that the Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr Malaki Tshipiyagae has placed Masisi on self-isolation for a period of 14 days. The Office of the President explained the President had to undertake an emergency official trip to Namibia where he was to meet with other Heads of States to discuss critical measures taken in their respective countries sharing borders with the Republic of Botswana.

It was claimed that the President was of the view that a face to face meeting with his counterparts was necessary to discuss urgent border issues in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic. “The rationale for the imposition of self-isolation is that while Namibia has registered three (3) imported cases, and is considered low risk for SARS-Cv-2 transmission at the time of His Excellency the President’s trip to Namibia, the low testing rates in the Region makes that determination difficult and there is a high possibility of undetermined local transmission,” said Andrew Sesinyi.

The Office of the President further noted that Masisi will be placed on self-isolation at his official residence but will be quarantined away from his family. However new information emerging is that the President is yet to undergo testing prior being cleared at the expiry of the 14 day period, the President is currently on his seventh day of self-isolation.

The Directorate of Intelligence Security Service (DISS) Director General (DG) Peter Magosi is also reportedly on self-isolation following his trip to countries that are highly infected by the Corona Virus (COVID-19) which has been declared a pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO). Human rights lawyer, Kgosi Ngakaagae of Ngakaagae & Mbikwa Legal Practice acknowledged the President for agreeing with the step to place him on self-isolation.

He also claimed that self-isolation on both Masisi and Magosi is a step to be applauded.  “A mistake happened. The President was not supposed to have gone to Namibia, but a bold decision was taken. Self-isolation does not in any way hinder their leadership, should it have meant leadership deficiency then that would be a problem,” Ngakaagae told WeekendPost.  So far at least 353 Batswana returning from South Africa via Tlokweng border were on Wednesday isolated for 14 days awaiting testing at different quarantine locations in the country.

Meanwhile, Masa Square Hotel, Oasis Motel and Manong lodge have also pledged to help government with quarantine facilities for all those placed on quarantine. Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Lemogang Kwape has come forward to urge all members of the society to continue cooperating with the government and taking into consideration prevention measures that have been put in place. Peggy Serame, Minister of Trade and Industry announced on Thursday that effect 28th March that there will be no selling of alcohol and all restaurants will only sell takeaways, with sit-downs strictly prohibited.

President Masisi also took to Facebook through his official page urging the public to prepare for an imminent lockdown.  “Our experts, led by Dr Masupu with Prof Alexandra advise us to restrict the movement of people so we are better able to trace and treat any case that occurs. Take heed and follow health professionals’ advice and instructions. Wash your hands with soap and water. Do not argue and be difficult because that does not help prevent Covid 19,” Masisi said.

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BOMU, DBS roadshow partners in crime

18th March 2024

The Department of Broadcasting Services (DBS) roadshow has found and trusted the Botswana Musicians Union (BOMU) as a companion it could trust in empowering and facilitating the creative sector, in particular, performing artists and musicians.

BOMU exits to ensure that musicians in Botswana are supported by all platforms and services that are aligned to what they do, which at most times is the production of music.

In 2023, the Union put together grand music awards prized at a whooping P3 million. Indeed, the man working behind the awards, Seabelo Modibe of Total Music Group understood the assignment. For the very first time, BOMU awards left an impressive mark, leaving people murmuring.

With that said and done, BOMU became a very important stakeholder in the on-going DBS roadshow. The relationship started in 2022 when the project was initiated. In this massive project, BOMU plays a role of mobilizing and registering new artists.

In the previous years, the Union has been clouded by dispute and back-and-forth. It was accused of being bungling, purposeless and served no interests of its members (artists). Following the effective execution of the eleventh music awards, artists progressively joined BOMU and the DBS roadshow added cherry on top.

Some of the artists who made it to the Top 30 of the DBS roadshows much-admired the platform, saying it played a major part in changing their lives. Some of them started getting booked, changed their mindsets and consider music as a business entity.

These are some of the few nuggets of wisdom they raked from the man behind the roadshow, Thato Sikwane. He is known as DJ Fresh in the music sector and his company, Big Dawg Productions is the brainchild behind the DBS roadshow.

Matter of fact, DJ Fresh and Modibe worked on this concept together with an aim of unearthing new talent in as much as music is concerned. In order to achieve this goal, the duo had to engage BOMU to allow for the artists to have a body that governs them.

When speaking in an interview with WeekendLife, BOMU Secretary General Rasina Rasina said the roadshow is actually a blessing in disguise, as it was initially considered a tall show.

“This is a much-needed platform for a sector that has been deteriorating over the years. We believe it is here to resurrect the music industry. The DBS roadshow cultivate talent from scratch and nurtures it. This will help us as a Union to have a solid foundation and as BOMU, as we are highly appreciative.”

Rasina said BOMU is very much aware of Season One challenges, adding that they too experienced them. “As BOMU, we therefore appreciate that it was the beginning. Naturally, beginnings have challenges but we are optimistic that everything will be in order as together as a team, we can work to solve all pressing matters that delay the progress of artists in Botswana.”

Successful artists during the DBS roadshow will reap from what they sow. BOMU has been allocated a budget to help artists access the roadshow. Rasina has however refused to divulge the total amount but specified that they ensure artist participation and mobilization, as well as feeding.

“We have learnt from past challenges. We do not pay artists but we assist them with transportation funds to mobilize them to attend the roadshow and showcase. What we offer them is not payment. We ensure their participation, transport mobilization and feeding. They compete, showcase and get the platform they need. We partner with them to deliver a product. Essentially, there is a car, a record deal, airtime deal and cohesion.”

Thus far and during the Season 2 roadshow, BOMU has registered an average of five hundred (500) members. In the process, it has managed to rebuild an average of ten BOMU District chapters nationwide.

Rasina commended the government for coming up with a project that caters for the welfare of artists and creative minds in Botswana.

“Our expectations from the next season is that it will be bigger and better. We appreciate the contribution of DBS and the recent focus towards the creative industry by government. Importantly, it is important to note that the creative industry should never be treated from a blanket approach view. Every region, district, village or town has its own talent. The heritage of Botswana is defined by the creative industry talent.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Report links child poverty to disability

12th March 2024

Child poverty is a pressing issue that affects millions of children around the world, and the link between child poverty and disability is a particularly concerning aspect of this problem. The recent research paper published by the Botswana Institute for Development Policy Analysis (BIDPA) sheds light on the stark reality that children with disabilities are more likely to be living in poverty compared to their non-disabled peers.

The findings of the research paper reveal that children with disabilities face higher levels of deprivation in basic capabilities such as education and health. This means that they are often excluded from essential services and opportunities that are necessary for their well-being and development. The wider gap in education outcomes between children with disabilities and their non-disabled peers highlights the systemic barriers that prevent children with disabilities from accessing quality education.

Moreover, the higher rates of deprivation in health and food security among children with disabilities further exacerbate their vulnerability to illness and malnutrition. This not only impacts their physical well-being but also hinders their overall development and potential. The research paper also highlights the economic disparities faced by children with disabilities, indicating that they are more likely to experience poverty across demographic and economic variables.

The implications of these findings are profound and call for urgent action to address the inequalities faced by children with disabilities. Affirmative action is needed to ensure that policies and interventions are specifically targeted towards addressing the unique needs of children with disabilities. It is crucial to prioritize the inclusion and empowerment of children with disabilities in all aspects of society to ensure that they have equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.

In conclusion, the link between child poverty and disability is a critical issue that requires immediate attention and action. It is essential for policymakers, stakeholders, and communities to come together to create a more inclusive and equitable society where all children, regardless of their abilities, have the opportunity to reach their full potential. By addressing the root causes of poverty and discrimination faced by children with disabilities, we can work towards building a more just and compassionate world for all.

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Botswana’s internet rated the second fastest in Africa

8th March 2024

Botswana continues to make significant strides in its digital trasnformation aspirations, as it secures its position among the top-ranking African countries for mobile internet speed. Based on statistics from the Speedtest Global Index, Botswana has been rated the second fastest mobile internet speed in the continent, with an impressive 43.79Mbps, according to a recent study by Business Insider Africa.

This accomplishment demonstrates Botswana’s dedication to improving the quality of broadband internet in the country; and re-affirms its position as a leader in Africa’s telecommunications and ICT services. “The acknowledgment of Botswana’s internet as the 2nd fastest in Africa reflects our commitment to cultivating a digitally inclusive society,” remarked Mr. Keabetswe Segole, Acting CEO of Botswana Fibre Networks (BoFiNet). “This achievement highlights our ongoing endeavors to enable all citizens to participate in the digital economy.” BoFiNet, the leading provider of telecommunications infrastructure in Botswana, has been instrumental in shaping the nation’s digital landscape.

Reflecting on BoFiNet’s contribution to Botswana’s digital connectivity, the Acting CEO stated:”BoFiNet takes pride in its role in securing Botswana’s position as the 2nd fastest country in Africa for mobile internet. Our robust fibre optic and microwave network has been pivotal in delivering high-speed connectivity to both urban and rural areas, ensuring access to reliable internet services for all citizens. We remain committed to fostering innovation and digital inclusion, thereby paving the way for a prosperous digital future in Botswana.” Through the recently launched SmartBots Village Connectivity project, 1,138 premises across 144 villages in different Botswana districts are able to connect to this fast internet.

Botswana’s population is utilising connectivity creatively as a result of a boom in mobile penetration, which is advancing the nation’s digitalisation. Rapid advancements in mobile high-speed internet are causing a digital revolution in Africa, bringing about changes in areas including the economy, education, healthcare, and empowerment.

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