Masisi twiddling thumbs in quarantine as his
A curious thought would visualize a lonely Presidential figure either frustratingly or patiently twiddling fingers waiting to be given feedback from a high level task force meeting that he was supposed to chair as the team’s supposed author.
President Mokgweetsi Masisi was supposed to have sat and presided on a series of meetings conducted by his brainchild, the High Level Covid-19 Task Team, but he remains in the pangs of the prison of self-isolation while the country waits in anxiety to see which direction the first strike of coronavirus will come from. Recently, Director of Health Services at the Ministry of Health and Wellness Malaki Tshipayagae used Section 25 of the Public Service Act to mend what was going to look like Masisi’s forked tongue movement.
Masisi last week went to Namibia in a tour which was said to be “an emergency official trip” by government and what his antagonists called “a secret trip.” The trip came after Masisi declared a travel ban to countries affected by Covid-19, like Namibia which had three cases of the virus. Masisi faced backlash upon his return for doing a hypocritical move of going to Namibia after banning travels to affected countries, he was subsequently ordered to be under self-isolation.
Today will be the seventh day since Masisi and his entourage went to Namibia. Vice President Slumber Tsogwane has taken the reign and on Monday Tsogwane moved to include Lesotho and Swaziland to the list of travel bans after the two countries registered their first cases of coronavirus. Tsogwane said travelling to these countries, “is restricted with the exception of the movement of goods and services. Batswana and residents of Botswana returning from these countries will be quarantined for 14 days.”
On Tuesday BusinessPost caught up with one of the series of High Level Covid-19 Task Force meetings where the business community was sitting with government to discuss what is next after Botswana’s big trade partner South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa announced a national lockdown which will have obvious negative economic implications for this country. “President Ramaphosa has assured His Excellency the President that, the movement of goods and services between the two countries will not be disrupted in any way,” said Vice President Slumber Tsogwane on Monday.
Masisi was not available for the Tuesday meeting because of the 14 day quarantine which separates him from everyone, including his daughter Atsile and the First Lady Neo and his close staff. In Masisi’s absence, the High Level Covid-19 team meeting is said to have discussed on funds that have been opened to rescue the domestic economy which is already showing signs of catching flu from South Africa’s economy. Government has moved to restrict instances of social contact and Masisi can only have contact with himself, maybe twiddle fingers while waiting for Slumber Tsogwane to brief and debrief him on the High Level Covid-19 Task Force meeting.
Inside Masisi’s Task Force coronavirus meetings
The private sector leader, Business Botswana President Gobusamang Keebine confirmed to BusinessPost that the High Level Task Team met this week. Oabile Mabusa leads the private sector and sits with a co-ministry team from government. On Thursday morning Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration Kabo Morwaeng, on behalf of the quarantined Masisi, announced that government or the High Level Covid-19 has established a Relief Fund where individuals, companies and NGOs can send their donations either as financial contributions or donations in kind.
Government has opened bank accounts with following commercial accounts First National Bank, Standard Charted Bank, ABSA Botswana, First Capital Bank, Bank Gaborone, BancABC and Bank of Baroda. According to Morwaeng, an account has been opened with the Bank of Botswana for donors outside the country. Business Botswana chief Keebine told BusinessPost in an interview that UNDP is also on its plan to help businesses or sector to sector recovery plan.
He said so far this country’s private sector and government’s agreement is that there is no lockdown yet, “but there will be close monitoring of the situation.” The Business Botswana president also said they are making sure to minimize business disruption. “We have discussed screening and testing of people at borders who need to travel for essential services and for emergency goods. We also suggested an option that if things become worse, trucks carrying goods meet at borders of no man’s land to exchange goods and taxes. Or the workers may be put on a 24 hour quarantine after transportation of goods, we are still discussing,” said Keebine.
Keebine said many sectors are already facing the negative impacts of coronavirus; the transport, hospitality and restaurant sectors. All the businesses who are associated with social contact are already suffering. On Monday Tsogwane said bars and liquor restaurants will be closed and only liquor/bottle stores will remain open until further notice.
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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.