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Govt awards land to South Africans, Community goes to court

Maunatlala Community Trust (MCT) is at logger heads with Government over a 100 hectare piece of arable land in the fertile grounds zoned around Lotsane Dam. Information reaching WeekendPost reveal that the matter which is now before the courts of law has left the significant component of the highly anticipated Lotsane irrigation project at stand still.

The Lotsane Irrigation Scheme sprawls on a 450 hectar of land drawing 5.5 million cubic metres of water per annum from Lotsane Dam.The project is located just on the outskirts of Maunatlala and its primary objective is to establish viable commercial horticultural production.
To initiate the project, land was indentified around the dam and zoned. Subsistence farmers initially occupying some parts of land were duly compensated to give way to the anticipated project.
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CRONICLE OF EVENTS

On the 24th of December 2015 Maunatlala Village Development Committee applied for 100 hectares of land forming part of the Lotsane Irrigation Scheme. This, according to information passed to this publication was part of the discussions to move the previous land owners who were paid out by Ministry of Agriculture. More than two (2) years later the Ministry of Agriculture responded to the application noting that it would constitute a consultation process before reaching a decision on whether or not to allot the land.

WeekendPost has established that the investor identified by Maunatlala Community Trust for partnership Mr. Kuno Stielau of Lotsane Orchard in July 2017 met Mr. Samunzala of Selibe Phikwe Economic Diversification Unit in Johannesburg to discuss the proposed investment.
The Lotsane Irrigation Project forms part of projects facilitated by SPEDU to resuscitate the economy of the region that spans from Lotsane to Dikgathong Dam. The region has been adversely impacted by the closure of BCL Mine in 2016.

In June 2018 Lotsane Orchards and Maunatala Community Trust signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate a working relationship that would see the development of a 100 ha Pomegranate farm on communal land within the Lotsane irrigation scheme in Maunatlala.
The MOU also stated that the two parties would negotiate with relevant parties including Ministries of Lands and that of Agriculture to secure the entire portion of land allocated to communities within the Lotsane Irrigation Scheme.

Between July 2017 and 2018 several meetings were held by involved parties in an effort to expedite the allocation of land to Maunatlala Community trusts. These include meetings between Directors of Lotsane Orchard and the then Coordinator of SPEDU Revitalization Projects, Ms Linah Mhohlo. On the 22nd June 2018 Kgosi Mapena of Maunatlala in conjunction with Maunatlala Development Committee, and Community Trust sent a letter, jointly signed by the trio to SPEDU addressed to Mr Samunzala, requesting acceleration of land allocation.

In a response seen by this publication Mr. Samunzala asked the community to accept 40ha so that the 60ha can be allocated to another entity/ person. The Village and Community trust leadership rejected the offer, standing by their initial request of 100 Hectares.
In August 2018 MCT and LO took the matter up with Office of the President to the attention of Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr Ernest Phiri. Office of the President then followed up the issue with Ministry of Agriculture where it learned that the applications for land allocation were still being processed.

MAUNATLALA COMMUNITY TRUST TAKES GOVERNMENT TO COURT

After what the Community Trust terms back and forth and ultimate unfair rejection by Government they took up the matter with the courts of law to seek further redress. In a application received by the Gaborone High Court on the 10th of June 2020, Maunatlala Community Trust through their legal representatives, Nkwe Attorneys sought the courts intervention.

The application wants Gaborone High Court to direct the Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security and Ministry of Land Management, Water & Sanitation Services who are cited as 2nd and 3rd respondent respectively to authorize the allocation of a portion Lotsane Irrigation Scheme measuring 100 hectares to Maunatlala Community Trust within thirty (30) days.

GOVERNMENTS RESPONSE

In a letter dated 9th Septemeber 2020, addressed to Nkwe Attorneys, seen by this publication, Attorney General on behalf of the 2nd and 3rd Respondents refuted Maunatlala Community Trust claims. The Government Attorneys acting at the instruction of the two Ministries explained that Government acquired land around Lotsane Dam mainly for Agricultural purposes to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring economic growth and improving the lives of the communities in the SPEDU region.

Nkwe Attorneys were further told that Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security tasked SPEDU, Department of Agribusiness Promotion and Crop Production to indentify investors for the zoned land around the irrigation dams. In so far as Lotsane Irrigation Scheme is concerned, communities around the dam including your client expressed their interests in doing agricultural projects around their area hence consultations with members of the communities involved, reads the letter addressed to Nkwe Attorneys.

Furthermore according to the letter, SPEDU evaluation team adopted a target investor identification model where business proposals were submitted and evaluated for the Lotsane irrigation scheme. Attorney General (AG) further revealed that an investor by the name Lucerne Fields (Pty) Ltd was identified on the basis that they were most suitable to facilitate sustainable projects which will ensure employment creation and food security in Botswana.

The company was on the 8th of November 2019 given a lease on an area of 58 hectare at a cost of P1000 per hectare per annum. Please note that the land your client is alleging to have de-bushed is rightfully in possession of the investor mentioned above, explained AG to Nkwe Attorneys. Lucerne Fields Directors and Shareholders are Jan Hendrik Stiglingh, Jeanicke Abrahams, and Johanna Maria Krige all of whom are South African nationals based in Kijane Ranch Sherwood. The case was scheduled for roll call at Gaborone High Court on 18th September but was postponed to a later date.[/ihc-hide-content]

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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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