Govt urged to address CAAB financial chaos
Botswana Public Employees Union (BOPEU) has sent a clarion call to government and implored her to as a matter of urgency rescue the financially beleaguered Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB).
When addressing members of the media in Gaborone this week, BOPEU President, Olefile Monakwe, said government should extend the same help to CAAB as it did with other ailing parastatals such as Botswan a Meat Commission (BMC) and Air Botswana (AB). Monakwe rubbished claims that government is broke, saying that if it is the case, it has to be evidenced across all its entities and not only limited to CAAB.
CAAB is said to be facing financial crisis and the authority indicated that it is working around the clock to secure funding. CAAB Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kabo Phutietsile, announced early this year in May through a memorandum that the organisation will be with-holding employees allowances.
In the letter, Phutietsile said: Employees are informed that some allowances due to staff shall not be paid during the May 2020 payroll as they are still in the approval process. This decision attracted aggressive attention from labour unions, with Botswana Federation of Public, Private Parastatals Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU), condemning the decision saying it cannot be tolerated.
BOFEPUSUs Deputy Secretary-General, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa said it was a bad labour practice for CAAB to withhold payment benefits of employees.
Motshegwa said CAABs decision cannot be tolerated. He said as BOFEPUSU pointed out before, there must be measures in place to assist the workers by way of protecting their jobs and salaries. It is the duty of the employers to continue paying employees. The federation is tremendously disquieted by unbaiting violation of workers rights in the private sector during (the coronavirus) COVID-19 pandemic, Motshegwa said.
BOPEU President said they have engaged the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Alicia Mokone, who admitted that she was alive to the challenges facing the authority and efforts to rescue it are ongoing.
The Union therefore, remains steadfast and unshaken that employees jobs at CAAB are protected and employees salaries paid accordingly without failure, he said when updating the media about the unfolding events regarding the employer employee relations, especially on issues central to the their mandate, challenges and interventions they have tirelessly made in the quest for the protection of members rights and welfare.
BOPEU is a bargaining agent for CAAB duly recognized in terms of the Trade Union and Employers Organization Act and has a binding Collective Labour Agreement that governs the parties relationship in dealing with employment conditions of members at CAAB.
BOPEU CLASH WITH STATS BOTSWANA
Meanwhile, BOPEU lamented what it refers to as unflattering attitude meted on themselves by the Statistics Botswana management akin to what in the labour movement is aptly classified as bargaining in bad faith.
The Union says on or about the 14th August 2020, management submitted a position paper on salary negotiations for the financial year 2020/2021 proposing 10% salary adjustment across the board. On the 21st August 2020, BOPEU submitted its counter proposal, proposing a 10% salary adjustment for Band 5 to 8 and 12% for Band 9.
According to BOPEU President, the parties set the 26th August 2020 to commence its salary negotiations, which were going to deal mainly with Band 9 since for the other Bands parties were in agreement. To BOPEUs dismay and shock, just before the commencement of negotiation, management of Statistics Botswana submitted what they referred to as a revised position paper on the 25th August 2020 and proclaimed to have made a mistake in their initial proposal.
As if that was not enough, management went ahead and adjusted the salaries of non-unionized staff by 6% for Band 5 to 8 and 10% for Band 9 as per the revised proposal before the parties could commerce out talks. Being overwhelmed by this decisions, the Union says it wrote a letter to Statistics Botswana on the 27th August 2020, expressing their displeasure regarding the Employers conduct and attitude.
The Union therefore, made a conscious decision to seek external redress and referred the matter to the Commissioner of Labour on the 3rd September 2020, seeking intervention on failure to negotiate in good faith and unilateral change of position paper for salary negotiations for the year 2020/2021 as well as non-compliance to the provision of the CLA. The mediation hearing is scheduled for the 19th November 2020.
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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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Childrenâs summit to discuss funding of NGOS
One of the key issues that will be discussed by the Childrensâ Summit, which will be hosted by Childline Botswana Trust on 28th â 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 childrenâs 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 childrenâs rights and welfare.
âChild 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,â 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 âState philanthropy: The demise of charitable organizations in Botswana,â 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.
âCivil 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,â 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.
âA 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,â 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.
âWe recognize the role that NGOs play a critical role in the countryâs development agenda,â said Modukanele.