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Khama, Dums meet over UDC

The Patron of the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), Lt Gen Ian Khama who is also the Godfather of the movement recently met with the leader of the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), Dumelang Saleshando in a rare meeting to discuss a wide range of issues including the future of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).

Saleshando who warmed up to Khama later than his counterpart and UDC president, Duma Boko is currently embroiled in public exchanges with the latter over the direction of the coalition movement insisting that things are not good as they seem or Boko says, within the movement.

The meeting with Khama was requested by Saleshando who insiders say discussed a series of issues about the complexities currently facing the UDC – once dubbed the peoples project, opposition parties and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Saleshando had gone to update and give Khama his side of the story so that he does not hear anything through the grapevine and the two discussed a lot of political issues, revealed a close source.

In a brief interview, Saleshando could not confirm or deny the meeting, redirecting enquiries to Khama. You mention Khama, I think you better ask him to confirm, was only what he could say.

Although the two have tussled for a long time during Khamas rein, Khama respects Saleshando as a political animal but is more inclined to Boko who first warmed up to him when Saleshando was still skeptical of whether he was red, lime or yellow. In fact, Khama once recruited Saleshando to BDP when Saleshando was still the Member of Parliament for Gaborone central, a constituency that Khama resided in.

Asked about the meeting, the BPF spokesperson, Lawrence Ookeditse could not confirm or deny the meeting, choosing rather to say the BPF Patron, Khama has a cordial relationship with all the opposition parties leaders and meets them every now and then or when necessary.

Insiders however say, between Saleshando and Boko, Khama is more inclined to Boko who has at some point sought and vowed to represent him against the ruling party mercenaries, despite having likened him to a demon during his (Khama) rein.

It is not known how the Botswana National Front (BNF), has taken the meeting, but some insiders attribute the ongoing bickering between the BCP and the BNF to that meeting, there is no way Boko would not know about what was discussed at that meeting.

What needs to be understood is that the BCP is very territorial in nature as compared to the BNF whose president is quite liberal- a trait that has earned him respect in some quarters as well as sparked his frequent clashes with BNF die-hearts concerned that he may sell the partys soul.

So the BPF as a new comer will obviously gravitates towards one who easily gives ground or yield because they also want a serious stake in this. Its now power politics, forget the public gymnastics, revealed a bystander very close to action.

Since formation the BPF has demonstrated signs of mercurial growth owing to the Khama-magic, and this has given it a status of a giant knocking on the coalition door. Even before it can be allowed in, those inside the house are already pushing and shoving for its attention.

Currently the BCP seems isolated with the BNF flirting with the less influential Botswana Peoples Party (BPP). During a quarrel recently, the BPP released a statement castigating the BCP for mentioning it in its (BCP) little fight with the BNF over a press conference that the BCP wanted postponed on the grounds that they were not aware of what the agenda was as a partner.

Boko recently revealed in the coalition decisions are taken by way of majority, a move that Saleshando says does not really promote and protect synergy. It would appear that these are some of the issues that Saleshando discussed with Khama.

Although insinuations are being made by some that the BCP may be heading out or facing expulsion, claims refuted by Saleshando, Ookeditse said as the BPF they do not a have role in the matters currently besieging the UDC.

Of course we are aware of the challenges faced by our comrades from the UDC, but we would rather communicate our views to the UDC than outsiders. What we can say for the record is that the BPF supports any action geared towards the promotion of opposition unity and attainment of state power which is our main objective, and in so far as we are concerned, all partners are important to this objective as we need the numbers, he 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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