https://www.facebook.com/277425798946113/

New Dawn Weekly, Gaborone (2024)

08/12/2024

HEATWAVE WARNING - MAXIMUM TEMPERATURES EXPECTED TO RISE UP TO 43°C!

The Ministry of Environment and Tourism, through the Department of Meteorological Services urges the public to take the following precautions:

•Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
•Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours.
•Use protective measures such as sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing.
•Pay special attention to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

New Dawn Weekly || The Pulse of progress

07/12/2024

The conditions in our prisons are generally bad, and I call on government to improve things. The once mighty former PSP is resident there for some years and I am sure he is thinking he could have used his then immense powers to drastically improve things. Taking away one’s liberty should not mean taking away the dignity of inmates. - Uyapo Ndandi

New Dawn Weekly ll The Pulse of progress

03/12/2024

Yesterday, I led Observer Group to the Osu Police polling station to observe the first ballot, marking the start of the Special Vote. This process allows security agencies, media personnel & election officials to vote ahead of 🇬🇭Ghana’s general election on 7 Dec.- Dr Eric Mokgweetsi Masisi.

New Dawn Weekly || The Pulse of progress

26/11/2024

Honorable Taolo Lucas is the new PAC (Public Accounts Committee) chairman is Taolo Lucas.Oversight Committees such as the Public Accounts Committee are at the forefront on issues of financial scrutiny and accountability.

Oversight aims to;
i) improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the economy and Government operations
ii) Evaluate the performance of government programs
iii) Prevent the executive from encroaching on legislative powers
iv) Guide against instances of poor administration, abuse, waste and fraud
v) Improves the quality of democracy
vi) Reduces corruption

In order to achieve the above, Parliamentary Committees must establish credibility with the civil society and the public at large including the Government (Executive) that they oversee.
Budget Role
• Consider the revenue and expenditures of Government
• Consider taxes to be levied
• Consider proposals for Government borrowing
• Consider supplementary estimates of revenue and expenditure
Control Role
• Exercise control over the activities carried out by Portofolio Government Ministries/ Departments.
• Hold the Ministers to account for their actions and fulfill their assurances.
• Support and implement the work of watchdog institutions like the Botswana Human Rights Commission, etc.
Representative Function
• Articulate constituency and public demands
Accountability
• Examine reports of the Auditor – General, report on them and enforce accountability.
Advocacy Function
• Provide advocacy on promotion of equal opportunities, promotion of Science and
Technology and combating of pandemics such as HIV/AIDS.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

26/11/2024

Extracts from my Keynote Address at the FACETS 2024 Conference. Handelbeurs, Antwerp, Belgium

THEME: “NAVIGATING A NEW ERA”

“The enduring beauty and authenticity of natural diamonds, the ultimate symbol of love and heritage.”

“Today’s consumers demand more than just exquisite and luxurious diamonds; they seek to uncover the human rights narrative woven into each stone.”

“To Botswana, diamonds are not just an ultimate expression of elegance and luxury crafted by nature for billions of years deep within the earth's mantle, they are the lifeblood of our economy, imbued with significance that transcends mere aesthetics.”

“Botswana is committed to pioneering traceability and responsible mining practices, ensuring that our diamonds not only shine in beauty but also embody integrity and ethical stewardship.”

“The Partnership between De Beers and the Government of the Republic of Botswana cannot be overstated. Together, we are committed to bolstering the desirability and demand for natural diamonds. Through our collaborative marketing effort.”

“By choosing Botswana diamonds, you are not just selecting a product; you are becoming a part of a movement towards ethical and sustainable development. You are choosing gems that reflect your values and a commitment to making a lasting positive impact.”

“The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) plays a crucial role in enhancing business opportunities within the diamond trade. We fully support and actively participate in initiatives that foster industry growth, recognizing the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable advancement.”

“Together, we can ensure that diamonds remain not just symbols of timeless beauty but also catalysts for sustainable development and shared prosperity.”- Duma Gideon Boko.

Source : BW Presidency

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

26/11/2024

𝐁𝐂𝐏 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐖 𝐂𝐀𝐁𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐃

1. State President and International Relations – 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐰 𝐊𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭
2. Labour and Home Affairs – 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐭𝐬𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐤𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐞, 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐧 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭
3. Justice and Correctional Services – 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐊𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚, 𝐎𝐤𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐨 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭
4. Local Government and Traditional Affairs – 𝐓𝐚𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐋𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐬, 𝐁𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐰𝐚
5. Child Welfare, Basic and Higher Education – 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐤𝐮𝐚𝐦𝐚, 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭
6. Health - 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧, 𝐍𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐢
7. Lands and Agriculture – 𝐊𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐆𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠, 𝐓𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡
8. Environment and Tourism – 𝐆𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐰𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨, 𝐎𝐤𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐨 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭
9. Communications and Innovation – 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐥𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢, 𝐍𝐤𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞
10. Youth and Gender Affairs – 𝐓𝐥𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐨 𝐅𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐢 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭
11. Sports and Arts - 𝐎𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐤𝐮 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚, 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐛𝐞
12. Water and Human Settlements – 𝐑𝐞𝐮𝐛𝐞𝐧 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐫, 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐰𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭
13. Finance, Minerals and Energy – 𝐃𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨, 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐧 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡
14. Trade and Entrepreneurship – 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐨, 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞
15. Transport and Infrastructure – 𝐊𝐠𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐨 𝐍𝐤𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐚, 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐰𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

25/11/2024

We arrived safely in Belgium, where we held an insightful briefing with the Botswana Diplomatic Staff to outline and strategize for the forthcoming engagements.

I look forward to exploring opportunities and engaging in fruitful deliberations ahead.- Advocate Duma Boko

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

25/11/2024

Good news

The Minister of Entrepreneurship will be commissioning a forensic audit against CEDA. This is in response to a petition we submitted last week.

I can’t say much as my gag order has been extended till this Thursday when the court will deliver a judgement on whether or not I can share negative information on CEDA. And whether or not CEDA can sue a citizen who all he seeks is accountability and whether or not that citizen should be imprisoned for 30 days.

On a sad note. They say they can’t suspend Thabo Thamane & his corrupt board. Meaning they will investigate him while still in office and give him even more time to interfere or hide or destroy evidence against him. Ka bokhutshwane go tshwana le mapodise ba togela legodu mo crime scene ebe bare they will investigate him a le on the scene.

On Friday, the Parliament is also expected to move something positive. We will not get tired in our efforts to have Thabo Thamane and friends investigated for their litany of corrupt activities. Even if they can bring millions of law suits against me, I will not stop calling for their investigation. If it means I have to die or be imprisoned so be.

I will not be silenced from calling out corruption. - Raymond Setlhomo

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

25/11/2024

President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko has left for Antwerp, Belgium, where he will participate at the 3rd Edition of FACETS Conference (FACETS 2024) from 26th to 27th November 2024.

The FACETS Conferences are organized by the World Diamond Centre (AWDC), the umbrella organization representing the world’s oldest and foremost diamond trade hub. The first edition of FACETS was hosted in Antwerp in September 2022; and Botswana as the premier diamond producer in value hosted the second edition in October 2023, which was attended by over 400 delegates.
President Boko will give a Keynote Address at the FACETS 2024, which will be held under the theme “Navigating A New Era.” The Conference will bring together key stakeholders from the diamond industry and related sectors including politicians, experts, retailers and traders. FACETS 2024 will deliberate on the current state of the diamond industry, evolving mining practices as well as the future of the diamond industry. While in Antwerp, the President will tour the AWDC Offices and Diamond District, visit the Diamcad Polisher and Rosy Blue Sight-holder.

The President will also hold meetings in Brussels with the Secretary-General of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), His Excellency Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti. He will also meet with the Prime Minister of Belgium, His Excellency Mr. Alexander de Croo to discuss bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest. In addition, President Boko will meet with President of the European Union Council, His Excellency Mr. Charles Michel, to discuss among others the Botswana-EU relations.

President Boko will also give a Keynote Address at the Botswana Business Forum which will explore business opportunities, strengthen partnerships and promote investments in Botswana. The Forum will bring together key players in the business community. He will also meet with Batswana in Belgium.

The President is accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Kaone Boko, Honourable Dr. Phenyo Butale, Minister of International Relations, Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy, and Senior Government Officials. President Boko and his delegation will return to Gaborone on 28th November, 2024.

New Dawn Weekly || The Pulse of progress

20/11/2024

MESSAGE FROM CEDA.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience during this time. Should you need assistance or information in the interim, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or phone".

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

20/11/2024

Second Defamation Lawsuit Filed Against Raymond Setlhomo

Ngakaagae & Company, a leading law firm in Botswana, has filed a defamation lawsuit on behalf of journalist Oarabile Sonny Serite and his company, Elephant Paw (Pty) Ltd, which trades as Safari Compass. The suit is directed at social media influencer Sethlomo Raymond Tshwanelang over alleged defamatory statements posted on his page, which has over 167,000 followers.

The letter, dated 20th November 2024, accuses Tshwanelang of publishing content that falsely portrays Serite as a criminal and immoral individual who profits from unlawful activities. According to the plaintiffs, these statements have caused severe harm to Serite’s personal reputation and that of Elephant Paw, subjecting both to significant public ridicule and online harassment.

The plaintiffs are demanding a public retraction of the defamatory posts, accompanied by an apology to both Serite and his company. This apology must be published on Tshwanelang’s page and pre-approved by the plaintiffs before being shared. In addition to the retraction and apology, the lawsuit demands monetary compensation totaling P7 million pula—P3.5 million for Serite personally and another P3.5 million for Elephant Paw.

Ngakaagae & Company has given Tshwanelang seven court days to comply with these demands. Failure to do so will result in further legal proceedings.

Just this morning while attending to a different case at the high court of Botswana,Setlhomo was served with a defamation of character lawsuit by Tumiso Rakgare who alleges that he lost elections because of Setlhomo's remarks about him of social media.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of progress.

20/11/2024

PRESS RELEASE - PRESIDENT BOKO TO PARTICIPATE AT THE EXTRAORDINARY SADC SUMMIT IN ZIMBABWE

GABORONE, 20th November 2024: The Ministry of International Relations wishes to inform the public, that President Duma Gideon Boko will participate at the Extraordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 20th November 2024.

The Summit will deliberate on the security situation in the region, with a particular focus on the prevailing security situation in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Accordingly, the meeting will also receive a progress update on the work of the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC). The SAMIDRC was deployed to the DRC on 15th December 2023, on a year-long mandate to support the Government of the DRC restore peace, security and stability in the Eastern DRC.

His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Chairperson SADC, will chair the Extraordinary Summit which will be preceded by the Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit, meetings of Ministerial Committee of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, as well as the SADC Council of Ministers.

The President will be accompanied by Honourable Dr. Phenyo Butale, Minister of International Relations and Senior Government Officials responsible for international relations, defence and security matters. President Boko and his delegation will return to Gaborone on the same day.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

19/11/2024

SADC nations at AFCON Morocco 2025.

Angola 🇦🇴
Botswana 🇧🇼
Comoros 🇰🇲
Mozambique 🇲🇿
South Africa 🇿🇦
Zambia 🇿🇲
Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

19/11/2024

Great Artwork by ... Orebonye representating Botswana in the artwork.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress

19/11/2024

Botswana for the 2nd time qualifies for since 2012.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of progress

19/11/2024

Pitseng's Final Resting Place: A Long-Awaited Closure

After a prolonged legal battle and nearly three years of uncertainty, the body of Gaoberekwe Pitseng will finally be laid to rest at the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) on December 10, 2024. This wa said by President Duma Gideon Boko during his first ever SONA speech.

Pitseng, a proud Mosarwa man, passed away on December 21, 2021, and his family has fought tirelessly to honor his final wish to be buried in his ancestral land within the CKGR. The journey to this moment has been fraught with legal challenges and emotional turmoil.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of progress.

19/11/2024

Key Points presented by President Duma Boko at SONA this Afternoon.

1. Through legalizing the Use of H**p and related products it will help expand our GDP...The cannibus industry is valued at billion internationally.

2. Anti Corruption institutions to be strengthened.

3. We have talked to Star Link (Elon Musk) to start physical infrastructure technological industrialization in Botswana.

4. Establishing standard pricing for all procurement...no unnecessary markup.

5. We will review government rental to try to save money for the country.

6. We will implement solar energy in institutions to have their own power and save money.

7. Government to establish National Development Fund to finance strategic Projects.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of progress

19/11/2024

MINISTER OF HEALTH VISITS CENTRAL MEDICAL STORES

The Minister of Health Hon. Dr Stephen Modise together with the Assistant Minister Hon. Lawrence Ookeditse, visited Central Medical Stores (CMS) yesterday to appreciate their services. The Ministers were also briefed on the state of medicines and the processes that CMS follows when procuring medicines.

The Ministers assured staff of their support and reminded them that the nation expects uninterrupted availability of medicines in all public health facilities.

New Dawn Weekly || The pulse of Progress