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We tackle human interest stories that everyone has their ears opened for. We go where no one wants to set their foot because we are the watchdog of BW.

17/11/2024

𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗼𝗱 (𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗣𝗢𝗗) 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘀𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮

Following a groundbreaking ceremony held on the 27th of October 2024, the University Innovation Pod (UNIPOD) is steadily taking shape and is on track to be officially launched during the first week of December. Once operational, the state-of-the-art facility promises to revolutionise Botswana’s economic development by fostering innovation, research and entrepreneurship.

Hosted by the University of Botswana (UB) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) and Ministry of Higher Education, the UNIPOD is designed as a multidisciplinary space to nurture creativity and support young innovators. It aims to bridge the gap between higher education institutions and industry by providing a platform where ideas can evolve into market-ready solutions. During a recent tour to assess progress of the project, UNDP Resident Representative, Mr Balazs Horvath, expressed satisfaction with the quality of work achieved so far. “I am delighted with the progress and the high standards being maintained,” said Mr. Horvath.

The UNIPOD will house advanced facilities to cater for every stage of the innovation process. It will feature makerspaces and fabrication laboratories (Fab Labs) equipped with cutting-edge tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters and prototyping materials to enable hands-on experimentation and prototype development. The facility will also include co-working spaces designed to foster collaboration among students, faculty and industry experts as well as creative studios for digital projects such as video production, graphic design and multimedia innovation.

In addition, the UNIPOD will offer intensive mentorship programmes and specialised courses to help innovators transform their ideas into viable business ventures. The combination of physical infrastructure, technical resources and expert guidance is designed to accelerate the journey from concept to industry-ready products and services.

17/11/2024

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16/11/2024

Despite improvements in HIV awareness, condom use among young people in Botswana remains a significant challenge, particularly among young women. Data from the Ministry of Health and NAPHA (National AIDS Health Promotion Agency) highlights a concerning trend: condom use during high-risk s*x is notably lower among females, with a decline observed over the years. In 2021, only 80.5% of young women aged 20–24 reported using condoms during high-risk s*x, compared to 92.7% of their male counterparts in the same age group.

This gender gap in condom use contributes to the disproportionate rate of HIV infections among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). While HIV awareness among young people has increased, with comprehensive knowledge rising from 48% in 2013 to 64% in 2021, this has not been mirrored by a similar increase in condom use, especially among females.

The decline in condom use among young women is concerning, as it reflects barriers such as limited access to s*xual health education, social and cultural norms, and lack of negotiation power in s*xual relationships.

Baed on the report, the age range for young girls affected by the decline in condom use is 15–24 years, with more specific data showing a notable decline in condom use among 15–19 and 20–24-year-old girls.

16/11/2024

President Advocate Duma Boko has pledged the government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that schools in Botswana provide a welcoming and secure environment where children can thrive. Speaking during a meeting with the Botswana child delegates at the World Children’s Day event in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the President affirmed the government’s dedication to working alongside children in shaping a future that aligns with their dreams and aspirations.

He assured the delegates that he would make time to hear their concerns and address their needs, emphasizing the government’s readiness to include children in important discussions. President Boko reiterated that the government's efforts will focus on making schools across the country nurturing spaces where children are encouraged to grow, dream big, and become responsible citizens.

As the upcoming host of the World Children’s Day event, President Boko will also receive the Torch of Hope, marking Botswana’s role in advocating for the rights and welfare of children.

16/11/2024

The distribution of new HIV infections in Botswana reveals a stark gender disparity, with adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) disproportionately affected. Data from the Ministry of Health and NAPHA (National AIDS Health Promotion Agency) shows that 71% of new infections in the 15–19 age group and 87% in the 20–24 age group occur among young women. This indicates that AGYW are four times more likely to be newly infected with HIV compared to their male peers.

The scale of the epidemic among youth is alarming, with 20,000 young people aged 15–24 living with HIV and 1,400 new infections annually within this age group, 1,100 of which are young girls. Furthermore, adolescent girls aged 15–19 are seven times more likely to contract HIV than boys in the same age group. Every week, 28 adolescents aged 15–24 are newly infected, with 22 of them being adolescent girls and young women.

While HIV knowledge among young people has improved, rising from 48% in 2013 to 64% in 2021, the persistent gender gap in infection rates highlights the need for targeted interventions.

16/11/2024

" Goya ka science, bomme ba rata thobalano thata gona le borre, mme ka lebaka la social construction, ba kgona go laola maikutlo a bone ka gore setšhaba se ba rutile gore ba itshware jang, ke gone fa mathata a tswang teng.

By nature all human beings are polygamous. Patlisiso e bontsha gore dinonyane di monogamous go gaisa batho. Monogamy e simologile ka dingwaga tsa bo1800, pele ga moo banna le basadi ba ne ba tshela le batho ba le bantsi ka ntlha ya go palelwa ke go laola maikutlo le keletso ya thobalano.

Ka nako eo, potso e ne ya tsoga ya gore, "Re ka baakanya jang seemo?" Ka jalo, monogamy ya simolola go nna e tshwaraganngwa thata ke setšhaba, segolobogolo mo bommeng. Seo se dirile gore bomme ba dumele gore ke ba monogamous, le fa tlhago e bontsha se se farologaneng.

Le gompieno, fa monna a ka thokafala, go bonala gore mosadi wa gagwe go ka nna thata gore a bone molekane yo mosha, mme fa monna ene a kgaogane le molekane mo dingwageng tse pedi, bagolo ba ka nna ba mo rotloetsa gore a tseye mongwe yo o mo thusang.

Di-hormone tsa thobalano di mo go rona rotlhe, mme go botlhokwa go tlhaloganya gore monogamy ke kago ya setšhaba, e seng sengwe se tlhago mo bathong" Dr Kgomotso Jongman a bua mabane ko Kgotleng mo Gaborone ka letsatsi la borre

15/11/2024

Full time

1 Zebras 1 Mauritania

15/11/2024

Zebras Equalise 1-1 Against Mauritania

15/11/2024

Mauritania Take 1-0 Lead Against Zebras

15/11/2024

𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘀𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 (𝗕𝗘𝗙) 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁: 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝘀. 𝗘𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗼𝗸𝗵𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗼-𝗠𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶 𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁

The Botswana Editors Forum (BEF) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Emang Bokhutlo-Mutapati on her recent appointment as Press Secretary at the Office of the President. This prestigious role is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to press freedom and the empowerment of women over her distinguished career spanning more than 20 years.

Ms. Mutapati has been a pillar of the media industry, known for her exemplary professionalism and advocacy for ethical journalism. Her leadership has inspired numerous journalists, particularly women, to excel in the newsroom and beyond. She has consistently championed transparency and the free flow of information, making her appointment both fitting and a source of great pride for the BEF and the media fraternity at large. As she steps into this new role, we trust that Ms. Mutapati will continue to be a formidable advocate for press freedom and a bridge between the government and the media. Her deep understanding of journalistic principles and her vast experience in public relations and media relations will undoubtedly enhance collaboration and trust between these crucial pillars of democracy.

Ms. Mutapati’s credentials include an illustrious career as a seasoned journalist, editor, and communications strategist. She has served in various capacities within prominent media houses and organizations, earning accolades for her fearless reporting and strategic insight. Her advocacy for gender equality in the newsroom and her mentorship initiatives have left an indelible mark on the industry. Furthermore, the BEF is pleased to announce that Mr. Lawrence Seretse will assume the Chairmanship of the forum with immediate effect. Mr. Seretse is a distinguished former editor, podcast producer, media strategist, and thought leader whose tenure is expected to bring renewed focus on advancing media standards and fostering greater collaboration within the sector. Once again, we congratulate Ms. Bokhutlo-Mutapati on this remarkable achievement and wish her success in her endeavors as Press Secretary.

We have no doubt that her leadership will strengthen the principles of press freedom and reinforce the essential role of the media in our democracy. Signed, Botswana Editors Forum (BEF)

15/11/2024

Ministry for State Presidency - Moeti Mohwasa
His Deputy Maipelo Mophuthing
•Ministry of Environment and Tourism - Boipuso Wynter Mmolotsi
•Ministry of Water and Human settlements - Onnetse Ramogapi
His Deputy Motsamai Motsamai
•Ministry of Sports and Arts - Jacob Kelebeng
•Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure - Noah Salalae
His Deputy Keoagile Atamelang

15/11/2024

Minister of Transport and Infrastructure - Noah Salaakae
His Deputy is Keoagile Atamelang

15/11/2024

Unveiling of last batch of ministers by President Boko

15/11/2024

PRESIDENT ADVOCATE DUMA BOKO ANNOUNCES THE FINAL SIX CABINET MINISTERS TO CONCLUDE THE EXECUTIVE.

15/11/2024

𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗡𝗱𝗮𝗯𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗼𝗿

Dr. Mosimane Rammika, a Chief Finance and Economic Analyst, has weighed in on whether Vice President Ndaba Gaolatlhe and the Governor of the Bank of Botswana were at odds in their recent statements regarding the country’s economic situation.

Dr. Rammika clarified that the two statements, while seemingly contradictory, are actually complementary when analysed closely. He explained that the Governor’s remarks about slow revenue generation indicate that Botswana is consuming more than it is making. While the country is not currently broke, it faces challenges due to a low cash flow, as the monthly revenue generation is insufficient to meet ongoing expenses. This creates the impression of financial strain, even though reserves may still exist.

The analyst further noted that the Governor and Vice President are explaining the same issue from the perspectives of different stakeholders. While the Governor seeks to provide assurance, he acknowledges the structural problem of low revenue. The Vice President, meanwhile, has expressed concern about the fast depletion of funds, highlighting the need for swift action.

Both statements highlight a common concern: low revenue generation amidst high consumption. The Governor emphasises the risks of spending without generating new income, warning that this could lead to the rapid depletion of financial reserves. This aligns with basic economic principles that caution against unsustainable financial practices.

On the other hand, the Vice President has raised concerns about the urgency of addressing this issue, focusing on the fast depletion of funds and the pressing need to stabilise the nation’s finances.

Dr. Rammika suggests that the Governor’s approach may be aimed at calming public anxiety, while the Vice President underscores the urgency of the situation.

15/11/2024

𝗨𝗕 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝘀𝗼𝗴𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲'𝘀 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

The University of Botswana (UB) has noted with concern reports on various media platforms on the matter concerning His Honour, the Former Vice President, Mr Slumber Tsogwane and Mr Sonny Serite who are the alumni of the University in good standing. Some members of the public are questioning their academic qualifications and processes that were followed hereto.

This does not reflect well on the image of the University, as the University subscribes to its ethos of integrity, accountability and transparency. Further, the University would like to place on record, that there are processes and procedures that are followed by the University leading to the Senate’s approval of the list of graduating students. This process is preceded by the faculties who have to ensure students meet the minimum requirements.

The University Senate consists of various governance structures of the University and has the responsibility of ensuring that the academic standards and quality of teaching are acceptable not only to the University and the nation, but also to the academic community of the world. Further, the University Senate is responsible for the general control and direction of teaching and learning activities, examinations, the conferment of degrees, and award of diplomas as well as certificates.

While the University acknowledges that there is confidentiality between the students and the University, it would like to confirm that the two graduates of the University of Botswana had met the minimum requirements worthy to be conferred. The University Community, Media and the Public at large are encouraged to seek clarification from the office of the Director, Public Affairs on any matter that may be of public interest before publishing or circulating any alleged facts concerning the University of Botswana.

15/11/2024

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘀𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮’𝘀 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀

Botswana’s Vice President who is also the Minister of Finance, Ndaba Gaolatlhe, and the Governor of the Bank of Botswana, Cornelius Dekop, have presented contrasting narratives regarding the country’s financial position, leaving the public puzzled.

Speaking recently, Vice President Gaolatlhe painted a dire picture, stating that the country’s coffers are alarmingly low, prompting discussions about reducing the salaries of the President and Vice President for a year. His remarks suggest that the government is facing a critical financial situation.

On the other hand, Governor Dekop dismissed claims of a financial crisis, asserting that Botswana is not broke but facing a cash flow challenge due to a mismatch between revenue and expenditure. He attributed the issue to a high import bill and assured the public that the government was implementing strategies to boost revenue, diversify the economy, and address inefficiencies.

While the Vice President’s statement implies a deeper financial strain, the Governor maintained that measures, such as reducing the monetary policy rate, would stimulate economic activity and support recovery efforts.

The stark contrast between the two perspectives raises questions about whether the Vice President is highlighting an urgent crisis or if the Governor is downplaying the gravity of the situation. Critics are now calling for clarity and transparency to address growing public concern about Botswana’s economic stability.

14/11/2024

𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝗵𝘂𝗽𝗮

This afternoon, police in Moshupa's Mmapholana ward made a grim discovery, finding a dead body hidden in a yard. Sources indicate that the deceased is a woman, allegedly killed by her younger brother, who is reportedly mentally ill.

According to reports, the suspect is believed to have killed the woman and buried her body in a hole behind a toilet. The discovery was made several days later when the suspect allegedly tried to conceal the grave further by covering it with an iron sheet.

The suspect is said to have a history of mental health issues and often spends weeks at a psychiatric hospital.

Attempts to reach the police for confirmation were unsuccessful, as their phones went unanswered at the time of publication.

Investigations into the case are ongoing.

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