GaMalete Star (2025)

26/11/2025

BOATLE–RAMOTSWA ROAD UPGRADE COMMENCES DECEMBER 1

The long-awaited upgrade of the Boatle–Ramotswa road, the lifeline that connects Ramotswa to the rest of the country through the A1 road, will finally begin on December 1.

Speaking at the Gamalete council meeting on Tuesday, Acting Director at the Department of Roads Maintenance in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Mr. Mphetang Mmolawa, confirmed that the project was given the green light in August. Construction will run for 10 months, with completion expected by October 2026.

The P37 million project will include an asphalt overlay to improve driving conditions and the construction of two bus stops already earmarked along the route.

This upgrade has been on the cards for years and was supposed to start last year in December but was among several infrastructure projects suspended when the new government took office.

The halt left Ramotswa residents frustrated, as the Boatle–Ramotswa road is the only direct link to Gaborone and other areas. Its poor condition has long been a source of concern for commuters, businesses, and emergency services.

With the project now back on track, the upgrade promises smoother travel, safer transport, and improved accessibility for the community. For Ramotswa, this is more than just a road, it is a vital artery for economic activity, social connection, and everyday life.

22/11/2025

BONNO HOUSING SCHEME IS A SCAM - MABEO
Gamalete MP Boniface Mabeo came out with guns blazing in Parliament this week, calling out the UDC government for taking Balete's land and giving it out to a South African private company partly owned by Madibelatlhopho operatives. He says evidence is there at C**A on who owns the company that was given 175 plots in Ramotswa to build houses under the Bonno scheme sell at at P700 000 each unit.

09/11/2025

𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗘 𝗚𝗢 𝗡𝗔𝗥𝗘-𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗦
- Dinare FC Fire Coach After Prisons XI Blow
- They lost two games in a row under Nare

It’s been a whirlwind three weeks for Daniel “Chicco” Nare, and it’s ended with a thud. Dinare FC of Gamalete have parted ways with the veteran coach less than a month after his appointment. The sack follows two consecutive 1–0 defeats to Holy Ghost and Prisons XI that cost the club its top spot on the First Division South log.

Chicco arrived from Notwane with Dinare riding high at number one, but the momentum didn’t last. Yesterday’s loss to Prisons XI triggered a swift decision from the club’s management to terminate his contract.

The move has raised eyebrows across the local football scene, with some questioning whether three weeks was enough time for the coach to make an impact. Others point to Dinare’s ambitions for promotion and the pressure to stay ahead in a tightly contested league.

For now, Dinare will regroup as they chase a return to the top. As for Chicco, it’s back to the drawing board, his brief Ramotswa chapter closed almost as quickly as it began.

08/11/2025

President Boko Announces Senior Government Appointments, Elevates Longtime Ally Dick Bayford to Attorney General

President Duma Gideon Boko has made sweeping senior government appointments across key ministries and institutions, signaling a strategic reshuffle in the administration’s second year in office.

The appointments, announced via a press release from the Office of the President, include the naming of prominent lawyer and Boko's longtime political ally Dick Bayford as Attorney General in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

Bayford’s appointment is likely to draw attention both within legal circles and across the political spectrum. Both are founding members of the now-defunct National Democratic Front, and have maintained a close alliance since their early days in Botswana’s progressive opposition movements. Bayford served as the leader of the party, a splinter group from the Botswana National Front formed in 2003, which contested national elections but failed to secure parliamentary representation, garnering 0.78% of the vote.

Bayford’s legal career, however, has remained influential, with his appointment marking a return to public service in a pivotal role.

Other key appointments include:

- Lesego Caster Moseki as Governor of the Bank of Botswana, effective 11 February 2026, following a mutual separation agreement with the outgoing Governor.
- Mmako Abram as Judge of the High Court, appointed under Section 96(2) of the Constitution.
- Sethabelo Mguni as Deputy Ombudsman – Human Rights, effective 22 November 2025.

Diplomatic appointments include:

- Thapelo Nkabane as High Commissioner to Japan
- Phillip Khwae as High Commissioner to Namibia
- Ms Kutlo Chelenyane is appointed as Consul General of Botswana in Johannesburg.

The appointments were made in accordance with various provisions of the Constitution of Botswana and relevant statutory frameworks. Analysts say the reshuffle reflects President Boko’s intent to consolidate his administration’s legal and economic machinery amid growing public scrutiny over unmet campaign promises and economic pressures.

07/11/2025

BDP Calls For Investigation In Presidential Fleet Purchase
-.Rejects Blame from UDC Government

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has issued a pointed statement calling on the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government to take full responsibility for the controversial procurement of a new presidential vehicle fleet, urging it to “lead or step aside.”

The statement, released Friday by BDP Communications, comes amid growing public scrutiny over the acquisition of armoured vehicles reportedly delivered in June 2024. The Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) recently confirmed the procurement and defended its necessity, citing operational requirements and security assessments.

In its response, the BDP rejected allegations that the procurement was initiated under its administration, which governed until the October 2024 elections. The party emphasized that no records exist within the former Ministries of Finance, Defence and Security, or the Office of the President to support claims that the purchase was authorized during its tenure.

“These facts are clear, verifiable, and stand unchallenged,” the statement read, adding that procurement decisions are governed by the Public Procurement Act of 2021 and administered by the Ministry of Finance’s Procurement Office.

The BDP called for a full and transparent investigation into the procurement process, asserting that the current government must be held accountable for its own decisions. “If this administration could cancel several developmental projects initiated under the BDP, surely they were capable of rejecting or reviewing this procurement if they deemed it inappropriate,” the statement argued.

The party also criticized what it described as “extravagant tendencies” and “public theatrics” by the UDC leadership, accusing it of indulging in a “Hollywood lifestyle” while neglecting pressing national priorities such as healthcare, economic growth, and job creation.

The BDP, which ruled Botswana from independence in 1966 until its electoral defeat in 2024, said it remains committed to principles of transparency and responsible governance. It urged the UDC to stop deflecting blame and instead focus on delivering results for the nation.

The controversy over the presidential fleet has sparked widespread debate, with opposition figures, civil society, and media outlets questioning the timing, cost, and necessity of the vehicles amid economic challenges.

06/11/2025

IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO WISH YOUR MP A.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY. The Honourable Mabeo!🫡

01/11/2025

𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗣 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗩𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹𝘀

Gamalete constituency Member of Parliament Boniface Mabeo has issued a public statement expressing deep concern over the current state of governance in Botswana, accusing the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) of abandoning its principles and failing the nation.

In a Facebook post published this week, Mabeo said he had initially accepted the UDC’s electoral victory in 2024, but now fears the direction the country is taking under its leadership. “I am really worried and scared for Botswana,” he wrote, adding that prominent figures within the UDC had “changed” and now support what they once opposed.

Mabeo criticized the party’s leadership, naming senior figures such as Wynter Mmolotsi, Mosowane, and Ramogapi, and warned against the corrupting influence of political office. “Ke tshaba maemo,” he said, expressing concern that power had compromised their values.

The MP reaffirmed his commitment to representing marginalized groups, including low-ranking members of the armed forces, police, Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), prison warders, public servants, youth, and residents of Gamalete. “I will remain the voice of the voiceless,” he declared.

He went further to call on members of the security services to expose wrongdoing within government, referencing the need for a whistleblower akin to South African former police general Bheki Mkhwanazi. “If I’m given information, I WILL SPEAK,” Mabeo stated.

The post also included a strong critique of the Bonno Housing Programme, which Mabeo described as a “scam” and a betrayal of national interests. He promised to reveal more details in the media soon, alleging that the initiative amounts to “selling our birthright.”

Mabeo concluded with a call for unity and accountability, stating, “No one is more important than the other,” and urging citizens to recognize the challenges facing the country. “Re nale mathata betsho,” he warned.

The MP’s remarks have sparked debate online, with supporters praising his outspoken stance and critics questioning the timing and tone of his allegations. The UDC has not yet responded to the claims.

30/10/2025

ZIM DONATES SOME ARVS TO BOTSWANA, LOANS OTHERS

- Zimbabwe Extends Lifesaving Support to Botswana Through ARV consignment

In a powerful display of regional solidarity and cooperation, the Government of Zimbabwe dispatched a consignment of Anti-Retroviral Medication (ARVs) to Botswana on 29 October 2025, marking a significant milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa. The shipment, which departed from Harare, is expected to arrive in Gaborone on 30 October 2025.

The consignment was facilitated through a bilateral loan arrangement between the two nations, with Zimbabwe donating 20% of the ARVs and extending the remaining 80% as a loan to be reimbursed in kind. This humanitarian gesture underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to regional health security and its enduring partnership with Botswana.

Her Excellency Mrs. Sarah S. Molosiwa, Ambassador of the Republic of Botswana to Zimbabwe, was present at the send-off ceremony. She was received and briefed by Mr. Newman Mazikwa, Managing Director of the National Pharmaceutical Company (Natpharm), Zimbabwe’s state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Health and Child Care. Natpharm is responsible for the procurement, storage, and distribution of medical supplies to public health institutions across Zimbabwe.

Ambassador Molosiwa was accompanied by Mr. Mollowakgotla A. Kenosi, Police Attaché, and Ms. Wame P. Itshepeng, First Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs. The Zimbabwean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade also played a key role in the handover, with a delegation led by Mr. M.S. Dube, Director for Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. He was joined by Principal Administrative Officers Ms. Claris Mushiwokufa and Mr. Lawrence Masera.

Mr. Dube commended Natpharm for its swift coordination, noting that the process was smooth and unhindered. “This is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between our two Republics,” he remarked.

In her address, Ambassador Molosiwa conveyed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko and the Government of Botswana. “This vital gesture of solidarity will go a long way in supporting our national health efforts,” she said, acknowledging Zimbabwe’s generosity and commitment to regional cooperation.

The Botswana Embassy in Zimbabwe confirmed the successful dispatch and expressed optimism about continued collaboration in health and other sectors between the two nations.

This ARV consignment not only strengthens Botswana’s medical reserves but also reinforces the shared vision of a healthier, united Southern Africa.

29/10/2025

ACCIDENT ALERT| The wailing ambulances and fire vehicles are rushing to this accident scene in Boatle a long the A1 road. Accident involves a private car and a bus - some few minutes ago

27/10/2025

SOME BATSWANA DON'T BELIEVE MINISTER RAMOGAPI AFTER TODAY'S PRESSER

- Bonno Delivers 34,567 Houses… But Batswana Say “Where? In Selokolela?”

Social media is ablaze with laughter, confusion, and a generous sprinkle of sarcasm after reports that Minister Oneetse Ramogapi proudly announced that the Bonno Housing Scheme has delivered 34,567 houses across the country.
Yes, you read that right — thirty-four thousand, five hundred and sixty-seven. Or Three-Four- Five-Six-Seven.

But Batswana are asking one simple question: “Where are they, minister?”

From Kanye to Kasane, not a single village seems to be reporting any meaningful number of Bonno houses to make the minister's revelation believable. In fact, some netizens are joking that the only place these houses exist is in the minister’s imagination.

“We want a breakdown, not a breakdown of our patience,” posted one user, tagging the Ministry’s page with a GIF of someone looking for houses with binoculars.

“UDC government is becoming Botswana’s top comedy brand,” wrote another, suggesting the next government update should be delivered by stand-up comedians.

And just when Batswana thought the punchline had landed, the minister added that 3,392 jobs have already been created, with a bold promise of 300,000 more to come. That’s when the comment section officially turned into a roast session.

“300,000 jobs? Bathong tlheng puso e re fitlhetse," one netizen wrote.

“Mo ke gone nonsense le hogwash," another added, throwing a jab at Health minister Modise's recent utterances on shortage of medicines.

"Aah, Ramogapi gongwe gaa tlhaloganya se a se kwaletsweng. This can't be true," one wrote with rolling laughter emojis.

Many say they are waiting for actual bricks and mortar houses to be pointed to, or at least a photo of one of these 34,567 houses.

Until then, the Bonno Housing Scheme remains the hottest gossip in town today, and possibly the most ambitious ghost project since the Great Wall of Gaborone. [PULA24]

27/10/2025

BACK TO NORMAL| After almost a week of closure, the public library in Ramotswa is open again. For some time operations had to stop as there was no water following disconnection on account of bill settlement issues. The library has also announced that soon they will be inviting registered persons for a computer course planned to start soon.

GaMalete Star

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