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State of the Nation Address by His Excellency Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of the Republic of Botswana While the development of any democracy is an evolutionary process, I am pleased to reaffirm that our own progress is on track, being marked by realistic milestones towards realisable goals.
The roadmap to a better Botswana is contained in our long-term Vision and the 10th National Development Plan, which are supported by flagship programmes for sustainable economic diversification, poverty eradication and citizen empowerment, including the youth. This administration’s implementation efforts are further guided by adherence to the “5Ds”, which can be summarised as our pledge to achieve a dignified life for all Batswana through the delivery of sustainable economic development, driven by a culture of democratic accountability and rooted in a renewed sense of social discipline. Here we recognise that sustainable development is not only measured in the delivery of physical infrastructure. More fundamentally, it is about ensuring that our human resources,
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that is our people, have the skills and opportunities to achieve a dignified life. It is for this reason that poverty eradication and youth development and empowerment are a special priority. It is in the context of each of these 5Ds then that we also remain firmly committed to our goal of achieving an equitable high income status for our country, devoid of poverty. But as I, and indeed my predecessors, have said we cannot become a prosperous nation for all, in the absence of a greater effort and willingness on the part of all Batswana to sacrifice short-term consumption for greater output. Our strengths as a nation are known to ourselves and to others in the international community. We continue to score highly in a wide range of global surveys in such
areas as upholding political freedom, human rights and the rule of law, including our zero tolerance for corruption. With our existing strengths, abilities and underutilised capacities, we can achieve our highest aspirations. We are mindful that productivity is not simply about doing more. It is rather about focusing on those things that will yield us the greatest return. This in turn calls for discipline both in and outside of the workplace. Achieving our goals through greater productivity also requires a collective willingness on our part to maintain a common sense of purpose, which is rooted in the recognition that our country’s success has been about merging individual and community desires to the national interest by always putting Botswana first.
It is for this reason that we have adopted a people-centred approach to development that, while keeping the door open to large scale capital investment, recognises the need for proactive measures to grow employment and wealth through Small, Medium and Micro-Enterprises (SMMEs). One way we have been doing this is through preferential purchasing by Government as part of the Economic Diversification Drive (EDD). During 2011/12 we recorded our highest ever investment and employment figures. Foreign Direct Investment totalled P1.4-billion, while 1583 jobs were added from new investments. In addition domestic investment and expansions totalled some P415-million. Areas of new investment included the manufacturing of steel products, farming, mining, tourism, property development, ICT services and renewable energy and recycling. Meanwhile, the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC), along with the Department of Industrial Affairs, are working to attract foreign investment, while further marketing local products. Government continues to sponsor empowerment programmes such as the Citizen Entrepreneurship Development Agency (CEDA) and the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA).
We are, therefore, intensifying and broadening our internal monitoring and performance reviews, in partnership with the private sector through the Botswana Confederation of Commerce, Industry and Manpower (BOCCIM). Recognising that poor service delivery can also result from corruption, the DCEC has been brought on board as an integral element of our monitoring and evaluation efforts. Our progress in fighting institutional corruption is reflected in the latest Transparency International Index. Besides being cited once more as the least corrupt country in Africa, I am pleased to note that our overall standing has significantly improved over the past two years, moving up eight places. Inflation has declined, averaging 7% during July-September 2012.
The Bank of Botswana has maintained its rate at 9.5%, to contain inflation and promote investment. Developments in the world economy for the first half of 2012 were generally negative. Our current forecasts are for 3.5% growth in 2012 and 5% percent in 2013. Most non-mining sectors have recorded positive real growth rates. These numbers are indicative of modest progress towards economic diversification. Diversification Even in the absence of the global economic downturn we would be living through challenging times as we wean ourselves away from overdependence on raw diamond revenues. Dependency on anything is never healthy.
Safety and Security Our nation’s progress has rested on the foundation of “peace, order and good government”, words that define the very mandate of this Parliament. It is due to these qualities, which dovetail with our indigenous concept of kagisanyo, that we have long enjoyed levels of stability that are the envy of others. By working harder and smarter together, while maintaining our common sense of purpose, we as Batswana can and shall continue to advance towards our goal of a more prosperous Botswana that leaves no citizen behind. God bless Botswana.
‘Abridged version’
www.gov.bw/en/News/2012-State-ofthe-Nation-Address/ Best of Botswana
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Foreword by His Honour the Vice President, Dr Ponatshego H. K. Kedikilwe The celebration of Botswana’s successes continues in this third volume of Best of Botswana. The books are becoming a constant reminder of all that we have achieved as a nation; and in return, inspiring us to continue growing and developing. By showcasing ongoing successes, Best of Botswana circulates the stories which further inspire positive action. The progression and adaption of each volume tracks the progress of the country. From the last issue, Best of Botswana notably introduced a Sustainability and CSR Chapter. This helps to celebrate the strides made in the sector - which we as the government of Botswana are most proud. The introduction of an Entrepreneurship Chapter, giving upcoming entrepreneurs the chance to be recognised, is a vital component of a project of this magnitude. Entrepreneurship and SMMEs are an important part of our economy and is a rapidly growing sector. Best of Botswana Volume 3 is making a valuable contribution to our efforts of economic diversification. Economic Diversification Drive is a vision of which we are in constant pursuit and which we are advancing towards. Detailing and exposing the array of Botswana sectors making waves in the region speaks volumes about the burgeoning success of the economic diversification programmes. The true heroes of this success story are the Batswana people who explored new arenas and become pioneers in business and trade. The story of our great nation’s growth is being revealed before our eyes in these unique collector’s volumes. The showcase of Botswana in the highest resolution helps remind us of all that we have worked to achieve. Sharing these achievements with the rest of the world provides us with a rare moment of reflection, to sit back and enjoy the spoils of Botswana through the vibrant colours and voices evoked through these pages. Paging through Best of Botswana Volume 3, the shared values of leadership, integrity, commitment, collaboration, and accountability which we are promoting as part of the Vision 2016, are already so evident in Botswana’s entrepreneurs and businessmen and women. I hope you will be as inspired by Best of Botswana Volume 3 as I am. Yours Sincerely Dr Ponatshego H. K. Kedikilwe, PH, MP, Vice President of the Republic of Botswana
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Botswana – the Pinnacle of Progress “Best of Botswana has become a definite celebration of the country and its many assets, as well as of the people. Best of Botswana Volume 3 continues this story of Botswana’s strides in excellence and successes.” The thread of optimism which wove itself through the previous editions of Best of Botswana has been proven endless. Batswana’s boundless optimism found firm roots in 2012. It saw Botswana’s flag fly high at the 2012 London Olympics, when Nijel Amos won in the heats and powered on to second position in the finals – Botswana’s first medal. This not only spurred national pride, but it left an indelible mark for future sporting successes. The preparation of athletes is set to get ever more sophisticated. I am excited to bring to you the third edition of Best of Botswana which we have filled with stories reaped from this positivity. Batswana have collectively risen to the occasion. We once again lovingly document this collective pride. Botswana’s continued successes are certainly attributed to stringent plans in sustainable development and innovation. The focus for Botswana currently, which is evident through these pages, is supporting sustainable economic development – most notable through infrastructure and culture. Development projects in infrastructure Thapelo Letsholo are increasing through roads, rail, airports and air transport, water and sanitation, power supply, and ICT Infrastructure. Government is addressing infrastructure challenges through new and improved infrastructure strategies. Not only has this given us a lot of content to include in our glossy pages of Best of Botswana Volume 3, but these developments are sustainably driving growth in all industries through beneficial and lasting job creation – hence why the success stories we depict are endless. Sustainable development, has different dimensions - alongside the economic, the ecological and the political, stands the cultural dynamic. Lefatshe la Botswana, the land of the Batswana people, is core to its people’s cultural identity. The guiding principles of development, self reliance and social justice have always been cultural imperatives. Vision 2016 called upon Batswana to rededicate themselves to sustainable development in line with their cultural values. The rate of innovation in Botswana is ever increasing. The Government of Botswana has a national e-government strategy for 2011-2016 entitled ‘1Gov’. Digital governance is a digital and internet-based information technology system allowing citizens greater access to government information and services. Its range and scope is nothing short of grandiose. Our sincere thanks go to the participants showcased here in our third edition, as they continue to strive in their respective fields, contributing to Botswana’s great success and growth. The complete picture of Botswana’s story of success would not be complete without each of these key elements of success. Special thanks go to our sponsors for their vision and passion for Botswana – most notable are BITC and Brand Botswana. The continued endorsement from the Government of Botswana continues to humble us. Notably, we would like to thank the Vice President for honouring us with his Foreword. We hope to sow back into generating further exposure for all our supporters. We hope that Best of Botswana Volume 3 inspires both visitors and locals alike to fall in love with Botswana and discover its unique beauty for themselves. Thapelo Letsholo International Group Publisher Botswana Publishing Partner Africa Group Publisher Sales and Marketing Project Manager & Production Editor Creative Direction Images
Sven Boermeester RedPepper PR & Communication Consultancy Thapelo Letsholo Balepeng Montwedi, Tshiamo Mhlanga, Kabo Garebakwena Gia Bichofberger - GVPedia Communications cc Rebecca Eb Shout Factory - Peter Batistich PressPhoto - www.thepressphoto.com
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in The ‘Best of Botswana’ Vol. 3. Neither ‘Best of Botswana’, RedPepper PR & Communication Consultancy nor GVPedia Communications cc assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. The editor reserves the right to amend and alter copy and visual material as deemed necessary. Sven Boermeester
All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copied, transmitted, adapted or modified in any form or by any means. This publication shall not be stored in whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system. Contact details: RedPepper PR & Communication Consultancy PO Box 26382 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 3951363 Fax: +267 3951368 Email: info@redpepperprc.com www.redpepperprc.com In Partnership with: www.GVPedia.com Global Village Partnerships: info@GVPedia.com in association with
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ChapterS Botswana Lifestyles and Sports
Chapter 2
Chapter 1
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Future Visions
Fashion, Beauty and Healthcare
Chapter 4
Chapter 3
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Travel, Tourism and Hotels
Investment
Chapter 6
Chapter 5
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Training and Education
Banking
Chapter 8
Chapter 7
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Finance
Outsourced Solutions
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
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Insurance
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Mining and Minerals
Chapter 12
Chapter 11
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Security
Transport, Logistics and Motoring
Chapter 14
Chapter 13
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Property, Building and Construction
Media, Marketing and Events
Beverages
Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development
Chapter 18
Chapter 17
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Chapter 16
Chapter 15
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Technology and Communications
Chapter 19
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Future Botswana and Parastatals
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Botswana at a Glance
Area Capital city Government President Vice President Population Current GDP growth Inflation Official languages Religion Currency Country dialling code Internet domain
His Excellency Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, Botswana, President
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His Honour Dr. Ponatshego Kedikilwe, Botswana, Vice President
581,730 square kilometres Gaborone Multi-party democracy since Independence (1966) Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama DR. Ponatshego Kedikilwe 2.04-million (2011) 4.6 percent (2012) 7.1 percent (2012) English Secular (Christianity, Muslim, Hindu, Judaism) Pula (BWP) +267 .bw
A cosmopolitan and peaceful country, Botswana is the perfect place to live and work. Its stability and economic growth have made it a dream destination for many visitors, eager to immerse themselves in the welcoming culture and numerous opportunities available.
Competition for Reform It is noted that competition is an essential part of the economic reform process in Botswana. The well-being of the country is hinged on fair trade practices. This means that the Botswana economy is open to all forms of competitors within sectors so as to prevent monopolies which create unbalanced dominance over certain markets. Limits on market entry are therefore relaxed and create an open market economy. The welcoming of the Competition Authority and the Competition Commission promotes investment, innovation, broader choices for consumers, price reductions and increased quality of goods and services. The Competition Commission provides policy guidance to the Competition Authority but the authority is independent in its sphere of legal responsibilities such as initiating investigations. Healthy rivalry inspires innovative business development practices that assist in the country’s competitiveness. Botswana is bracing for a new era of deregulation, privatisation and investment liberalisation. Focus is on maintaining and promoting efficient production and distribution of goods and services.
Market Access Besides the supportive legislation, Botswana is a signatory or member of several market access agreements and arrangements, such as the interim Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union, the African Growth and Opportunity Act with the US, the Southern African Customs Union with four other regional states, and the Southern African Development Community with 14 other states. Botswana also has numerous bilateral trade agreements with African and international states.
Politics and Regulatory Framework A healthy multi-party democracy has been in place since 1966, with clear separation of the judiciary, executive and legislature as enshrined in the constitution. Transparency International ranks Botswana as Africa’s least corrupt country, while other global surveys such as World Bank Doing Business Reports have hailed the robust regulatory framework built around modern pieces of legislation.
Botswana Well-positioned for Dawn of the African Century International capital is increasingly flowing away from developed markets and into emerging economies. Of the African states bidding to host this capital, all indicators point to Botswana as the most strategically positioned to benefit. While many believe the country’s journey to this point started in the late 1960s with the discovery of diamonds in the Orapa/
Diamonds – the Drivers of the Economy Since their discovery in 1967, diamonds have powered economic growth in Botswana, not only funding infrastructure development, but the rollout of education, health and social services countrywide. Today, Botswana is among the most modernised economies in Africa, with country-spanning highways, world-class aviation industry and healthy per capita incomes. The P24-billion expansion of Jwaneng Mine means diamond revenues and the blossoming value addition industry will continue to support the economy into the 2020s and beyond.
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Letlhakane area, Botswana’s history as an extractive economy began with gold mining, albeit on a small-scale, in the late 1800s. Large-scale extractive activities around diamonds, coal, soda ash, copper, and nickel were explored in the late 1950s, laying the foundation for the establishment of worldfamous operations such as Jwaneng and Orapa diamond mines, Morupule Colliery, Botash, and BCL Mine. The resource boom of the late 1960s and 1970s allowed extractive industries to outpace agriculture as the primary drivers of Botswana’s economy, with government using the revenues to direct growth mainly to national social development endeavours such as education, health, and primary infrastructure. While Botswana is most well known worldwide for this resource miracle, a lesser acknowledged but greatly more significant marvel was the government’s use of economic policy to carry the momentum of the wealth boom towards broader economic development. While the resource boom exceedingly created employment, raising incomes and living standards, it was government policy that ensured this increased demand resulted in the creation of secondary industry such as financial services, manufacturing, hospitality and tourism, aviation, and other sectors. Economic Diversification Since the 1980s, government’s economic diversification policy has seen the deployment of the burgeoning mineral
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revenues towards the growth and deepening of nationwide Information Communication Technologies, Transport Networks, and more recently, robust efforts towards selfsufficiency in energy generation. It is from these efforts that secondary industry has blossomed and deepened, with the result that the consumer demand originally built by mineral revenues, has become complimented by new and transformed economic pathways. In addition, these government social development policies, such as the billions of Pula spent on tertiary education investment, have transformed consumer demand towards more complex products, allowing market space for production of more specialised and modern products and services. From the 1980s when the Financial Assistance Policy first marked government’s attempts at countrywide industrialisation of the mineral revenues, economic policy since the millennium has been aimed at providing supporting infrastructure and policy conducive to the private sector. This two-pronged policy has seen the development and roll-out of key agencies such as the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency, Local Enterprise Authority, BITC (Botswana Investment and Trade Centre), International Financial Services Centre, and others. In the last four years, critical modern economy agencies such as the Competition Authority, Financial Intelligence Agency, and the Non-Bank Financial Institutions
Regulatory Authority have emerged, closing policy loopholes and building confidence for investors. Over the same period, government has embarked on the most aggressive infrastructure outlay since Independence, with billions of Pula invested in road and air infrastructure, dam construction, power station development and extension of the transmission grid. In addition, government and the Bank of Botswana have developed a regular and high value domestic debt issuance programme chiefly designed to boost the development of capital markets. The result of this comprehensive approach by government over the years, has seen greater Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) with more moving into non-mining sectors, thus raising nonextractives’ contribution to the economy. A recent Ernst & Young survey suggested Botswana attracted approximately US$13.5billion (P99-billion) in FDI between 2003 and 2011, placing it among the continent’s top 15 targets for foreign capital. While minerals accounted for more than a third of this FDI (part of the reason being the attendant high capital costs), foreign capital also targeted financial services, communications, real estate, hotels, and tourism. With key infrastructure slowly moving into place and the safety net of investor and support agencies gradually commingling, government has lately begun addressing the various factors influencing the country’s global competitiveness. Part of the motivation has been that the secondary economy (manufacturing/industrial economy
feeding off the primary, raw material, activities) is growing rapidly. Further impetus is required in order to fill the space currently occupied by imports. At present, it could be argued that Botswana’s economy has more elements of primary and tertiary economy and fewer of secondary economy, with the annual merchandise import bill estimated at nearly a fifth of the Gross Domestic Product. Global Competitiveness and Relations The focus on competitiveness, as seen by the establishment of a select Cabinet committee on the issue, is seeing the targeting of eight policy areas identified by investors and enunciated by the World Economic Forum’s annual report, as problem areas. Besides these, Botswana as a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) is also engaged in interregional industrialisation negotiations to ensure greater domestic capacity building from the value created within the union. In addition, the country has penned an interim Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union and is in the process of finalising a more comprehensive arrangement, among the raft of international trade and tax protocols it has in place to enhance the domestic economy’s industrial allure. Indicators already exist that these policies have placed Botswana at the heart of the African Century. Already, the Botswana Stock Exchange, the agency with its pulse on foreign capital flows, has
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reported heavier uptake of local counters by foreign companies and individuals, as global focus shifts to Africa. The Botswana Stock Exchange was the eighth best performing market in the world in 2011 and 2012; the local bourse expects to further improve its performance. Given the goodwill in the highest political offices, the support of policy and infrastructure as well as the robust investor agencies, sovereign credit rating, developed financial services, and skilled labour force – Botswana is well poised for the African Century. Financial Services Leveraging off a solid legislative base, Botswana’s financial services sector is among Africa’s strongest, with profitable, well-capitalised and liquid institutions, supported by sound regulatory and oversight organisations. With ten highly competitive commercial banks, three statutory development banks, several asset management firms, a thriving stock exchange and well-supervised micro-lending arena, access to credit is among the least of investor’s challenges in doing business in Botswana. Banking and Foreign Exchange The country’s ten commercial banks are all subsidiaries of global and regional groups such as FNB, Barclays and Standard Chartered as well as First Rand and Standard Bank - thus offering a recognised, wellintegrated and high-tech standard of products
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and services. The ten banks and 63 bureaux de change compete in the arena of foreign exchange services, providing customers with unfettered access to foreign currency. Media Botswana’s media landscape is among Africa’s most pluralistic, with two national television stations, five national radio stations and ten print titles - including two dailies published countrywide. Access to the broadcast media is free while competition between print media titles keeps prices affordable. Of the seven broadcast media and ten print titles, four of the former and nine of the latter are owned and operated by the private sector, ensuring a diversity and independence of views. International Institutions and Embassies Botswana’s peace and stability has made it a leading diplomatic destination in Africa. By 2011, a total of 76 foreign missions were accredited to Botswana, both residential and non-residential, while Botswana had a total of 35 diplomatic missions abroad. The foreign and diplomatic missions cover nearly every corner of the world, ensuring easy access to and from Botswana. In addition, leading international institutions based in Botswana include the Delegation of the European Union to Botswana and SADC, the SADC headquarters, various UN agencies and country specific organisations such as the British Council and Swedish Trade Council.
Investment Opportunities and Incentives With government strategy being to diversify the economy away from diamond mining, policy has been towards provision of incentives for private sector investment that would achieve this strategy. As a result inducements such as tax incentives, as well as one-stop shops for licensing and permit issues remove the obstacles for investors to do business. Opportunities available range from the manufacturing and services sector, with agencies such as BITC and BIDPA on hand with detailed information on possible investment avenues. Agribusiness While commercial farming activities in Botswana have largely been limited over the years, government programmes and agencies have gradually been able to develop agribusiness to a level able to reduce the reliance on imports for agricultural produce. Industries such as dairy and beef farming, poultry, crop production and others have become established, while opportunities exist in stock feed production, irrigation, feedlotting and in the agro-services sector. Economy and Associated Growth Botswana boasts one of Africa’s most consistently high growth rates with the government using revenues from the mining backbone to diversify the economy, in which the non-mining private sector is an increasingly important player. Through massive infrastructure investment to support the private sector, the economy is diversifying from mining, supported by a strong financial services sector, watertight investment protection legislation, as well as broad skills base and other investment incentives. Industry and Engineering Capabilities Supported by facilitated legislation, Botswana has a healthy industrial and
engineering sector, primarily headed by leading multinational entities engaged in various undertakings. Sectors such as textiles, beverages, chemicals, metals, plastics, brick and tile manufacture, milling, concrete and electrical products are well established in the country, while others such as glass manufacture are slowly gaining ground. Indicative of the country’s industrial and engineering capabilities, the construction sector has grown enormously, powering economic growth. Infrastructure Government and the private sector bolster the infrastructural backbone of Botswana. As a proportion of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Botswana has been among Africa’s highest spenders on infrastructure in recent years, with billions of Pula pumped into the development of transport, ICT, health, energy and water among other sectors. The development budget is the component of the annual national budget set aside for various infrastructural expenses firstly allocated via individual ministries, then secondly to specific projects. The development budget is also the most
keenly awaited component of the budget for the private sector, as it represents public sector investment in the economy, whose demands provide the biggest and most important support for industry. With the Government of Botswana being the single biggest procurer in the economy, the size of the development budget has become the key indicator of private sector growth prospects. The billions poured into the private sector between 2009 and 2011 – all supported by budgetary deficits – proved critical in popping up the economy during the lean recession years, when the collapse in mining triggered a drop in consumer demand. It is this sustained consumer demand that enabled the private sector to also engage in various developments, most notably the mushrooming of retail malls, residential and commercial properties, hotels and others. Government’s massive infrastructural investment was also a seed for future growth, with various economists and World Bank analyses indicating that the deficits would translate into high growth in the medium term, with the investment paying
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off in terms of electricity self-sustenance, ease of trade and doing business, higher ICT uptake, as well as healthier and more educated citizens. The economists have noted the “intermediary” role government played, in using funds earned from the boom years of mineral revenues, to support the non-mining private sector and thus both diversify the economy and brighten prospects for future investors. Best of Botswana outlines the major infrastructural strides Botswana has taken in recent years, some of which are still ongoing as the government and the private sector build a backbone to support economic activities. Transport and Logistics The country boasts well developed and expanding road, rail and air transport infrastructure, with billions of Pula spent over the years ensuring that investors have a backbone on which to conduct their activities. Numerous private sector companies are involved in the receipt, handling, dispatch, storage and delivery of containerised cargo for both import and export, with competitive rates on offer. Aviation In recognition of the fact that an efficient and well-developed aviation system is critical for economic competitiveness and growth, since 2008 government has invested more than P1-billion in major airport development and expansion projects countrywide. These include Sir Seretse Khama, Maun, Francistown, Kasane, Serowe / Palapye, Hukuntsi, Tsabong and Tsodilo, as well as improving navigational aids at several airports. Of these, the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA) is arguably the most crucial, being the gateway for international travellers in and out of
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Botswana. The P433-million has already witnessed the construction of a new state of the art terminal building complete with full body security scanners and modern protocols. On completion, it is expected that the terminal will be capable of processing up to 900 passengers per hour, while the runway which is to be extended by a kilometre, will be capable of hosting large aircraft including jumbo jets. The new airport will also have a new parallel asphalt taxiway running for four kilometres and 33 additional hangar plots. In addition, the P180.5-million upgrade and expansion of the Kasane Airport is expected to open avenues for tourism development by providing greater and more efficient access to the Chobe natural attractions. When complete, Kasane Airport will be able to handle Boeing 737 and equivalent aircraft, boosting traffic to the tourismrich northwest region. At the recently renovated Francistown Airport, the changes to airfield pavements, terminal building and ground lighting, mean ease of travel for passengers in and out of the northern city which is Botswana’s second largest. Roads Between 2009 and 2011, government has heavily invested in the improvement, maintenance and, in some instances, construction of roads throughout the country, targeting essential routes for both passengers and goods. Between 2009 and 2011, the government set aside a budget of several billions of Pula for the improvement of bitumen and trunk roads as well as secondary roads construction. Key roads projects, completed or ongoing, include the Dibete-Mahalapye stretch on the AI highway, the country’s major highway linking road travellers from Zimbabwe to South Africa.
In addition, focus has also been placed on roads in rural Botswana, to encourage economic developments. These roads include Letlhakeng-Dutlwe, Mopipi-Rakops, Tsabong-Middlepits and others, paving the way for investors to explore opportunities in these areas. Trade routes such as GaboroneTlokweng Border Post, Nata-Kazungula and Francistown-Ramokgwebana have all received attention under the roads infrastructural projects, being a key for the flow of export and import activities. In addition, a section of the route between Gaborone and the border town of Lobatse is being resurfaced and expanded. Within the capital, Gaborone, major roads improvement is ongoing with the cityspanning Western By-Pass being expanded to six lanes, all the way to Metsimotlhabe, approximately 20 kilometres away. With average costs for road construction ranging between P3- and P5-million per kilometre, the Botswana government’s road infrastructure project has stubbornly marched on, through the recognition of the fundamental role roads play in development. Rail While no extensions of the rail network have been done in recent years, government is spending more than P500-million supporting the Botswana Railways’ capacity to deliver world-class rail services to industry. The parastatal losses, owing to high maintenance and infrastructure expenses, unmatched by revenue, are being continuously improved through government’s budgetary support, while the Railways’ strategic plan is slowly moving it into profitability. Botswana Railways’ last financial results indicate that it has maintained its ability to support industry’s haulage requirements, particularly the heavy-duty products emanating from the mining industry.
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Exciting news in rail infrastructure is focussed on the US$10-billion Trans-Kalahari Railway (TKR), which will connect coalfields in eastern Botswana to the country’s copper, silver and uranium-rich western districts. The railway will run through to Walvis Bay in Namibia, where Botswana plans to build a dry port, essentially giving exporters a cost-effective route to the sea. Already 36 private sector bidders have expressed interest to the governments of Botswana and Namibia to build and operate the railway. The two governments are currently considering what their role will be in the final project, although it is highly expected that the entire development will be a public private partnership. Water The Government of Botswana’s primary goal in the water sector over the years has been to develop an integrated and efficient system able to support household and industry demand, while based on the conservation ethos. Spending on existing, under-
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development and planned dams has historically been a budget priority for Botswana, being a semi-arid country. At present, three dams, Dikgatlhong (400-million m3), Thune (90-million m3) and Lotsane (40-million m3) are under construction and to be complete by March 2013. When complete, the combined volume of the country’s dams will rise to 948-million m3, effectively supporting both household and commercial use going forward. Besides the dams, government is pumping funds into rehabilitation and upgrading of pipe-work distribution, institutional reforms and water technologies. In addition, the groundbreaking initiative for the reuse of treated effluent continues in Gaborone, further complementing the supply-side initiatives. Future water sector plans include drawing water from the Zambezi River to supply an agro-commercial integrated project at Pandamatenga, as well as drawing supplies from Lesotho’s highlands.
Electricity Botswana’s goal in electricity is simply “selfsufficiency.” Following years when it was economically preferable to purchase electricity from South Africa, government began an aggressive self-generation project earlier in the decade, whose results are slowly unfolding. At the forefront of this initiative is the P11-billion expansion of the Morupule Power Station through the addition of 600 megawatts (MW) on the existing 120MW capacity. With the project being fast-tracked and prioritised at the highest offices of governance, the expansion, known as Morupule B, is due to be completed 2013. When commissioned, the expanded power station is expected to capably handle the country’s power needs, peaking at 600MW in early 2013. Government is also studying the possibility of further expanding Morupule by another 300MW through the addition of two further units, in order to effectively deal with long-term demand. Besides the expansion, government has allocated P500-million in the current
financial year to the refurbishment of the existing Morupule Power Station, known as Morupule A. The refurbishment, which focuses on sprucing up the station’s four units, will ensure that the facility consistently contributes its 120MW to the national grid. The Botswana Power Corporation (BPC), which is the state power utility, is also spearheading the commissioning of a 90MW power station at Orapa, whose twin turbines will initially be powered by diesel before switching to Coal Bed Methane by 2013. The BPC is also handholding a local independent power producer through the production of approximately 160MW through Coal Bed Methane. The landmark project continues to take shape with the testing of a massive resource in eastern Botswana, for the provision of the country’s first “clean energy” power station. On the clean energy front, construction is ongoing on the country’s first photovoltaic (solar power) station on the outskirts of Gaborone. The one megawatt station, being built by Japanese contractors at the Japanese government’s expense, will be handed over to the BPC for management and maintenance, once complete. The BPC is still pursuing its own 200MW solar power station, moving recently to feasibility study stage. The project aims to tap into the country’s abundant sunshine, to deliver a sustainable and clean source of energy on a wide scale. With the expansion of the national grid westwards, the various initiatives underway should ensure that Botswana not only achieves self-sufficiency in electricity but that more households and businesses have access to cheaper electricity soon. Knowledge Industry: Information Communication Technology Botswana presently has three out of the four World Bank requirements for a knowledge economy, namely institutional and economic regime, education system, and telecommunications infrastructure. The fourth, an Innovative System, is being driven
by the Innovation Hub, which when complete will provide tenants with state of the art telecommunications infrastructure with high capacity international connectivity, secured power, professional business services, and business development services. The Government of Botswana has been amongst the most eager in Africa to adopt modern ICT in both governance and as an infrastructural backbone. Besides sponsoring the rollout of fixed line telephony more than 30 years ago and the subsequent licensing of cellular service providers in the late 1990s, government has played a central role in providing the technical and policy level backbone for ICT. By limiting its role to the provision of an infrastructural backbone and enabling policies, government has helped the growth of numerous private sector ICT players, with competition between them boosting product and quality innovation. This focus on the backbone saw government investing P69.7-million this year to bring the East Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) to Botswana. EASSy is enabling local users to access the Internet at one of the world’s fastest speeds, while creating an environment for lower connectivity costs. In addition, government has also invested P250-million into the development of the West African Cable System (WACS), a submarine fibre optic cable that is bringing even faster Internet connectivity than the recently launched EASSy link. Today numerous data, internet and other ICT service players subsist on the backbone created, while at policy level, government continues to create opportunities for further penetration of information technology at both public and private sector levels. Going forward, government plans to intensively pursue the e-government strategy, designed to significantly improve public sector service delivery, and accelerate the uptake and usage of Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) across all segments of society. Officially known as the National e-Government Strategy (2011-2016), the plan outlines five major programmes and approximately 25 interrelated projects that will collectively move all appropriate government services online. Health, Medical Facilities and Medical Excellence Botswana boasts excellent healthcare facilities comprising government, private sector, missionary and mine-based primary and secondary facilities. The symbiosis between the government and private sector means that highly specialised procedures and care are available - as are auxiliary services such as government and private sector medical air transport. A dedicated Health Hub, schools of medicine and international research organisations are also engaged in cutting edge medical research.
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Top 28 reasons to visit, live, invest and do business in Botswana
1. Transparency According to Transparency International, Botswana is the most transparent country in Africa. In 2011, the same organisation rated Botswana as the least corrupt country in Africa. The country has a proven record of good economic governance and has an official policy of “ZERO tolerance for corruption”. This is an indication of the need to continue the fight against all forms of corrupt practices to retain the desirable position Botswana currently occupies. Botswana remains the least corrupt country on the African continent. The major corruption investigation body, the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crimes (DCEC) is well regarded. The country was ranked number 32 out of 182 countries in the 2011 corruption index. She has been doing fairly well tracing back up to 2008. The ranking has been consistent, in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 Botswana ranked position 36, 35, 33, 32 respectively.
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2. Economic Stability Botswana is one of the fasted growing economies in the world. The country has a stable macroeconomic environment and economic growth. In 2011, Moody’s preserved Botswana’s A2 credit rating. Botswana is viewed as one of the best credit risks in Africa, on par with many countries in central Europe, East Asia, and Latin America. 3. Economic Growth The Southern Africa Global Competitiveness Hub (Trade Hub), located in Gaborone, Botswana, helps Southern Africa to take full advantage of the increased trading opportunities available through duty-free access to the U.S. economy under the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). It provides technical assistance, facilitation, and outreach on a demand driven basis. In Botswana, the Trade Hub has helped in promoting regional and international exports, reducing trade barriers and aided in harmonising trade regulations.
4. Competitiveness The World Economic Forum, producers of the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) in 2011/2012, ranks Botswana as number 80 out of 149 countries and the third most competitive country in Africa, following South Africa and Tunisia. Botswana is a member of the 15-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC), and Gaborone hosts the SADC Secretariat’s headquarters. SADC has a broad mandate to encourage growth, development, and economic integration in Southern Africa. 5. Peace and Security Botswana is rated the most peaceful nation in Africa; she is ranked number one in subSaharan Africa/regionally. The country has a zero tolerance for crime and corruption, (Global Peace Index-2012/13). The index placed the country 31 out of the 158 countries. 6. Tourism Botswana operates a vibrant tourism industry which in the second largest contributor to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In the year 2010, the country was granted the Tourism for Tomorrow Award with Botswana Tourism Organisation; crowned the winners of the Destination Stewardship Award for their successful work in advancing sustainable tourism best practices. Botswana ranks number 90 out of 139 countries in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2012. Tourism is an increasingly important industry in Botswana, accounting for approximately 11% of GDP. One of the world’s unique ecosystems, the Okavango Delta, is located in Botswana. The country offers excellent game viewing and birding both in the Delta and in the Chobe Game Reserve, home to one of the largest herds of free-ranging elephants in the world. Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve also offers good game viewing and some of the most remote and unspoiled wilderness in southern Africa. 7. Foreign Investment Botswana’s laws encourage Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), particularly in the non-mining sector. This is with the aim to diversify the economy. The government has implemented reforms expediting the application process for business ventures and continues to make positive changes to encourage the ease of doing business in the country. There’s a low corporate tax rate (15%), and no prohibitions on foreign
ownership of companies. Botswana’s currency (Pula-) is fully convertible and is valued against a basket of currencies heavily weighted toward the South African Rand. Profits and direct investment can be repatriated without restriction from Botswana. 8. Ease of doing business Doing Business sheds light on how easy or difficult it is for a local entrepreneur to open and run a small to medium-size business when complying with relevant regulations. It measures and tracks changes in regulations affecting 10 areas in the life cycle of a business: starting a business, dealing with construction permits, getting electricity, registering property, getting credit, protecting investors, paying taxes, trading across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency. Botswana is 54 out of 183 countries in the World Bank’s 2012 Ease of Doing Business Report. 9. Banking System The country’s financial sector is well developed and is one of Africa’s most advanced, housing an independent central bank. Monetary and banking policies contribute to macroeconomic and financial sector stability. The government has abolished exchange controls, and the Botswana Stock Exchange is growing.
10. Leadership and Governance In 2009, former President of Botswana, Mr. Festus G. Mogae was awarded the Mo Ibrahim Award which was established to recognise and celebrate excellence in African leadership. The country ranks in the top three countries with the best governance in Africa. The country places 38 in the Index for government effectiveness, indicating the presence of efficient and stable mechanisms for the creation and implementation of policy. 11. Political Stability Since gaining independence in 1966, Botswana has at five year intervals, successfully held free and fair elections to elect government. Botswana’s constitution limits presidency to two five-year terms and voting age is 18 years. Botswana is rated as one of Africa’s most politically stable countries and is the continent’s longest continuous multi-party democracy. 12. Economic Freedom Botswana’s economic freedom score is 69.6, making its economy the 33rd freest in the 2012 Index. Its overall score is 0.8 point better than last year, due primarily to improvements in freedom from corruption, monetary freedom, and trade freedom. Botswana is ranked 2 out of 46 countries in the sub-Saharan Africa region, and its overall score is well above the regional and world averages.
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richest diamond mines. Jwaneng Mine is the richest diamond mine in the world by value of recovered diamonds while the Orapa Mine is the richest by quantity of diamonds recovered. Diamond mining accounts for approximately one-third of Botswana’s GDP and 70% of export earnings.
13. Entrepreneurship and Opportunity A strong entrepreneurial climate in which citizens can pursue new ideas and opportunities for improving their lives, leads to higher levels of income and wellbeing. Specifically, the Entrepreneurship & Opportunity (E&O) sub-index measures countries’ performance in three areas:
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entrepreneurial environment, innovative activity, and access to opportunity. The index ranks Botswana at number 67 out of 110 countries. 14. Botswana - home to the richest diamond mines in the world Botswana is home to some of the world’s
15. Balance of Trade Botswana exports mostly diamonds (more than 60% of total exports), copper and nickel, beef and textiles. Botswana’s main exports partners are United Kingdom (56% of total exports), South Africa, Israel and Belgium. The country imports fuel, food, beverages and tobacco, machinery and electric equipment, chemical and rubber products and vehicles. Its main imports partners are South Africa (75% of total imports), China, Israel, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
16. Gross Domestic Product The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Botswana expanded 7.8 percent in the third quarter of 2011 from the same quarter the previous year. Botswana’s Gross Domestic Product is worth 0.02% of the world economy, according to the World Bank. Historically, from 1960 until 2010, Botswana’s average Gross Domestic Product was 3.44-billion dollars reaching an historical high of 14.86-billion dollars in December of 2010 and a record low of 0.03-billion dollars in December of 1961. Botswana is considered as a middle-income country having been one of the fastest growing economies in Africa during the last decade. Diamond extraction is the main factor behind high growth rates in recent years. It accounts for more than one-third of GDP; almost all export earnings, and half of the government’s revenues. Other key sectors are tourism, financial services, subsistence farming, and cattle raising. 17. Corporate Tax The country corporate tax is only 15% for manufacturing enterprises and International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) companies. The highest rate for personal income tax is 25%. Botswana has no foreign exchange control. 18. Market Access Through its membership to Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Botswana has market access to a population of 250 million. Botswana also enjoys duty and quota free access to the US market through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). 19. Inflation One of the major pillars of Botswana’s macroeconomic policy is to maintain a stable inflation rate. The inflation rate in Botswana was last reported at 9.2 percent in December of 2011. 20. Socioeconomic Development Diamond industry is the mainstay of Botswana’s economy and has enabled significant socioeconomic development. Residents of the country have access to educational facilities, healthcare (within 15 kilometres) and safe drinking water (81%). The countries literacy rate (81%) and total school enrolment is high. 21. Quality of Life The total population in Botswana was last reported at two million people. In 2010, overall satisfaction of the lives of Batswana places the country in the top three happiest countries in Africa. Botswana is a cosmopolitan country where people of diverse ethnicity and traditions live in harmony. Botswana ranks 30th with respect
to the high level of civil liberties, including their freedom of expression, belief, association, and personal autonomy enjoyed by its people; with 83% of Batswana satisfied with their freedom to choose what they do with their lives. Over seven out of 10 people believed the area where they live is a good place for immigrants and ethnic minorities, placing 32 and 42 , respectively, on these Variables, (Legatum Prosperity Index 2011).
there is universal access to primary and junior secondary school, but a process of academic selectivity reduces entrance to the senior secondary school and the University. However, educational curricula incorporate prevocational preparation in the junior and senior secondary schools. 25. Warm spirit of Batswana Batswana are warm and friendly people who are open, respectful, and humble and welcoming of guests at all times.
22. Tolerance Batswana are tolerant and take pride in their way of life, which is based on respect for traditional and cultural values of mutual respect (botho), consultation (therisanyo) and the promotion of social harmony (kagisano). Setswana tradition also encourages dialogue.
26. Agriculture U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) provides assistance in improving regional agriculture policies, developing best practices and products, as well as aiming to disseminate improved technologies and plant varieties.
23. Infrastructure Botswana boasts a favourable business environment with good infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks and taxation system. The country boasts a spectrum of well-developed infrastructure ranging from road, rail and air networks as well as Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Residents have access to products and services including educational facilities, healthcare, electricity and safe drinking water.
27. Poverty Reduction, Social Protection and Labour The government has always put emphasis on the need for economic growth and eradication of poverty. The government has deliberately shifted from a poverty reduction to a poverty eradication objective given the high level of persons (20.7%) living below the national poverty line. To this end the focus of the government’s expenditure has been on high return initiatives that lead to creation of new job opportunities for the poor.
24. Educational system Education in Botswana is free; The Ministry of Education has authority over all of Botswana’s educational structure except the University of Botswana. The educational structure mirrors that of the United Kingdom;
28. Combating HIV/AIDS The government provides leadership and programs to combat the epidemic, including free anti-retroviral treatment and a nationwide Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission program.
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Lieutenant General Mompati Sebogodi Merafhe Lieutenant General Mompati Sebogodi Merafhe’s star began to shine in 1977 when Botswana’s founding president, Sir Seretse Khama, asked him to form the Botswana Defence Force. In the same year, President Ian Khama bestowed upon him the highest, most prestigious award in the country, ‘Naledi ya Botswana’ - the star of Botswana.
Lt. Gen. Merafhe started his career in the Botswana Police Service and in 1971, was promoted to Deputy Police Commissioner. In this position he was in charge of the Paramilitary Unit (“PMU” as it was known) and was therefore the natural choice to head the BDF when it was formed. He personally designed the army’s coat of arms and interviewed the first group of officer cadets - among which were two future BDF Commanders, Lieutenant Generals Matshwenyego Fisher and Tebogo Masire. With the improved budgetary position, discovery of diamonds and renegotiated customs union with South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland, as well as enhanced multilateral aid, Botswana was in a position to build its own army. However, forming an army was an uphill task because Lt. Gen. Merafhe had to start from scratch. The infant army suffered a major setback the following year when 15 of its soldiers died in an ambush laid by the Rhodesian army. Soon thereafter, Major General Merafhe - as he then was - ordered his deputy, then Brigadier Ian Khama (the current president), to neutralise the Rhodesian threat. This entailed making incursions into enemy territory. Lt. Gen. Merafhe was a stickler for discipline and his
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insistence on disciplined soldiers helped earn the BDF a reputation as one of the most professional and disciplined armies in Africa. The BDF Act sets the retirement age for an army commander at 55 and in 1989, two years before he reached that age, Lt. Gen. Merafhe stepped out of his army uniform and into a business suit and the world of politics. He was appointed a Specially Elected Member of Parliament, and Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration. In 1994, he was elected MP for Mahalapye (now Mahalapye West) and moved to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where he remained until 2008 when President Ian Khama appointed him Vice President. As Foreign Affairs minister, Lt. Gen. Merafhe successfully fought off a campaign by Survival International, a London-based pressure group, to tarnish Botswana’s name. The Lt. Gen. is considered to have excelled as Foreign Affairs minister, resulting in President Nelson Mandela of South Africa recommending Lt. Gen. Merafhe for the chairmanship of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group. As Vice President, Lt. Gen. Merafhe was in charge of project implementation across ministries and chaired the
Cabinet Committee on the Economy and Employment which met on a monthly basis. His foreign affairs background stood him in good stead when he had to undertake international assignments on behalf of the president – such as addressing the United Nations General Assembly. In 2008, Cuban President, Mr Raul Castro bestowed a Medal of Friendship on Lt. Gen. Merafhe and during a visit to China, the Shanghai Normal University conferred an honorary professorship on him. He has two other big feathers in his cap: the Legion of Merit from the United States of America and the World Citizen Award for Excellence from The Bahamas. Married with five children, Lt. Gen. Merafhe retired and resumed his life as a private citizen of Botswana on Wednesday, 1 August, 2012 after 52 years of public service. In his farewell address at the Lansmore Hotel, MASA Centre, on 6 September 2012, Lt. Gen. Merafhe expressed his gratitude to have had the privilege and honour to serve Botswana. He entered into politics with a desire to pursue people-centred development. He leaves as a witness of the birth of the Republic and a participant in the construction of a strong democracy and an economically prosperous society.
Kgosi Bathoen II In his very first meeting with Kgosi Bathoen II in 1929, Sir Charles Rey, the British Resident Commissioner, got the impression that the Bangwaketse leader would be a little too much to handle.
“I foresee some fun with him,” Rey writes sarcastically in his memoir, Monarch of All I Survey. However, Rey would not have had the sort of fun he had hoped for when Bathoen began to assert himself. In the nine years that the British quasi-monarch surveyed
all of the Bechuanaland Protectorate, he and the Bangwaketse ruler had competing visions. The dramatic high point of this rivalry came in 1935 when Rey introduced Native Proclamations through which he sought to usurp the residual powers of tribal leaders. With the assistance of Tshekedi Khama, the Bangwato regent, Bathoen sought judicial
intervention to halt this colonial enterprise. They lost, but years later Bathoen adapted to the new order by abdicating, emigrating to politics (the new real source of power in an altered political landscape) and winning the Kanye parliamentary seat in 1969. Born in Kanye in 1908, Gaseitsiwe Bathoen - who traces his roots to Mogale, a Motswana leader who ruled a tribal cluster from 1325 to 1355 - became Bathoen II upon his investiture in 1928. Upon abdicating in 1968, he went back to using his birth name. As a leader he displayed a sophisticated understanding of all-round leadership. When he was not knee-deep in the political intrigue of his time, he was in the boardroom cutting deals on behalf of his tribe. When Balkis Limited negotiated for mineral rights in the Bangwaketse reserve, Bathoen participated in the negotiations alongside Rey and his Financial Secretary and Chief Mining Commissioner. In one instance, he used his knowledge of commerce to protect local businessmen from foreign competitors. “I am reluctant in recommending such an application seeing the goods are to come from another district to be sold here,” he wrote to the Government Secretary in 1934 when a Kweneng district businessman applied for a trading licence in Ngwaketse territory. As tribal leader, Bathoen oversaw a robust development programme that included the building of schools (as well as a nutrition service for them) and the introduction of Botswana’s first agricultural show. In recognition of his leadership, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1946 and Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 1957 by two different British monarchs. After retiring from active politics in 1985, he was appointed President of the Customary Court of Appeal. When he was still an MP, Boyce Sebetela once said in parliament that Botswana’s opposition parties played no small part in securing the peace and stability that the country is known for, in that they never opted for “going to the bush” after being defeated at the polls. As former leader of the Botswana National Front, Bathoen played a crucial role in this regard. This year, his P500,000 bronze statue was unveiled to an enthusiastic crowd at a high-energy event in Kanye. Perched atop a hillock, the south-facing statue overlooks the village. In death as in life, Bathoen is still, monarch of all he surveys.
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Moleleki Mokama Getting into the famed Harvard Law School is reserved only for the most deserving. As a student at Rhodes University in South Africa, Botswana’s first citizen Chief Justice, Moleleki Didwell Mokama, achieved excellent results ensuring that getting into the prestigious United States University to pursue an LLM was no problem at all.
With two LLMs under his belt (another from the University of London), Mokama was such a formidable legal mind that Chidi Odinkalu, a Nigerian writer, put him in the category of “towering legal minds of civic imagination” - alongside Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Mahatma Gandhi and Abdoulaye Wade after he wrote an analytical piece of dynamic legal practice. A native of a small village called Maunatlala, Mokama got his big break in life when Peter Sebina secured him a scholarship to study abroad. Sebina was personal secretary to Tshekedi Khama the visionary Bangwato royal who acted regent to Sir Seretse Khama. Those in like manner of Sebina include the founder of the Botswana National Front Dr. Kenneth Koma, first woman cabinet minister Dr. Gaositwe Chiepe and the first Motswana medical doctor Dr. David Sebina. Being as worldly and as educated as he was, Mokama was just the right man
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that President Sir Seretse Khama wanted to represent him in the United Kingdom and so he was made Botswana’s High Commissioner to that country. Based in London, he was accredited to Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Years later, Dr. Chiepe would take up the London mission when Mokama was back home working as the first citizen Attorney General. Mindful of the fact that the supreme law of the land is imported from another culture, Mokama took on the role of law lecturer to the nation. Often when there was a piece of legislation that confounded members of the public, he would go on Radio Botswana to explain it. Another first that Mokama achieved was in 1992 when President Ketumile Masire appointed him the first Motswana Chief Justice, capping a legal career that began when the young Mokama became Barrister of the Inner Temple - one of the four professional associations for barristers and judges in London. As Chief Justice, Mokama
had the honour of declaring the winner of a general election. When the situation called for it, Mokama had no problem speaking truth to power. In 1987 he became a founder member of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, a body established by the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights “to protect human and peoples’ rights and ensure their protection in Africa.” The Commission did no more than make recommendations to the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, a body which Mokama once stated, was made of “very guilty parties.” Mokama died in 1997 but his legacy lives on, no more so than in the judgements that he handed down at the High Court that serve as precedents. Some eight years after his death, he was awarded the Presidential Order of Honour and at the Francistown High Court, he has been honoured with the Moleleki Mokama Memorial Hall.
Mohumagadi Gagoumakwe Sechele When she got her turn at the microphone during the investiture of Kgosi Kgari Sechele III, Mohumagadi Gagoumakwe Sechele decided that was the perfect opportunity to savour the victory of what had been a long hard-fought battle over who was the rightful heir to the Bakwena throne.
Mrs Sechele (far right)
“Our detractors said Kgari could never become kgosi. Look at him now,” she said, flicking her head in the subject’s direction. “He is a kgosi.” Having fought in Kgari’s corner all along, she also wanted to ensure that no distractions caused him to lose focus and so she felt she had to relay one important message. Young women attending the event were, naturally, dressed in their Sunday best on this overcast Saturday morning. Smelling more than cologne, Gagoumakwe deemed it her duty to warn Kgari about their common grand plan. “Kgari, these girls look this good because they want you, but you should spurn their advances,” she implored her husband’s namesake, much to the amusement of the crowd that included President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama. Born Gagoumakwe Magowe in Molepolole, this woman’s entry into royalty came when she married the recently installed Kgosi Kgari Sechele II. Much like
the current Queen of England ascending her current position by default, Kgari II’s rise to the supreme leadership of the Bakwena evolved in almost similar fashion. He was compelled to discontinue his studies at St. Matthews College in South Africa when his elder brother, Sebele II, was deposed by the British colonial government. Kgari was subsequently installed as Paramount Chief on June 5, 1931 (becoming Kgari II) and six months later, married Gagoumakwe in a lavish ceremony held at the kgotla - the traditional public meeting place. Predeceased by her husband in 1962, Gagoumakwe wielded so much power and influence that when she herself died in 2006, her name had already made it onto the list of the most powerful Queens on the African continent. She played a key role in tribal administration even when her husband (Sergeant-Major Kgari II) was away in Europe as part of the African Auxiliary Pioneer Corps, a group of Africans who fought in World War Two alongside British troops.
Given how much power she had, Gagoumakwe would definitely have played no small part in the relocation of the Bakwena capital from Ntsweng to its present location. A hilly place, Ntsweng did not have enough space and led to some wards settling outside the nucleus. This impacted negatively on tribal cohesion, gave rise to indiscipline and undermined the efficacy of tribal administration. In 1936 against strong opposition from some of his subjects, Kgari II decided to move the capital to present-day Molepolole. Ntsweng, which lies at the outskirts of Molepolole, is now a historical site at whose royal cemetery Kgari II and Gagoumakwe have been reunited in spirit. When the administrative infrastructure of a post-independence Botswana incorporated party politics, Gagoumakwe aligned herself with the Botswana Democratic Party and became influential enough to acquire the status of political ‘Kingmaker’ in the party. A parade of speakers at her funeral gave an indication of just how extensive her influence was. Bangwaketse kgosi, Seepapitso II said that Mohumagadi Gagoumakwe was an expert on royal affairs as well as both an adviser and mentor to traditional rulers and their spouses both here at home and abroad. That was confirmed by Mohumagadi Semane Molotlegi from the Bafokeng tribe in South Africa who also described Gagoumakwe as having been a courageous person who always spoke her mind. Daniel Kwelagobe, a Member of Parliament, told mourners among them former president Sir Ketumile Masire, that she had been instrumental in unravelling the many problems of the Bakwena chieftaincy. Gagoumake was active in women’s rights issues and as a result was awarded an MBE by the Resident Commissioner in 1950 and a Woman of the Year Award by Emang Basadi (the local women’s rights lobby group) in 2002. On Independence Day in 1985, Masire bestowed the Presidential Order of Honour on the Bakwena Queen for her contribution to national development. Artistically, Mohumagadi Gagoumake was a choral music enthusiast and had great passion for the disappearing art of mud-hut and courtyard decorating. *Mohumagadi: Setswana for ‘Queen’ *Kgosi: Supreme traditional leader
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Miss Botswana Every year, the Botswana Council of Women, (BCW) is involved in selecting the most beautiful woman in Botswana to hold the title of Miss Botswana. This year, Tapiwa Preston became Miss Botswana Elect.
Tapiwa Preston was born at Princess Marina hospital, in Gaborone, and is of mixed heritage. Batswana are a loving and tolerant people, so she is a beautiful example of their diversity and how they are capable of celebrating their differences. Despite the fact that there was no pageant staged in 2012, Tapiwa’s instatement as Miss Botswana has garnered a lot of support for her from the country. People have showed their support in various ways - from sponsorships to notes of encouragement on the official Miss Botswana Facebook page. Tapiwa is beautiful, warm, confident and respectful. She is also very well-spoken; and these are all elements that make for a strong ambassador for Botswana. In 2012, the Miss World pageant was held in Ordos City, China; and even though Tapiwa didn’t receive any accolades, it was a valuable experience for her to have had the chance to interact with young women from other nations, and to represent Botswana on such an illustrious platform. BCW initiated the Miss Botswana pageant in 1966, with a mission to
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empower young women by giving them the opportunity to have access to the grooming process of the pageant. As much as it was about cultivating their physical beauty, it was also about inculcating values in the young women that would equip them to become ambassadors for their country. One of the original mandates of BCW was to empower women and Batswana with education. Tapiwa is passionate about education; special needs, in particular. Even though Botswana has maintained an average literacy rate of 80% in recent years, and education has been made affordable and accessible to many in the country, Tapiwa still feels that there is a gap where children with learning disabilities are concerned. Her passion lies in advocating for a change in policy; she has begun speaking with the Office of the President about her passion, presenting her research and highlighting that there is a very real need for the situation to improve. She is optimistic that these talks will be the foundation for real change, and is committed to the project until long after her reign is over.
KTM Choir Diphalana The Kgalemang Tumediso Motsete (KTM) Choir was founded on 20 January 1993 by then Director Gomolemo Thatayaone Motswaledi, who also composed and arranged music for the choir. • Meeting and exceeding the expectations of our customers at all times. Values • Commitment • Excellence • Teamwork • Creativity and innovation • Discipline • Passion • Professionalism
The choir was named after seasoned musician, composer, scholar, educationist, theologian and politician, the Late Kgalemang Tumediso Motsete – the man who composed and wrote the Botswana national anthem, Fatshe leno la Rona. It is now a 75 member group of people aged between 18 and 35. The KTM choir was established for a number of reasons which are clearly outlined in the constitution of the choir, being: • To contribute to the development of Botswana’s music culture; • To enhance the quality of music in Botswana; • To act as a role model to choral singing and music professionalism; • To assist in the revival and updating of Setswana traditional music in both raw and arranged forms; • To provide young people with an opportunity to learn, appreciate and develop their talents in music. A unique choral repertoire, idiom, tone and style are the choir’s pride. Their main focus
is promoting and performing Botswana Choral Idiom and aim to develop a strong choral music culture in Botswana as well as encourage youth participation. KTM Choir participates in charity events in contribution to the Vision 2016 pillar of being a compassionate and caring nation; such as organising the annual Graduation ceremony and Christmas party for children with disabilities at Legodimo Trust in Otse. The choir also shares the national and global plea for fighting the HIV/Aids pandemic and works hand in hand with CUAHA (Churches United in the struggle Against HIV/ AIDS). This nation needs a people of this quality of vision, measure of commitment and sense of purpose. Vision The vision of the KTM Choir is to be a world-class leader in choral music through effective interaction with the community and stakeholders. Mission Statement The choir’s mission is to continuously contribute to the development of choral music. The choir will achieve this by: • Identifying, nurturing and developing youth talents in Botswana; • Providing young people with an opportunity to learn, appreciate and develop talents in music; • Interacting with, and educating, the community through music; • Assisting in the revival and updating of Setswana traditional music both in raw and arranged forms: exhibiting Botswana’s music culture to the world and;
Achievements Participated in International Choral Festivals in the USA (Montana Festival in Missoula and Dekalb Festival in Atlanta Georgia) in 1993; represented Botswana at the SADC Music Festival in 1995; performed a light oratorio by John Witty - From Manger to Cross in 1994; performed a famous Congolese/Zairian Mass Missa Luba in 1995; performed a major local production Leisong by Gomolemo Motswaledi accompanied by a Roodeport (South Africa) based Orchestra; national tours and conducted choral clinics. The choir has also occasionally taken part and won in all the national competitions it has participated in and are the current national champions in the community choir section in the annual BTU (Botswana Teachers Union) Competitions. It is the only choir that has been invited several times for world choral Olympics but unfortunately has been unable to attend. The choir has a number of albums with the current hit being “Molodi wa pina”. The choir takes pride in this product as they managed to merge choral music and contemporary music. Currently the choir is under the Artistic Directorship of one of the best composers Botswana has had in many years - Luka Disho. The strength of growth in the choir depends on the commitment of its members, especially the singing members – including its supporters. This membership is responsible for taking KTM to enormous heights as a great force in Botswana - remaining the best.
Ben-thema Primary School, African mall P.O. Box 361ABF, Gaborone Manager: Mr Herman Morule, +267 71355463 Secretary: Ms Aleyo Tlale, +267 72489919 Email: contactus@ktmchoir.com Website: www.ktmchoir.com Best of Botswana
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Botswana Icons
Maxy ‘Queen of the Sands’ Born in Otse village in south-eastern Botswana as an only child, Olebile Sedumedi popularly known as Maxy ‘Queen of the Sands’ - grew up with songs on her lips.
Maxy entered the music scene in late 2000 with a soulful traditional voice wrapped beautifully with a spiritual feel. Immediately, Maxy took centre stage and earned her place amongst Botswana’s leading talented artists as a female vocalist in the country. She soon dominated and became a regular feature on the music scene at festivals, concerts and corporate gigs both locally and abroad. She became an instant brand and role model to all that came after her in music, most notably in the traditional genre. Maxy’s 2000 debut album “Makorakoretsa” became an instant hit and dominated the airwaves all over the country and beyond the boarders. It created a commercial market for Tswana Traditional music. Maxy managed to stand tall and towered as Botswana’s highly acclaimed vocalist, dancer, producer and composer in the music industry. She has been praised with titles including ‘Botswana’s Traditional Icon’, ‘Thari ya sechaba’ and the ‘Diamond
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of Botswana’. “Makorakoretsa” won her massive acclaim and topped music charts locally and abroad for months after its release, selling in big numbers. It remains highly acclaimed as an African classic album. After a long journey of an 11-year musical career, Maxy has once again gone beyond the call of artistic duty with her 2012 album “Re a sha - Re a tuka” - which is today defined as the first ethnic-soul album to pay tribute to the ancient times; the old true Tswana traditions and culture. The album celebrates a worthy life whilst recognising and preaching on Christianity, traditional and cultural respect, spiritual divine intervention, as well as calling upon those with afroconsciousness to dance to village life and uphold the influence of ancient African values in contemporary society. Maxy’s production sound comprises of ethnic sounds laced on top of soul, traditional, gospel and dance; creating what is now popularly known as contemporary
‘Urbantswana’ traditional music. Its true universal appeal appears through lyrics in various Tswana languages, namely Sesarwa (San language), Sekgalagadi, Setswana, and Ikalanga - representing Batswana as one nation. Her music influences come from Tswana traditions and cultures, folklores and ‘Borankana’ styles, yet blended with a wide variety of other Batswana favourites such as gospel and ‘Marabi’. This combination is furthermore fused and textured with various African percussions, Tswana rattles and West African influences to produce an excitingly unique sound. Maxy’s strong golden vocals and inflections are musical backdrops to creating pure energy and emotion. Maxy has seen her talent recognised by touring internationally, including Japan and China. She has performed alongside big names including: Oliver Mtukuzi, Hugh Masekela, Tshepo Tshola, Koffi Olomide, Mafikizolo, Zama Jobe, Salif Keita, and Thandiswa Mazwai. She has also collaborated with South Africa’s very best, namely Sello Chicco Twala and the late Brenda Fassie. She was subsequently dubbed the ‘Brenda Fassie of Botswana’. In 2004, Maxy got a recording deal with international company EMI for her album “Nare”, which was produced by the highly acclaimed South African producer Sello Chicco Twala. Maxy saw her music featured in “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency”, as well as other international productions of stage and film. Maxy is now a brand - a true legend to reckon with in Botswana. With nine albums under her belt, Botswana’s influential, fearless and respected songbird has outdone herself again by adding more growth and maturity in her 2012 album. Her stirring and heartfelt vocals are backed by unique and interesting fusions of instrumentation with Tswana cultural influences along with innumerable other musical styles. This sees an album of brilliance from this golden, talented, multiaward winner (Kora Award Nominee/ Thari ya sechaba/ Icon of the Year/ Most charitable award/ Bihipma Awards etc.). As an example of this, Maxy ‘Queen of the Sands’ still remains the Diamond of the Botswana music industry – ‘a Queen of Traditional Music’.
Email: maxysedumedi@yahoo.com Facebook: maxy mmagauta sedumedi Tel: +267 72499167 +267 71689777
Kotaeshele Like his parents, Taka “Kotaeshele” Baponi has never passed through the doorway of a classroom and as a result, does not know when he was born. However, he can provide adequate connect-the-dots clues to aid in filling this information gap. He believes he is the same age as former president Festus Mogae, who was born in 1939.
For this 73-year-old Molepolole man, singing for supper is not a figure of speech but a job description. With his homemade acoustic guitar slung over his shoulder, Kotaeshele shebeen/bar-crawls through Molepolole village - the biggest in Botswana - entertaining revellers or whoever else is willing to pay him a performance fee, which is never standard. Years ago, when the Molepolole drinking holes got a bit too dry, Kotaeshele would hop on a Gaborone-bound bus in the morning and spend the rest of the day plying his trade at the city bus terminal where the clientele is larger and has much deeper pockets. In the evening he would travel back to Molepolole and if it was by bus, he would continue working all the way until he got off at his stop. Part of today’s commercial success in music entails spicing up one’s act by doing some unusual things. Kotaeshele was quick on the uptake when this trend caught on in Molepolole courtesy of young up-andcoming artists - the sort that played not at bars and shebeens, but at the community hall. He knew they were competing with him for the pocket change people spent on entertainment and that he had to do
something. His response was to incorporate a suggestive routine into his act and perform it with the aid of a woman. Unfortunately for him, he took his act a bit too close to the kgotla (the traditional meeting place/ customary court) where he incurred the wrath of disapproving village elders. Kotaeshele rose to prominence in the early 1980s when Radio Botswana (RB) was the only radio station in the country and thus the only platform for local artists to showcase their talent. An RB team would travel around the country, recording the music of local musicians. It was during one of these trips that Kotaeshele managed to get his music on vinyl. Of all his offerings, one eponymous track became very popular with listeners. On it he observes that cardinal rule for such songs - he sings about what a gifted guitarist he is. He was not just bragging - he was also stating a fact. Exposed to music at a very young age (his father played segaba), Kotaeshele took up guitar-playing the moment he could balance the instrument on his knee. He not only mastered the playing but also became a teacher to other guitar enthusiasts. His most famous student is his younger brother, Stampore, who has performed at international gigs and had his songs featured on the No. 1 Ladie’s Detective Agency. The latter is an international movie based on the exploits of Precious Ramotswe, a fictional Motswana lady detective who was played by American singer, Jill Scott. Two years ago, Kotaeshele lost all his belongings (his guitar included) when his hut burnt down and he went into a very deep depression. Fortunately for him, a young Molepolole woman - a music promoter called Zenzele Hirschfeld - read his story in newspapers and came to the rescue. Through her company, Zen Promotions, she bought Kotaeshele a new guitar, is currently raising money to build him a house, provides for his material needs and has secured the pledge of the Kweneng District Council, which is headquartered in Molepolole, to provide some building materials and labour for the building project. When the guitar maestro is no more, the house will be turned into a monument, named the Kotaeshele Centre and used as a refuge for talented but down-on-their-luck artists.
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Botswana Icons
Zeus Born Game Gaobaone Bantsi on 22 July 1986 in Serowe Botswana, Zeus is a famous Motswana hip-hop rapper, MC and songwriter. He is considered by most to be the country’s best wordsmith.
Raised in Gaborone, Zeus is the youngest of three siblings - two brothers and one sister. He was raised in a Christian household with a family of wide musical tastes. He grew up listening to his mother’s favourite gospel, his father’s country music, his brothers’ hip hop and dancehall, and his sister’s R&B. This exposure was an influence for his albums. Zeus completed his secondary school education in 2003 at Rainbow High School - an independent school in Gaborone. As a firm believer in the importance of education, he then graduated with a BCOMM in Marketing and Management at Monash University in South Africa in 2007. As a teenager in the early 2000s, Zeus began making a name in Botswana’s hip hop scene. Blessed with an exciting natural talent and eloquence, Zeus was quickly recognised. His hard work was repaid when his debut album hit shelves in 2008. Freshly Baked His 14-track debut album, Freshly Baked, propelled Zeus to star status in 2008, after
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receiving a nomination for Album of the Year at the MTN-HYPE magazine Hip Hop awards in South Africa. His song Imagination was also nominated for the Best Reggae Dancehall video at the Channel O Music Video Awards. His 2009 win for Best Hip Hop Video for Gijima at the Channel O Music Video Awards came after beating fierce competition including HHP, Okyeame Kwame, Jay Ru, Pro, and Black Rhino. The Flipside His 16-track second album The Flipside was released on 18 December 2009 as a partnership between D.I.Y/Rizn Entertainment, Octave couplet and Big Dawg productions. The album features R.J Benjamin, Don Juan, Stoan and Jon Jazi. Iconic singles are Out of my mind, Diski Business and the hit, Champagne Music. Champagne Music’s video gained him his third consecutive Channel O Music Video Award nomination for 2010 Most Gifted Male Video. Zeus came 7th in MNET’s Top 10 African Rappers for 2010 compilation.
Causes Zeus lends his talent to numerous organisations and causes including: Childline Botswana, Oxfam International, Youth Health Organisation (YOHO), PEPFAR and TeachAIDS. He is vocal in support of growth and progress in the Botswana music industry. Since registering his own independent label, D.I.Y Entertainment in Botswana, he has become the master of his own musical destiny. “We built this city” on HHP’s YBA 2NW is among a host of appearance’s with the likes of Towdee from Morafe and TC (North West Rider). He’s done a lot of work with Jazzworx, whose Octave Coplet collective is blessed with talent including AB, Dome and other prominent producers.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeus www.myspace.com/zeusthagod
Segaba and Setinkane If there is ever a need to coin a home-grown phrase equivalent to “as American as apple pie”, the most appropriate would be “as Tswana as segaba.” Botswana is the only place in the whole world where this one-stringed, violin-like musical instrument can be found.
Then again, Botswana is an enigma in terms of its musical culture. Elsewhere it has been observed that the absence of drumming in its music is most unusual for an African culture. Some day that mystery will be solved but before that happens, we can lose ourselves in the jazzy notes of segaba - and who better to coax them out than a Serowe-born man called Ratsie Setlhako. When Ratsie died in 1976, the Internet had not even been invented, yet when you Google him, you get 2,430 results (and counting). At a time when there were not too many musicians or musical genres competing with each other as is the case today, Ratsie got ample airplay on Radio Botswana (RB) beginning in the 1960s, thus helping to popularise segaba music. At the time, the only studio in the whole country was RB. Presently, only RB has copies of Ratsie’s music of passably good quality. The segaba’s base is formed by a wooden stick attached to an empty onegallon can and is played by striking the string with a short animal-hair bow. Exactly what animal that hair has to come from has excited some debate. That the European violin uses horse-hair is a settled matter
but as regards to the segaba, some say it should be cow-hair while others say the hair should come from a giraffe, wildebeest or oryx. While it was resonated by the mouth in the past, nowadays the can is usually employed as a resonator, and the instrument is leaned against the player’s shoulder. The bow hair tension is changed by the player during performance in order to elicit different pitches of higher partials. Some 36 years after Ratsie’s death, the torch has been passed to the next generation. One who has kept it burning the brightest is Sight Mongweotsile. A former member of the Botswana Defence Force, Mongweotsile has played segaba to appreciative international audiences and participated in the annual Botswana Music Camp as an instructor. There is some debate as to how this cultural heritage should be handed down. One Motswana man, Mothusi Phuthego, has suggested that segaba should be taught in schools. However in his book, The Serankure and Music in Tlokweng, a sceptical Jurgen Schopf, a German scholar who studied segaba in 1997, says that the instrument is too big for schoolchildren. For his doctoral thesis, Schopf did research on the segaba in Tlokweng with the aid of the German
Academic Exchange Programme. Alongside the segaba is another traditional instrument called setinkane, a thumb piano made with a wooden base fitted with beaten metal keys, each tuned differently. The setinkane is played like a keyboard and as the thumbs fly over the board striking the keys, tiny, tinny notes that often require a microphone to amplify, are produced. This instrument is mostly found among the Basarwa and its story is often told by Kuela Kiema, the first Mosarwa from the Central Kgalagadi Game Reserve to obtain a university degree. In his 2010 autobiography, Tears for My Land, Kiema says that he learnt how to play setinkane from his paternal uncle - “small father” as he is referred to in the kinship system of the Dcui culture. The Dcui music is very spiritual and Kiema’s father was a dance-healer. To its credit the government has given Ratsie fairly respectable posthumous recognition. A primary school in Palapye has been named after him. The school opened in 2002 and on one side houses a cultural village. A segaba (not Ratsie’s because no one seems to know what happened to it when he was hit and killed by a truck) is displayed in one of the huts. His music also still gets a fair amount of airplay on Radio Botswana. The Botswana Society for the Arts and the Botswana Training Authority, have conducted a training workshop on the making of the setinkane. The objective was to teach participants how to make quality setinkane as well as to set standards of making the instrument.
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Chapter 1 Future Visions
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Innovation is happening here‌ come and join us
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Vision Statement from Mr Alan Boshwaen, CEO of Botswana Innovation Hub
The Botswana Innovation Hub (BIH) was established in 2009 and is being implemented as part of the on-going 10th National Development Plan. BIH is proud to have its roots as one of the mega-projects of Botswana’s new Excellence Strategy. The aim of this strategy is to implement large scalable projects in key sectors in order to catalyse economic growth and diversification. BIH aims to attract foreign direct investment in technology transfer and adaptation, to enhance our country’s competitiveness and foster a stronger national system to support locally developed innovations. Our vision is to develop and manage a world-class science and technology park that has uninterrupted power, excellent broadband and internet connectivity, specialised offices and laboratories that attract leading local and international technology companies and research institutions. Ultimately, we want to be
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the leading partner for innovative and technology-driven businesses in the region. We offer a unique real estate value proposition which comprises of an integrated package of services, including superior broadband connectivity, flexible plug and play offices and a special suite of government approved tax and labour import incentives to entities that apply and qualify. Furthermore, value-add services will be easily accessible including networking and conferencing facilities, business support services and other amenities such as gym, hotel, nursery school and restaurants, all contained in the mixed-use Park. The 93 hectare Park is situated in Block 8, Gaborone near Diamond Park, Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, and Airport Junction Mall, making it a prime location to do business. We have intensified our marketing efforts by actively inviting private sector developers and leading science and technology companies to set up in the Park and make it their commercial base of operation. The initial phase which comprised of paved roads, a storm drainage system, street lights, water and electricity reticulation has been completed. We now have a real estate package that includes serviced land for longterm leasing or rental in our central “Icon” buildings development, depending on your particular requirements. Our criteria for accepting companies into the BIH are based on innovation in four key areas: ICT, Mining Technologies, Energy and Environment, and Bio-technology. These four broad areas of operation are chosen for their relevance and great potential in Botswana. To expand on this, we intend to be the leader in healthcare technology, initially in southern Africa, by exploring innovative applied research methods to tackle the HIVAids challenge. World renowned institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation have shown interest in working with us. Strategic collaborations are one of the pillars of our operation. Botswana Innovation Hub has forged a partnership with Microsoft Corporation which culminated in the formation of Microsoft Innovation Centre which is based at BIH. The Microsoft Innovation Centre focuses on developing and customising software with content specific to Botswana and the wider African region by tapping on the abundant pool of young Batswana ICT graduates. Microsoft
Corporations’ decision to partner with us was based on Botswana’s vision to use ICT development as a tool to develop the economy. Also, we are working with Lund University and Krinova Science Park in Sweden to set up a “Clean Technologies Centre of Excellence” that will be a key facilitator in the adoption of new technologies based on sustainability in areas such as waste management, water conservation and developing new energy sources. Our location immediately adjacent to the heart of the diamond trade – the DTC is creating a strong pipeline of international interest from leading companies seeking to enter Botswana for the first time and with cutting edge diamond and other mineral beneficiation technologies. Through carefully nurtured strategic partnerships such as these, we will continue our mission to promote the growth of science, technology and innovation in Botswana. Indeed we believe that this is a critical building block for sustainable economic growth and a more diversified economy. This is particularly important for our country considering that there are 4000 to 5000 ICT trained graduates currently in need of jobs. Our initiative will aid in creating a targeted support system which will give them more capacity to form their own startups or find employment in new technologyoriented ventures setting up in the Park. These are exciting times for the technology sector in Africa and Botswana seems well placed to enjoy the benefits. We have already seen the effects of the EASSY Cable with a reduction in prices. With WACS coming on stream, we are sure to see significant reduction in broadband prices and an increase in broadband penetration. BIH vision for 2016 It is important to do business in a sustainable and forward-thinking way. I am confident that Botswana Innovation Hub programmes and initiatives will propel science, technology, and innovation activities to a higher level inside the Park, and indeed our country. We are forging ahead in pursuit of improved ability to create strategic collaborations with leading companies. Our vision is guided by such companies and we hope to create a surge of creativity in the people of Botswana – most notably the youth. Innovation is happening here… Come and Join Us.
Botswana Innovation Hub The Botswana Innovation Hub is a national strategic initiative that is being implemented during Botswana National Development Plan 10 which culminates in 2016.
Innovation is happening here‌ come and join us
A key feature of the Botswana Excellence strategy which Government adopted in 2006, is to implement tangible and scalable projects that will assist in accelerating attainment of our Vision 2016 goals. To this end, the Botswana Innovation Hub was established as a Special Purpose Vehicle to assist with economic diversification. This would be achieved through attraction of relevant foreign direct investment specifically in technology transfer and adaptation, research commercialisation and the fostering of a stronger national system of innovation. A key benefit is that Botswana Innovation Hub will result in the creation of more employment opportunities. Botswana Innovation Hub is now a fully functioning registered parastatal company with a specific mandate to provide an environment conducive for the development of science, technology, and innovation. The key functions of the Botswana Innovation Hub are: to develop and operate an integrated Science and Technology Park; promote technology-based entrepreneurship through a targeted incubation and funding
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programme; attract established local and international companies that will accelerate technology transfer and research commercialisation; and establish strategic collaborations that strengthen innovation for sustainable economic growth. Civil works and primary utilities services on the site of the Park near the SSK International Airport in Gaborone have been completed and construction of the Icon Building is on-going in 2013 and targeted to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2014. The first phase of buildings in the centre of the Park will provide shared laboratories and other publicly funded amenities for optimal use of scarce resources during the remainder of NDP10. In the short term, the company will deliver a technology entrepreneurship support program that seeks to convert new opportunities in science, technology and innovation, into sustainable businesses targeted at small and medium enterprises.
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In tandem, a dedicated innovation fund has been established with the objective of promoting innovation through technology, product and business development in the private sector. Qualifying companies and research institutions who are interested in locating to the Botswana Innovation Hub Park will enjoy incentives the below incentives which have been packaged into special products and services for Botswana Innovation Hub Members. In order to achieve its mandate Botswana Innovation Hub offers the following to qualifying entities and institutions: • 15% incentivised low tax rate and special labour and residence permit exemption scheme, known as skills import dispensation, for foreign nationals wishing to base themselves in Botswana; • Competitive Real Estate Services, which includes leasing land to develop
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or for renting, built premises within the central shared buildings on the Park; Shared business support services and facilities including reception, superior ICT services, conference rooms, video and teleconferencing facilities, gyms, restaurants and many more; helping clients lower their operations and startup costs; Technology/business incubation for start-ups through First Steps Venture Centre technology incubator, offering a subsidised plug and play facility and business mentoring and coaching for start-ups, including facilitating individuals and companies towards attaining Intellectual Property Rights. Seed Funding through Innovation Fund; Exposure to International Markets through Global Network of ICT Parks using Go Global ICT Programme offerings to Park Tenants; Botswana Innovation Hub Collaboration and Strategic Partners give tenants access to state of the art laboratories and technologies; Readily available market and networking opportunities within park for tenants; Marketing Services and Co-Marketing Opportunities for Members; State of the art ICT connectivity to park tenants.
Botswana Innovation Hub Focal Sectors The Botswana Innovation Hub is under development at a strategic location in Gaborone near the (SSK) International Airport and is to be a national centre of excellence for innovation in key priority areas - ICT, Mining Technology, BioTechnology, and Energy/Environment. This is in line with the enhancement of Botswana’s international competitiveness
and the prospects for economic diversification and downstream job creation. Biotechnology This sector is focused on catalysing more Research and Development activities and commercial business in the areas of testing and manufacturing - with special emphasis on addressing cross-cutting issues of food security, HIV Aids and exploitation of a wide range of indigenous natural products. Energy & Environment This sector focuses mainly on catalysing activities related to Clean-Technologies, Energy and Environmental Research and Development and commercial activities within those areas. Its emphasis is on sustainability and environmental protection in renewable energy, cleaner coal, water conservation and waste management. Information & Communications Technology and ICT enabled services Botswana Innovation Hub is creating a unique platform that will enable ICT growth through Research and Development, ICT Skills Development, and related Commercial Business Activities. The Hub is already catalysing businesses activities and research activities in different areas of ICT like Software Development, Voice and Data Networks, Business Process Automation, Hardware and Peripherals and Hi-Tech Computing. Mining Technologies The mining technologies sector focuses on facilitating joint Research and Development in Mining and related technologies, focus on technology providers, as well as business development in Exploration, Geology, Mining, Ore Processing and mineral beneficiation technologies. The Science and Technology Park BIH Science and Technology Park is mainly a place for business development and growth. It is a facility for businesses to make linkages with Research and Development as well as other linked or similar businesses and international stakeholders. Pilot projects and inter-ministerial projects of various kinds initiated from individuals, ministries, businesses or international stakeholders are an important source for interesting innovative ideas and perspectives making the facility more vibrant and interesting for the businesses within and around the facility. When fully developed, the BIH Science and Technology Park will consist of worldclass facilities including state of the art telecommunications infrastructure with high capacity international connectivity and secured power, professional business services, and business development services. The development programmes,
together with the support for R&D and the promotion of innovation and entrepreneurship, will make Botswana Innovation Hub an ideal place for business development.  New thinking – new opportunities! Botswana Innovation Hub envisions to be the leading African partner for innovative and technology driven businesses. Botswana Innovation Hub provides an attractive location and platform to serve as a catalyser for technology-driven and knowledge intensive businesses to develop and to compete in the global market. Therefore Botswana Innovation Hub is establishing a CleanTech Centre of Expertise within the Science and Technology Park. Clean-Tech business involves a wide range of technologies and services that are offering environmentally concerned products and services to global challenges such as water and air pollution, biomass and water depletion and climate change. The CleanTech industry is creating a sizeable number of well-educated jobs as are environmental challenges are prevailing and non-avoidable for any society. Unfortunately the problems that require Clean-Tech solutions increase in scale along with economic growth. They need professional solutions involving highly-qualified people and organisations. Botswana has a unique chance to take the lead in southern Africa finding locally developed professional solutions for waste, water, energy and traffic problems in cooperation with Foreign Direct Investments and international partnerships. Innovation is happening here‌ come and join us.
Maranyane House Plot 50654, Machel Drive Private Bag 00265 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 391 3328 Fax: +267 391 3289 Email: info@bih.co.bw www.bih.co.bw www.botswanainnovation.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana Vision 2016 Vision 2016 was developed in 1996 through a national consultative process with the express purpose of defining a long-term vision for Botswana in order to propel its socio-economic and political development into a competitive, winning and prosperous nation. Vision 2016 identifies seven foundation principles guiding us to 2016, the 50th anniversary of independence for the country.
http://www.vision2016.co.bw/
By 2016, Botswana aims to provide its citizens with a universal, continuing and quality education system, enabling it to become an informed and IT literate society.
Botswana endeavours to achieve economic growth and diversification whilst promoting sustainable development and seeking to reduce unemployment.
By 2016, Botswana seeks to alleviate poverty and to achieve a more equal distribution of income within the country as well as combating HIV/AIDS.
Efforts are being made to combat crime and improve safety and security within the country with improved infrastructure to deal with newer forms of crime such as ‘white collar’ crime and major threats.
A culture of responsible and accountable leadership will be enforced in the public service sector while the government will be expected to be open and transparent at all times.
In 2016, Botswana aims to be a discrimination-free society that respects moral and cultural values.
Our collective commitment to national unity, social stability and family values inspire us in our realisation and achievement of a united and proud nation.
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Living the Vision Campaign The Vision 2016 Council conducted the Household Opinion Survey that measured perceptions of Batswana on the implementation of Vision 2016. TOWARDS PROSPERITY FOR ALL
Hon. Robert Masitara and Dr Collie Monkge touring stalls at the Launch of an Open, Democratic and Accountable Nation Pillar in Rakops village.
The study revealed that 93% of Batswana are aware of Vision 2016 goals; but it is only 18% that are living the Vision or those with projects that are in line with the Vision 2016 pillars. This prompted the Vision Council to take a deliberate move to come up with initiatives that will encourage the nation to internalise Vision 2016 and be active in its implementation across all sectors. Outreach programmes were conducted in the Kgalagadi and Gantsi districts where the study had also revealed that the communities at such districts lack information on Vision 2016. It is important
to note that these two districts are amongst those affected by poverty and poor education. To further encourage the internalisation of the Vision 2016 pillars, each month a different pillar was commemorated, making it the focal pillar for that specific month. The pillars were launched by high profile officials including ministers and assistant ministers. The commemorations where conducted by key stakeholders to certain pillars around the country and were facilitated by the Vision Council. The following pillars were successfully launched in 2012 as stated below:
VISION PILLAR
DATE LAUNCHED
VENUE
LAUNCHED BY
COMMEMMORATION
A Prosperous, Productive and Innovative Nation
31 March 2012
Kumakwane
Hon Ass. Minister of Education Patrick Masimolole
April 2012
A Safe and Secure Nation
31 May 2012
Shoshong
Hon. Minister June 2012 of Defence, Justice and Security Ramadeluka Seretse
Tsetseng
Hon. Minister July 2012 of health Reverend Dr John Seakgosing
Rakops
Hon Robert Masitara
A 28 June 2012 Compassionate, Just and Caring Nation An Open Democratic and Accountable Nation
06 August 2012
Honourable Minister of Health Reverend Dr John Seakgosing handing over clothing to children at the Launch of A Compassionate, Just and Caring Nation pillar in Tsetseng village.
Stakeholders displaying the Living the Vision theme at one of the Vision 2016 events.
August- September 2012 Some of the products displayed by Batswana at the Vision 2016 events showcasing how they “Live the Vision�.
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His Honour the Vice President of the Republic of Botswana Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe officially launching the 2012 Vision 2016 Awareness Month in Robelela Village.
Vision 2016 Coordinator Dr Collie Monkge giving an overview on progress on Vision 2016 goals
2012 VISION 2016 AWARENESS MONTH LAUNCH September, which is the Vision 2016 Month, was successfully launched by the Vice President of the Republic of Botswana Honourable Ponatshego Kedikilwe in Robelela village, Bobirwa sub-district. The launch gives the nation an opportunity to take stock of its achievements and challenges as we progress to the year 2016. It is a time for introspection on what individuals, communities, civil society, government, nongovernmental organisations and private sector are doing to contribute to the achievement of the goals of Vision 2016. Key stakeholders continued to carry out projects that are aimed at adding quality of life to the communities. These are projects that coordinators conducted at Robelela Village during the launch of the 2012 Vision 2016 Awareness Month launch. MIN./ORGANISATION/DEPT
ACTIVITIES/PROJECTS
1. Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism
- Constructed an orchard and irrigation system at Robelela Primary School.
2. Ministry of Infrastructure, Science and Technology
- Built a toilet for one destitute and connected a stand pipe to the same destitute in
3. Ministry of Trade and Industry
- - - - - - - -
4. Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs 5. Independent Electoral Commission 6. Ministry of Finance and Development Planning 7. Botswana Development Corporation and Kwena Concrete Products
Robelela.
Assisting in the revamping of the village Cooperative. Assisted a village tailor with sewing machines. Fenced and painted a house for a needy person. Fenced the Robelela Primary School garden school garden. Connected two standpipes and fenced one yard. Bought school uniform for three kids. Donated 20 litre containers to be used to collect water from standpipes. Built a house for the orphans.
8. Ministry. of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
- Donated shoes to 15 destitutes and 48 orphans and 11 radios for lessons to Robelela
9. Ministry of Mineral Energy and Water Resources – Botswana Power Corporation
- Renovated and extended a one-room house to a two-room house.
10. Ministry of Local Government
- Connected two standpipes (in two yards) and fenced one yard of the two. - Constructed two bus shelters. - Donated computers and established a lab for Robelela primary School and provided
11. Ministry of Transport and Communications (Depts. and Parastatals)
Primary School.
training for both learners and teachers.
- Donated computers to the Health Post and Kgotla and provided training. - Established a kiddies playground. - Donated clothes to Robelela Community. Botswana Railways - Donated 50 waste bins branded with the Vision theme: Living the Vision: Yame le Wena to Robelela village to be spread throughout the wards. Botswana Telecommunications Authority - Donated 16 computers and 16 printers to Mmadinare Educational Inspectorial Area. 12. Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC)
- Connected one stand pipe.
13. Ministry of Agriculture
- - - -
14. Botswana Police Service
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Handed over five projects to needy farmers. (two small stock and three Tswana chicken) Provided one destitute farmer with mabele -meal and beans for 12 months. Constructed and donated vegetable garden to Robelela Home-based care. Donated school shoes and socks to 12 children from Robelela Primary School.
VISION 2016 AWARDS The Annual Vision 2016 Awards are for individuals and organisations involved in projects and activities that are in line with any of the seven Vision 2016 Pillars. Individuals/ organisations/groups are usually invited to submit entries for projects that; show relevance to any of the seven Pillars of Vision 2016, empowerment of communities or the nation, economically, socially or otherwise ,demonstration of sustainability of the activity, project or outcomes and demonstration of adding quality to lives in communities or the nation at large. The Vision Council awarded 15 awards in 2012. SMART PARTNERSHIP DIALOGUES The Vision Council in conjunction with the Bobirwa sub-district leadership hosted a two day dialogue from the 1st to 2nd August 2012 at Mmadinare senior secondary school. The theme of the dialogue was “transformation to prosperity”. The objectives of this two day dialogue were to:
- Develop a Bobirwa Sub District Poverty Eradication Roadmap - Promote Transformation that leads to:- Eradication of Poverty - Improvement of Student Outcomes - Eradication of all Forms of Crime - Health Conscious Lifestyles - Promote Economic Growth and Employment Creation in the Sub-District The dialogue was opened by Honourable Assistant Minister of Finance and Development Planning Dr Gloria Somolekae. Giving the key note address, she stated that the word transformation denotes two critical issues/behaviors: - Transform from dissatisfaction to satisfaction. Hence it’s about moving OURSELVES from undesirable state to a place that is better and more desirable. It denotes a complex state of SHIFTING. So each person should answer the question “what am I transforming from and where am I transforming to.” - Transformation demands leadership with a vision: she defined leadership as a platform to serve others, not as a position or opportunity to be in the limelight. She said inspirational leadership is necessary in order for the community or the nation to transform; a leader should be someone with hope so they are able to lead the team and motivate them even when things are tough. Officers from different Government departments and parastatal organisations led discussions on areas that are important to the realisation of the Vision goals. Some of the organisations that were represented include DSS; BNPC, BCA, BIDPA, SPEDU and LEA. Presenters and Catalysts were invited to stimulate thinking amongst the participants
Engagement of the youth through the Vision 2016 Smart Partnership Dialogues.
so that they challenge them individually and collectively to engage one another in finding solutions to the common problems of poor education results; poverty; unemployment; increased crime rates and increasing impact and incidence of HIV and AIDS. The presenters shared information on opportunities, available technologies, programs as well as resources deemed necessary for enabling the participants or beneficiaries to advance in their livelihood and to achieve the above mentioned objectives. The choice of participants for a dialogue is a very important process. The idea is to have a group that represents a cross section of society i.e. the youth; the community groups including the poor; the disabled, the rich, and all. Leadership; – that are; the champions of industry, political; executive and community leaders. This two-day dialogue was graced by the leadership of the sub district and representatives of various organisations. Participants included Dikgosi from surrounding villages as well as Government officials; youth representatives; political leadership; the economically challenged; church leaders; and service providers from the relevant Parastatals. The participants were drawn from all the villages and settlements of the sub district i.e. Semolale, Serowe, Tshokwe and Bobonong. In this Smart Partnership approach the participants played a key role of engaging in dialogue and being at the centre of the process. PUBLICITY CONCEPT PAPER While the performance of the country, regarding the implementation of Vision 2016, has been a subject of discussion in a number of fora it is critical to engage the different constituent members of the Batswana society in the countdown toward the milestone. This is critical for two reasons; one that there is an awareness of the current status and gaps and successes, two for the purpose of energising the stakeholders towards the targets. Thus there is need for an engagement strategy that will focus the efforts and energies of all organisations and individuals to desire to work towards the milestones. Such a momentum is
Dr Daniel Tau handing a Vision 2016 Award to Mr Bokang Ditlhokwa of the Living the Vision programme that airs on Botswana Television.
important to catapult the nation into a delivery mode, second it is important to catapult the nation into a delivery mode, and it is important to create that sense of urgency so that the next milestone (Vision) can be launched on a note of success. The Vision Council solicited the support of key stakeholders to create a concept paper that will give direction on the launch of the last three years before the final milestone. The principle for the engagement is outlined in the concept paper so that it can guide the Vision Council and stakeholders in increasing and sustaining the momentum going to the year 2016. In general, the Vision 2016 publicity concept paper will guide and formulate the objectives of the publicity imperatives counting down to 2016. A retreat for the development of the concept paper was held in Palapye from 7th – 9th October 2012. Participants were from the private sector, public sector, civil society and the media.
Secretariat Offices BIDPA House Plot 134 Millenium Office Park Tshwene Drive, Kgale View Private Bag BR29 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 3971750 Fax: +267 3180234 Email: info@bidpa.bw www.vision2016.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Vision statement from NDB CEO, Lorato Morapedi
The mission of the National Development Bank (NDB) is to provide innovative financial products and services which promote the economic development of Botswana and this will position NDB as a number one development financial services partner. NDB was established under an Act of Parliament in 1963, to promote the economic development of Botswana. The bank is a Government-owned institution operating under the control of a Board of Directors, appointed by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning. To implement its mandate, the Bank’s focus is provision of loan financing to new and existing undertakings. With four offices in Gaborone, Maun, Francistown and Palapye, NDB is able for service of a broad range of clients around the country. The Bank conforms to its Vision, Mission and Values with the aim to attract and retain a satisfied customer base. NDB continues to run on a commercial basis and it is a viable, self-sustaining, Development Financial Institution. The Bank’s agricultural loans continue to constitute the Bank’s biggest portfolio. In its endeavour to add value to the services offered to its customers, the Bank entered into partnerships with other institutions, and continues to work with them in order to make it easier and more convenient for its customers to operate their various business operations.
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Thobo 2014 - NDB Strategy 2011 to 2014 The new NDB strategy, Thobo 2014 commenced on 1 April 2011. This threeyear Corporate Strategy, which runs from 2011 to 2014, seeks to fulfil the expectations of all key stakeholders and deliver, at the highest level, on our promise to our valued customers. Thobo 2014’s strategic plan aims to position the Bank as a leading agricultural finance Bank in Botswana. This strategic focus has been motivated by the urgent need for both private and public sector institutions to support Government in its initiatives of economic diversification, poverty alleviation and food sustenance. Diversity in terms of product offering will still be core to our new strategy. To this end, we will continue to venture into other sectors of the economy such as manufacturing, property development, retail and human capital development. Thobo 2014 is focused on three areas in addition to growth, the customer, staff
and the shareholder. Our system will be backed by a robust integrated IT network - core banking system. There will be high efficiencies within the network and easy access. We already have client-focused mobile branches. NDB is committed to motivating its human resource which is for the success of the Bank. In that regard, more emphasis is on staff engagement, growth, progression, recognition and reward and unlimited access to resources. Parallel to the implementation of this strategy is the rebounding economy and a commitment from Government towards commercialising the Bank’s operations through the process of privatisation. We view these factors with extreme optimism and believe that they auger well for the continued growth of the Bank and the financial sector of Botswana as a whole. I plan to take the bank through this exciting and groundbreaking phase which will result in NDB being the first governmentowned financial institution to be privatised.
In its next-term strategy, the Bank plans to strengthen its accessibility, customer offering and portfolio management. This will also be supported by a revamped customer relationship management process as well as a robust communications strategy to allow the Bank to have a full appreciation of its stakeholder needs. In pursuit of developing our mandate, the Bank will also continue to assist clients by considering appropriate cases for account rescheduling as a means of affording businesses an opportunity to recover, or generally to place the business on a viable repayment schedule particularly during the current tough economic conditions. It is my sincere belief that the change that the Bank is current going through will undoubtedly result in an entity that all stakeholders will enjoy to partner and be associated with and see it as a first point of call for development financing.
Lorato C. Morapedi, NDB CEO www.ndb.bw
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The Best Bank in Botswana Barclays Bank of Botswana has consistently been judged Botswana’s best bank.
For the fourth consecutive year, Barclays Bank of Botswana has won EMEA Finance’s Best Bank in Botswana award for 2012. Barclays has been recognised as the Best Bank in Botswana since EMEA Finance magazine added Botswana to the awards in 2009. In announcing the 2012 award, EMEA Finance said that the bank’s ability to deliver sustainable performance, strong results and solid growth is a tribute to its management and strategy. The Banker magazine also judged Barclays Bank as the “Bank of the Year in Botswana 2012”. The magazine noted that the recognition of being named “Bank of the Year 2012” is testament to Barclays Bank’s strong management, sound business model and prudent risk approach. “These awards are testimony to the good work we have done for our customers as well as recognition for the tireless effort that our colleagues make every day for us to be the go-to bank in Botswana,” said Barclays Bank of Botswana’s Interim M.D, Aupa Monyatsi.
Interim M.D. Aupa Monyatsi
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www.barclays.com/africa/botswana
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Chapter 2 Botswana Lifestyles and Sports
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Calendar of Events Botswana
JANUARY Bak 2 Skul This event gathers Botswana’s youth in what is possibly the biggest party of the year. Hundreds of young people don their old school uniforms and drive out of town to experience Botswana’s best house music DJs performing at an outdoor venue. FEBRUARY World Wetlands Day Botswana is well known for its beautiful flora and fauna. The Okavango Delta is renowned as a tourist destination and is loved by tourists and Batswana alike. In commemoration of World Wetlands Day, Batswana host a series of events which include a gala dinner at the President Hotel, tree planting ceremonies, exhibitions and a wetlands march; which are an endeavour to draw attention to the conservation of our wetlands and to conceptualise the
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sustainable use of wetlands in the country and the world. MARCH Ditshwanelo Human Rights Film Festival Ditsthwanelo, Botswana’s human rights organisation, screens a series of international films each year for the last week of March. These films invariably address human rights topics and aim to educate and sensitise the public about certain issues. On at least one of the nights, there is a discussion, in which the public can engage in discourse about different human rights concerns. Information and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) ITEX is the premier ICT conference for those in the technology and communications sector. Industry professionals gather in order to share their ideas and innovations and conceptualise ways to narrow the digital divide. ICT service providers, consumers and
government agencies gather and interact in an event that runs in conjunction with a conference, allowing for networking and benchmarking opportunities to propel the industry forward. Thapong Members’ Exhibition The Thapong Visual Arts Centre, which has been in existence since 1989, is an important part of the fine arts landscape in Gaborone. The centre is ‘home’ for a number of artists, who create their art there. Their studios are open, which gives visitors the chance to observe the artists’ process. The Members’ Exhibition is an important part of the centre because it gives those who have exhibited in, and supported, the gallery to show their works on the same platform, which is a gesture of inclusion. The show is often diverse - self-taught and formally trained artists get to meet, network and experience each other’s work and share it with the public. APRIL Maitisong Festival The Maitisong Festival is an annual feast of movement and sound. The festival has been running since 1987 and is the premier theatre and performance showcase in Botswana. Each year, the Maitisong stage becomes home to some of the most interesting and entertaining theatrical and performance acts from Botswana and the region. Maitisong also invites international acts to share their craft with Botswana’s audience, and for several weeks, Gaborone is alive with culture. Steinmetz Gaborone Marathon The PGM Foundation is a charitable organisation whose aim is to empower people through sports. Each year they stage the Steinmetz Gaborone Marathon, which draws participants of all abilities to participate in the event as it follows a route in and around Gaborone. The marathon is an important regional sporting event, attracting runners from as far afield as Lesotho and Kenya. MAY The Orange Letlhafula Festival The Orange Letlhafula is a celebration of the diversity of Botswana’s cultures through the sharing of food, dance and song. It is the traditional celebration of the harvest. Every year, at a different venue in Gaborone, traditional dance troupes, musicians and
traditional food enthusiasts gather to share their love of everything ‘Botswana’, with each other and the public at large. Festivalgoers go all out, dressing in traditional and tradition-inspired clothing and eating dishes such as bogobe, serobe and mogodu. JUNE Toyota 1000km Kalahari Desert Race Each year, motoring professionals and enthusiasts gather for the Desert Race, which followed a different route in 2012. The race, which usually starts and ends at Game City Mall and follows a route through Gaborone and its surrounding areas, moved to Kumakwane in 2012. Batswana and tourists, who come to watch the race, pack up their tents and outdoor gear and spend a couple of days camping out along the route, following and supporting their favourite racers. JULY Y Care Makgadikgadi Pans Walk Y Care is a charitable organisation that organises a charity walk to raise funds for several charities and other beneficiaries. A group of sponsored walkers embark on their journey across the pans and experience the exhilaration and beauty of the landscape, as well as facing challenges that promote team work, team building and allow for a greater sense of self-awareness. Other charitable walks have been introduced over the years, such as the Domboshaba Walk, which follows a trail to the ruins, the Ghanzi Bush Walk and the Thuli Block Walk.
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President’s Day Exhibition The exhibition was begun with the intention of showcasing the best of Botswana’s music, performance and arts talent in the form of a competition. It is a mechanism that has been put in place to propel the creative industry forward, by giving local artists an incentive the prize money, as well as the opportunity to perform for the president of Botswana. The competition has various categories, including music video, dance, music, theatre, comedy, poetry, basketry, sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking and photography. It is a valuable exercise too, for the president, who gets the opportunity to experience the work of those pioneering the creative industry in Botswana. Botswana Consumer Fair Each year, Batswana consumers are given the opportunity to discover innovative goods and services developments in this exciting exhibition. The fair gives businesses the chance to interact with their clients in an informal setting, showcasing the breadth and range of their services. The Consumer Fair also gives exhibitors the valuable opportunity to network and share their latest product innovations, which stimulates competition and the drive towards excellence. AUGUST Food and Beverage Exhibition (FOBEX) Every year, Fairground Holdings hosts a
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variety of food, beverage and hospitality professionals in an event which continues to become a forum for buyers across retail, food, service and manufacturing sectors. The event is a valuable platform for exhibitors to exchange ideas in order to propel the industry forward in Botswana and the region. Technological advancements, innovative business ideas, seminars and demonstrations are shared, in order to provide information to those who aspire to make forays into the industry, as well as to reinforce the brands of those already established in the industry. Kuru Arts Festival This cultural festival takes place every year in D’Kar, Ghanzi. The Kuru Arts Festival first took place in 1997. The Kuru foundation is in place to develop a network of development organisations with San leadership in order to facilitate a development process with marginalised communities. The indigenous people of the Kgalagadi have a rich culture that is of great historical and contemporary significance, and for a weekend each year, the fruits of their labour are exhibited and shared with Batswana and international tourists alike. Colour in the Desert Fashion Week This fashion extravaganza is brand new on Botswana’s social and entertainment calendar. Botswana’s burgeoning fashion
trust holds a sumptuous dinner to further raise funds for different charities, and also to celebrate the achievements of the charity for that year. OCTOBER
industry has a platform in this unique event that showcases the best in haute couture and ready-to-wear creations from Botswana and the region. The fashion show attracts designers and models from Botswana, South Africa - and even pulls creatives from as far afield as Kenya. This endeavour simultaneously develops the local fashion industry and puts Gaborone on the map as a fashion capital in Africa and the world. SEPTEMBER
Orange Youth Cup The Botswana Football Association (BFA), in collaboration with Orange, holds the Orange Youth Cup every year, with the aim of unearthing Botswana’s soccer talent. The fixtures are held in different urban centres across the country, and the matches simultaneously nurture and recognise those who have exceptional skills in football. Those whose skills are a cut above the rest have the opportunity to be enrolled in the School of Excellence Program, and are also often selected for the Junior National Team. NOVEMBER
Domboshaba Festival This annual cultural event, which takes place at the Domboshaba ruins every year, is a celebration of IKalanga culture. The ruins are of great importance to this group in Botswana, and the importance of this historical site is reaffirmed at every festival. Batswana, (even those who do not necessarily belong to the IKalanga tribe), attend the festival to experience the dance, food and history of their countrymen.
Global Expo Each year, BITC invites international exhibitors to participate in this business to business exhibition forum, with a multisectoral focus. The Global Expo aims to attract foreign direct investment; promote joint-venture opportunities between local and international businesses, promote locally produced goods and stimulate a culture of entrepreneurship. The exhibition offers the opportunity for exhibitors to network and engage in plans to work together, and also provides a series of workshops and investment forums.
Lady Khama Charitable Trust Gala Dinner In 2002, the president of Botswana started the trust in honour of his mother, Lady Ruth Khama, whose humanitarian work with women and children was able to live on, even after she had passed. Every year, the trust organises fundraising activities; the fruits of which are disbursed to myriad charities across the country. Each year, the
Exodus Live Poetry Performance poetry is a genre that gained popularity with ‘the slam’ genre in the 1990s. A small group of Batswana poets embraced this evolution of the art form, and began holding open mic sessions in Gaborone. In 2005 they held the first Exodus Live Poetry Festival. Each year, the best local and international performers gather in Botswana
for a feast of word and sound at an event that has risen in popularity over the years, and popularised the enjoyment of poetry in Botswana. DECEMBER International AIDS Day International AIDS Day is an important part of Botswana’s events calendar. Several events, including performances, exhibitions and awareness campaigns are staged; all in the spirit of educating the public about the HIV/ AIDS pandemic and the many shades of experience of those coping with the virus.
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Gaborone City What was perhaps the most unique thing about the Bechuanaland Protectorate was that it was the only territory in the world whose capital was located outside its borders. The capital was in Mafikeng, South Africa, in a portion of land called the “Imperial Reserve.” In 1966 when the country gained independence from the British, the new administrative capital was moved to what was then called “Gaberones.”
The task of transforming this small railway village into a capital town was undertaken by a British company called Richard Costain (Pty) Ltd at a cost of £2.7-million and the work was phased over the 1966/68 period. The transformation entailed the construction of a legislative assembly, government office blocks, British High Commission, power station, telephone exchange, police stations, post office, banks, shops, church, hotel, brewery, stadium grandstand, more than 1000 houses, as well as electrical and sewage systems. The company also built a 2000 footlong pedestrian mall with access roads on each side and spacious car-parking areas. The planners imposed strict architectural elevation control of all buildings in the mall “to ensure a uniform standard and a composite blending of buildings with the landscape.” This explains why practically
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all buildings at the main mall look alike. The Government Enclave was built at the westend of the mall to form a focus point with fountains and a war memorial. Four compact residential areas were situated on either side of the mall so that residents were as near as possible to their work and within easy walking distance of shops. Three primary schools were built next to residential areas so that children could reach them without having to cross a main road. The town was served by an airstrip of 5850 foot long by 165 foot wide with its runway being correctly orientated in relation to the prevailing wind. In 1987, with only 13 years left before the new millennium, Gaborone’s status was upgraded from town to city and its 25th anniversary as the latter was celebrated in 2012. There is indeed a lot to celebrate. The dusty grounds where on 30 September 1966, Princess Marina, the Duchess of Kent, handed over the Instruments of Government to Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana’s founding president, have been transformed into the National Stadium. Whereas in 1966, there was only one trafficfree mall, Gaborone now boasts of similarly configured but higher grade malls all across the city. A strip of land in the centre of town, not too far away from the government district, is being developed into a CBD at billions of pula and will feature the country’s largest shopping mall. The CBD also has five 3D movie theatres which, outside South Africa, are the first of their kind in Africa. One other construction project currently going on is of the teaching hospital at the University of Botswana. When complete, this will be the largest training hospital in southern Africa. Gaborone has had to grow faster
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and more dramatically because in 1966 it was built for a population of 5000 and scheduled for an expansion of up to 20,000 – but is now one of the fastest growing cities in the world. According to the 2011 population and housing census, the city has a population of 231,626 and is home to 421,907 inhabitants. In response to the
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infrastructure challenges that came with this population explosion, the Gaborone City Council has had to expand its sewage network. The most important economic development that Botswana is presently undergoing is the relocation of the DTC International - the distribution arm of De
Beers - to Gaborone. This process, which has already started, will be carried out in phases and will transform the city into the premier diamond centre of the world. In the future, diamonds worth between US$5.5billion and US$6-billion from South Africa, Namibia, Canada and other countries will pass through this facility.
In one part of the city, there is an old building which was used as a colonial fort by Cecil Rhodes - the British mining magnate who founded De Beers and built the railway line that passes through Botswana. In 1895, in this very fort, Rhodes planned the Jameson Raid, which was an unsuccessful raid on the Transvaal Republic carried out by white Bechuanaland and Rhodesian policemen under the command of a British colonial officer called Leander Starr Jameson. This fort, which later became the original “Gaberones Hotel�, has now been declared a national monument and restored to its former glory. This is just a slice of the rich history that Gaborone has to offer. Note to visitors: Gaborone is officially the fourth least expensive city for expatriates in Africa.
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Botswana Lifestyles Botswana recently celebrated 46 years of independence. Within that short space of time, Batswana have had the opportunity to access an increasing variety of goods and services that complement the quality of their lives - more so in the past few years.
The stability of Botswana’s economy has ensured that the private sector continues to boom. Over the years, Batswana have developed very refined palates and have a taste for the finer things in life - the provision of which is the mainstay of the diversification of our economy. As urban centres grow and local and international businesses continue to make forays into Botswana’s thriving market, now more than ever before, Batswana are able to indulge in a greater choice of lifestyle and recreational activities. These include eating out, shopping, relaxing
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at a spa, or taking some time out to indulge in Botswana’s beautiful flora and fauna. Life in the urban centres is dynamic and increasingly fast-paced. Every city in the world has a unique ‘feel’, and Botswana’s urban life is no different. The Main Mall, one of Gaborone’s oldest malls, is still alive and thriving with activity and exciting things to experience. On a Thursday evening, one might find themselves at Café Khwest indulging in a luxurious meal and good company, or going to the Sportsman’s Bar which is part of the President Hotel, also in the Main Mall. The Bull and Bush restaurant also enjoys the patronage of a lively and diverse pool of people, serving sumptuous food and hosting different live acts and DJs. Trekkers, a nightclub that was made popular in Maun, has also opened up in Mogoditshane, adding to the enigmatic night scene. Batswana love entertainment and greater numbers have begun to visit venues that can give them the ultimate experience. Botswanacraft is a venue that stages local and international music acts and attracts a multicultural audience. The Maitisong theatre still pulls a crowd of theatre and performance lovers and various galleries enjoy the patronage of art lovers in Botswana. There has been a surge in the development of shopping centres that continue to give Batswana a greater variety of brands and lifestyle experiences to choose from. This includes the extension of Game City mall which houses boutiques and chain stores, including: Clicks, a regional store where one can purchase various cosmetics, toiletries and appliances; Sterns, a jewellery store; and homegrown clothing brand, Mafia Soul. Keeping fit is an important part of many Batswana’s lives. A handful of reliable health and exercise facilities have sprung up,
offering Batswana the chance to formalise their fitness, beauty and grooming routines. Curves, a gym that caters specifically for women, has enjoyed the patronage of women who value their health and fitness. Gym Active caters for both men and women, with innovative exercise cycles and conditioning exercises for a healthy body and relaxed mind - which is imperative after a long, hard week at work. Many Batswana are formally employed and many have become entrepreneurs. That means that more people have more money to spend on facilitating experiences that will comprise the memories of their lifetime. Even though a number of Batswana live and work in the cities, many still go ‘back home’ to their home villages and cattle posts; it is a life that is inextricably linked with the land. Locals travel to these places out of town, particularly during public holidays, when there is a mass exodus from the cities. At these times, families pile into their trusty trucks and SUVs and make the drive to tend to their farms and cattle, and turning it into an opportunity to spend quality time together. The family unit is very important to Batswana and includes strong ties with the extended family structure. Often, families, (including the in-laws), gather for all manner of meetings, planning weddings, funerals, graduation ceremonies and other coming of age events, as well as just making the effort to spend time strengthening the family bond. The same can be said for friendships; many Batswana form close bonds in their youth that last a lifetime. Batswana also have the knack of welcoming visitors with the same dedication and warmth that they dedicate to cultivating close-knit groups. Foreigners and visitors often testify to feeling welcomed by a warm and generous people in Botswana.
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Botswana Arts and Culture Botswana is best known internationally for the beautiful baskets produced all over the country; each basket has a unique story to tell, and the styles are grouped according to the region from which they originate, including the materials used.
Another classic example of a cultural product that Botswana is famed for is traditional dance - a variety of troops have enjoyed popularity both locally and internationally, carrying a historical mode of expression forward into the 21st Century and sharing Botswana’s rich heritage with the rest of the world. There are beautiful heritage sites that Botswana is privileged to be home to, including the Domboshaba Ruins, the archaeological and spiritual significance of the Tsodilo Hills, and the Bessie Head Museum which houses the priceless manuscripts and documents of the celebrated author. Botswana also has a small but thriving contemporary arts community, which
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complements the rich tradition of traditional arts and crafts that have been the mainstays of culture since the Stone Age. Several small poetry groups have enjoyed the admission of new, passionate members, as well as increased attention from the public at large. The most notable of these new collectives is the Exodus Live! Poetry group that has been in existence since the early 2000s. The alumni of this collective include internationally renowned poets, Tjawangwa ‘Tj’ Dema and Andreattah Chuma, as well as the editor of one of Botswana’s most respected newspapers, Tshireletso Motlogelwa. The inception of Exodus has inspired other young people with a passion for poetry and performance to venture into their own
groups, including The University of Botswana Writers’ Workshop, the Heavenly Poets and the Poetavango poetry collective, which is based in Maun. Also, Botswana’s government has been investing in the creative potential of young people, allowing them to further their education in the arts. In recent years, this crop of creatives has returned home, in order to make a significant contribution to the creative landscape here. The quality of these works is unlike any other that has been produced in Botswana before; it really is an exciting time for the arts in Botswana. It is also worth noting that the president himself showed his support for the fine arts, especially, by declaring that all national and administrative buildings should be adorned with artworks sourced from local artists. There are also several grants that have been made available to young creatives in an endeavour to assist them to make work that will have a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Botswana. The annual President’s Day Exhibition is a platform that was conceptualised at the higher echelons of government so that Batswana get the opportunity to showcase their work, and also allows the honourable president himself, the opportunity to
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experience what it is that Batswana are producing at grassroots level. Creatives are incorporating different media and translating ideas gleaned from their experiences with western culture, developing a unique language that is particular to their country. Some of the artists who are venturing into unpractised modes of expression include: Keatlatetse Kwati, whose surreal sculptures inspire a discomfort that is the paragon of the artistic experience, a mixture of attraction and revulsion; Wilson Ngoni, (a self-taught artist), has spent the greater part of his career creating surrealist works with a decidedly local flavour; and Karabo Maine is beginning to explore the nature of the superhero with distinct, personal illustrations, in a voice which was developed as he grew up in Botswana. The most positive element of Botswana’s culture is that it is dynamic and inclusive. The cultural products of a nation can be defined as the subtle voice of the society’s experience; the artist’s image, performance or installation are an intimate gaze into Botswana’s very soul. Again, what is positive about this is that the creation of cultural products compels dialogue. A local commercial gallery, The Frame Gallery, has begun to hold discussions about the work that they show, in an endeavour to elicit dialogue and discourse. This is a vital platform as it affords the artists the opportunity to talk about their work, and for
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the general public to interact, ask questions and further develop Botswana’s unique visual language. Botswanacraft is another venue that offers the inhabitants of Gaborone with quality cultural experiences in the form of their Mascom Live! Sessions, which have given a platform to local and international musicians to share their work - and for a diverse audience to dance the night away. These endeavours are vital in the development of the arts in Botswana and are testament to the fact that Botswana has begun to embrace the voice of diversification and to pledge to the spirit of dialogue, in order that its arts are able to effect change and offer interesting conversation to the dialogue of the world’s creative industries. As well as the President’s Day Exhibition, the Thapong Visual Arts Centre stages an exhibition every year, which creates a platform for amateur artists to show their work in a space of cultural and historical significance. Botswana is a truly beautiful place, where the classic blends with - and also jars against - the ideas of what art ‘is’, creating a melting-pot of ideas and creative cultural products.
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2012 London Olympics team On a normal day, the lunchtime atmosphere at O’Hagan’s Pub and Grill at Game City mall in Gaborone is sedate. On a July day in 2012 it was anything but normal, as up on the giant TV screens where eyes were glued, Amantle Montsho limbered up through a series of exercises on the race track in preparation for the 400-metre heat race.
Amantle Montsho and Nijel Amos
The hundred or so shoppers who jampacked the restaurant had come to watch Amantle keep Botswana’s flag flying at the 2012 London Olympics. There was a palpable sense both in Botswana and abroad that if there was a chance of the country winning its first Olympic medal, this was it. Boxer Oteng Oteng had controversially lost to Jeyvier Cintron of Puerto Rico - and Isaac Makwala, the 400-metre runner, had also crashed out in the heats. Two athletes, Amantle and Nijel Amos, were literally, still in the running for Olympic glory. This was Amantle’s third Olympics and as the current world champion, it was fitting that she had been selected as the flag bearer at the opening ceremony days earlier. She had won a gold medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, was a twotime Africa Championships gold medallist and had also won titles at the 2007 All-Africa Games and the 2010 IAAF Continental Cup. As far away as New York, the sports editor of the New York Times was also convinced
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Above from Left to Right: Amantle Montsho 400m, Isaac Makwala 400m, Nijel Amos 800m, Oteng Oteng 52Kg Fly Weight and Pako Seribe 400m.
that Amantle was going to perform well in London. Two months before the Olympics, the paper - one of the most two prominent in the United States - ran an extensive twopart feature article on her. The assignment had entailed sending a reporter up to Maun to do some mind-meld with the place where Amantle grew up as well as interview her parents. The gun went off and the runners took off in a pack with no clear leader. However, when she came around the bend for the final straight, Amantle pulled away and the restaurant crowd erupted, wildly cheering her on to the finish. She had secured her place in the finals but unfortunately when they happened, she had a really tough time outrunning the competition and finished just shy of a medal in fourth place. With three athletes down and one to go, spirits were bound to be dampened - but when Amos won in the heats and powered on to second position in the finals, Botswana had finally, after nine appearances at the Olympics, won a medal. There were celebrations across the country, none (it seems fair to suppose) as wild as those in Marobela - Amos’ home village. Only 18 years old, Amos has a bright future in athletics. He is the 2012 World
Junior Champion and with his Olympic time, he established a new World Junior record. The time he clocked in London ties him with Sir Sebastian Coe (a British former athlete who won four medals at two Olympic Games) for third fastest individual ever. There is no doubt that Nijel’s future career path is literally paved with gold. While the other athletes did not bring home medals, that does not erase the fact that they are still sporting giants in their own right and their youth means that there is a good chance they could compete and win in Rio 2016. To qualify for the London Olympics, Oteng had won the 2012 African Boxing Olympic Qualification Tournament and two years earlier, a bronze medal at the Delhi Commonwealth Games. Isaac came first at the 2012 Africa Championships in Porto Novo, Benin, as well as at the All-Africa Games in Algeria in 2007. He came second at both the 2008 Africa Championships in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and the 2010 edition in Nairobi, Kenya. With only four athletes, the team that the Botswana National Olympics Committee (BNOC) sent to London was the smallest in the nation’s Olympics history. While it is hard to say how large or small future teams will be, what can be said with certainty is
London Torch Relay, ruggerhuggerireland.co.uk
that the preparation of athletes will get ever more sophisticated. In order to acclimatise to the weather, the Olympian quartet underwent two weeks of training in Cardiff, Wales, ahead of the Games. The BNOC has indicated that in the future it will send athletes to high-performance centres abroad. Amantle trains at one such centre in Dakar, Senegal. Branding the Botswana Olympic team is a big part of the preparation. For the London Olympics, BNOC cut a deal with Nike in terms of which the international sportswear giant provided the four athletes with branded clothing.
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Mascom Top 8 Licenced in February 1998, Mascom is the leading mobile telecommunications operator in Botswana. Mascom has a subscriber base in excess of 1.6 million, giving it a market share of just over 53% of the Botswana mobile telecoms market.
Mascom is well-recognised as an innovative and proudly Botswana corporate citizen. Through sports, Mascom has been engaging with stakeholders and contributing to Botswana’s Vision 2016 Pillar of “A United and Proud Nation”. Sport is part of Botswana’s national pride, and as the leading network provider, Mascom has the ambition to build onto this excitement and propel Batswana to be a proud and united nation. Our brand promise, “to be a reputable, responsible and responsive corporate citizen” that embraces the concept of adopting an innovative approach to doing business. Mascom has been involved in football for many years. In 2005, Mascom announced the premier league sponsorship which totally transformed the face of the game. A key differentiator was Mascom’s additional sponsorship made available for grass root development for every team that adopted a
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primary school. Mascom then set a new trend in Botswana soccer sponsorship for the rest to follow. Mascom takes pride in redefining local soccer and raising it to a height aligned to the serious business that the game is, showing that Mascom is “Number 1 because of you”, our valued community. In November 2011, Mascom announced the return to Botswana soccer through the Mascom Top 8, which has been named the “richest knockout tournament in the country” by the sporting fraternity. The Mascom Top 8 featured “Tse Di Tona” (Botswana’s Top 8 Teams) competing in a knockout tournament featuring a total of 13 games with the winner walking away with 1-million Pula after only five games. It is through sponsorships such as this, that Mascom endeavors to revolutionise and redefine Botswana’s football and raise the game to international standards. The eight
teams that battled it out were: Township Rollers, Ecco City Greens, FC Santos, Nico United, Gaborone United, BDF VI, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, and Botswana Meat Commission. Township Rollers emerged the winners of the 2012 Mascom Top 8 tournament after beating Ecco City Greens at a thrilling finale and walked away with 1-Million Pula!.
Mascom Wireless Tsholetsa House, Plot 4705/06, Botswana Road, Main Mall, Gaborone Tel: 3903396/8 Fax: 3903415 Email: enquiries@mascom.bw www.mascom.bw Best of Botswana
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Ultimate Cycle Base
Ultimate Cycle Base was started in April 2012. We stock a wide range of road bikes as well as mountain bikes and kiddies’ bikes. We have a huge selection of accessories and are the agents for Thule Racks in Botswana. We have a great technical team who has a wealth of knowledge regarding service and repairs. We are located in G/west industrial unit 1 plot 22148. Our office hours are from 8am5pm during the week and 8am-12am on Saturdays; we are closed on Sundays. During the weekend we have shop rides that leave at 6:45am on Saturday morning where we have about 30-40 riders join us. These rides are led by our experienced team. We are planning on organising a cycle base road and mountain bike series for 2013. Our staff members are friendly and always willing to help.
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Plot 22148, Unit 1 G-West Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 313 2947 / 313 2939 Cell: +267 746 78378 Email: kyle@cyclebase.co.bw derek@cyclebase.co.bw Cell: +267 761 13820 Best of Botswana
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Chapter 3 Travel, Tourism and Hotels
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Wings for Development Few airlines in the world can have been established so quickly and contributed so centrally to the development of their home countries as has Air Botswana.
The National Carrier has been intimately part of the phenomenal growth of the country that it serves well, and in so doing has built a wide reputation for quality air services that is quite disproportionate to its modest size. When the Republic of Botswana, formerly the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland, emerged as an independent nation in 1966, few could have imagined that one of the poorest countries in the world would develop so quickly into the African jewel that it is today. Botswana is rated highly internationally for its democratic traditions, its robust economy, its sound and transparent administration, and its outstanding natural attractions. And Air Botswana has been part of it all, contributing fully to the growth of the economy. Civil aviation is a key barometer of national development. A country’s ability to provide quality air services, and to handle air travellers safely and efficiently, is essential for its full membership of the international community. Air Botswana is based at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, Gaborone. It is a domestic and regional carrier, operating and maintaining a modern fleet of turbopropeller aircraft from the noted French-Italian manufacturer ATR. The airline operates two new 68-seat ATR 72-500 aircraft and three smaller 47-seat ATR42-500s. In addition to the ATR 72 & 42, Air Botswana also now operates two recently acquired AVRO-RJ aircraft with seating capacity of 93.
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Responsibilities at home and away Mindful of its responsibilities at home, the airline takes the convenience of air transport as widely as possible within Botswana, while also serving vital markets outside the country. The domestic route network links Gaborone with Francistown - Botswana’s second city, and with Maun on the edge of the great Okavango Delta, and Kasane gateway to Chobe River and National Park on the northern border with Namibia. Regional destinations are Johannesburg, Harare, Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Lusaka, Lilongwe, Blantyre and Nairobi. Air Botswana also operates between Gaborone and Nairobi in popular code-share joint services with Kenya Airways. The timetable is closely attentive to the needs of the business and leisure traveller, and is also designed in full support of the important and growing tourism industry. Botswana is an outstanding destination, with unique natural attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Tourism is the country’s second largest revenue earner after mining. Tourists arriving in Johannesburg on long-haul flights, transfer readily to Air Botswana services for their onward flight direct to the Okavango - the largest inland delta on earth, or direct to Kasane if they are bound for Chobe National Park - two of the premier tourism destinations in Africa.
Book and buy online In another major development – and a first in the country – in line with global travel industry practice where e-commerce is widely used as a key way of doing business, Air Botswana customers are now able to book and pay for their tickets online through the airline’s e-commerce platform. This enables the airline’s passengers the convenience of booking and paying for their tickets online. Air Botswana’s operations and initiatives are fully in step with national aspirations. With an eye to the future, Botswana is energetically upgrading its aviation capacity, under the wing of the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana and with the full backing of Government. Construction of a new terminal and major runway development is going ahead steadily at Sir Seretse Khama Airport, and terminal building and runway projects are also taking place in Francistown, Maun and Kasane, so that these important centres can receive larger aircraft and handle more passengers. For its part, Air Botswana is committed to continuing to provide world-class services to domestic travellers and to visitors who come to do business in a vibrant economy, and also for tourists to experience the unique natural attractions with which Botswana is richly blessed.
www.airbotswana.co.bw
Business deals... in 45 minutes flat.
Gaborone to Johannesburg Only 45 minutes separate the City of Gold and the World’s Diamond Capital. Air Botswana operates over 30 convenient weekly flights between the two most important business centres in Southern Africa. At just under 45 minutes connection time, it makes perfect business sense. Book and pay online or call reservations or your nearest travel agent today. Tel: 3680900/3951921, sales@airbotswana.co.bw
www.airbotswana.co.bw
airbotswana
Tourism in Botswana - Iconic Destinations
Okavango Delta This natural spectacle seasonally spreads its fan-like veins of water, nourishing the arid Botswana terrain and its many diverse animals. The Okavango is one of the most desired wilderness destinations in the world. Big game viewing is contrasted by an untouched and serene landscape - dotted with meandering palms circling islets, papyrus fringed waterways, and dense woodland vegetation. This unique ecosystem is the largest intact inland delta in the world. Situated deep within the Kalahari Basin (once a prehistoric mega-lake), the miraculous wonder of the Okavango Delta is fittingly referred to as the ‘jewel’ of the Kalahari. Fed by the third largest river in southern Africa, it was formed over thousands of years by sand brought by the Okavango River from its source in the high ground of Angola. The Delta is filled when the summer rains swell the Okavango River, with floodwaters arriving in the Caprivi before spilling into the
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vast plains of the Delta. The floods are timed perfectly just after the pans of the summer rains disappear around April and May. The waters journey over 1300km of Khalahari sand, bringing refreshment to plants and animals. Situated on Africa’s Great Rift Valley, the tectonic movement continually shifts the flow and distribution of the water. The Okavango Delta consists of three main geographical areas: the Panhandle, the Delta, and the Dry Land area. www.botswanatourism.co.bw/ okavangoDelta.php Chobe National Park The second largest national park in Botswana enjoys some of the biggest wildlife concentrations in Africa. The picturesque Chobe River has carved out a deep path through the sandy Botswana terrain, winding through the wild landscape of the Chobe National Park. The park was established in 1968 as the first in independence. It covers 11,700 sq km of floodplains, swamps and woodland, with the river forming the northern boundary. The park is divided into four distinctly different eco systems: Serondela plains and forest; Savuti Marsh; Linyanti Swamps; and the dry hinterland in between. It is popular as it is the most easily accessible game park in Botswana. As part of Botswana’s big game country, Chobe Riverfront is acclaimed for its elephants (120,000) and Cape buffalo. With more than 460 species of bird sighted, Chobe is one of Africa’s greatest bird safari venues. Ngwezumba Pans are situated about 70km to the south of the Chobe River and are a system of pans of clay encircled by Mophane trees and grassy plains. Savuté, nestled at the heart of the park, comprises of
a lengthy channel and marshland renowned for predator viewing - boasting large populations of lion, cheetah and hyena. The Savuté Channel is a geographical mystery, curiously having dried up numerous times over the last century. www.chobenationalpark.co.za www.botswanatourism.co.bw/ chobeNationalpark.php Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (KTP) The historic treaty to form the first Transfrontier peace park in Africa was signed between Botswana and South Africa in 1999. Plans to formalise the joint management and development of South Africa’s Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park were proposed as early as 1989, but wasn’t possible until apartheid ended. After South African democracy dawned, with the support of the Peace Parks Foundation, negotiations were cemented - and the park was officially opened in May 2002. This 37,000 sq km of wilderness is now shared and jointly
managed by both countries as a protected area. The entire park is completely unfenced, allowing for wildlife to move freely along the ancient migration routes. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (KTP) is situated in the extreme southwest corner of Botswana and adjacent to South Africa’s Northern Cape Province. The boundary is along the dry Nossop River bed and three quarters of the park lies within Botswana territory. There are three main areas to explore: the Nossop River valley, along the South Africa/Botswana border, the wilderness trails on the Botswana side, and what was once the Mabuasehube Game Reserve in the northeast. KTP’s beautiful terrain comprises fossil river valleys dotted with dwarfed trees and bushes, grasslands and different coloured sand dunes. Wildlife is abundant, and the animals are attracted to waterholes along the otherwise dry riverbed. www.botswanatourism.co.bw/ kgalagadiTransfrontierpark.php
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Makgadikgadi Pans The Makgadikgadi Pans is one of the largest salt pans in the world with an area of 12,000 sq km in part of the Kalahari Basin. The Pans are a series of pans, comprising the largest Sowa and Ntwetwe, surrounded by a myriad of smaller pans. Interspersed between the pans are sand dunes, rocky islands and peninsulas, and desert terrain. The area remains waterless for a greater part of the year but after periods of good rain, the two largest pans flood, attracting wildlife. The visual spectacle of the flamingos at Sowa and Nata Sanctuary can see numbers run from tens to hundreds of thousands. Excellent wildlife viewing occurs when large herds of zebra and wildebeest begin their westward migration to the Boteti region. Rainwater merges with floodwaters from seasonal rivers which includes the Okavango River in years of exceptional rains. The dry pans are transformed into a large blue lake reminiscent of the gigantic prehistoric lake the Makgadikgadi used to be – which researchers claim was once one of the biggest inland lakes ever in Africa. The Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve covers an area of 3,900 sq km. One of the most popular destinations on the Makgadikgadi is Kubu Island, a rocky outcrop near the south-western shore of Sowa pan. www.botswanatourism.co.bw/ makgadikgadiPansgamereserve.php
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Tuli Block The Tuli Block is considered to be Botswana’s best kept secret. It is situated between the Sashe and Limpopo rivers where three international borders meet. The Tuli Block is the largest privately-owned game conservation area in southern Africa. It is known as “the land of giants” for its landscape of natural beauties including wide vistas, amazing topography, giant old trees and rocky features carved from ancient granite and basalt rocks. Animals concentrate around the water sources during the dry season months of May to October, making this the best time to visit Tuli for game viewing. But the stunning landscapes are at their best in the summer months when all the vegetation has greened up. The seasons of Tuli are much the same as other parts of Botswana and southern Africa with dry winters of hot days and cold nights and warm wet summers. The activities available in the Tuli Conservation area are many and varied and as such can be enjoyed year round. Game drives in the dry months produce dramatic sightings and birding is at its best in summer. Walks and cycling can be done year round. tuli-block.botswana.co.za Khama Rhino Sanctuary The Khama Rhino Sanctuary Trust is a community-based wildlife project established in 1992 to assist in saving the rhino, restore an area formerly teeming with wildlife and provide economic benefits to the local
Batswana community through tourism and the sustainable use of natural resources. Covering approximately 4,300 hectares of Kalahari sandveld, the Sanctuary is at Serwe Pan. The Sanctuary is a community trust governed by a Board of Trustees elected from the local communities of Serowe, Paje and Mabeleapodi. The President of Botswana, HE Lt .Gen. S.K.I. Khama, is Patron of the Trust. A 28km electric fence, sponsored by Debswana and De Beers, was completed in June 1995. All the rhinos were then released from their bomas to roam free within the Sanctuary. All the rhino settled well and soon began breeding. To date,
14 white rhinos and two black rhinos have been translocated into the Sanctuary. The Southern Africa Rhino Specialist Group is confident in the Trust and expressed an interest in establishing Khama Rhino Sanctuary as a breeding centre for the repopulation of white rhino in Botswana. In addition, Botswana’s Department of Wildlife and National Parks has also re-affirmed its commitment to re-introducing black rhino into the country and using the Khama Rhino Sanctuary for this purpose. The Ngwato Land Board recently allocated the Trust another piece of land (5000 hectares). www.khamarhinosanctuary.com
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Lansmore Masa Square Botswana beguiling the world.
Botswana, known for its diamonds, has always held the world’s attention for these sparkling gems. Over the years, however, we have moved from a nation whose claim to fame lay solely in the fate of a single precious stone to a country which beguiles the world by producing a myriad of wonders, from our athletes to our ever changing skyline. One such bright star, set against the backdrop of an evolving cityscape, is the recently opened luxury hotel, Lansmore Masa Square. Lansmore Masa Square, a business first luxury hotel in the new CBD, has already charmed locals and business travelers alike. With its bevvy of unique offerings and its own particular brand of impeccable
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service, luxury and glamour, the hotel has truly set itself apart. In a city whose hospitality landscape had previously lain unchanged for years, Lansmore Masa Square offers a challenge to the rest in the way of a philosophy that mandates redefinition of that very landscape. The hotel continues to urge guests and patrons to refuse to settle for anything but the epitome of perfection. Lansmore has already become the go-to choice for its infamous Thursday night cocktail evenings, its fabulous rooftop event space, and its Provençale cuisine that holds an elusively African twist. It has become the tourist gateway into the wonders of the city and beyond, as well as providing a long sought after base for a glamorous yet relaxed outing for city residents. What catapults Lansmore Masa Square to the ranks of sparkling gem, however, is not only its service standards and luxurious appeal for both business and leisure
travelers. The hotel’s numerous ‘firsts’ make for a uniquely tempting draw. Lansmore Masa Square is Botswana’s tallest hotel, the only business first luxury hotel in the country and the very first Lansmore hotel in the world. The 7th floor of the hotel enables guests to boast that they are sleeping on the highest hotel bed in the country, while the infinity pool, located on the 3rd floor rooftop, serves as the highest infinity pool in the nation, holding an astounding 115,000 litres of water three floors high. The area is also the country’s highest rooftop event space, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. As Botswana continues on its path to success and proves that it truly is one of the most rapidly evolving countries on the
African continent, the nation does not fail to impress. Botswana continues to take bold strides as a country birthing talents, wonders and shining stars. It’s not just our diamonds the world marvels at now, but gems ranging from our diverse people to the dazzling, evolving cityscape against the blue Botswana sky.
For more information, go to www.lonrhohotels.com/content/ lansmore-masa-square www.facebook.com lansmoremasasquare Email: reservations@lansmorems.com Tel: +267 3159954 / 72302543 Best of Botswana
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Chapter 4 Fashion, Beauty and Healthcare
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Fashion and Beauty As the age-old adage goes - beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As the world continues to look to Africa for our unique colours, patterns and textures, Botswana is poised to become a fashion centre - with a fashion industry that is vibrant and innovative.
Botswana has a unique and diverse pool of fashion designers and beauty professionals that are constantly creating work which simultaneously complements the classical tenets of beauty and continues to redefine what beauty is. The beauty industry in Botswana has received a lot of attention from local and international fashion lovers in recent years, with the inaugural and sophomore editions of the Gaborone Fashion Weekend and the Colour in the Desert Fashion Week, both of which showcased the best that our country has to offer in terms of fashion design, makeup and modelling. Several beauty parlours and spas enjoy the patronage of the women here and an increasing number of men are also beginning to indulge in grooming treatments at these establishments. Men and women from all income groups are willing to spend their money on quality treatments and cosmetics, as well as on their wardrobes.
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Botswana is at an advantage because of our ability to assimilate different styles and cultures and integrate them into our own cultural signatures to create products that are fresh, enigmatic and elegant - or edgy, depending on your personal taste and style. Fashion designers and beauty professionals have had the opportunity to hone their skills and create a small, but enigmatic industry that includes a range of conceptual fashion pieces, haute couture and ready-to-wear clothing. Aobakwe Molosiwa’s label, Gilded Sands, incorporates ultra-feminine silhouettes and flowing fabrics to accentuate the female form, and complement the movements of the wearer; Fatima Mekgwe’s MTK Brands is fun, fresh, funky fashion for men, and she has an eye for simple shapes and bold colours; Lebo Merafhe of Di Monde Reign uses bright prints and juxtaposes them with clean lines and edgy cuts for the professional woman with an eye for African print fabric. Jewellery and accessory designers also use easily available materials to make objects that are unique and cutting edge. Lebang Setso Leather Crafts create handmade bags, clutches, laptop bags and other accessories that complement the styles of fashion lovers all over the country. Boitshoko Kebakile is the creative mind behind House of Divinity, which produces an array of handmade beaded jewellery for both eclectic and conservative tastes. A crop of unique, beautiful models have also emerged; they are the canvases onto which the designers and makeup artists project their innovative ideas. These lithe,
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angular beauties strut the runways of local fashion shows and have also made forays into other markets, where they have the chance to model the work of other African designers, flying the flag for Botswana’s beauty. One example of such a woman is Kaone Kario, whose career as a model has taken her from Gaborone to Cape Town and the United States of America. Rising model, Julia Tsile has enjoyed the opportunity to walk the runways of Botswana’s illustrious Colour in the Desert Fashion Week, as their
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Face, as well as walking for fashion weeks in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The rise of the street style blog has not escaped Batswana, and a number of stylist-bloggers have emerged as the documentarians of Batswana’s unique sense of style. Walking the streets of the different cities in the country is a treasure trove for these bloggers; we Batswana pride ourselves in being ‘well put together’; whether people are going to work or dressed casually, there is a real sense of
individuality that shines through in the way that we assemble our clothing to reflect our own sense of beauty and style - as well as keeping abreast of international fashion trends. The stylish duo, GaTsh Fros, have revolutionised the personal style-scape with their quirky, colourful fashion sense; and Liiqueriish also gives Batswana access to the most contemporary fashion trends, as well as featuring the unique dress sense of several higher profile local personalities.
What is interesting about this concentrated interest in personal style is that Batswana women in particular, have decided to embrace their natural beauty in greater numbers, sporting afros, plaits and braids which are a welcome addition to the beauty landscape in the country. These women have decided that their kinks and coils are a merit to them, and they relish the opportunity to exhibit their inborn splendour by wearing their hair out; they continue to push the boundaries of what it means to be beautiful.
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Colour in the Desert Fashion Week The second annual Colour in the Desert Fashion Week took place at Phakalane Golf Estate in Gaborone. The brainchild of Mpho Kuaho and Tsoseletso Magang, the event aims to bring together the talents of both local designers and pan African designers.
Aside from providing some exquisite visuals for fashion lovers, it also aims to push fashion as a business here in Botswana where it is still in its infancy. The show was produced by the extremely efficient and professional production team Umzingeli headed by Jan Malan, who is most known for his production work with M-Net Face of Africa, in conjunction with Andiswa Manxiwa, a well-known runway choreographer. Local models and international models based in South Africa walked the ramp in a mix of practical and high drama pieces by the picturesque pond just outside the Phakalane Golf Estate clubhouse. Swimwear was also featured this year as well as a line of leather accessories by local designer Lebang Setso. The local established designers that flaunted their talents included Delayna Scott, Lindiwe Keitz, Florence Radisweng, Lesedi Matlapeng, Makay,
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Sema Raditladi, Sweetie Lobelo, Thato Mokgadi, Lebang Setso and Theo Rags. Given that the theme was “Africa meets Botswana”, numerous pan African designers also showcased at the event including Gert Johan Coetzee, Mustafa Hasanali, Joyce Chimenye, Towani Clarke, Thula Sindi, Dax Martin, Taibo Bacar, Frank Osadi, Paledi Segapo, and Soucha. Entertainment was provided by Maxy Mmagauta, also known as the ‘Queen of Sands’; the young and talented rapper A.T.I; and one of the most gifted international choreographers from South Africa, Somizi Mohlonga. The entertainment was organised by Zen promotions which is undoubtedly one of the best production companies in Botswana. Young Designers The Young Designers competition 2012 was of a very high standard this year but there could only be one winner. Aobakwe Molosiwa, a very young and talented designer who studied his BA Honours degree in fashion at Linea Academy, walked away with the first place prize. His prize consisted of the following: • An internship with international established designer Gert Johan Coetzee. • 25,000 pula worth of prizes from the Guardian newspaper. • 100,000 pula grant from the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture. • A trip to showcase at Swahili Fashion Week 2012 in East Africa. Colour in the Deserts’ main aim is to advocate for the development of the arts, fashion, clothing and textile industry in Botswana. This was its second year running and it was bigger, better and attracted more viewers. It also helped create more awareness about Botswana fashion to the local and international community. Colour in the Desert attracted the likes of the world renowned “fashion angel” Anne Chapelle who came in and supported the initiative by sponsoring the Colour in the Desert campaign during the Gaborone Marathon. Anne Chapelle personally designed Colour in the Desert pure silk scarves and pure cotton scarves for that campaign while she was in Botswana. It was a humbling experience to watch her working through the design process to
the actual event, all the while ensuring that everything concerning the campaign was going smoothly. Another achievement for this year’s event was that it attracted the fashion publication Vogue Italia. They came and interviewed the organisers about the Colour in the Desert initiative. Colour in the Desert is bigger than all of us, it is the voice of the voiceless within the local fashion industry, a platform for local and regional creativity and is perfectly aligned with the Presidential Strategy 2012. A heartfelt thank-you goes to the sponsors who made it possible and to the organisers: fashion mogul Mpho Kuaho, business woman Tsoleletso Magang and the Botswana fashion ambassador Mothusi Lesolle.
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Issues Fashion Studio Issues Fashion Studio started in the backyard with one domestic straight machine and one domestic overlocker in 2003. While operating from home, our creations made it into an upmarket youth store called Y-clothing situated at Riverwalk Mall in Gaborone. That signified the beginning of great things for the studio.
Two years later, we were forced to look for a separate space for the business because the doorbell was constantly ringing and clients would always be walking in and out, even after hours. In 2004 the studio moved from home to Riverwalk Mall, one of the first upmarket malls in Gaborone. Issues Fashion Studio occupied a small space of about 50 square metres in a fabric store called Timba Trading owned by business mogul Dr Khan from the Khan family. Timba Trading was operated by his son Firos Khan at the time. The first time I approached him to request space in his store; I did not give him a chance to say no. In terms of how I was going to pay for the space, I had no clue; I just wanted the space and I knew deep in my heart that it was the right
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move for the business. I have never looked back. In 2006 I approached the Riverwalk Shopping Centre Management to make the necessary inquiries for an entry shop that had become available at the mall. I already had business relations with most of the shop owners in Riverwalk and I had already publicised my intention to occupy the new space. In 2007, I left Timba Trading and moved to the new entry shop which was about 60 square meters in the Riverwalk mall. That same year, another great opportunity presented itself and I took it. While my staff members were packing to move upstairs to the new shop, I was busy working on the set of the movie “The No. 1 ladie’s Detective Agency” as a wardrobe assistant.
I took the opportunity to learn more about fashion in the film industry. When my duties on set ended, I returned to work fulltime with new ideas to inject into my business. It soon flourished and 60 square meters became too small a space. I heard about new factory shells being built, handed in my proposal and the rest is history. Issues PTY is currently occupying 500 square meters factory space which can be doubled to 1000 square meters. The fashion studio expanded into a factory, ready and able to produce clothing such as corporate wear, uniforms, commercial clothing and high fashion in large quantities. At the moment we supply Options, a very well-known fashion store specialising in commercial clothing with more than 10 outlets. Our exclusive brand Jophes 0267 which is very limited can be found in all the upmarket shopping malls: Riverwalk Game City and Sebele Center. Our second brand that we supply is Issues which can be found in all the Options stores around the country.
This brand is street wear, very cutting edge and fun. Issues Fashion Studio in Riverwalk is now Issues Designer Collection where we sell high quality couture wear such as high fashion gowns and cocktail dresses. The prices of the designer collection are slightly different because they are individual pieces and very exclusive. Issues PTY is a business that represents passion, patience, hard work and a willingness to better myself. A true reflection of the quote: “If you are capable and you know it, go and get it�.
P.O Box 4552 Riverwalk Tel/fax: +267 3187792 Cell no.: 72595372 Director & Head Designer: Mpho Kuaho Issues Factory: Plot no 61128 Block 8 Industrial, type C4 Issues Designer Collection Riverwalk Mall Shop no. 10B (upstairs) Best of Botswana
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Mafia Soul Clothing
About Us MAFIA SOUL CLOTHING is a Botswana born urban lifestyle brand which is involved in the retail industry with a primary focus on urban wear of various brands – mostly imported from abroad with some sourced locally. Mafia Soul Clothing was created through a huge influence of the Hip Hop culture which is now a global billion-dollar industry. The Mafia Soul Clothing brand has a rich history since it was started from the streets of Gaborone and built its name across the youth market; crafted to fill the void left by major retailers. It has been established since 2001 and currently operates five retail outlets in the capital city of Botswana’s major shopping centres such as Riverwalk, Gamecity, Rail Park and Airport Junction Centre – as well as slowly building its mark in Johannesburg South Africa. Products Mafia Soul Clothing sells quite a number of cutting-edge products which are of high quality and sourced mainly from the USA, Germany, South Africa and Botswana. The brands which Mafia Soul focuses on are internationally renowned unique brands in ranges from t-shirts, jeans, sneakers, caps, watches and sunglasses. Mafia
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Soul Clothing has very humble beginnings with selling clothes on the streets from a backpack to anyone willing to buy exclusive urban clothing. The products are carefully selected from international brand outlets to meet client needs. Mafia Soul Clothing’s history in the urban wear industry has gone beyond average and has been consistent over the years. The Mafia Soul Clothing brand has been created to be one of the strongest, most trustworthy competitive entities locally and regionally. It offers the best of the best in terms of quality products which are at par with international standards. The stores carry brands such as Adidas Originals, Nike, Vans, New Era, and Casio G- Shock Time Pieces; and are also bringing a lot more emerging contemporary brands in the forever evolving marketplace. These contemporary brands are Rock Smith, Trukfit, Crooks and Castles, 10 Deep, Streetwise, Obey, Supra,
and Radii Footwear, to mention a few. One of the key goals is to offer the clients in this side of the world the latest fashion trends in the market. Mafia Soul Clothing has now created its own clothing line under the parent name, which has lines such as Mafia Soul Clothing and REP GABZ (Represent Gaborone), which produce t-shirts, caps, sweaters etc. REP GABZ, which means represent Gaborone, has taken off pretty well and continues to grow. Target Market Mafia Soul clothing has a certain target market which is sophisticated, complex and includes mostly youth aged between 16 and 35, with a certain number of clients not within that age bracket who have love for what Mafia Soul Clothing provides. Most of the market has disposable income. Urban wear demand is growing globally and in Botswana and the southern region, Mafia
Soul Clothing is one the players to serve the target market. Conclusion Mafia Soul Clothing is one of Botswana’s future brands to reckon with and comprises of highly motivated individuals who are committed to achieving. The business is still under expansion and various factors are taken under consideration, such as the marketing strategy and establishing strong partnerships. The Mafia Soul team is committed to developing a brand which will be consistent, generational, and spread to other parts of the globe.
Mafia Soul Clothing A Division of Soul Fashion Group Tel: +267 73 666 666/ +267 71 822 997 www.facebook.com/mafiasoulBotswana Twitter: www.twitter.com/mafiasoulstores www.mafiasoulstores.com
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Urban Space Urban Space is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Gaborone. The minute one enters the space, they are confronted with the aroma of incense and enveloped in calming, softly playing music.
Urban Space offers a variety of services and treatments; all with a customer-centric approach that places their clients’ relaxation experience first. A handful of friendly, experienced staff tends to the needs of Urban Space clients, performing flawless manicures and pedicures including clear, colour and French tips; as well as specialised paraffin pedicures and bio-sculpture gel overlays. Urban Space also offers a variety of facial treatments; clients are able to have a skin consultation which aids in identifying the unique composition of their skin. Armed with this knowledge, they are then able to choose from a range of professional facials and skin treatments that bring out the best in their complexion. Quality is paramount at Urban Space. Both Nimue Skin Technology and Guinot Professional skin care products are used at the spa; clients are guaranteed a treatment that is the best for their skin type, with products that have been specifically formulated to target specific needs, such as hyperpigmentation, acne and ageing skin. Another of the delights of the Urban Space experience includes massages, which range from a timely twenty-minute neck
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and shoulder massage to an hour-long full body, herbal massage. If one has the time, they can also indulge in either a half or full day spa, with an option for tailor-made packages which include facials, manicures, body massages and grooming treatments for men. The half and full day spa treatments are inclusive of a healthy lunch, which is provided by the Urban Space food and snack bar. Clients are able to use the garden for events such as baby showers and hen parties, in the spirit of strengthening bonds through joint experiences. Also in the vein of shared activity bringing people together, Urban Space offers a couple’s massage, where couples can relax in a shared room, indulging in facials, massages and a variety of other beauty, grooming and relaxation experiences. Companies can also take out corporate group packages for their clients and staff;
to give them the gift of relaxation; a reprieve from their exertions in the office, extending a gesture that shows that their work and business are appreciated and valued. Urban Space was created to provide a place where Batswana could go to experience the best service in the beauty industry, with special care taken to cater to clients’ specific needs. One of the secrets of wellness and beauty is a relaxed body and
a tranquil mind; and time spent at Urban Space is beautifully and well spent.
Plot 2658, Kgori Close Extension 9 Tel: +267 318 7434 Cell: +267 725 26944 +267 717 99279 noelene.urbanspace@gmail.com Best of Botswana
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Articulate Image & Lifestyle Consultancy We offer personal training sessions and boot camps under the Lifestyle Umbrella. We also host wellness workshops for groups and corporates. Image consultancy involves: advice on image, shopping and style for individuals, also hosting corporates. We specialise in personal branding!
We also have an image parlour that offers services including nails, hands and feet; waxing; make up; and massages. We stock Bio Sculpture Gel for nails. The greatest wealth is health Articulate Lifestyle Consultancy encompasses all aspects of physical and nutritional well-being to create a balanced life of happiness whilst achieving incredible physical results. We understand the strains, stresses and vices of modern society and the effects these have on lifestyles. We offer a truly integrated approach – a fusion of scientific, spiritual, teamwork and personalised attention - to combat these effects. Articulate provides all our clients with an approach that allows for a totally individual, tailored approach to health, well-being, body transformation and peak physical performance.
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Lifestyle consultancy includes: • thorough assessment and analysis of your current lifestyle; • development of a personalised training and healthy eating plan; • detox sessions; • personalised training sessions; • progress monitoring and evaluation. Why Style Consultation? This consultation will change the way you look at yourself and clothes forever. It will: • stop you wasting money on clothes you rarely wear; • eliminate guesswork when shopping; • make shopping quicker and less stressful; • make your daily visit to your wardrobe one filled with inspiration instead of frustration; • increase your self-esteem and confidence; • have others noticing the positive change in your appearance.
You will receive a style manual that is: • Personalised: made just for you. Everything about you is taken into consideration from your height, age, weight, problem area, vertical body type, horizontal body type, scale, face shape, shoulders, neck length and more. All the information is then combined to give you a clear picture of your needs. Recommendations are colour coded for easy identification. • Comprehensive: illustrations by categories that cover every item you place on your body from underwear to coats, swimwear to evening attire, business-wear to weekend casual, eyewear to hairstyles and shoes. • Accurate: researched constantly, ‘Your Personal Style Solutions’ program combines a figure analysis and a style selector to ensure you get the most accurate information possible. • Up-to-date: re-assessed and re-illustrated regularly to ensure it is in line with today’s current looks. • Unique: No other image program comes close to this one. • Easy to use and understand: no difficult concepts or terminology. Why Image Consultancy? Image Consultancy consists of wardrobe and shopping advice. By improving your image you will: • experience an increase in your selfconfidence and self-esteem; • improve your prospects for career advancement;
• enjoy new and exciting social and romantic interactions; • shop in half the time and with much greater accuracy; • create a wardrobe of clothes that excite and inspire you. Style is not about beauty, age, size, wealth or even fashion, it’s about knowing and respecting yourself for who you are and having the confidence to discover and project your unique image in a consistent and confident manner. Wardrobe Consultancy We will assist you: • to clean out the existing clutter; • to organise what you have left; • to coordinate clothes which will mix and match easily and effortlessly to meet your lifestyle needs; • to determine what items needs to be purchased to fill in any gaps. Shopping consultation Shop Smart Services (ideal for those who need some guidance to find their own dressing style): • expands your wardrobe into an efficient one where you can dress for any occasion in an instant, and never look the same; • a practical experience to learn how to coordinate your clothing items to maximise your wardrobe; • essential to truly re-invent yourself; • ideal for those too busy to find the time to shop.
P.O. Box 45911 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 71327755 / 72174334 Email: Articulate@gmail.com Best of Botswana
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Woodmed Medical Supplies Your partners in saving lives.
Woodmed (Pty) Ltd supplies a comprehensive range of medical consumables and equipment for all medical, emergency, first aid, laboratory and training requirements. We also provide installation, commissioning and calibration of some medical and laboratory equipment. The company’s core business is the supply and provision of medical consumables, medical equipment, surgical instruments, paramedic and medical kits, training resources to Africa’s emergency services, medics and other health professionals such as first aid trainers, private ambulance providers and nursing homes. Woodmed has built its business, and indeed its reputation, on a combination of quality products, customer service and value for money. It prides itself on always putting customers first and supplying a quality product and service at a competitive price. Woodmed has many customers mainly
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within the private sector, but increasingly in the government and public domain. Some of our clients are Debswana Mine, BCL Mine, Botash, African Copper Mine, Tati Nickel, Kbl, Gph, Bokamoso Hospital and Sekgoma Hospital. Mission: Our mission is to provide the best, up-to-date medical and laboratory supplies to every medical institution with speed, proficiency and expertise: - creating a healthier nation. Vision: To become the leading medical supplier and provider within southern Africa with established offices in each of the region’s countries. Values: Our clients, Quality Service, Timeous Delivery and providing world-class products are our core values and by sticking to these values we establish ourselves as the best.
WOODMED medical supplies
Medical and Laboratory Supplies • Hospital Furniture • Physiotherapy equipment • Dental Supplies • Healthcare • Emergency Care Supplies • Medical Clothing • Surgical Instruments • Medical Consumables • Life-Science Laboratory equipment • Glassware • Laboratory Consumables • Laboratory Wear • Laboratory Chemicals • Various Instrument installations and servicing. After Sales Support We provide full back-up support on all instruments we supply. We have a welltrained technical team to install, service and train on all equipment supplied.
Tel: +267 318 6283 Fax: +267 318 6284 Skype: godfrey15 Email: woodmed1@gmail.com sales@woodmed.co.bw accounts@woodmed.co.bw Website: www.woodmed.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 5 Training and Education
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Botswana Accountancy College (BAC) Until recently, capital and financial inputs into education by our government were probably viewed as a cost in the same way as other government expenditures contained in the budget, perhaps with less attention paid to the investment in education. The position has however reversed in that the return on investment in education has now become an area of focus.
Structural reform in higher institutions of learning globally The national higher education agenda globally has entered a new phase, prefaced by the overarching imperatives of structural changes and reform within several economies around the world. Botswana was equally affected with profound consequences at a national level, including the debilitating effects of industrial relations. The by-product of all the global phenomena was the introduction of structural changes and reform. Managing the change has been an arduous challenge for the education sector in Botswana around which all key stakeholders had to rally in support of the industry which was under siege. By contrast, as a sector it accounts for a lot of factors at stake which have a long term generational impact.
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For its part, the industry had to endure internal competition among the service providers in the presence of blatant uncertainty occasioned by recessionary influences within the wider economy. The Botswana context of skills capacity building BAC seamlessly links its business to the National Vision 2016 and pivots its strategy around the national priorities of skills development and capacity building in line with the “new order” of ‘the knowledge based economy’. Within the transformation process, the BAC asserts itself not only, as a college transitioning into a business school but rather as a ‘center of excellence’. Sector reform is a catalyst for competition and a trigger for differentiation strategies among the key industry players. All of the
competition triggers are set in the context of the skills development needs on the one hand and national skills capacity building on the other. The industry fundamentals, both at primary and secondary levels are edging towards an economy gradually getting complex. By contrast, the human capital competencies are not keeping pace with the change momentum. BAC is at the center of providing the solution in this regard. Attributes of the best of breed To be the “Best of Botswana�, the college is characterised by the quality of its programmes and their relevance to the wider economy today and into the future. Importantly, its graduates must be equipped with the sorts of competencies and skills sets which position them as future leaders and effective participators in wealth creation. BAC has provided the highest quality business education in Accountancy, Computing, Business Management and financial services related programmes since 1996. It has become a provider of choice for many students wishing to pursue careers in finance and computing. Quality is therefore pivotal in making these choices. Evidence based differentiation In communicating its value proposition, the college ascribes its core messages to evidence based differentiators and its
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footprint in the market place. Importantly, its global competitiveness sets it apart from most of its competitors. Some of the commonly used phrases attributed to its students are, “focused”; “employment ready”; ... The institution welcomes students from the whole of Southern Africa, offering globally recognised and accredited professional qualifications, and in turn, promoting Botswana’s standing as a knowledge-based society. As an institution it has remained focused in its ‘promise’. It has grown from strength to strength and has pushed the envelope as it meets and exceeds expectations of stakeholders. In the process, the college has built a formidable reputation which is currently a household name at home and internationally. It has also created for itself, an enviable position as a niche in what it does best – entrepreneurship and innovation driven learning. In this regard, BAC has embarked upon rebranding initiatives, which will decisively position itself as a reputable business school of the future. Rebranding initiatives In Early 2013 BAC will transition into a new phase of operations to be communicated via an extensive rebranding initiatives. Consistent with the national focus on economic diversification, the new brand for the institution will reflect the strategic objectives of the institution and will assist
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in positioning the institution as Botswana’s leading Business School. Several aspects of the re-designed brand epitomise the surge which now requires to be encased in the ‘new generation’ of thinking in the knowledge industry. Windows of opportunity Destination management has become an area of focus for Botswana as it creates several windows of opportunity for economic diversification. The college has rolled out a plan to leverage international ratings which our country has enjoyed over a number of years. This can only be good for business. It links well with skills capacity building and entrepreneurship development; there is an opportunity therefore to seize the moment. In its suite of offerings, BAC has now commenced the delivery of Travel &Tourism Management programmes at degree level. Not far behind are the Hospitality type programmes all of which will consist of a self-contained but integrated cluster of skills development programmes in this area. Tourism offers a possible solution to economic diversification. The college operations in the north of Botswana will ‘unlock’ skills development opportunities in this sector. The “game plan” • Positioning as a regional player in the tertiary education landscape • Capacity to appeal to the discerning local and international student • Customer Focus embedded in the “student experience” • Investing in people to offer industry relevant programmes • Developing and growing strong links with key Strategic Partners With the game plan outlined, students are assured to become beneficiaries of a modern setting in the learning environment - benchmarked against the best in the international tertiary education space. In this regard, the ‘student experience’ is a reality for most of our students. Blended learning (learning by doing) becomes part of best practice. The college is a solutions provider BAC is relied upon by its key stakeholders including the Ministry of Education and Skills Development from whom it receives full support, to provide solutions. The spectrum of the solutions is wide but must nevertheless include making a contribution in changing the quality of life of its citizenry through a better use of knowledge. The corporate culture of the institution, and its strong leadership style, has all the hallmarks of an organisation which people simply want to be a part of - from students, academics and other partner organisations. The college is driven by talent and the belief
in one’s self. The virtue of teamwork could not thrive better. Rounded business leaders emerge out of BAC, who subsequently make their mark as captains of industry and ambassadors of the reputable name of BAC. Reputaion built on respect by the international community Arguably one of only very few tertiary institution of its kind in the Southern Africa region, BAC offers a differentiated business model underpinned by its diversified suite of courseware in its portfolio of offerings. Embedded in its value systems is the culture of quality which in many ways enables the college to gain the respect it currently holds. Although it is a quasi public sector organisation, BAC ‘behaves and thinks’ like a privately owned business. In other words, its private sector ethos accounts for its success. Today, the college prides itself in a number of international awards conferred by global organisations examples of which are the “Platinum” and “CIMA Learning Quality Partner” status awarded by ACCA and CIMA respectively. Such corporate performance badges confirm BAC’s pedigree and footprint
as an institution that ‘acts locally and thinks globally’. The BAC offering of programmes range from internationally recognised accountancy qualifications, undergraduate honors degree programmes and masters degrees delivered in partnership with two U.K. universities. Importantly however, through blended learning instruments, all undergraduates are mentored to develop entrepreneurial instincts, thereby regarding themselves as providers of employment rather than job seekers. Talent management The significant investment in talent is part of the hallmarks of its differentiation. In its team of professionals is the highest caliber of skills sets. BAC’s outlook is to develop people not only to be employment ready, but also to create wealth, hence its emphasis on entrepreneurship development in its academic programming.
For more information, visit www.bac.ac.bw or email enquiries@bac.ac.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana Examinations Council (BEC) BEC host 30th Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) Conference.
AEAA Conference Delegates
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Botswana Examinations Council (BEC) hosted the 30th Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) Conference in the capital city of Gaborone from 6-10 August 2012. The Conference attracted more than 300 delegates from across Africa and from as far as the United States of America, United Kingdom and Germany; and discussed more than 50 research papers on educational assessment. Targeted participants for the conference were educational assessment practitioners, academics and scholars from Africa and the world at large. The 2012 Conference theme: “Reforms in Educational Assessment for Regional Development” has been articulated in recognition of the critical role that transformative education plays in national and regional development. When officially opening the conference, Botswana’s Assistant Minister of Education
and Skills Development, Honourable Keletso Rakhudu, stated that Education is a critical factor to the success and sustainability of African Economies and that, while education is a primary tool for economic enhancement, quality in education is even more important. The Minister also pointed out that assessment facilitates dialogue among educators, as well as enhancing professional skills and assisting schools and learning institutions to strengthen learning across the curriculum. Educational Assessment, as an essential part of the education process, has to be innovatively reformed in order to address emerging issues; credit crunch, reforms in the curriculum and the inclusion of a widely diverse candidature, among others, hence the need to move from the traditional to more novel perspectives in assessment theory and practice. AEAA is mandated to hold annual research conferences that serve as platforms for the exchange of innovative ideas on examinations and assessment issues. The Conference sub-themes were: 1. Innovative Approaches to Competencybased assessment 2. Equity, access and fairness in assessment for quality education 3. Assessment of soft skills in public examinations 4. Application of information and communication technology in assessment 5. Application of item response theory in assessment 6. Comparability of assessments standards across diverse regional contexts 7. Perspectives of reforms in assessment 8. Innovative assessments methodologies and tools for learners with special needs Meanwhile, at the end of the Conference on 10 August 2012, BEC Executive Secretary Dr. Serara Moahi was appointed as the new AEAA President, taking over from Mr. Paul Wasanga, the Kenyan National Examinations Council Chief Executive Officer who has been at the helm of the Association for a year. Botswana Examinations Council runs the following Examinations: Internal Examinations • Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). • Junior Certificate Examination (JCE).
Mr. Paul Wasanga, Hon. Keletso Rakhudu and BEC Chairperson Dr. Joseph Tsonope
• Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE). External Examinations For those who never say it is enough in their quest for education, BEC provides testing/ examinations services for international testing agencies or Examination Boards such as: • Educational Testing Service (USA): -- SAT - Scholastic Aptitudes Tests -- TOEFL - Test of English as a foreign language -- TWE - Test of written English -- GRE - Graduate Record Tests -- TSE - Test of spoken English • American College Testing Program • University of London Examinations Board: -- Diploma Courses -- Degree Courses -- Post Graduate Example of programs: Law, Information Systems, Health and Environmental Courses. • Edexcel International (A wing of the University of London): -- GCE ‘O’, ‘AS’ and ‘A’ level -- GCSE -- IGCSE • ACER – Australian Council for Education Research
Mr. Wasanga draping BEC Executive Secretary Dr. Serara Moahi with the AEAA Presidency mantle
Botswana Examinations Council Contact Details: Plot 54864, KT Motsete Rd Private Bag 0070 Gaborone Botswana Tel: +267 3650700 Fax: +267 3185011 www.bec.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana College of Distance and Open Learning (Bocodol) Botswana College of Distance and Open Learning (BOCODOL) was established through an Act of Parliament in 1998 and started operating as a semi-autonomous institution in December 2000.
Values • Your satisfaction is our pride (Customer focus) • Equitable access for all (inclusiveness) • We pull together (Teamwork) • Technology is our engine of success (Technology-oriented) • Innovation is our key to success (Innovation) • We are business-orientated in approach (Entrepreneurship) ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES School Equivalency Programmes • Junior Certificate (JC) • Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education (BGCSE) Certificate Programmes • Small-scale Business Management (SSBM) • Certificate in Distance Education Practitioner (CDEP)
The institution’s mandate is to extend education and training to out-of-school youth and adults using Open and Distance Learning (ODL) methodologies. BOCODOL’s offerings include: School Equivalency (Junior Certificate and Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education), Vocational; Management; and Professional programmes at Certificate, Diploma and Degree levels.
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Vision ‘The institution of choice for flexible and lifelong learning’ Mission ‘To provide quality, innovative and sustainable open and distance learning programmes and services to empower clients with knowledge, attitudes and skills for entrepreneurship and global competitiveness’
Diploma Programmes • Diploma in Human Resources Management (DHRM) • Diploma in Business Management (DBM) • Diploma in Integrated Early Childhood Development (IECD) • Diploma in Primary Education (DPE) Degree Programmes • Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resources and Industrial Relations) • Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship (BBE)
bridging the education gap
Post-Graduate Certificate • Practitioner Research Evaluation and Skills Training (PREST) Co-Curricular Activities As an ODL institution, this means that learners study from their different localities. Other learners would be full-time employees who would not have time for involvement in co-curricular activities. So the College’s learners do not participate in any co-curricular activities. Facilities BOCODOL has its Headquarters in Gaborone and Regional Centres in Francistown, Gaborone, Kang, Maun and Palapye. Due to its nature of imparting education, BOCODOL uses already existing government/public infrastructure as its study/learning centres all over the country. All in all, the College has around 105 study centres. The BOCODOL Library and Information Service has grown and continues to grow to aid College programmes. The Library at Headquarters provides strategic leadership and coordinates the development and effective functioning of libraries at the regional centres. The library is fully automated and uses L4U library management systems. International and Local Awards The College has won many awards, among them the Commonwealth of Learning Excellence Award in 2006. Academic Calendar Semester 1: August – December Semester 2: January – June
Registration Procedure The registration procedures vary according to programmes but the learners have to fill in forms and present them to the College offices together with the required documents. In the case of registration fees, these are deposited in either the College’s banks or at the Post Office, depending on the programme and the receipts presented to the College upon registration. A New Dawn: Bocodol’s Transformation into an Open Unversity In 2008, Government approved a Tertiary Education Policy (2008) Rec. 6 (vii) that: ‘A university or institute of ODL should be established as a separate institution dedicated to tertiary level ODL either as a new institution or through the development of BOCODOL with a mandate expanded beyond its current remit to embrace tertiary education’. Following the development and approval of the Human Development Strategy (NHRD 2009 - 2022), the BOCODOL Board found the need to support the national desire for selfsufficiency in human resource development by expanding its mandate to transform into an Open University. This would bring a lot of benefits, among which would be the following: • Provision of capacity for prompt response to labour market requirements for in-service and continuing professional development programmes. • The ability to develop, offer and accredit university-level programmes independently.
The decision to transform into an Open University was followed by an Organisational Review in 2009/10 and this resulted in a developed transformational framework which was approved by the Board and the Ministry of Education in 2010/2011. The Ministry of Education & Skills Development in collaboration with BOCODOL thereafter undertook stakeholder consultations around the country which yielded massive support for the transformation. The whole process culminated into Presidential Directive CAB 37(a) Dec 2011 which approved BOCODOL’s transformation into an Open University. The BOCODOL leadership in its 50th Board meeting approved the 2012 – 2016 Strategic Plan that outlines the transformation path. The leadership also developed and approved the organisational structure and budget in line with the transformation. The fully-fledged Open University is expected to be in place by 2016.
BOCODOL Headquarters are located in Block 6 at the Junction of Garamotlhose and Tumediso Motsete Plot 39972, Gaborone Private Bag BO187 Bontleng, Gaborone Tel: +267 3646000 Fax: +267 3181473 Email: enquiries@bocodol.ac.bw www.bocodol.ac.bw Best of Botswana
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Livingstone Kolobeng College “The best of Botswana traditional values in a modern learning environment�.
Livingstone Kolobeng College is a coeducational independent international secondary school and junior college that is committed to providing its students with quality education and globally recognised credentials at a cost that is affordable to working families. Named in tribute to BotswanaÂ’s first academic institution, which was established in 1847 by the famous missionary Dr. David Livingstone, in partnership with local Batswana, Livingstone Kolobeng College honours the legacy of its original namesake by combining the time honoured moral values of hard work and dedication with a cosmopolitan outlook that will prepare its students with the skills needed to cope with rapidly evolving global standards. The Livingstone Kolobeng College campus is located on just over five hectares in Block 8, which is the Diamond Centre and ICT and Innovation Hub of Gaborone. It is also conveniently within easy reach of most
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of the city s residential neighbourhoods. The Mission of the College is to promote excellence in academic, physical and moral education. The College further aims to: • Provide the highest standard of education to all of its students. • Create an enabling environment that allows for each student to reach his or her full potential. • Maintain a learning culture based on love, honour and respect towards all. • Value the uniqueness of each individual recognising that all students possess different intellectual abilities, skills and capabilities that should be developed to their full potential. • Foster competitive spirit, self-reliance and initiative in all pupils. • Provide a firm but fair system of discipline. • Cultivate a sense of cooperation, mutual respect and friendship between staff and students. • Develop all aspects of a child s life: academic, spiritual, cultural, social and physical so that the child may become a responsible adult. • Encourage students to be concerned for the welfare of others in the community and develop community responsibility by being involved in community projects and activities. The above aims are driven by the College s management team, headed by its Principal, Mrs. Nilima Bakaya, and Managing Director, Mr. Garry Wills, who possess a wealth of collective experience in teaching, and administration of educational institutions in Botswana and internationally. The Management of the College is further overseen by the College s Board. Courses and Curricula Multi-cultural, non-sectarian and international in its outlook, the College is a unified Secondary School offering classes from Form 1 (Year 8) through to ‘A’ levels. As an accredited member of University of Cambridge Local Examination Syndicate (UCLES), the College is internationally certified as an approved Oxford, Cambridge, and Royal Society of the Arts (OCR) examinations centre offering Cambridge examinations at Checkpoint IGCSE and A level. The College’s ‘A’-Level programme
offers Cambridge AS (Part 1) along with Diploma (Part 2) standards. In implementing its Cambridge curricula the College is focused on preparing students for high quality tertiary institutions, as virtually all graduates go on to further studies. In this context, in addition to academic preparation the College has an active career guidance programme in which teachers work closely with students to identify and develop their strengths for specific long-term goals. The College thus offers a full academic, sporting and co-curricular programme, which
includes the following courses leading to the following examination: FORM 1 - 2: English, Mathematics, Setswana, French, Combined Science, History, Geography, Economics, Accounts, Business Studies, Agriculture, Art & Design, Computer Awareness, Design & Technology and Physical Education. FORM 3: English, Mathematics, Setswana, French, Biology, Development Studies, Chemistry, Physics, Agriculture, Geography, Art & Design, Computer Studies, Business
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Studies, Accounting, History, English Literature, Economics, Additional Mathematics, Design & Technology and Physical Education. FORM 4 - 5: English, English Literature, Mathematics; Biology, Economics, Physics, Geography, Development Studies, Chemistry, History, Agriculture, Accounting, Design & Technology, Setswana, French, , Computer Studies, Business Studies, Art & Design, Physical Education AS and A LEVEL: English, English Literature, French, French Literature, Accounting,
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Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Business Studies, Biology, Economics, Physics, Geography, Chemistry, History, Art and Design, Computing and Design and Technology. In its seven years of existence, the institution has managed to establish itself as a powerhouse in various sporting activities. The school offers activities like rugby, soccer, athletics, cricket, softball, tennis, basket ball, netball, volley ball, and badminton to all students at competitive levels. Rugby and Soccer have actually gone on to make the school proud by winning national
championships in the country. The rigorous training system used ensures greater success for those students who pursue any sporting careers after high school. The students’ artistic abilities are also nurtured through the institution’s vibrant core curricular activities environment. Students can participate in the annual Poetry Evening held in the second term where they celebrate creativity and the freedom of expression. Debate also offers a platform for critical thinking to students and fosters confidence which is much needed at Tertiary level and in today’s corporate world. The following clubs have also made a big impact on the school scene; Chess, Computers, Traditional Dance, Conservation, Maths, Monopoly, Darts and Swimming.
On the social responsibility front, LKC has been very active in mobilising and donating funds and goods to institutions like the Gamodubu Children’s home and Tlamelo Rehabilitation Centre. The school also donated some money to Amantle Montsho when she visited the students for a motivational appearance and talk after winning Botswana the first ever gold medal at the World Athletics Competitions in 2011. This has been used as an important tool to inculcate a sense of responsibility and compassion in our students.
The school’s infrastructure has grown tremendously with two new buildings Sechele and Matthews being added to the campus’s space. Sechele Hall boasts of an Audio – Visual Centre, a well stocked library for the students’ research, seven classrooms, a modern gym and state of the art changing rooms which cater for the school and community at large. The school also has six up to date science laboratories and three computer labs equipped with modern LCD screen computers.
Matthews building, which is the latest addition to the burgeoning campus, has added eight newly furnished classrooms and eight staff offices. The extension building has become a base for form ones in the school’s quiet Northern side. There are also modern tennis, basketball, volleyball and netball courts.
www.lkc.ac.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana College of Agriculture
Student Facilities The College has a wide range of facilities for students. Hostels The College has five hundred and twentyeight (528) beds on campus. Each hostel block has a common room where students can relax and watch TV or play one of the various in-door sporting activities. Refectory The College has two refectories where student breakfast, lunch are dinner is prepared and served. Health The College has a 24 hours operating clinic which provides medical services in two consultation rooms. Cases requiring specialised medical attention are referred to other health facilities. Recreation The College has a Student Centre which consists of among others,the gymnasium, student bar and a multipurpose hall. There is also provision for outdoor activities, such as tennis, volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball, rugby and various athletic games.
College History The Botswana College of Agriculture (BCA) was enacted with a parliamentary act NO.9, effected May 31st. Its objective is to serve the people of Botswana through excellence in teaching, learning and training, research and development in the science and practice of agriculture. The aim is to promote agricultural development and production in Botswana and the Southern African region. BCA took over all the assets, including students and staff of the former Botswana Agricultural College, (BAC). BAC was formerly established in 1967 at Content Farm, Sebele, 12 kilometers north of the capital city Gaborone, when the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) decided to transfer the Certificate in Agriculture Programme which had been offered since 1959 at
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Mahlapye. BAC was formally abolished in 1991 when act No.9 came into effect. BCA is a body corporate and hence a parastatal under the Ministry of Agriculture and is an associate institution of the University of Botswana (UB). As an associate institution of UB, BCA offers UB degree and higher diploma programmes in Agricultural Sciences, while it is responsible on its own for short courses offered by its Centre for In-service and Continuing Education (CICE). Research BCA conducts research on its own or in collaboration with other national and international organisations in the field of agriculture and related sciences. It also stimulates and promotes interests in agricultural and rural developments.
Library The College Library is an academic agricultural library which maintains a wide range of materials in agriculture and related fields. The library is a depository for publications of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). The Library is also the National Centre for the Question and Answer Service (QAS). There is a study area with a sitting capacity of up to 300 patrons at any given time and a late night study area for BCA students. The library is fully computerised and material can be searched over the internet at http://host6. bca.bw. At present the library holdings stands at 24,000 records, consisting of books, bound journals, FAO materials, audio visual materials, audio cassettes and compact discs. There are twelve computer workstations, two dedicated to the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) and The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL) and the rest for accessing Internet and word processing. TEEAL is a full text stand alone database which offers a collection of the most important agricultural journals in the world.
Student Enrolment (August 2012) Total enrolment is 1523 students; 457 of whom are females and 751 males. There are 209 944 BSc and 55 MSc. students, respectively. Academic Programmes Certificate programmes: Duration 6 months Meat Industry Training Institute (MITI) Certificate in Meat Inspection
An Invitation by the Principal Dear Prospective Student I would like to thank you for showing interest in Botswana College of Agriculture (BCA). BCA is going through an exciting period of transformation with a vision of evolving into an agricultural university of international repute. This vision is set to make BCA a tertiary institution of choice in the region for training in agriculture. The College emphasizes innovation in teaching methods and research. Recently, the College expanded its teaching facilities, ICT infrastructure, student accommodation, and acquired state of the art research equipment in order to ensure the quality of the programmes offered as well as increase access to education. Therefore, as you explore your options for higher education, I extend my invitation to you, to seriously consider enrolling at BCA, to join a friendly community that will truly lay a foundation on which to anchor your career in agriculture. Dr. Ricks Chabo
Online/Electronic Databases The library subscribes to a number of agricultural related online resources that complement the library’s print collection. The following online databases can be accessed from the library link at: http//host6.bca.bw • • • • • •
EBSCO Host AGRICOLA WebSPIRS Bio one E- journals FAO magazines Encyclopaedia Britannica
Higher Diploma Duration: 3 years/6 semesters • Higher Diploma in Agriculture • Higher Diploma in Animal Health and • Production • Higher Diploma Forestry and Range • Ecology Bachelors Degree Programmes Duration: 4 years/8 semesters • BSc in Agriculture • BSc in Agricultural Education • BSc in Animal Science • BSc in Crop Science • BSc in Agricultural Mechanization • BSc in Soil and Water Conservation • Engineering • BSc in Food Science and Technology • BSc in Agricultural Economics Master of Science Degree Programmes Duration: 2 years full-time /3 years part-time • MSc in Agricultural Education • MSc in Animal Science • MSc in Crop Science • MSc in Agricultural Engineering Student Enterprise Projects The Agriprenuership project is aimed at equipping agricultural graduates with practical and entrepreneurial skills in agriculture for self-employment. Consulting Services In 2007, the College registered a consultancy company known as BCA Consult Pty (Ltd). The company carries out consultancies in agriculture and allied fields to generate income. Linkages The College has links with local, regional and international organizations for research collaboration and service delivery in the agricultural supply chain. Examples are the Botswana Horticulture Council, BAMLINK, INTSORMIL.
Development During NDP 9 the College spent 53 million Pula on new facilities. The new buildings included an office block, hostel block, warden’s flats, seven laboratories, student entertainment Centre, kitchen and dining block, seminar room, a resource centre and some alterations to existing buildings. The expanded facilities have enhanced teaching, research and the welfare of staff and students.
Contact Information: Botswana College of Agriculture Content Farm, Sebele, Gaborone Botswana Tel: +267 365 0100 Fax: +267 392 8753 info@bca.bw www.bca.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 6 Investment
Botswana Investment and Trade Centre on:
Tel: +267 3633400 / 3605000 / 3601435 • Fax: +267 3181941 / 3913075 / 3971539 FORMER BEDIA OFFICE: Plot 28 Matsitama Road, Gaborone, Botswana FORMER IFSC OFFICE: Fairgrounds Office Park, O Machel Drive, Gaborone, Botswana
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Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) The BITC is ready for all investors searching for a competitive location in Africa to launch their business into the rest of Africa.
As the first point of contact, BITC is Botswana’s primary Investment and Trade Promotion Authority that serves as the focal point for investment, export development and nation branding for the country. BITC is a service excellence driven organisation that puts international best practices ahead of all its operations to ensure global competitiveness. The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre was established as an entity under the Botswana Government Rationalisation Strategy of Certain Parastatal and Public Entities of 2009. This strategy was developed by the Public Enterprise Evaluation and Privatisation Agency (PEEPA). The strategy required for services that were offered by former Botswana International Financial Services Centre (BIFSC) and former Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority (BEDIA) to be restructured/merged and offered by a new entity, named Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC). The merger came into effect on April 1, 2012. The focus of this strategy was on reducing public expenditure and improving cost efficiencies. It was also geared towards
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improving the functioning, efficiency and policy coordination of national investment promotion and export development activities. Core mandate BITC offers Business Facilitation and one-stop services ensuring the process of investing and setting up business in Botswana is smooth and hassle free. The BITC shall promote, encourage and facilitate export development and promote, attract, encourage and facilitate local and foreign investment promotion in Botswana. With that objective, the functions of the centre shall be to: • Undertake investment and export promotion missions within and outside the Southern African region; • Publish information relating to investment in, and exports from, Botswana; • Encourage the expansions and new investment by existing investors in Botswana; • Identify partners in or outside Botswana for joint business ventures in Botswana; • Provide monitory, advisory and courtesy services, including after-care services, to prospective investors and purchasers of Botswana goods and services; • Recommend, to the government, changes in the statutory and administrative framework relevant to the investment and export climate of Botswana and to make representations against or regarding any changes to any such statutory or administrative framework;
• Acquire, purchase, sell, develop or otherwise deal with property whether movable or immovable, including the contracting for the construction of factory shells; • Ensure that all aspects of the investment process in Botswana, including but not limited to the timely receipt of Government approvals, permits, grants, registrations and fulfilment of any other regulatory authorisations, are facilitated; • Gather intelligence and conduct
research to sustain and enhance the competitiveness of Botswana; • Maintain records and provide statistical reports to relevant stakeholders and Government in respect of the activities, investors and purchasers of Botswana goods and services; • Market the Centre, both within and outside Botswana. BITC aims to be: • An Internationally recognised IPA and TPO with best practices;
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• A Globally competitive organisation positioning Botswana as the same through effective Nation Branding; • A well-positioned and influential investment and trade promotion entity; • An entity driven by innovation, creativity, professionalism and service excellence; • A first point of contact in Botswana for all foreign businesses; • A partner for organisations with complimentary mandates (hubs, LEA, BTO, CEDA, BOBS, BDC, etc), leading to synergies and collaborations that will drive, diversify and grow the economy of Botswana; • A spokesperson and driver for all issues of advocacy leading to a conducive and attractive investment climate.
not be impacted by the merger. BITC will however, bring opportunities for improved service delivery to all existing and potential investors. The regulators exist to ensure that investors are protected and that there is transparency in the management and operation of registered and accredited companies. The Non Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority (NBFIRA) will continue to be the regulator of all nonbanking financial entities registered in Botswana including Pension Funds, Asset Management, Consumer/Micro lending, insurance and Collective Investment Undertakings. The regulator of Banks and banking operations in Botswana is the Bank of Botswana (BOB). The IFSC regulatory and legal framework continues to remain in force and accredited IFSC companies will continue to enjoy their existing tax incentives. In general, BITC will continue to lobby and advocate for a competitive investor friendly legal and regulatory framework.
Services and incentives for existing and new investors continue to be available and will
Transitional changes Effective 1 April, 2012 to end of September
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2012, is considered a migration period. This migration and transitional period will allow for the integration and improvement of policies and processes of the former entities for BITC. This will also include development of the overall organisation strategy that will drive the mandate of BITC. A brand development exercise will also be undertaken to create an identity for BITC and establish a Brand strategy that will position BITC as a globally competitive IPA and TPO. There are currently no changes to the existing liaisons and service provision of the former entities during this transition period. However, changes can be expected as a result of the recruitment process for the new entity. The BITC services that have been rendered by the two institutions (BEDIA & IFSC) will not be impacted and furthermore, it is important to note that Government has not deviated from developing Botswana as an International Financial and Business Services Centre, nor has it departed from the intention to encourage, promote and facilitate the establishment of exportoriented enterprises in Botswana.
Board and management BITC’s Board of Directors has been appointed and the recruitment of the CEO is ongoing. The recruitment of staff into the structure of the BITC has started. The Board Chairman is Mr Victor Senye with Ms Ethel Matenge-Sebesho the Board Vice Chairman. Location The former two entities (BEDIA & IFSC) that have been merged to form the BITC are still operating from their previous locations, but plans are underway to identify and secure a building that will house the BITC. Brand Botswana Brand Botswana will remain a function of BITC. A dedicated Executive Director will be appointed to manage the function. We believe that the labour skills availability forms part of the determining factors when multinational companies select investment locations, therefore BITC will continue to play a part in the skills development of the country as a way of attracting investors. For this reason, BITC will continue with the Career Fair and other components of the SRI, which may change in form and structure. In addition, long-term partnerships and collaboration with the private sector and relevant government institutions will be entered into for this purpose of ensuring that there is no duplication of efforts. Global Expo Botswana Global Expo Botswana will continue to be organised and managed by the BITC. Arrangements for this years’ EXPO are as follows. • Dates: 21-24 November 2012, • Venue: Fairgrounds International Exhibition Centre, Gaborone, Botswana, • GEB 2012 targets, • 300 exhibitors, • 6000 visitors, • P90-million worth of business estimated to be transacted.
BITC wishes to assure stakeholders that all services that have been rendered by the former two institutions (BEDIA & IFSC) will not be impacted and furthermore, it is important that you are reassured that Government has not deviated from developing Botswana as an International Financial and Business Service Centre, nor has it departed from the intention to encourage, promote and facilitate the establishment of export-oriented enterprises in Botswana. Within its mandate, BITC promotes the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) which provides a transparent business environment to support the delivery of financial and business services including International Business Companies, International Investment Funds, International Banking and Insurance, Business Process Outsourcing and Contact Centres. Companies that are accredited to the IFSC in Botswana enjoy readily accessible incentives that include: • A competitive corporate tax incentive framework, • Exemption from Capital Gains TAX (CGT) and Withholding Tax (WHT), • Access to a growing network of Double Taxation Avoidance (DTA) Treaties, • No foreign exchange controls, • Denomination of share capital in any major convertible currency. Unique and highly competitive characteristics that position Botswana as an economically sound and attractive investment and business destination include: • Optimised business facilitation services, • Rigorous screening and efficient company approval processes. Attractive investment opportunities exist but are not limited to: • Mining and Diamond Manufacturing, • Agriculture,
• • • • • •
Tourism, Energy and renewable energy, Transport/Logistics, Education, Health, Technological Research and Product Development.
THE BITC LOOKS FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO BOTSWANA!
For more information contact Botswana Investment and Trade Centre on: Tel: +267 3633400 +267 3605000 / +267 3601435 Fax: +267 3181941 +267 3913075 / +267 3971539 FORMER BEDIA OFFICE: Plot 28 Matsitama Road, P.O. Box 3122, Gaborone, Botswana. FORMER IFSC OFFICE: Fairgrounds Office Park, O Machel Drive Private Bag 160, Gaborone, Botswana Best of Botswana
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Botswana Development Corporation Your Investment Partner Botswana Development Corporation Limited, founded in 1970, is a public entity set up by the Botswana Government to promote development through equity and loan investment finance.
The Corporation provides financial assistance to investors with commercially viable projects that generate sustainable employment for Batswana, adds skills to the local workforce and encourages citizen participation in business ventures. In March 2011, the Corporation undertook the formulation of a new four-year Strategic Plan to take it to 2015. The new strategy has amongst others, the following areas of focus: 1. The Corporation’s commitment to establishing itself as a major contributor to Government’s Economic Diversification Drive programme. Investment in viable mega projects aimed at enhancing economic diversification and generating employment. 2. Focus on reducing the national import substitution bill. 3. The Corporation having considered its current investment portfolio decided that it should take a well considered “leap of faith” and venture into more innovative and large-scale projects aimed at establishing Botswana as an icon within the region. Thus, the Corporation has derived strategic objectives that will ensure optimisation of its employee base and internal processes in order to meet potential challenges related to mega project initiatives. In addition, the Corporation has set itself a target of trebling the balance sheet by
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critically assessing the current portfolio, but more importantly considering new (mega) investments that are expected to significantly enhance the value of the Corporation’s financial position. BDC has defined its strategic intent as: “To invest in mega projects, primarily in the areas of Communication, Transportation, Infrastructure Development, Energy and Agriculture, that will enhance its contribution to development, economic diversification and citizen empowerment and treble the BDC Balance Sheet by 2015.” The Corporation has made impressive returns over its 40 years of existence with the deliberate divestment in a number of matured investments, therefore also contributing to both citizen empowerment and increase in shareholder value as well as facilitating the growth of the local stock market. Notably, the Corporation divested 29% of its shareholding in Cresta Marakanelo through listing to the public, and it consolidated its high-value properties into a special purpose vehicle, Letlole La Rona, that was then listed in the stock market through an initial price offering of P1.50. The Corporation also disposed off all its investment in PPC Ltd, a dual listed company on the Botswana and Johannesburg Stock Exchanges. With corporate social investment becoming ever more strategically focused, the Corporation ensures that in investing in the social good, it also seeks to align its corporate social investment spending with the core business objectives and imperatives of the Corporation in which true partnerships with beneficiaries, government and NGOs bring about long-term sustainable development to the benefit of all. These include national development imperatives of job creation, education as well as poverty alleviation, by focusing on critical areas such as: 1. Economic development: BDC aims to support unemployment alleviation and income generating projects that are aimed at creating sustainability income for citizens; 2. Education and skills development: BDC supports skills and capacity development interventions especially
in science and technology at primary and secondary school levels and at community level in rural areas; 3. Health: the Corporation’s efforts also target initiatives aimed at encouraging responsible social activities that provide a safer and conducive environment for youth, which will hopefully assist in preventing, managing and treating HIV and AIDS in communities, as well as special interventions in support of natural disasters that may bring about national crises and community displacement. Customer satisfaction is central to BDC’s way of doing business. It is for this reason that the Corporation has adopted the International Standard Organisation (ISO) standard 9001:2008 to benchmark its quality management system, its total approach to customer happiness programs and its handling of customer complaints and feedback processes. Audited for the last 10 years, three times annually by independent internal quality auditors and annually by external quality auditors, and in all cases compliance to the international quality standard confirmed by the auditors, the Corporation has a track record of being truly customer centric. Turnover has been impressive at P400 million, far exceeding what has ever been achieved by the Corporation at any one time. The Corporation has enjoyed a healthy growth in the Dividend Income from both its subsidiaries and associate companies. Dividends from subsidiaries grew to P240.7 million from a trickle of P27.9 million (2010) mainly on the back of dividends declared by the Corporation’s 100% property investment companies. The year ahead will see the Corporation execute these strategic actions which will set it in motion to attain its strategic goal.
Moedi, Plot 50380, Gaborone International Showgrounds, Private Bag 160, Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 365 1300 Fax: +267 390 3114 390 4193 Email: enquiries@bdc.bw www.bdc.bw
The Botswana Confederation of Commerce, Industry and Manpower (BOCCIM) Innovations in Environmental, Social & Corporate Governance.
BOCCIM is a Business Association of Employers representing businesses in all sectors of the Botswana economy in an advocacy capacity. The organisation was formed in 1971 and registered under the Trade Unions and Employers’ Act No. 23 of 1983. BOCCIM has been the main voice of the private sector in Botswana, representing small, medium and large organisations including associations. BOCCIM has protected the economic
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interest of the business community and through its philosophy of constructive policy dialogue; BOCCIM has won the confidence and respect of Government and other stakeholders in Botswana, and is renowned in the region for this achievement. Membership of BOCCIM is voluntary and is open to registered companies, associations, and organisations in both the private and parastatal sectors of the economy.
Some of BOCCIM’s achievements: • Organised the private sector to be a major player in the formulation of many national economic issues; • Adding to sustainable economic development; • Initiated the debate on the need for a long-term vision for Botswana; • Lowered both the corporate and personal Tax from a high of 35% to a low of 15% for manufacturing, and 25%
as a general tax rate for Botswana; • Nationalised the debate on Citizen Economic Empowerment; • Advocated for the implementation of the point-based system to evaluate work and residence permits for the inflow of foreign investment and professional skills to promote economic growth. BOCCIM, in partnership with DCEC, launched the first Code of Conduct for the
private sector in September 2011. This code constitutes a significant step forward in the process of harmonising the ethical conducts of our own private sector. BOCCIM membership assures that the member company abides by the code, thereby ensuring ethical business practice. This will give companies competitive advantage by strengthening customer loyalty and confidence when utilising the company’s product or service. Accepting the code also ensures employee loyalty, as well as general good corporate citizenship. All businesses are encouraged to be part of this dynamic confederation of commerce, where they will benefit through networking forums, get access to industrial relations advice and services, participate in discounted capacity building programs, business advocacy, access to trade missions and seminars, pertinent business data and first-hand information for upcoming potential business opportunities.
BOCCIM House Old Lobatse Road Plot 5196, Gaborone P.O. Box 432, Gaborone Tel: +267 395 3459 Fax: +267 397 3142 Email: publicrelations@boccim.co.bw www.boccim.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Key Capital Business Synopsis
Key Capital was registered and incorporated as a financial services provider in Botswana in 2007, and has offices in Gaborone, Johannesburg and Harare.
Key Capital’s core business is:
Financial Engineering and Advisory Services - Short Term financing for ordinary cause of business, trade or product funding, Debt and Equity based transactions for sub saharan Africa.
Key Capital’s Strategic Intent
Key Capital’s strategic intent impinges at establishing and consolidating its business footprint on the Southern African market, as a key player in the Trade Finance and Commodity Broking sectors.
Strategic Thrust
Key Capital has a vision to turn into the most vibrant and dynamic financial services provider in Botswana. We want to be a synonymous with providing excellent, total package in the industry.
Services • • • • •
Key Advisory Services Key Commodities Key Logistics Key Property Development Key ICT
Plot 14423, Gaborone West Industrial Tel: +267 392 3237 Fax: +267 318 1255 Email: hchisango@key-capital.co.za Website: www.key-capital.com
“The end crowns the work”
Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund
Defined Contribution Pension Scheme. The Fund has experienced phenomenal growth since inception owing to the overwhelming positive response from the public service as public servants exercised their option to join the Fund. Employees who joined the public service from 2001 automatically become members of Botswana Public Officer Pension. Fund. For more information members can visit or contact our offices at the following addresses: Letsema Office Park, Plot 61920, Fairgrounds, Gaborone Private Bag 00195, Gaborone Tel: + 267 3158422/3911445 Fax: + 267 3912066
Vision To be a world-class provider of retirement benefits within the pension fund industry.
Mandate: The main objective of the Fund is to create wealth for its members in a manner that will afford them a dignified post career life.
Mission The BPOPF administers and provides retirement benefits for its members to afford them a dignified post career life through a dedicated workforce, service providers and alliances.
Botswana Public Officers Pensions Fund (BPOPF) was registered in 2001. The establishment of the Fund came as a result of Government decision to change the Public Officer’s Pension arrangement from a Defined Benefit Pension Scheme to a
Francistown Office: Mangole a a leswe building, Plot 469/70, Unit 10, Blue Jacket Street, Francistown, Private Bag 0053, Francistown Tel: +267 2412562, Fax: +267 2412583 Kang Office: Ga-Monyemane ward, Unit 3, Plot 659 Kang, Private Bag 003, Kang Tel: +267 6517340, Fax: +267 6517005
www.bpopf.co.bw Best of Botswana
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We opened our first branch in 1950, in Lobatse. Since then we have been working hard to serve our customer interests through 44 branches, 101 ATMs and a suite of electronic banking channels. We have the largest footprint in Botswana, and have branches in six areas where no other financial service provider has. Best of Botswana
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Bringing your business a dedicated relationship model Barclays will work closely with you to meet your changing banking needs with a dedicated Relationship Manager working alongside product partners both locally and globally. Country Relationship Manager Responsible for managing the delivery and execution of products, ensuring that we consistently meet the highest possible standards of service provision.
range of accounts. Together we can optimise the return on your surplus funds and provide you with the security and liquidity your business needs. You can utilise any of our range of products, including current accounts and treasury deposits.
Assistant Relationship Manager and Client Service Executive Provide transactional banking support, including handling of complex enquiries and operational issues such as account opening, new product requests and security documentation. Also handle day-to-day operational, servicing and procedural queries, including transactional enquiries, statement requests and payment queries. You will also be able to benefit from the expertise and experience of our Head of the Africa Multinational Corporates Team, based in South Africa, and our Head of Strategic Coverage, a senior and experienced coverage banker with African banking expertise, who is based in London. They will be able to support your operations across Africa, both with Barclays and Absa, providing guidance on your strategic, financing and risk management needs.
Trade and working capital services However complex your requirements to mitigate risk, ensure payment security and maximise your working capital, our range of services can support you. Your Relationship Manager will introduce you to a trade specialist who will have overall responsibility for meeting your trade requirements. Our range of trade services includes bonds and guarantees, letters of credit and import and export financing. Our working capital services include distributor and supplier finance and asset finance.
Absa Through our majority shareholding of Absa, one of South Africa’s largest financial services providers, we offer a wide range of banking products and services in the region, complementing our network of retail and corporate operations across Africa, Asia and Europe. Absa also offers a dedicated sub-Saharan African investment banking business. A range of services to meet your requirements Working closely with you, your Relationship Manager and their team will be able to assist you in finding the right combination of services to suit your business needs in Botswana. Cash management Your Relationship Manager will give you access to the cash management solutions that work for your business. From collections and payables financing to transaction processing, we have a broad spectrum of services to meet your requirements. This includes cash, cheque and electronic payments. Global financing Your finance requirements are carefully considered at Barclays so we can deliver the results for your business. We can support you through providing origination, structuring, execution and distribution for all types of borrowers, including corporates and financial institutions, providing project finance, structured trade and export finance. We specialise in Corporate Loans, ECA Backed Loans, Export Finance, Leveraged Finance, Loan Capital Markets, Project Finance, Preference Shares, and Structured Equity Finance. We are also able to fund and lend in local and foreign currency, with a pan-African documentation capability. Deposits and liquidity management Your deposit strategy is the key to working capital efficiency. Your Relationship Manager will work alongside you to create an effective strategy; this can then be delivered successfully via our extensive
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Risk management Barclays provides an extensive range of risk management services in Africa. Through our innovative investment banking products and outstanding service, we are able to manage and reduce risk to acceptable levels for your business. We can offer you a range of hedging services for any of the major risks to the profitability of your business. This includes foreign exchange and interest rates, together with protection from pricing changes impacting the major costs you incur, such as energy costs or raw material costs for commodities you purchase. Channel solutions We have domestic and international electronic banking solutions to meet your local or centralised treasury requirements. Our channel specialists in Gaborone will advise you on all aspects of our capabilities and guide you in selecting the most appropriate service for your business needs. Available solutions: • Barclays Integrator (BI) Capabilities - By far the most advanced and exciting platform the country has to offer to its Corporates. - An internet banking service which provides you with a comprehensive range of statement and balance viewing through to transaction and payments initiation services. - Also offers a range of data import/export utilities for integration with various types of accounting systems. - Offers sophisticated and dedicated connectivity through Host to Host delivery of files between you, our Client, and the Bank. Security - Highly defined data access profiles (multiple users). - 128bit encryption. SWIFT capabilities for payments, collections, and autorecollections.
www.barclays.com/africa/botswana
Corporate Director - Seseti Mogami
Head of Large Corporate - Lesley Bradley
Head of Cash Management - Thato Sebego
Head of Operations - Cobra Nthompe
Relationship Manager - Mosa Matlou
Relationship Manager - Richard Ndwapi
Relationship Manager - Cecilia Sesenko
Relationship Manager - Donald Moagi
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Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) was established by the Government of the Republic of Botswana in 2001, so as to provide financial and technical support for business development with a view to promote viable and sustainable citizen-owned business enterprises.
The Agency was also established after the National Conference on Citizen Economic Empowerment (NCCEE) recommended that professional management of the Government financial assistance should be incorporated, and to streamline the numerous projects providing similar schemes. The Agency supports the development of small, medium and large-scale enterprises through the soft window package offered through subsidiaries. It also funds capital expenditure, stock or working capital in both new and existing business ventures. CEDA has incorporated measures which are aimed at ensuring that projects or businesses funded by the Agency do not in any way lack behind or face foreclosure. These measures include training and mentoring for new and seasoned entrepreneurs in various skills, as identified through the needs assessment that is conducted during project monitoring.
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Structure The control of CEDA is entrusted on the Board of Directors appointed by Botswana Government. The Board of Directors consists of representatives from Government and non-Government agencies, whose functions include directing, monitoring and controlling the strategic direction of the Agency, ensuring that thorough business policies are practiced and the objectives of the agency are met. In this way, commercial sense balanced with the social responsibility of Government will come to bear on the operations of CEDA. Our products and Services comprise of: • Loans • Equity • Credit Guarantee scheme • Citizen Entrepreneur Mortgage Assistance Equity • Invoice discounting and factoring • Business Advisory Services (Mentoring and Training)
CEDA sectors: • Agribusiness • Property and Manufacturing • Services • Structured finance Criteria for Assistance CEDA assistance is in the form of financial assistance to citizen entrepreneurs and joint ventures wishing to start, expand, or acquire business operations in all sectors. To qualify for assistance, the following shall be considered: • Citizens should be 18 years and above • Viable citizen businesses between citizens and foreigners • Citizen-owned businesses facing foreclosure and seeking to re-finance mortgage loans for land, commercial and industrial property in exchange for share of equity in their businesses. • Direct involvement of the shareholder in the project
Having funded more than 5,324 businesses worth more than P3,226 million, with more than 10 years since inception, CEDA is still aimed at funding and developing competitive and sustainable citizen-owned businesses, thus fostering citizen entrepreneurship and empowerment. The Agency is also intending to eradicate poverty, unemployment and support youth empowerment and economic diversification. Collectively, the funds have been estimated to employ 30,607 people, when fully functional.
P/Bag 00504, Gaborone, CEDA House Prime Plaza, Plot 54358, Corner PG Matante Road and Khama Crescent Extension, CBD Tel: +267 3170895 Fax: +267 3951823 info@ceda.co.bw www.ceda.co.bw Best of Botswana
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The Botswana Unified Revenue Service The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) is responsible for the assessment and collection of taxes in Botswana on behalf of the Government. It is charged with the responsibility for the assessment and collection of the Income Tax, the Value Added Tax, the Fuel Levy and the Capital Transfer Tax, and the administration of statutory controls at various border posts and other points of entry.
In addition, BURS is charged with the responsibility of collecting Customs and Excise duties on behalf of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU). Other responsibilities include accounting for the revenue collected on behalf of the Government. BURS plays a vital role in protecting Botswana’s borders and collecting the revenue that the government needs to provide services to the people of Botswana. In order for Botswana’s “Vision 2016” pillars to become a reality, we all need to make voluntary tax compliance a critical national priority. Over the past five years, tax revenue as a proportion of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been more or less stable averaging around 21%. Further, the tax revenue as a proportion of government budget has been increasing consistently since 2005/06, signifying the
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growing importance of the tax revenue in the economy. Increase in the revenue collected will facilitate the construction of schools, roads and other physical infrastructure and increase the human resource and social development of the people of Botswana. BURS is committed to play a significant role in this process of development by enhancing revenue collections for the Government and providing excellent service to taxpayers. BURS continues to provide Taxpayer education to the public which aims to aid taxpayers and stakeholders to understand their tax obligations. This is based on the premise that it is easy for taxpayers to comply if they are aware of their obligations and understand the compliance process. Among the initiatives that BURS has undertaken includes strengthening of its initiatives in taxpayer education, intelligence
network as well as improving accessibility to taxpayer services countrywide. BURS carries out these initiatives by conducting workshops, participating at exhibitions and fairs, through different media channels etc. Applicable tax rates are: • Income Tax - 0-25 % for resident individuals • (Threshold for individual taxpayers is P36 000 per annum) • VAT - 12% • Corporate Tax - 22% - 15% for manufacturing companies - 15% for IFSC companies • Dividend withholding tax rate - 7.5% • Customs & Excise Duties (different rates apply) For further information relating to any of the types, contact BURS on our toll-free phone number 17649 or visit BURS at one of our local offices.
Gaborone Head Office: + 267 363 8000/9000 Francistown: + 267 241 3635 Ghanzi: + 267 659 6456 Jwaneng: + 267 588 0695 Lobatse: + 267 533 0566 Mahalapye: + 267 471 0486 Maun: + 267 686 1321 Palapye: + 267 492 0388 S/Phikwe: + 267 261 3699
Plot 53976, Kudumatse Drive Private bag 0013, Gaborone Gaborone, Botswana E-mail: comms@burs.org.bw Tel: + 267 363 8000 / 363 9000 Fax: + 267 363 9999 www.burs.org.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 8 Banking
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Stanbic Bank Botswana Limited
Stanbic Bank Botswana is a member of Standard Bank Group, and has its roots date back to 1992 when Standard Bank acquired the African operation of ANZ Grindalys. It is the fourth largest commercial bank in Botswana and it provides the full spectrum of financial services. It’s Corporate and Investment Banking unit services a wide range of requirements for banking, finance, trading, investment, risk management and advisory services. This business unit offers a comprehensive range of products and services relating to: investment banking; global markets; global transactional products and services as well as private equity.
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Stanbic Bank’s Personal and Business Banking products include mortgage lending, installment sale and finance leases, card products, transaction and lending products, and bancassurance. Stanbic Bank Botswana currently has 503 employees and a total of 11 branches being, five in Gaborone, and one in Francistown, Maun, Mogoditshane, Molepolole, Palapye and Selebi Phikwe. Stanbic Bank also services its customers through a network of 24 ATM’s nationwide. The Standard Bank Group is Africa’s largest bank by assets and also has the biggest single network of banking services in Africa. Through this network it offers a wide range of banking products and services. These are delivered through more than
1450 points of representation in 18 African countries including Botswana. In addition to the groups well distributed footprint, it has 53,000 employees around the world in order to ensure delivery of the complete range of services that cut across personal and business banking, corporate and investment banking and wealth management Stanbic Bank Botswana is committed to creating prosperity and giving back to its community, the people of Botswana. The Bank is involved in various Corporate Social Responsibility activities that live up to one of its strategic goals of being relevant in the communities in which it operates.
www.stanbicbank.co.bw
> Corporate and Investment Banking
TODAY IN AFRICA, HUNDREDS OF WILDFIRES WILL BURN, CLEARING THE WAY FOR A MILLION NEW TREES TOMORROW. Fire can be destructive and unpredictable. But for the Cape Fynbos, it’s essential to the lifecycle. Whatever the potential reward, risk is an inseparable part of doing business. That is why we’re committed to analysing it. And by examining how situations change across borders and through time, we’ll manage it with you too. Any bank can warn you of a risk it perceives. Only one can prepare you for the types it knows.
They call it Africa. We call it home. www.standardbank.com/cib
Standard Bank Moving Forward
TM
Authorised financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP15). The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited (Reg. No. 1962/000738/06). SBSA 115113. Moving Forward is a trademark of The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
Also trading as Stanbic Bank
Premier Banking Top-class products for top-class convenience.
Dr Gloria Somolekae; Assistant Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration officially opening the 3-in-1 Gamecity Branch.
We understand that you lead a busy life. You need a high level of service that matches your lifestyle. At Barclays we will provide you with convenience in whatever service you require from the bank. As our Premier Client, we will assign you a highly trained and experienced Relationship Manager, who will facilitate whatever interaction you have with us. You will have the benefit of faster decision-making and action on all your banking needs. Your Relationship Manager will be able to advise you on the different investment vehicles that Barclays offers. They will bring real time hassle-free banking and top-class convenience to a place of your choice – be it your office, home, or even a coffee shop. Premier Banking is your passport to various top-class products – from loan offerings, the prestigious Platinum Card,
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to preferential rates on various services. Where you want to explore other investment avenues abroad, we will be your link to offshore banking. Through the global Barclays Group, you are assured of the best advice on offshore investment. We also understand that your life extends beyond what we have to offer. You have other lifestyle needs. We work to ensure that the top-class recognition you are used to at Barclays should go beyond the world of banking. Through our partnerships with other top service providers such as airport lounges, restaurants, hotels, and jewellery retailers, as a Barclays Premier Client you will have access to a lot of benefits and privileges. This is what the world of Barclays Premier banking offers – top-class convenience and top-class products.
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Chapter 9 Insurance
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BIHL Group Strength in Numbers.
Botswana and the BIHL Group have a long history with one another in that only nine years after Independence in 1966 the Botswana Insurance Company (BIC) was formed. Over time as Botswana grew so did BIC the company that would eventually grow into Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL). Both Botswana and BIHL came from humble beginnings and grew into being internationally respected names. The secret to this success came through many factors, including highly skilled and motivated people
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working together, wise investments, prudent management of resources, just to name a few. Being a proudly Botswana company, the BIHL Group is deeply rooted in Botswana, which naturally follows that Botswana culture, principles and values are reflected in the company. The Bull which was originally used for Botswana Life’s corporate image, is also a strong cultural icon in Botswana culture. Batswana can relate to the bull even in community initiatives like ‘motho le mothokgomo’, which contributed largely to the building of the country’s oldest learning institution, University of Botswana. On the economic front, one of the first large foreign currency earners for the country was the beef industry. The industry leading the BIHL Group has logically adapted the bull symbol across the family of BIHL subsidiaries, after 37 successful years of doing business in Botswana. One of the Group’s five pillars is diversification which is a strategy employed by BIHL to spread its risk as well as take advantage of investments that maintain good value for the Group’s clients. The companies that make up the Group are in various asset classes that include Financial Services, Property development, Life & Short Term Insurance and Investment to mention a few. Each of the subsidiaries contributes to the Group’s industry leading position and stability. BIHL Group’s wide range of products also ensures that Batswana from all walks of life are assisted positively by the Group. From Botswana Life Insurance Limited, to Bifm, to BIHL Sure! and Legal Guard, the group has continued to give clients and stakeholders value consistently. The many professionals that work at BIHL endow the Group with a deep pool of expertise and wisdom which inform the Group’s strategies. The “Strength in Numbers” slogan aptly ties together what the BIHL Group has actively demonstrated in prudent investments, corporate culture and even a unifying bull symbol across the subsidiaries. The Group has also invested in stronger communities for a better tomorrow through the BIHL Trust. One percent of profits after tax from some of the Group’s subsidiaries funds the Trust, which in turn strengthens many worthy causes for a better Botswana. The new look and feel focuses on the collective strength of the BIHL companies and like the bull, the Group is here to stay and contribute to the growth and diversification of the economy of Botswana.
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS When a herd runs together, people say the ground shudders more than a kilometre away. They say you can feel the vibrations in ever y fibre of your being. They say it is awe inspiring. We say it is strength in numbers. The combined strength of the B I H L Group of companies has delivered inspiring results for over 35 years, est ablishing us as one of the leading financial ser vices providers in Botswana. Cont act us at + 267 370 7400
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Botswana Insurance Fund Management, Botswana’s Partner in Success Forging into the Retail Space Market leader in Botswana.
As Botswana’s largest and oldest asset manager, Botswana Insurance Fund Management (Bifm) has more than 60 percent of Botswana’s assets under its management. This is the responsibility that is earned by being a leader in Botswana’s asset management market. With a 36 year heritage there is an intimate knowledge of the country and its culture which gives Bifm the winning edge. Botswana is considered a shining example in Africa and Bifm has contributed in no small part to this growth and development. Being part and parcel of building an exemplary country dates back to 1975 when the Botswana Insurance Company (BIC) was formed. BIC was the precursor to Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL) which is the parent company for Bifm. Bifm has contributed immensely towards the development of Botswana under a guiding principle of – ‘Development
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of Botswana for Batswana’. Bifm has also achieved major milestones in asset management in Botswana, starting from humble beginnings to market leader. Double digit economic growth that helped Botswana go from being one of the poorest to the fastest growing economies in the world cannot be attributed to minerals alone. Companies such as Bifm were making lifetime investments in property and infrastructure, which were to benefit Batswana in the future. Through a diversified asset class portfolio, Bifm has managed to constantly transform Botswana’s property development fortunes positively. Bifm is headquartered in the iconic Fairgrounds Office Park in Gaborone. Bifm’s flagship property is of a world-class standard with access to lifestyle enhancing services like a gym and a coffee shop. The Head Quarters are designed to make the offices a one-stop shop administrating projects such as Plot 21, the Office of the Ombudsman, the SADC Head Offices in the Central Business District,
and most recently the Airport Junction Shopping Centre to the north of Gaborone and Railpark Mall located in the Gaborone bus rank. These developments consolidate Bifm’s position as one of the pioneers of property development in Botswana. Bifm’s Chief Executive Officer, Tiny Matilda Kgatlwane notes that although Bifm is a company that pursues innovative opportunities that return consistent value, asset management remains the pillar of the organisation. Over the years the investment philosophy has seen the business grow and forge strategic alliances with some of the world’s largest asset management firms. However, proactively venturing into new fields after careful consideration is proving to be a rewarding strategy. Bifm is always looking to diversify the asset portfolio by constantly looking at the potential of asset classes other than equities. Bifm has nurtured non-traditional assets such as private equity, which has seen Bifm get involved in projects in fuel and lubrication (both wholesale & retail), telecommunications, financial processing and outdoor advertising. By going beyond only managing client funds within set benchmarks and mandates Bifm has entrenched its position as a market leader. Deploying significant resources and experience to actively seek out, develop and manage viable investments which has complemented its asset management ventures. The latest venture is the Unit Trust business which will offer Bifm’s extensive market experience to clients with more modest means to invest. The Unit Trust will be accessible for as little as BWP200.00 but expose this investor class to similar returns as enjoyed by institutional investors, in line with their initial investment. With its roots firmly planted in Africa, and its experience in providing innovative solutions for dynamic wealth management in emerging markets, Bifm is committed to Botswana’s success through further development of the capital markets in the financial services sector. Bifm’s track record of servicing institutional clients and pension funds speaks for itself, it is this very track record that makes it an easy transition into retail services. The vast expertise, within the business will continue to make Bifm the first point of reference when one thinks asset management.
www.bifm.co.bw
‘Morabaraba’
We see things differently. Morabaraba - To a casual observer a game of morabaraba might simply look like a game of repetition, at Bifm we see things differently. We see a tool that anyone can learn but few can ever master. Bifm Unit Trusts and Apex, which are accessible from as little as P200, are wealth creation tools based on tried and tested methods. At the hands of Bifm’s fund managers, who are masters of their game, these tools are used to give great value to clients, one move at a time. Managing client’s funds since 1975
Asset Management Retail Services: Unit trust & Apex Retirement Fund Private Equity Structured Finance Infrastructure Development Bifm Botswana Limited. Private Bag BR 185, Gaborone, Botswana. Tel: +(267) 395 1564 Fax: +(267) 390 0358 www.bifm.co.bw
Botswana Life Insurance Limited (BLIL) Botswana Life Insurance Limited (BLIL) was established in 1975 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL).
BIHL is listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange and is a member of the Sanlam Group Limited, an international company with its main base in South Africa. Botswana Life is the largest life insurance business in Botswana, commanding over 80% market share. The company offers a wide range of products that include life cover, investments and retirement planning. Botswana Life contributes quite significantly to the performance of the BIHL group, and has consistently posted positive results throughout its history. In order to maintain its market leadership position, innovation and market research remain at the forefront of Botswana Life’s strategy. In 2011, the company launched a new three-year corporate strategy termed Sekgantshwane, which means champion. Through this strategy, Botswana Life aims to become the global benchmark insurance company by 2014. The strategy has a theme for each of the three (3) years, with the focus for 2012 being to clean out and stabilise systems and processes in the
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organisation, to prepare for new growth in 2013. As part of the clean-out process, the company is currently bedding down a new life administration system that is envisaged to improve service delivery to clients through internal process optimisation. The company is also implementing a new client service strategy themed “Here to Serve”, aimed at creating a new, robust service culture that will adequately position Botswana Life to deliver exceptional service to its valued clients. Of recent, Botswana Life has been recognised by a number of international organisations as a market leader in Botswana’s insurance industry. One of these is PMR Africa, a South African based company that carries out consulting, research and risk management services. PMR Africa awarded Botswana Life the prestigious Golden Arrow Award for being the highest rated company in the local insurance market. The distinguished award was based on a survey conducted in early 2012. The research criteria included: companies/institutions that have done
the most to enhance economic growth and development of the country; levels of managerial expertise; implementation of corporate governance; brand awareness; and levels of innovation. Acknowledging the award, the Botswana Life Chief Executive Officer recognised the role of the Botswana Life Board of Directors, BIHL Group, the management and staff of Botswana Life in ensuring that the company remains a front-runner in the local market, after more than 37 years in the business. “We continuously strive to offer quality client-centric financial solutions as well as services that grow and protect wealth. Our vision is to remain the financial solutions provider of choice in the local market. Our brand is strong and woven into the fabric of Botswana and we preserve it through innovation, integrity, teamwork and service excellence”, Catherine Lesetedi-Letegele said. The company prides itself in listening and responding to client needs, enhancing its products to make them relevant for clients and also expanding its distribution channels to improve accessibility to clients. Botswana Life has the widest geographical footprint by a life insurance company in Botswana, to ensure that its products and services are accessible to all. To know more about Botswana Life, please visit: www.botswanalife.co.bw or call the contact centre on 362 3700.
www.botswanalife.co.bw
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BIHL Sure! Why you should expect more… Picking a ‘leaf’ from the wild, making insurance an enjoyable experience. How innovation and responsiveness define the BIHL Sure! culture. When there is absolute need to be SURE!
Those who observe the wild tell of facts that may seem like legends or myths when it comes to buffaloes. We are told they travel in large numbers. When they move, they demonstrate so much strength that anyone close by would feel the earth almost shatter. When they do, even potential predators flee to safety. Older buffaloes who possess the much-needed strength, knowledge of the lands, waterholes and potential dangers lead the way. Younger ones who possess the obvious buffalo genetic abilities have a few things to learn and so are kept deep inside the large herd far away from harm’s way. One day they will take up their place as leaders of the ‘clan’. This is not so different with Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL) Sure! a new entrant into the market and its holding company – BIHL Group with a legacy stretching close to four decades. BIHL Sure! is a new subsidiary of the Group – Botswana’s insurance success story boasting a life insurance giant (Botswana Life), a competent asset management firm (Botswana Insurance Fund Management) – both leaders in their respective markets. It has an impressive track record of close to 40 years. BIHL Group’s success is not only on the bourse where it is one of the leading brands and is one of the largest public companies, but being a pioneer in the business, developing a robust backbone and infrastructure upon which all other business units where to be built and thrive. With an
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unparalleled knowledge of the industry the Group provides not just access to resources and expertise for its subsidiary brands but a wealth of expertise that can only be premised on extensive knowledge of the business and the industry. This backbone provides vast resources, expertise and infrastructure for BIHL Sure! It is part of an irresistible force in Botswana’s insurance market. BIHL Sure! was launched in April 2012 and builds on the Group’s strengths. After BIHL’s careful scrutiny of the market for decades a need was identified to complement life insurance products and asset management. Short term insurance seemed a natural extension of a range of products already on offer by the group’s subsidiaries. Someone with a proven record in insurance, strong business acumen and expertise could be the ideal candidate to deliver. At Sure!’s helm is John Haenen – a proven entrepreneur who has established businesses, turned around ailing companies and has taken brands just where they should be – keeping their promises. With over 30 years of experience in business leadership and insurance, this market drives zeal in him to make a difference. Haenen has done this before in many countries throughout southern Africa including South Africa and Tanzania. Hardly a year from the launch, the business takes pride in innovative products that are custom-made for the dynamic needs of
this market – Home Sure! Motor Sure! and Business Sure! “It’s a weekend. You are driving between remote areas such as Nata and Kasane in Botswana, and then something happens to your car. You can’t wait for Monday at 8am when your insurance office opens for assistance. You need urgent help there and then. Building on innovation, responsiveness and technology we are able to be relevant even in such times. When your business goes through unforeseen circumstances our approvals and turnaround time which are the best in the market will help you get back to work. The same applies to your valuables at home,” says Haenen. “Insurance in general has a poor reputation around the world. Insurance people are known for readily accepting premiums but not exercising the same zeal with claims. What makes us different is our ability to respond to matters swiftly and provide assistance when it’s needed most. Our aim is to approve claims in less than 24 hours but even while the approval process is happening we will get help to you immediately wherever you are,” he adds. Since establishment clients have commended BIHL Sure!’s service and its responsiveness. “Once again I appreciate your swift response and good quality service,” reads an e-mail from a client recently. However, for clients to make the best of insurance products and enjoy them they have to know and understand them. John has been talking to the public about insurance products in one of the columns in a local Sunday paper and through his twitter page@jhaenenjohn. Topics range from looking for ‘hidden’ clauses, insurance fraud, and enjoying your insurance. The underlying premise of it all is that ‘the devil is in the detail’. By capitalising on the Group’s structure and backbone BIHL Sure! is in each and every major city and town in Botswana. A friendly, attentive and knowledgeable staff is available for assistance online or in person. This is what this market has been looking for all these years now it is here! Indeed just like the buffaloes, BIHL Sure! is well protected in terms of security and assurance by a strong legacy. In terms of its DNA, outlook and strategic approach it is well placed to compete and thrive as the new member of an already successful family. It is expected to take its place as the leader on the market, in good time!
The Late Mr Gaontese Modisana Pule, The Founder
Pule Modisana Holdings, Rebirth of The National Heritage for Batswana by Batswana Pule Modisana Holdings, a proud national heritage for Batswana by Batswana recently underwent a positive rebirth in order to be better positioned to offer the true essence of unparalleled service that is associated with this brand. Opening its doors in 1976, Pule became the inaugural funeral service provider in Botswana, hence the coining, “ National heritage for Batswana by Batswana”. Heritage by its very definition is something that is inherited from the past according to the Oxford dictionary. The name Pule Funerals is well recognized in Botswana. Started by the late Mr. Gaontese Modisana Pule, the company has over the years undergone significant positive and negative experiences which have helped to shape up the national heritage that it is today. Mr. Pule, an entrepreneur par excellence of his generation had a vision that was firmly fixed on affording Batswana decent burial services. Over the years, he grew the company organically and along the way, he groomed his children to empathically understand the clients. Mr. Pule, the son of a reverend, was born in Kanye and the Christian roots are firmly embedded in Pule Funeral Services to this date. Mr. Pule served the nation at large and was a selfless leader who got involved in all aspects of the business and trained his juniors along the way. This resulted in Pule being the leading funeral services provider in Botswana. Unfortunately, Mr. Pule departed for eternal rest in the year of our Lord, 1997 and upon his death, he bequeathed his children with the company and tasked them to drive his vision beyond their own expectations, a feat so difficult but which has been achieved slowly over time. The fact that Pule has remained loyal and totally committed to serving Batswana is undisputed as this legacy still lives on. Armed with the intention to keep on serving Batswana, strength and an unparalleled determination, Pule has embarked on a strategy to serve the citizens better through a melting pot of new products and wider branch coverage in major parts of Botswana. The company rebranded in 2012 after CEDA invested in the company, thereby becoming a partner the company now trades under the name, Pule Modisana Holdings. The holdings company is made up of three divisions which are Pule Funeral Services, Pule Insurance and Pule Coffins. The turnaround strategy saw Pule employing a
new team of experts who are steering the company to better fortunes. The new and old supporting staffs are playing their part in achieving the one goal of making Pule Modisana Holdings the household name in the provision of excellent, dignified and affordable funeral and insurance services. The insurance division has announced its arrival in the market through various initiatives and its involvement in community projects has made it a darling of the citizens. This division now boasts a portfolio of wide ranging funeral insurance products from value for money, mid- price and premium products. The product additives include cash back, grocery allowance for 12 months, food package, a courtesy vehicle for assistance with the funeral arrangements and so much more The funeral services division has also put together very strong armour and its product offering now includes bereavement counseling, free funeral programmes, dignified final sending off of a loved one amongst a host of other products. Pule has proved over the years that it empathizes with its clients in their times of need and this has resulted in loyalty to the brand by the clients even through turbulent times. To this end, the company, its staff and management would like to express its gratitude to the multitudes of its clients. After seriously considering what Batswana need in terms of product and service delivery, Pule has put together packages that suit every pocket and are very affordable. The company has a value for money product range, mid-price range and a premium range and the monthly premiums are as low as P20 per month for the value for money products and P140 per month for the premium products. Making itself a part of the society and relating to the clients’ feelings are the founding roots of Pule Modisana Holdings. In Botswana and the rest of Africa, disposable per capita incomes are generally lower and Pule has ensured that even in the face of inflation and any other macro economic factors, its prices are affordable and its quality is not compromised. With value added services like the grocery allowance for a period of 12 months after the eternal
departure of the bread winner, cash back for the funeral expenses, a complimentary vehicle to assist the family in making the funeral arrangements, bereavement counseling and other new products, Pule is proving to be the preferred brand in the funeral insurance and services markets. Pule is currently brewing new and exciting products that will bring convenience to the clients and a number of branches will be opened in the northern and central parts of Botswana in order for all Batswana citizens to access Pule’s products easily. Armed with a new fleet of strong and reliable vehicles, the company’s services are extending to all corners of Botswana and beyond the borders. It is the company’s pleasure to welcome new and old clients at any of the branches in Gaborone, Kanye, Lobatse, Goodhope, Molepolole, Mochudi and Francistown.
Head Office : +267 3916802 www.pule-group.com
Atlas Financial Group Since 1995, the Atlas Group has built a reputation for excellence providing in excess of 10,000 private and professional intermediary clients with a variety of corporate and administration services including specialist offshore structures, professional directorships and trustee solutions.
Jesse D. Hester, Chairman
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Their superior service levels has allowed them to generate a strong track record in the offshore financial services industry and their latest product solutions are set to further enhance their reputation in the market place. Atlas Financial Group, part of the Atlas Group, has been established to provide outstanding financial products and exceptional levels of customer service to the professional intermediary in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. AFG is fully licensed and regulated by the Financial Services Commission in Mauritius to provide financial advisory services and distribute financial services products and offers a comprehensive range of private client wealth management services tailored principally for overseas residents, expatriates and internationally mobile clients. Their product solutions have been carefully selected to meet the needs of the professional intermediary and many are exclusive in nature. AFG work closely with their suppliers to provide innovative solutions that offer clients some of the best offshore financial products available globally.
Atlas Life – offering ‘Institutional rates to the retail Market’ In addition to AFG, the Group have also established Atlas Life, an offshore life insurance company that offers international clients the ability to insure themselves and their business assets with life cover in the three major currencies – US$,£,€. Unlike local life insurance products, Atlas Life covers clients wherever they may be, whether you are relocating internationally, travelling on business or simply going on holiday. Atlas Life works with some of the world’s strongest reinsurers so clients can enjoy institutional rates and peace of mind knowing that any potential future claim will be dealt with promptly and professionally. Atlas Life allows clients to enjoy living without worrying about what could be around the corner. The Atlas Life product can be established to provide protection for mortgages, school fees and inheritance planning as well as protecting your business interests through Keyman and Partnership protection.
Lucan Toh, CEO
AFG and IDAD in Africa AFG has also secured an exclusive Africa agreement with innovative structured product supplier, IDAD of London. Investment Design and Distribution (IDAD) was established in 2002 and develops structured investment products in conjunction with leading investment institutions. IDAD works with reputable and well-established providers to ensure access to institutional pricing and funding and has launched over 300 successful investment products over the last 10 years. The agreement with IDAD allows Professional intermediaries in Africa the opportunity to benefit from the ‘IDAD Difference’. With global interest rates at an all- time low, many investors are no longer able to secure the returns in the bank or building society that they would like. Some have attempted to seek the potentially higher returns on offer from the stock market, but the continuing market turmoil has left many disappointed, receiving low returns or even losing money. Structured Products are able to offer a real alternative to ‘cash’ delivered in an efficient way with no on-going charges
or fees. They can be designed to deliver attractive returns in both rising and falling markets and importantly, details of how the performance of the investment will be determined, repayment dates and any capital at risk are all set out prior to investment. When you invest in a Structured Product the returns are clearly defined and you know exactly what you are buying so expectation of returns can be managed effectively. With no ongoing fees, the investments beat most traditional investments in terms of charges The initial sales charge is an implicit part of the structure’s design so 100% of the client’s capital is invested. AFG – How we help the professional intermediary As a professional intermediary, we know that the needs of their clients are of paramount importance to them. Our relationship team consists of highly experienced, specialists who work with them to find only the very best solutions available in the market place. Working with AFG gives the professional Intermediary access to many new and exclusive product opportunities and offers them ways to grow their business by providing unique, innovative solutions that can be presented to their clients. In addition, AFG understand the importance of service and are aware of the issues intermediaries are faced with on a day-to-day basis.
Africa – The new ‘Emerging Market’ We see Africa as one of the most exciting opportunities in our future business plans and our new head office in Mauritius is testimony to our commitment to the continent. We aim to be part of the Africa success story and we see the demand for international financial products increasing significantly over the coming years. AFG has strong distribution relationships throughout Africa and we will continue to partner with professional intermediaries throughout the continent as they enjoy a growing, but more demanding, client base in countries such as Angola, Ghana, Botswana, DRC, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. With the continent home to the largest potential workforce of under 40 year olds and the largest accumulated reserves of commodities such as gold, coal, copper, iron ore, lead, and zinc it is inevitable that the economic spotlight will fall even more on Africa and AFG is well positioned to help with and benefit from the coming Africa success story.
Africa Head Office Tel: +230 263 0040 Fax: +230 263 0317 Mauritius www.afg.mu Best of Botswana
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Chapter 10 Outsourced Solutions
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G4S G4S is the world’s leading security solutions group, specialising in outsourcing of business processes in sectors where security and safety risks are considered a strategic threat. sector clients across the country including operations in Gaborone, Francistown, SelebiPhikwe, Ramotswa, Jwaneng, Lobatse, Molepolole, Maun and Palapye. Physical security and security systems are becoming increasingly linked. G4S meets customers’ expectations for a comprehensive security solution with a flexible combination of products and services from the following departments: Manned Security G4S manned security solutions are customised to each client’s individual needs, using the most appropriate combination of manned guarding and security technology. Site-specific and tailor-made procedures are agreed with the client at the onset of each contract. Regular consultation between G4S security managers and the client, especially with regard to risk assessment and customer care, ensures continual adaptation and improvement of performance management and consequent customer satisfaction. This concept of integrated security solutions is based on two simple objectives: the Company aims to offer the client the most cost effective option available in the market and sets clear quantifiable goals in terms of benefits generated. As a member of a worldwide market leader active in over 116 countries, G4S Botswana has access to highly specialised security expertise specific to airports, mines, custodial services, cash solutions, hospitality and financial institutions. G4S (Botswana) Limited is a trusted partner of governments, corporations, private companies, embassies, parastatals and non-governmental organisation (NGOs). The Company’s integrated approach to offering comprehensive security solutions is based on a broad range of specialist services. This inclusive security solutions capability - under one organisational structure and in tandem with a wide geographical reach allows G4S to provide a unique approach to comprehensive security solutions. G4S is listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange and has a shareholding partnership in which G4S plc holds 70% shareholding while the remaining 30% are in the hands of citizens and local institutions. G4S plc listed on the London Stock Exchange brings the international expertise and resources of a leading global security group. G4S has over 3600 employees delivering services to governments and private
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Secure Monitoring and Response Through its state-of-the-art national control room in Gaborone, G4S is able to monitor a wide range of individually identifiable signals, including, but not limited to: • Security alarms • Electric fences • Fire alarms • Medical emergency alarms • Illegal access signals • Vehicle tracking • Low battery power alerts • Portable panic buttons • CCTV remote images By deploying the optimum number of response crews G4S Botswana is able to achieve the quickest average response time in the industry. All crews are highly trained and experienced, and are under constant direct supervision of
the control rooms. Vehicles are fitted with vehicle tracking devices, and all events and communications are logged for most effective control and performance standards management. Through its extensive international connections, G4S Botswana has access to the most specialised expertise in the world and is able to design the most cost effective options for technical security solutions. In addition to the full range of alarms systems for residential and business applications, G4S designs and supplies the following:
Key aspects of these services include: • Cash transport using end-to-end technological protection • Cash management – processing of deposits and sorting bank notes • ATM Services - replenishment, management of availability, first line maintenance and custodial services • Key security – collection and delivery of strong room keys to remove overnight risk to clients • Security products – tamper evident bags, seals, coin boxes • Teller planting services - provision of tellers for cash processing services
• Access control systems • Visual alarm verification systems • Vehicle tracking and fleet management systems • High security alarms • Fire alarm systems • Safes • CCTV systems • Time locks / time delay systems for safes and strong rooms • Intercom systems • Guard patrol monitoring systems
Cleaning Services G4S (Botswana) LTD has recently acquired the FMG Group which comprises of former PS Cleaning and Facilities Management Services.
Scheduled as well as unscheduled technical support for the above product range is also offered. Cash Solutions G4S Cash Services is the leading provider of integrated cash management solutions in Botswana. The division specialises in the secure transportation, storage of cash and, valuables; cash counting, cash processing as well as ATM replenishment and maintenance for 90 percent of the financial institutions in the country. All movement of cash is carried out in armoured vehicles and smoke box fitted vehicles.
Services offered by the cleaning division include: • Contract Cleaning for: »» Offices, Shopping Malls, Banks, Schools, Universities, Comprehensive House Cleaning • Specialist Techniques cleaning such as: »» Steam Cleaning of Carpets »» Vinyl Tile stripping and sealing »» Wood Floor stripping and sealing »» High rise window cleaning »» Washroom Hygiene Services Facilities Management Services G4S (Botswana) LTD has well trained staff with experience in the interdisciplinary aspects of Facilities Management and Property Maintenance. The division is able to provide full facility management services.
The ranges of services that can be provided are; • Financial: Rent collection and full accounting services • Utilities & Services: read utility meters, validate routine recurring charges, allocate and • invoice, collect monies due and authorize or make payments within agreed parameters • Maintenance: inspect and maintain properties. Maintenance services include: »» Electrical »» Plumbing »» Carpentry »» Estate Agency: Through close contacts with Stocker FleetwoodBird, and through them, we are able to handle all lettings, leases and sale requirements
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Chapter 11 Security
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Prevailing Security Systems Prevailing Securities (Pty) Ltd strives to offer comprehensive security services that are dedicated to meeting the ongoing needs of its clients. Since its founding in 2005, it has provided security guards and performed installation to a vast network of facilities.
The company is dedicated to delivering an excellent service at a competitive price and is 100% Batswana citizen owned. Its team includes former members of national security forces who have a total of over 10 years of experience in the fight against crime. The team have Business graduates, a Certified Fraud Examiner and a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist. We are committed to quality assurance based on ISO 9001 SPECIFICATION. Our guards are thus subjected to continuous training in line with international industry standards. Our company prides itself on being much more than just another Security Company. We realise that each client has special requirements and we do our utmost to identify with their individual needs and then provide complete satisfaction. Prevailing Securities’ workmanship is
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quality controlled, ensuring that the highest standard of excellence is adhered to at all times. The company’s technical experience is comparable to the largest security companies in the country. Our first priority is to ensure that our experience, teamed with professional staff, exceed client expectations in managing their security requirements. The protection level of the Fully Armoured Monocoque armoured vehicle with newly developed fibreglass trimmings, is the highest in Botswana and because of the high protection level, higher value commodities can be transported in it, such as Reserve Banks. Due to the high volume and value of money transported for Reserve Banks, this vehicle would be ideal for what we call “secure to secure” runs, such as from the airport to the Reserve Bank. The fact that Prevailing Securities can now offer the banks in Botswana “Mobile Banking” is a huge benefit to the banks, who in effect will increase clientele offering these clients in rural areas the opportunity to utilise their banking services. Airborne Assets-in-Transit Prevailing Securities offer an overt and covert protection service for high-risk valuable goods at static locations or in transit either in Botswana or overseas. We provide detailed survey reports, security planning and implementation, a low profile transit and guarding option, plus ongoing location and customer update via Gateway GPS Vault Protection. We are committed to comprehensive security and risk management beyond your front door. Our secured Transportation Services protect your cash and valuables using planned and discreet armed covert operations. Features & Benefits • While airborne, the valuable cargo is virtually inaccessible and cannot be intercepted. Equally so while on the ground as the helicopter takes-off and lands at secured areas either from the supplier, you the client or the airport. • The packages never come into contact with the public while in transit. • We offer WhistleBlower Management as research indicates that tips continue to be the most effective means of detecting fraud. The development of a whistleblower protection policy is an
important element of any effective fraud prevention and mitigation strategy and clearly demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to good corporate governance and comprehensive fraud and corruption risk management. • We also offer Fraud Risk Management where we work with clients to identify areas where the organisation is at risk, together with an assessment of the likelihood that those risks will eventuate and estimate their impact. Finally, we develop measures to minimise the risks. Our fraud risk management service aims to reduce the likelihood of loss through fraud. • We can help management to evaluate suspicions, investigate them vigorously, improve recoveries and provide evidence that will allow you to make appropriate decisions that can be used in future proceedings, through Fraud and Financial Investigations. Clients Amongst the number of clients the company has, we have several contracts with organisations such as The Department of Broadcasting (in remote areas including Jwaneng, Kanye, Mahalapye, Palapye, Serowe and Francistown), The Gaborone City Council, Botswana Power Corporation,
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Botswana Housing Corporation and University of Botswana, High Range and Golden Fruits. We have also completed a number of contracts for The City of Francistown Council, South East District Council, Selibe Phikwe Town Council, Labatse Town Council, Ministry of Health at Nyangabwe Referral Hospital, Car World and Sistec. Armoured Monocoque • Fully Armoured Shell Mounted onto the Chassis
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• Protection Level: B6 • Calibre: 7.62 x 51 rounds • Steel: 6mm Armoured Steel - will stop multiple rounds • Glass: 44mm Bullet Resistant Glass • Polycarbonate – will stop 3 shots within a 120mm triangle Internal Layout can be as per the required application i.e.: • Cash-in-Transit • Mobile Banking Unit – 2x Pay Points
• Bulk Carrier for Reserve Banks • Bullion Carrier for the Mining Industry Our Services: • Vehicle Tracking Devices • Fleet Management • Access Control Systems • Digital Surveillance Systems • Video/ Audio Intercom • CCTV Installations • Physical Guards • Security Training
• • • • • • •
General Security Consultancy Guards and Guard Dogs Fire and Smoke Detection System Time Attendance Cash-in-Transit Airborne Assets-in-Transit Security audit / survey
Prevailing Management Mr Shadrack Baaitse Shadrack is the company managing director / founder and has been in security field for
over seven years. He has worked for National Security and has acquired Security Specialist and Security Management certificates. His major task incorporates supervising the service department, liaison with financial, commercial institutions.
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G4S G4S is the world’s leading security solutions group, specialising in outsourcing of business processes in sectors where security and safety risks are considered a strategic threat.
increasingly linked. G4S meets customers’ expectations for a comprehensive security solution with a flexible combination of products and services from the following departments:
G4S (Botswana) Limited is a trusted partner of governments, corporations, private companies, embassies, parastatals and non-governmental organisation (NGOs). The Company’s integrated approach to offering comprehensive security solutions is based on a broad range of specialist services. This inclusive security solutions capability - under one organisational structure and in tandem with a wide geographical reach allows G4S to provide a unique approach to comprehensive security solutions. G4S is listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange and has a shareholding partnership in which G4S plc holds 70% shareholding while the remaining 30% are in the hands of citizens and local institutions. G4S plc listed on the London Stock Exchange brings the international expertise and resources of a leading global security group. G4S has over 3600 employees delivering services to governments and private sector clients across the country including operations in Gaborone, Francistown, SelebiPhikwe, Ramotswa, Jwaneng, Lobatse, Molepolole, Maun and Palapye. Physical security and security systems are becoming
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Manned Security G4S manned security solutions are customised to each client’s individual needs, using the most appropriate combination of manned guarding and security technology. Site-specific and tailor-made procedures are agreed with the client at the onset of each contract. Regular consultation between G4S security managers and the client, especially with regard to risk assessment and customer care, ensures continual adaptation and improvement of performance management and consequent customer satisfaction. This concept of integrated security solutions is based on two simple objectives: the Company aims to offer the client the most cost effective option available in the market and sets clear quantifiable goals in terms of benefits generated. As a member of a worldwide market leader active in over 116 countries, G4S Botswana has access to highly specialised security expertise specific to airports, mines, custodial services, cash solutions, hospitality and financial institutions. Secure Monitoring and Response Through its state-of-the-art national control room in Gaborone, G4S is able to monitor a wide range of individually identifiable signals, including, but not limited to: • Security alarms • Electric fences • Fire alarms • Medical emergency alarms • Illegal access signals • Vehicle tracking • Low battery power alerts • Portable panic buttons • CCTV remote images By deploying the optimum number of response crews G4S Botswana is able to achieve the quickest average response time in the industry. All crews are highly trained and experienced, and are under constant direct supervision of the control rooms. Vehicles are fitted with vehicle tracking devices, and all events and communications are logged for most effective control and performance
standards management. Through its extensive international connections, G4S Botswana has access to the most specialised expertise in the world and is able to design the most cost effective options for technical security solutions. In addition to the full range of alarms systems for residential and business applications, G4S designs and supplies the following: • Access control systems • Visual alarm verification systems • Vehicle tracking and fleet management systems • High security alarms • Fire alarm systems • Safes • CCTV systems • Time locks / time delay systems for safes and strong rooms • Intercom systems • Guard patrol monitoring systems Scheduled as well as unscheduled technical support for the above product range is also offered. Cash Solutions G4S Cash Services is the leading provider of integrated cash management solutions in Botswana. The division specialises in the secure transportation, storage of cash and, valuables; cash counting, cash processing as well as ATM replenishment and maintenance for 90 percent of the financial institutions in the country. All movement of cash is carried out in armoured vehicles and smoke box fitted vehicles. Key aspects of these services include: • Cash transport using end-to-end technological protection • Cash management – processing of deposits and sorting bank notes • ATM Services - replenishment, management of availability, first line maintenance and custodial services • Key security – collection and delivery of strong room keys to remove overnight risk to clients • Security products – tamper evident
bags, seals, coin boxes • Teller planting services - provision of tellers for cash processing services Cleaning Services G4S (Botswana) LTD has recently acquired the FMG Group which comprises of former PS Cleaning and Facilities Management Services. Services offered by the cleaning division include: • Contract Cleaning for: »» Offices, Shopping Malls, Banks, Schools, Universities, Comprehensive House Cleaning • Specialist Techniques cleaning such as: »» Steam Cleaning of Carpets »» Vinyl Tile stripping and sealing »» Wood Floor stripping and sealing »» High rise window cleaning »» Washroom Hygiene Services Facilities Management Services G4S (Botswana) LTD has well trained staff with experience in the interdisciplinary aspects of Facilities Management and Property Maintenance. The division is able to provide full facility management services. The ranges of services that can be provided are; • Financial: Rent collection and full accounting services • Utilities & Services: read utility meters, validate routine recurring charges, allocate and • invoice, collect monies due and authorize or make payments within agreed parameters • Maintenance: inspect and maintain properties. Maintenance services include: »» Electrical »» Plumbing »» Carpentry »» Estate Agency: Through close contacts with Stocker FleetwoodBird, and through them, we are able to handle all lettings, leases and sale requirements
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Chapter 12 Mining and Minerals
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Mining Industry Botswana The Minerals, Energy and Water Resources department in Botswana is under the leadership of Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila. The department’s three main focuses draw together the sectors of minerals, energy (coal, solar, and bio fuels), and water resources.
Hon. Onkokame Kitso Mokaila
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According to the Fraser Institute’s report on Mining Competitiveness, Botswana has improved significantly since 2011 and is ranked among the top 10 countries in the world. This was achieved because of a number of factors. Owing to this is certainly Botswana’s respect for the law and the fundamental freedoms of individuals which the constitution provides for. Stability in governance is evidently a key indicator in increased competitiveness in all sectors of the economy. Investors are respected and offered adequate security in order to ensure them a return on their investments. One of the major drawcards in investing in the mining sector in Botswana is that profits can be repatriated without unnecessary restrictions. Competitive tax offers a reasonable and viable option for investors. The transparency and
predictability of government in Botswana also assures investors will be met with a predictable investment climate. Political stability in Africa is becoming a rarity – which Botswana can most certainly offer. A planning process involving communities to share resources evenly and ensure they are used equitably is enforced in Botswana. The process is arrived at through consultation, which echoes the cultural tradition of the Kgotla which is one of Botswana’s key strategies. This strategy has garnered Botswana a reputation for tolerance. This process has helped to further stabilise the mining industry. Progress in opportunities for beneficiation The mining sector is capital intensive and has few direct employees. Beneficiation is a way to meet this challenge. Employment has been greatly increased by licensing as well as by employing in related sectors, such as security. The expansion of the Gaborone Airport has increased the prospect of job numbers and will introduce direct international flights and aid in achieving Botswana’s goal to become a global diamond trading centre. Having moved diamond sales and trading centres from London to Gaborone, vital skills are being brought back to the country and increasing employment. The transferral of these skills is to local people. The banking system is fundamental to the diamond industry. The manufacturing sector also offers opportunities for employment. These opportunities can be capitalised on by contacting manufacturers of high value goods. In such unstable economic times worldwide, it is interesting to note the effects had on the mining sector in Botswana. Through timeous and stringent measures, the industry avoided serious knock-on effects. At the onset of the economic recession, the Minerals Energy
and Water Resources department released widespread strategy to reduce the pay level in order to avoid retrenchment and therefore retain their skilled employees in anticipation of upturn. Sustainability in water and energy Botswana has become a shining example of sustainability, notably evidenced in the recent release of the first edition of Clean Botswana. It is noted that the mining sector is a major consumer of water and energy and in order to sustain the economy, the mining sector requires a considerable amount of water. To address these issues, the sector has attempted to stay ahead of economic development and in turn, propel economic growth. What makes Botswana’s minerals department unique is that it is tied into water and energy and can therefore act in the best interest of all sectors.
The Minerals Energy and Water Resources department is currently building three dams totalling over 530 million cubic metres of water, including the largest in Botswana at 400 million cubic metres of water. The aim is to have clean water available to the majority of people by 2016. This is essential for the productivity of the workforce and has led to an investment of nearly 4-billion pula. Half of Botswana is without drinkable water. As a result, part of this investment will go towards introducing purification. In addition, Botswana is looking into water from the Chobe-Zambezi and shares waters with South Africa. The legacy of the Minerals Energy and Water Resources department in Botswana is set to be in the widespread supply of clean water and electricity as well as the promotion of the mining industry.
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De Beers De Beers is the world’s leading diamond company with unrivalled expertise in the exploration, mining and marketing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers employs approximately 16,000 people across the diamond pipeline, and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value.
De Beers has been operating in Botswana for more than 55 years. Over this period, the company has become the largest single direct foreign investor into the country. De Beers’ investment in Botswana also represents the company’s largest investment in one country in recent history. This investment has been made largely through De Beers’ financial, technical and intellectual property contribution to the Debswana operations, which runs into billions of Pula. In addition to Debswana, De Beers has invested hugely in exploration, the Diamond Trading Company Botswana, as well as other interests. The public-private partnership between the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers plays a significant role in the economy of Botswana and has contributed to the transformation of an essentially agricultural country into a nation with one of the highest economic growth rates in the world. Recognised as one of the most successful public-private partnerships in the world, Debswana has become part of the fabric of Botswana, enabling her people
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to unlock the value of their precious natural resource and the potential of their country. De Beers’ approach to sustainability is captured in its commitment to ‘living up to diamonds’, by making a lasting contribution to the communities in which it lives and works. In Botswana, this means carrying out profitable business whilst at the same time helping Government achieve its aspirations of turning natural resources into shared national wealth. Working in this way ensures consumer confidence in the ethical integrity of De Beers and Botswana’s diamonds. De Beers’ operations in Botswana work with a network of offices in the main diamond jewellery markets to communicate the message of the good that diamonds do in Botswana. This is important for driving consumer demand. Exploration De Beers’ exploration geologists first came to Botswana in 1955. Since then, De Beers’ geologists have discovered a record six mines in the country. These discoveries include Orapa Mine, the largest producer of rough diamonds by volume globally; and Jwaneng
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Mine, the richest diamond mine by value in the world. Since exploration activities began in Botswana, De Beers has spent millions of pula in prospecting activities. Mining Diamond mining operations in Botswana started in 1969 through the joint venture between De Beers and the Government of the Republic of Botswana - the joint venture which is known as Debswana Diamond Company. The business of this company is to mine, recover and sell rough diamonds from the company’s mines to the Diamond Trading Company Botswana (DTC Botswana). The revenue from the Botswana diamond mines is the lifeblood of the country and a major source of revenue for the shareholders of De Beers - the Government of the Republic of Botswana and Anglo American Plc. Debswana has been recognised by leaders around the world for how a true partnership between a well-managed government and a commercial enterprise, can create value for both the country and the product. Jwaneng Mine Expansion – Cut 8 Project The Cut 8 project, the construction phase of which was recently completed, is the largest single investment in the history of Debswana and the Botswana mining industry. The shareholders of Debswana invested P24-billion in the expansion of the mine. The Jwaneng mine expansion project will secure
approximately 102 million more carats and will extend the life of the mine out to 2025. Debswana operates four mines: in addition to the Jwaneng mine and the Orapa mine, there are the smaller Letlhakane and Damtshaa mines, which are satellites of the Orapa operations. Diamond Trading Company Botswana (DTC Botswana) The Diamond Trading Company Botswana is
a 50/50 joint venture partnership between the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers. It is the world’s largest and most sophisticated rough diamond sorting and valuing operation. DTC Botswana sorts and values Debswana Diamond Company’s rough diamond production. Currently, DTC Botswana sells and markets rough diamonds to 21 cutting and polishing companies that have been licensed for cutting and polishing activities.
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DTC Botswana aims to facilitate, drive and support the creation of a vibrant, sustainable and profitable downstream diamond industry in Botswana; delivering additional value for Botswana’s diamonds. With further development of the Botswana downstream diamond industry, it is estimated that there will be a good number of jobs created for Batswana in the coming years. The US$6-billion company moves to Botswana In September 2011, the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers announced a landmark 10-year marketing agreement that would see De Beers transfer its London-based diamond trading activities to Botswana by the end of 2013. This agreement is the cornerstone of the long-term future of one of the world’s most successful public-private partnerships. The agreement, which is the longest marketing contract ever agreed between the two partners, secures De Beers long-term access to the largest supply of diamonds in the world, and will transform Botswana into a leading diamond trading and manufacturing hub. Following the Sales Agreement in 2011, the De Beers Group formally commenced
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worldwide aggregation in Gaborone - two months ahead of schedule. The delivery of the first phase of the migration of De Beers’ sales activities to Botswana is a milestone achievement by the shareholders. The process of aggregation is an integral part of De Beers’ business, involving the mixing of like-for-like diamonds from De Beers’ global production. It provides Sightholders with supply consistency to enable them to plan their downstream business and commit to long-term investments in producer countries such as Botswana. Until the launch of aggregation in Botswana, aggregation had taken place in London for nearly 80 years. Aggregation cements a solid foundation of beneficiation to Botswana. Aggregation is hugely important to beneficiation because aggregating diamonds generates scale, reduces volatility and provides continuity for Sightholders. Significant Milestones 1966 Botswana is declared an independent state. 1967 De Beers geologists discover the Orapa and Letlhakane diamond pipes. 1967 The Mineral Rights in Tribal Territories Act is enacted to provide for the
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vesting of mineral rights, previously in tribal territories, in the State (Republic). Debswana, a partnership between De Beers and Botswana, is formed. Orapa mine’s first production of 2.44 million carats is recovered. De Beers geologists discover the Jwaneng diamond pipe. De Beers completes construction of Orapa House to accommodate the sorting and valuing activities of the Debswana production. Teemane Manufacturing Company, a cutting and polishing factory and subsidiary of Debswana, is officially opened in Serowe. At 21% of global output, Botswana becomes the world’s largest producer of diamonds by value. Botswana acquires a 15% share in the De Beers Group. The Botswana Government and De Beers sign an agreement to establish a joint venture agreement to sort, value and (for the first time) sell a portion of Botswana’s production in Botswana. The Botswana Government licenses
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an additional 11 cutting and polishing factories to set up in Botswana. Botswana assumes the chairmanship for the Kimberley Process. The Debswana mines produce a record 34.3 million carats. Opening of DTC Botswana - the largest sorting and valuing facility in the world. De Beers commemorates 40 years of partnership in Botswana. First DTC Botswana Sight takes place. Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers announce a new 10-year contract for the sorting, valuing and sale of Debswana’s diamond production. De Beers agrees to transfer its London-based rough diamond sales activity to Botswana by the end of 2013. First aggregation activities take place in Botswana. Jwaneng mine celebrates its 30th Anniversary.
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Botswana Chamber of Mines The Botswana Chamber of Mines is an organisation established to serve the interests of the mining and exploration companies together with associated industries. The mining industry remains the main driver of economic activity in the country and is forecasted to sustain the economy into the future.
More exploration for minerals is taking place in the country and whilst this is a welcome development, it is essential that the progress is achieved smoothly with due regard for legislation. The Chamber of Mines aims to ensure that legislation in the country is conducive for mining companies and at the same time developing good working relationships with the legislator. The direction that this industry pursues therefore is not only significant for the mining organisations, but crucial for the country’s purported buoyancy in the world economic fora. The organisation realises the critical success of this strategy to be dependent upon its people. Botswana Chamber of Mines Committees: • Safety Committee • Environmental Committee • Health Committee • Training Committee
His Honour the Vice President of the Republic of Botswana Dr PHK Kedikilwe opening the Botswana Chamber of Mines offices flanked by its executives in November 2010.
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Strategy The development of the strategy for the Botswana Chamber of Mines (BCM) was
necessitated by the desire to strategically position the Chamber to deliver on its mandate. This is particularly critical in the current dynamic environment, characterised by rapid changes, socio-economic challenges as well as increasing rate of globalisation. Thus the strategy not only provides a framework for managing the BCM and focusing on what matters most for the organisation, it is a vehicle for effectively managing BCM’s affairs and responding to the needs of its stakeholders. History Mining activities have been taking place in Botswana since the nineteenth century with the advent of the gold rush in the northern part of the country. In 1990, with the industry growing, the mining houses felt the need to discuss issues under a single forum which has since evolved to the current Botswana Chamber of Mines. It is a mining employers’ organisation serving its members to promote their interests in the Botswana mining industry with consultations between the members on matters of common concern. There has been significant progress over the years in terms of achievements by this organisation. The Chamber functions through its Gaborone based secretariat headed by a CEO. The other five executive committee members are drawn from among the industry leaders through an election process at an annual general meeting. The mining companies include those exploring for and exploiting the varied minerals in Botswana. Other stakeholders include the government, mining suppliers, contractors and tertiary training institutions. The Chamber has an excess of 30 members of different levels of participation. Vision and Mission To be a respected, effective and unified voice for the mining industry that educates and shares knowledge with its stakeholders. We represent the interests and needs of the mining industry in Botswana. Purpose The purpose of the Botswana Chamber of Mines is to serve the interests of the mining houses and to influence policy decisions and strategic intents within the government, non-governmental organisations and related bodies.
Monty Mphathi President
Balisi Bonyongo Chairman
Sebetlela Sebetlela Deputy Chairman
Fred Jansen Secretary
Obakeng Moroka Treasurer
Charles Siwawa Chief Executive Officer
Derek Cochrane Immediate Past Deputy Chairman
Tel: +267 391 4685/6 Fax: +267 391 4684 Email: bcm@info.bw Plot 22, Khama Crescent Gaborone, Botswana P.O. Box AD 80 ABE Postnet, Kgaleview, Gaborone www.bcm.org.bw Best of Botswana
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Morupule Coal Mine (MCM)
Location Morupule Coal Mine (MCM) is located 14km west of Palapye in the Eastern parts of Botswana along the A14 main road. Vision To be a leading coal energy business. Mission We mine coal and deliver energy for the benefit of our stakeholders in a sustainable manner. Core Values • Safety • Passion • Caring • Excellence • Working Together • Growth
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First Production MCM started production in 1973 as an Anglo American Corporation subsidiary with the main objective being to supply coal to the then Bamangwato Concessions Limited mine (now BCL) and BPC power plant situated in Selebi Phikwe. In 2000 Debswana acquired MCM as its 100% owned subsidiary and it has since grown both in stature and production to be a dominant influence in the coal mining sector in the country and region. The Coalfield and Reserves MCM is situated above the Kgaswe coalfield, which is endowed with good quality coal contained within four main seams. It is estimated that MCM has reserves of approximately 2.91billion tonnes within the number 01 & 02 seams and total inferred inventory coal resources are estimated to
be 12bn tons for all seams within the total mining lease area. The deepest number 01 seam, is the thickest and most consistently developed and is also currently the only seam being mined. Safety, Health and the Environment MCM values the safety of its employees and for this reason safety has been positioned as the number one core value. Numerous management and employee safety related programs have been implemented to promote zero harm. The latter together with initiatives aimed at positive behavioural change have resulted in the Mine achieving low injury frequency rates. In addition, MCM is ISO 14001 certified and is currently seeking its OHSAS 18001 certification. The Expansion Phase The main customer for MCM’s thermal coal is the adjacent Botswana Power Corporation (BPC); with supply historically going to the existing 150MW Morupule ”A” Power Station. In 2008, South Africa advised Botswana of its intention to gradually terminate export of power to Botswana and other neighbouring states. This has resulted in BPC constructing a new 600MW power station. MCM rose to this national challenge for power supply and executed its own MCM Phase I expansion project that resulted in a threefold increase in installed capacity to 3.4mtpa. The scope of the project covered infrastructural as well as capacity upgrades leading to the main ventilation system being upgraded to 600m3/s, the introduction of two new continuous miner sections, an entirely new surface screening and crushing plant
and associated auxiliary engineering and support infrastructure and services. MCM has successfully completed this expansion project and is poised to meet the Nation’s demand for power through the supply of coal to BPC. Washed Coal In 2007, MCM commissioned a coal washing plant and subsequently now supplies washed coal in addition to thermal coal. The Grade “A” washed coal is sold both locally and into the SADC region where it is consumed by other coal fired power stations, various industrial users and is also an alternative to coking coal in metallurgical processes; due to its low sulphur and phosphorous content. Exports into regional markets continue to grow and this gives rise to economic growth, employment opportunities and benefits for the surrounding community in which MCM operates. The Future Ahead Since the successful completion of its Phase 1 expansion, MCM continues to explore its vast reserves and is currently undertaking further exploratory and investigative work (Phase II expansion) with the objective of establishing an open pit mine in the northern boundary of its mining lease area to meet the additional regional and overseas markets’ demand for coal.
Tel: +267 492 0667 Fax: +267 492 0643 www.mcl.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 13 Property, Building and Construction
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Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates from its incorporation in 1999 in Gaborone, Botswana, has grown and developed under the direction of founders and directors, Dithologo Mmile and Boyce Mhutsiwa, to become an established and one of the leading Quantity Surveying consulting firms, recognised in all sectors of the country’s building industry.
Mlimani City Mall
The company has also established a regional presence in the southern Africa subcontinent, having now become active in South Africa’s and Tanzania’s construction industries. Projects completed over the past 13 years, range between P1 million and P1.7 billion in value. The company currently employs a total of 13 persons; eight qualified Quantity Surveyors and five Administration staff. Over the years the skills and management base of the company has grown and developed and our team of staff and managers has enthusiasm, competence, and commitment unequalled in the industry. Competitive tendering, professional management, quality quantity surveying, a proven ability to meet targets, and our co-operative and proactive approach, have ensured the satisfaction of Design Teams and clients in both the public and private sectors. Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates is the ideal choice for Quantity Surveying consultancy of your construction and engineering projects, of any kind.
Exponential Office Block
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Description of Business We provide our clients with a wide range of professional cost management and contract services in a construction industry context. These include: • Project viability evaluations. • In-house cost modelling techniques developed and designed specifically for
Mlimani City Offices
Botswana Innovation Hub
retail and other commercial projects. • Cost planning and control, including, among others: »» Tenant account cost controls; »» Finance and expenditure analyses for hotel development projects; »» Cash flow forecasts; »» Project Payment Schedules for total Capital Cost Budgeting & Control; »» Management and Cost Reports; incorporating tenant recoveries, etc. • Contractual advice and documentation. • Tender documentation. • Tender evaluation. • Contract administration, and • Other specialised cost and contractsrelated services. We have also provided services as part of the Transaction Advisory team on one of the few PPP accommodation projects in Botswana. Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates has a breadth of experience encompassing all sectors of the industry from educational and leisure facilities, healthcare, industrial and commercial buildings, building refurbishment, large scale residential developments and small engineering projects such as mechanical workshops, and green houses. Contracts have been undertaken successfully all over Botswana with the main area of concentration being Gaborone and surrounding areas, which are easily
serviced from our base in Gaborone. We have however worked not only in Botswana, but also crossed the local borders to areas such as South Africa and Tanzania, which places us in a unique position to deliver cost management services on projects of any magnitude and complexity. Clients that we have worked for in Botswana include: • Central Government; • Local Authorities; • Parastatal Organisations such as BDC, BHC, BEDIA and University of Botswana, Botswana Innovation Hub, Botswana Railways and Botswana Post; • Private companies such as GH Group, Motor Centre Group, Debswana, Turnstar Holdings, Naledi Motors, Capital Motors, Lesedi Motors and; • Non-governmental organisations such as the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Service Quality Statement Our services are specific to our clients’ needs and are proactive, providing clients with a good value-for-money service. The guiding principle in all our work is to “always focus on helping our client achieve their desired outcome”. We are able to achieve this by, among others:
Mlimani City Conference Centre
Mlimani City Conference Centre
Mlimani City Housing
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Naledi Motors
Projects Portfolio Malls The Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates team fully appreciates the business drivers that impact on design and cost. We provide honest, practical, commercial advice to clients in the delivery of sustainable projects and several of the projects described in the following pages have received local acclaim for Environmentally Sustainable Design and Performance. Shopping complexes are a significant sector of Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates. Malls’ need very critical and precise detailing; our company has enjoyed being trusted with quite a number of them, of which all were delivered at very high standard. We pride ourselves in the successful delivery of the following malls which form part of our portfolio:
Game City Mall
• Recognising, on each project, the uniqueness of our client’s objectives and requirements; • Recognising that effective management of a construction project can only be achieved by working in harmony with other members of the client’s team of appointed consultants; • Running our organisation in such a way that our work will continue undisrupted, regardless of change in staff, however occurring. This is with particular regard to our maintenance of records. Investment in People As a wholly Botswana citizen-owned company, we are committed to the development of the Quantity Surveying profession among the country’s citizens. Our commitment in this regard is evidenced by our staff profile, which consists entirely of citizens of Botswana. Despite the current economic depression, we continue to implement our policy of providing internships to young Batswana Quantity Surveying under-graduates in the course of their training. We pride ourselves with the successful careers that some of our former employees have gone on to realise in various organisations and in other parts of the construction industry.
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Project Game City Mlimani City - Tanzania- Dar Rail Park Mall Lightenburg Mall Lightenburg - South Africa
Location Gaborone - Botswana Dar - Tanzania Gaborone - Botswana Mafenyatlala Mall Molepolole Botswana
CAR DEALERSHIPS We have also had the opportunity to work in quite a substantial number of car dealerships both locally and currently across borders as well. This has honed us the credibility and confidence to take on high technical projects of such a nature with much ease. Some of our bespoke car dealerships we have worked on are as follows: Project
Location
Naledi Motors - Mercedes Benz
Gaborone - Botswana
Lesedi Motors - Land Rover
Gaborone - Botswana
Capital Motors - BMW
Gaborone - Botswana
Naledi Motors - Mercedes Benz Commercial Vehicles
Gaborone - Botswana
Naledi Motors - Chrysler
Gaborone - Botswana
PUBLIC AND CIVIC Working with owners, owners’ representatives and stakeholders for major public projects gives us a thorough understanding of the unique requirements that public owners face when developing
Finance Park Plot 124 Office Block
prominent civic buildings. Public facilities are typically programmed, designed and built with extensive interest and oversight by the public and the media. Some of the bespoke projects of such nature involved in, including but not limited to: Project Middlepits Police Station Industrial Court Mmadinare Police Station Customary Courts
Location Middlepits - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Various Locations - Botswana
OFFICES Project Exponential Mlimani City Offices and Conference Centre Plot-124 Finance Park
Location Gaborone - Botswana Dar Es Salaam - Tanzania Gaborone - Botswana
HIGH TECH BUILDINGS Project Botswana Innovation Hub Headquarters Bta Monitoring Centre Tswana Pride Abattoir Haul Truck Dispatch
Location Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Jwaneng - Botswana
EDUCATION/HEALTH We have provided services to many of the country’s most prominent education and research developments. We offer property expertise across the full range of facilities, including primary schools, colleges, universities and hospitals: Project University of Botswana Academic Hospital University of Botswana Multidisciplinary Offices and Classrooms Sda College of Nursing Bdf Staff College and Command Centre
Location Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana
Kanye - Botswana Central - Botswana
Multi Disciplinary Offices & Classrooms
RESIDENTIAL From the bespoke, one-off residential home to the tallest residential towers in the country, our breadth of experience also captures social housing, renewal and residential-led mixed-use developments. Project Bdc Appartment Blocks Mlimani Housing Development House Dada Ub Academic Hospital - Housing Jacaranda Flats Jwaneng Housing
Location Gaborone - Botswana Dar Es Salaam - Tanzania Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Gaborone - Botswana Jwaneng - Botswana
Tel: +267 390 7068 / 390 7122 Fax: +267 397 1141 Email: mma@mma.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Saatchi and Saatchi Civil Engineering & Contractors.
Founded in Botswana in 2004, Saatchi and Saatchi (Pty) Ltd, as it is known today, is a building and civil engineering contractor, a private house builder and an industrial developer and investor. The company’s portfolio in Botswana spans mine upgrades and development, such as: AK6 Open Cast Diamond Mine Boteti, Botswana; BCL Mine upgrades and sub-contracts in engineering management; Civil Engineering sub-contracts with the SinoHydro Corporation Botswana; involved in the Dikgatlhong Dam Project and associated works in Robelela; and Lotsane Dam projects. Company Resources: The Parent Company – Saatchi and Saatchi (Pty) Ltd The company’s construction division is a practitioner of the “design and build” concept and “partnering” approaches to the construction procurement.
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Other main services of the parent company are: • CIVIL ENGINEERING AND BUILDING CONTRACTORS: Building and Civil works Construction. • CONCRETE REPAIRS: Specialises in the repair of concrete and the cathodic protection/ treatment of concrete structures. • SAATCHI PLANT: Based in Botswana, provides plant hire service both for the parent company and external customers. • FENCING: We are established Fencing sub-contractors where we provide stockproof fencing, vermin-proof fencing, pedestrian and security fencing - all erected in accordance with set standards. Experience Saatchi and Saatchi (Pty) Ltd is a Botswanabased company which has gained and developed a strong in-house capability in
design and site management on projects of varying size and nature - both in civil engineering and building projects with limited budgets. Projects • Open Cast Mine Boteti Botswana (20102011) Construction of surface building infrastructure: »» Administration building »» Control room »» Recovery plant »» Transformer bays, mini sub bays »» MV Switchgear building, VSD building, 11KV Consumer sub-station • Mmadinare Dairy (Nov 2009-Jan 2010) Design and construction review of milking parlour, zero grazing layout and supportive structures. • Lotsane Dam Project (Jul 2009-Nov 2009) »» Resident employee camps and crusher site offices for SinoHydro Botswana Lotsane. »» Construction of plain concrete pavement and raft foundation slab within the Engineer’s camp for SinoHydro. • Dikgatlhong Dam and associated works Involved with the SynoHydro Corporation Botswana Company for associated Civil Engineering works at the Dikgatlhong Dam Project in Robelela.
• Aggregate Crushing Plant (May-Jul 2008) Reinforced concrete structure set inclined to facilitate the installation of conveyor belt system. • Concrete Pavement Construction (Aug-Sep 2008) Construction involved the use of lean mix plain concrete with properly spaced movement. Joints to construct a semirigid pavement. • BCL-Mine Selebi Phikwe Civils Contractor Civils for Dant Mechanical at shut down: »» FNA and RTZ matte granulation pits (Aug-Sep 2007) »» Oil Storage and sump facility BCL Mine (Jul-Oct 2007) »» Sub-contract capacity in engineering management (Oct 2005-Oct 2007) »» Construction Management Fencing Contractors • Erected stock-proof fence using Veldspan mixed-stock and boundary fencing (Dikgatlhong Dam Site, Aggregate crushing plant). • Erected security fence veranda-type with diamond mesh on the vertical portion and barbed wire on the overhang (Water Affairs Administration Building, Dikgatlhong Dam Site). • Fencing off of the Oil Storage facility comprising security fence – with a barbed wire overhang (BCL Mine Concentrator).
Plot No 163/164, Unit 3 Gaborone International Commerce Park P.O. Box AD 549 ADD Postnet Kgale Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 391 6986 Email: mjengs@gmail.com; saatchicivils@gmail.com 15 Southam Drive, Greystone Park Harare, Zimbabwe Tel: +263 779 874683 Best of Botswana
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Integrated Engineers Providing cutting-edge engineering solutions.
Integrated Engineers (Pty) Ltd. is a consulting engineering firm set up in Gaborone in 1999 to serve as a provider of premier consulting engineering services to the Botswana construction industry. Areas of expertise include civil and structural Engineering and project management. The company has grown over the years, working in a wide variety of challenging and innovative projects both within and outside the country. The company is registered with the Government of Botswana Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board (PPADB) under various codes and is a member firm of the Association of Consulting Engineers Botswana. Clients include government departments, private sector corporations, nongovernmental organisations and individuals; projects have included mining, industrial, commercial, residential and infrastructure developments. Every project at Integrated Engineers is tackled with the view to ensuring that the
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IE
best possible innovative and sustainable solutions are delivered to clients on time. The environmental sustainability of the engineering solutions provided by the company is key and is considered an essential part of the core philosophy of the company. The quality management procedures implemented on all projects are in line with international standards and are achieved through teamwork, innovation and staff competence. The company is under the management of directors who are experienced Engineers involved full-time in the running of the company. The company currently has the services of qualified and experienced Civil and Structural Engineers supported by welltrained and experienced technicians and support staff using the latest software and computers. Every effort is taken to ensure that all staff members undergo continuous training to keep abreast of the latest technology and developments in the field and staff are allowed and encouraged to attain their full potential. Currently, the business focus is on the provision of Civil and Structural Engineering design services, as well as project management. This is done by way of the
company’s participation as follows: • Client’s principal agent • Member of the project team • Sub-consulting to other firms • Joint ventures with other consulting firms Consulting services are offered in the following competencies: Structural Engineering • Design of Commercial and Industrial buildings and structures • Design of liquid retaining structures • Structural inputs to housing and development schemes • Structural surveys on existing buildings Civil Engineering • Water and sewerage reticulation • Sewage disposal • Roads and stormwater drainage • Rehabilitation of civil infrastructure Project Management • Project management (as principal agent) • Construction supervision
Integrated Engineers (Pty) Ltd Tel: +267 390 7002 Fax: +267 393 4826 Email: ie@ie.co.bw P.O. Box 404500 Gaborone Botswana Best of Botswana
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Imagine the Difference Pabaap has created a balanced portfolio of complementary services to offer a one-stop-shop to its customers.
The following offerings are currently available at Pabaap: Garden Design and Landscaping We at Pabaap design and implement beautiful gardens that are sustainable and timeless. In our first meeting we will walk you through the various gardening themes, discuss your needs, and desires. At our next meeting we will present you a preliminary plan and explain how the design will make your outdoor space the showcase of the neighbourhood and benefit the environment. We pride ourselves in providing our clients with exceptional comprehensive service. We source all the products associated with creating a peaceful, and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere to complement the style of your outdoor living space.
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Landscape maintenance and garden care service As an extension to the exceptional landscaping services being rendered, Pabaap also offers landscape maintenance and garden care services only to the Business community. The activities include tasks as diverse as lawn care and maintenance, shrub reshaping and pruning, feeding and fertilising, sweeping and anything else which keeps your garden looking at its best. Our garden maintenance offerings range from a one-off visit to simply get the garden into shape; to regular visits. Pabaap has truly outdone itself regarding goals set for the first three years of operation. Our workmanship bares the testimony of our talent and how we would want to be perceived in the future. Our hallmark ranges from successful garden designs and installation of park landscaping, commercial and residential projects we have carried out so far. We pledge to offer you a garden experience of exceptional quality, diversity and yet making it truly exclusive for you. Watch this space as we evolve going forward!
Email: info@pabaap.co.bw Optional email: pabaap@gmail.com www.pabaap.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 14 Transport, Logistics and Motoring
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Reaching Africa and the World
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Grindrod Petrologistics Botswana Petrologistics Botswana’s history dates back to 2007 when, as part of a citizen empowerment transaction, the IMPERIAL Group’s interest in Botswana was sold. At the time, Petrologistics Botswana was formally named Truckafrica Botswana.
Following the acquisition of Fuelogic Botswana, the company’s name was subsequently changed to Petrologistics Botswana. In January 2012 JSE-listed logistics and shipping business Grindrod finalised the transaction to buy a 75% interest in the Botswana-based fuel logistics company, Petrologistics Botswana. Grindrod bought the interest held by Imperial Holdings, Transport Holdings, Botswana citizens and the Citizen Empowerment Development Agency Venture Capital Fund for an undisclosed amount. MD Todd Mangadi remained a shareholder in the business along with Grindrod’s 100%-owned subsidiary Fuelogic, which holds 24.5%. Core Business Petrologistics specialises in fuel transportation and distribution within and throughout Botswana. Key Customers • Shell • Engen • PUMA ENERGY
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Petrologistics are continuously committed to improving on providing quality service to its internal and external customers and striving to prevent any form of accident or incident within the population of the country in which it operates. Petrologistics consider one of their major objectives to be their concern for the environment and require the full support of management and employees.
•
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• This objective can only be achieved by: • Identifying with the customer needs, providing a quality of service, and adopting a responsible and positive attitude with the customer for the environment; • Working within the legal requirements of the Road Traffic Act and Pollution programmes at all times, as well as with other relevant environmental regulations; • Adopting International Standards as a basis for continuous service improvement in overall Health, Safety and Environmental performance; • Actively training and encouraging all
•
employees to participate in the quality process and create awareness for the prevention of accidents and incidents; Ensuring that customer Health, Safety and Environmental objectives are met and that the highest standards are maintained; Using the Health, Safety and Environment management system to drive down costs by reducing accidents and incidents; Work with suppliers to ensure that they assist Petrologistics to meet its quality standards and share its environmental experiences; Use the quality and environmental management system to drive down costs by reducing wastage.
The management of Petrologistics are committed to improving and providing quality service within their niche market of specialised bulk haulage. They continually strive to prevent pollution and foster awareness and concern for the protection of the environment. The adoption of a total quality and environmental management
approach is to become a “Way of Life” throughout the company. A copy of the policy will be displayed at the workplaces and all requests for copies of the policy by interested parties will be entertained. Did you know? The Botswana Government is in the process of forming a national oil company and Petrologistics Botswana, being the largest fuel transporter with citizen empowerment, faces exciting future prospects. This is a great opportunity to further broaden Citizen Empowerment in the company. Community Safety Awareness Campaign On the 3 August 2011, Shell Oil Botswana together with Petrologistics Botswana visited Batlokwa National School in Tlokweng. This school was chosen specifically due to its proximity to the main road which runs to the Tlokweng border. This road is currently under construction and extremely busy, with a number of scholars regularly crossing this road to get to school. Petrologistics wanted to impart safety as a way of life and teach the scholars a few important tips on road safety. Our Success Story Shell Oil Botswana and Petrologistics Botswana each donated P2000 which will be used towards the prize giving ceremony in October 2011. The pupils need
encouragement and support in order for them to perform to their maximum potential and the combined donation of P4000 will assist the school in achieving their goals. Our Presentation Peo Tshiamo (Petrologistics’ BVO D O) was the main spokesman for the day and taught the children about basic road safety rules. After the safety talk, the children were presented with lollipops and colouring-in pictures, before the donation was handed
over. Valuable information was shared with the children, which they will remember for a very long time.
Head Office: Plot 1193 Tlokweng, Gaborone, Botswana P O Box 41193, Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 392 8830 Fax: +267 392 8688 Email: toddm@petrologistics.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana Couriers Botswana Couriers faces a horizon of opportunity which looks vibrant and varied. As the company draws strength from the buoyancy in Botswana’s sectors including mining, pharmaceuticals, retail and financial services, the only step left for massive growth is to capitalise on the inherent opportunities within the private sector.
Botswana’s economy is rapidly diversifying with new developments and challenges that call on both private sector and government to rethink their approach to business. In that regard the government of Botswana is seriously looking into Public Private Partnerships (Triple Ps) as a means of controlling cost and growing the private sector and Botswana Couriers is poised to take advantage of such a development to position itself as one of government’s preferred partners. The future is sure to reward those who invest wisely in Botswana and evolve in strides for excellence. Botswana Couriers is one such evolving company which plans on benefiting from these rewards. As from 2013, they are now transitioning into a new phase of operations; communicated via an extensive rebranding exercise. The new brand is consistent with diversification and reflects the strategic objectives of Botswana Couriers; positioning them as the country’s leading logistics provider. The Botswana Couriers brand has been built upon the extensive retail exposure
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received through the Botswana Post network. By redefining the purpose of this established brand, Botswana Couriers can articulate its value proposition as broader, more impactful and more relevant to all areas of the business community - in Botswana and beyond. This will ensure further service offerings to more customers and an extension to areas of freight, warehousing, bulk distribution and the broader logistics sector. Botswana Couriers continues to be the fastest growing courier company in Botswana. Since its inception in 2001, a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of the Botswana Post Group, Botswana Couriers has grown to become a prominent player within the logistics industry. We offer courier, freight and logistics services to individuals as well as businesses in all segments of the industry. The vast distribution network unlocks their capacity to offer door-to-door and door-to-counter services throughout Botswana. The Global
network covers over 220 destinations worldwide, giving Botswana Couriers the widest reach and the capability to connect customers from all over the world. Services We have a diverse portfolio of service offerings specially designed to suit the specific and varied needs of customers. • Same Day Deliveries: For urgent and high value items, SDD are frequently used by legal professions and others where contracts, paperwork and documents all need to be prepared, signed and processed, within a very tight deadline. This service is offered between major centres in Botswana and Johannesburg. • Overnight Domestic and International Courier: As the old saying goes, time is money and sometimes you need things shipped or delivered at the speed of light or as close to it as possible. It could be that you need materials quickly due to an unforeseen occurrence, or perhaps one of your clients is in need of an item only you can provide. You can rely on the Botswana Couriers’ ODIC services to ensure the item makes it to its destination on time. These daily services are provided between Gaborone and major centres in Botswana, as well as between Johannesburg (including surrounding areas) and Gaborone. • Freight Under freight we offer our clients a more flexible product both local and international based on weight of 100kg and above with no weight or volumetric limit. The service is not offered on express basis unless where the customer stipulates and allows for longer transit time while reducing cost to the customer. • Supply Chain Management As Botswana Couriers evolves to become a more innovative player in the market and assert itself as the dominant player in the market, we formed strategic partnerships and delivered capacity to serve our customers end to end. To this end Botswana Couriers will be launching into the market a range of supply
chain management solutions including warehousing & distribution, inventory management, outsourced procurement, consolidated sea, rail, road and air freight. • Messenger Services: Messenger Services offer customised mail pick-up and delivery services within town. There are dedicated couriers who are responsible for the day-to-day running of mail services for specific organisations. Daily proof of delivery documents are produced for accurate recording. As part of the strategy, Botswana Couriers have expanded in Warehousing and Distribution, making them the first and only courier company in Botswana to offer such distinguished services – to both local and international clientele. Botswana Couriers Online The Botswana Couriers online facility allows customers to track and trace their parcels from origin to destination through the company website. This facility aimed at providing real-time updates on the whereabouts of a parcel en route to its final destination by the end of 2013. Botswana Couriers have successfully added
convenience to customer interaction. This feature allows customers to book their collections online through a detailed booking form. Once submitted, a response is sent directly to their email addresses bearing a collection reference number as confirmation. With the growing demand for courier services within this market, and the increased competitiveness in the industry, Botswana Couriers have now made it easier for customers to calculate their own shipping costs from the comfort of their homes or offices. This avenue not only adds convenience, but instils confidence and understanding for customers. As a customer centric and service orientated organisation, Botswana Couriers ensures their employees provide exceptional service and uphold the highest level of integrity at all times.
Botswana Couriers House Plot 89, Tshukudu Road Gaborone International Commerce Park Tel: +267 3930629 Fax: +267 3930630 Email: customerservices@ botscouriers.co.bw; sales@botscouriers.co.bw www.botscouriers.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Reaching Africa and The World Fast + Furious International offers a wide range of customised global transportation logistics, courier and supply chain management solutions for local and cross-border companies.
Our logistics solutions and delivery services are focused on the customer through unparalleled levels of service and convenience. With well-established local and international networks, key alliances and strategic partnerships, Fast + Furious is able to meet the specific requirements of its clients’ business needs. Ultimately, the main objective is to provide professional services to help our partners and clients reduce costs and increase efficiencies. Fast + Furious’ competitive advantage derives from designing and implementing appropriate courier, logistics and supply chain solutions - from planning and sourcing through to final delivery - the so-called “Last Mile”. Fast + Furious does not have huge fixed infrastructure into which to squeeze customers’ courier and logistics requirements.
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Instead the company uses a grass roots approach to identify exactly what clients’ needs are, and then creates or matches the best solutions available to those requirements. This freedom allows Fast + Furious to look at a customer’s courier, logistics and supply chain needs from an unfettered perspective, and to bring all the varying service offerings to bear to create a customised solution. Fast + Furious has identified and partnered with the best service providers across a broad spectrum of service offerings and have selected these best of breed practices and offerings. Through a continual monitoring of the company’s service providers, Fast + Furious is constantly evaluating its service levels and adjusting preferred providers depending on their performance. The
range of service offerings available from Fast + Furious is as extensive as those found in the entire market, and so the company is able to provide solutions ranging from a simple courier delivery through to pick and pack and warehousing solutions, including a clearing and forwarding function. With in-depth collective experience and industry understanding, Fast + Furious will create a solution which best fits the customer’s needs depending on the identified delivery requirements, service levels needed and budgeted costs. This solution can be as broad or specific as the customer needs and, in fact, in some cases Fast + Furious will only handle a small portion of a customers supply chain whilst in others the company plays a far bigger and more strategic role. Fast Furious relishes every challenge.
People in the company enjoy a permanent adrenalin rush. The people work late. They work weekends. They enjoy excellent relationships with transporters, brokers, airlines and shipping lines that enable Fast + Furious to “make a plan” when a job demands extraordinary performance. Collectively, the team has over decades of industry experience which, when mixed with the raw enthusiasm and energy of its younger people, makes for potent customised solutions.
Tel: +267 393 4893 Fax: +267 393 4897 Email: info@fnflogistics.com www.fnflogistics.com Best of Botswana
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Running Repairs Leading the way in vehicle repairs.
The Company prides itself on its ability to provide the newest, technologically advanced machinery, tools and equipment to repair damaged vehicles and restore them to the specifications of the manufacturer. A fertile business environment and a visionary approach have been the main catalysts for the continued growth of wellknown vehicle body repair company – Car World. The forerunners in this industry in Botswana, Car World, specialises in large scale repairs to all major motor vehicle brands and continues to thrive in an evergrowing and fast-developing economic environment that is conducive to foreign investment. The company had modest beginnings in a workshop in Mogoditshane in 1994 and today employs over 175 people. Car World, which has two successful
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branches in Gaborone, has evolved into a world-class body repair and rebuilding concern. In 2008, Car World was awarded the International Star Award for World Quality Commitment presented by Business Initiative Directions (B.I.D), a Spain-based quality assurance company. It was the first Botswana Company to earn the award, which was based on customer satisfaction, communication strategies, leadership, continuing education and training, as well as total quality management. Car World specialises in major body repair for a host of exclusive brands, including Daimler Chrysler, BMW, Audi, Mercedes Benz, Land Rover, Peugeot, Jaguar, Volvo, Chevrolet and VW. The company prides itself on its ability to provide the newest, technologically advanced machinery, tools and equipment
to repair damaged vehicles and restore them to the specifications of the manufacturer. Its Broadhurst branch has a state-of-the-art workshop that is fully equipped to effect repairs from any type of collision.
Tel: +267 318 2999 Fax: +267 395 7615 Toll Free: 0800 800 555 24Hrs Breakdown Service Tel: +267 71400999 / 71323700 www.carworldbotswana.com Best of Botswana
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Renault in Botswana Renault has set up shop in Botswana and has “fully built-in workshop. facilities specifically designed for servicing Renault products.”
The company brings to the country some of the most chic and stylish European makes. This includes a long list of passenger cars including the Laguna, Scenic and Espace, amongst others. One of the most interesting on the French roadster is the head turning new Megane. The midrange sedan/hatch now has a wide range of sub models to choose from, the hottest being the new Mégane Coupe. If cars were judged purely on aesthetics such as good looks then this would come very close to the top, with its body and sloping roofline giving the car unnerving beauty. It rides low and demands respect
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from a distance, with its sophisticated interior and eyebrow lifting digital speedometer, bound to get the eyeballs rolling approvingly. The marquee has catered for the most active car segments, such as the small hatch segment. For example, the new Mégane Shake it! is powered by Renault’s 1,6-litre 16-valve fuel-injected four-cylinder engine that produces 83 kW at 6 000 r/min and 151 N.m of torque at 4 250 r/min. A six-speed manual gearbox, the Mégane Shake it! is believed to sprint to 100 km/h from zero in 10,5 seconds and go on to a top speed of 195 km/h.
It is not only ‘hot’ but also clean as Renault claims the Mégane Shake it! Consumes just 6,9 litres/100km on the combined cycle and emits just 163 g/km of CO2. Shake It! specifications include a single CD/MP3-compatible RDS audio system, satellite audio controls on the steering wheel column, Bluetooth connectivity, and a very unique “Tunepoint” feature allowing the connection of a personal MP3 player via USB adaptor, auxiliary audio jack or iPod connection. Air-conditioning as well as heightadjustable driver and front passenger seats are standard, as well as a height and
reach adjustable steering column and front electric windows. Options are limited to larger 17-inch wheels and metallic paint. Safety and security features include driver and passenger airbags, Isofix child seat mountings, ABS with EBD and emergency brake assist, as well as Renault’s Anti-Intrusion Device that uses a key card for remote central locking, an integrated immobilizer, and automatic door locking mechanisms when the car is in motion. In the mid-1990’s Renault was not a familiar brand name to the average Southern African. The older generation had some recall of the Renault 5 of the Seventies and, if they were motor sport enthusiasts, they may have been able to make the connection with the all-conquering Renault V10 Formula 1 engine then powering Michael Schumacher to victory after victory on the world’s racing circuits. The Renault reputation for quality of product, superior driving experience and
quality of service has also made Renault a sought-after franchise. Renault adheres strictly to its policy of never allowing growth to outstrip its ability to provide the required high standards of Renault after-sales service. An industry survey naming Renault as amongst the best service providers bears proof of the high standards maintained. The Renault model range covers a large sector of the market with the Renault Clio, New Clio 3, Megane Sedan, Megane Shake it!, Megane Sport, Laguna, Scenic and Espace passenger ranges and the Renault Kangoo and Traffic in the commercial sector. New model launches to the local market now follow shortly on the heels of their European launches and Batswana can look forward to seeing a number of brand new Renaults being brought to market every year as part of the Renault Commitment 2009. Renault has become a world leader in vehicle safety. The stringent Euro NCAP
crash testing programme has awarded maximum marks to a number of Renault models and so endorsing them as among the safest vehicles available in the world. (8 vehicles have already received the top 5 stars NCap rating).
Renault Botswana Plot 20687, Sekotlo Road Block 3 Broadhurst Industrial Tel: +267 3500055 Fax: +267 3500011 customercare@renaultgabs.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Mahindra Botswana Mahindra products span all major industries that form the foundation of the Botswana economy: agribusiness, automotive, farm equipment and others. The diversity of our expertise allows us to bring our customers the best in many fields.
Mahindra Botswana is a fully-fledged organisation operating in Botswana, leveraging on the strength of its Indian roots and 65 year history. Mahindra Botswana has fully-fl edged facilities that handle sales, service and spare parts. Mahindra has a growing national footprint that is moving ever deeper into communities as it continues in its drive to offer value-for-money products and services to Botswana customers. Mahindra Botswana also has a powerful network in place to ensure the effective and effi cient distribution of all parts in all areas of Botswana. Mahindra vehicles include the XUV500, Scorpio SUV, the Xylo and Xylo Panel Van, the Thar, the Scorpio Pik-up and Bolero (both in double and single cabs), as well as Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector. Mahindra & Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector (FES) maintained its leadership position in the tractor industry in September 2011 with a registered 44% increase in domestic sales, while total sales (domestic + exports) registered a 41% increase at 24,673
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units. Discover a new driving experience with the highly popular Scorpio SUV; one that is complete in every way. Travel in stunning style, delight in plush comfort and be thrilled by superb performance wherever your destination takes you - tarmac or dirt. Only in Mahindra Scorpio! This marvel from Mahindra has set new standards and is born of innovations in technology, comfort, safety and style that make every drive an exhilarating experience. The new Scorpio Pik-Up Double Cab with Mhawk and Diff Lock comes beefed up with more muscles so you can power up your workday and your weekends. It’s the perfect work buddy, with its great terrainbeating performance and high fuel economy - and the perfect partner for your getaways too. Since it’s decked up with plush interiors and a range of conveniences, it is a comfortable and luxurious ride. All this, comes in a strapping new look that’s sure to make heads turn. Established in 1945, Mahindra is a leading manufacturer of multi-utility vehicles with signifi cant presence in key sectors like automotive, farm equipment, fi nancial services, trade and logistics, automotive components, after-market, IT and infrastructure.
Mahindra Botswana (Pty) Ltd Plot 20694, Sekotlo Road, Block 3, Broadhurst Industrial Tel: +267 3160155 Fax: +267 3160154 Mahindra@info.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Speed Shop No job too small.
Auto Track has high tech automotive equipment to ensure that it is able to provide state-of-the-art finishing and ensure customer satisfaction. In the swiftly expanding vehicle repair industry in Botswana, Auto Track has identified a need and established its niche in the provision of minor repairs to all major makes and models. Auto Track was established when its co-founder, who has vast experience in the automotive industry, identified a gap in the market for a company that could provide an alternative to companies specialising in the repair of major damages to vehicle. Auto Track specialises in repairing vehicles with light and medium accident damage and where there is no major structural damage. Auto Track’s “speed shop� concept involves realignment of body panels and
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other cosmetic items with the primary aim of repairing vehicles in the shortest time possible, without compromising
quality. All repairs are carried our in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards.
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Chapter 15 Technology and Communications
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Mascom Innovation Centre Established in 1998, Mascom Wireless is Botswana’s leading telecommunications provider and has established a formidable history and brand that is well – known and recognised throughout Botswana. Mascom has remained Number 1 with cutting edge innovations on par with international standards.
In 2009, Mascom commissioned a state of the art Innovation Centre. The over BWP200 million facility serves as the company’s main technical centre. This building comprises of a data centre, backup energy centre (both conforming to the uptime institute’s Tier 3 standards) and a three storey administrative building. At the heart of the development is the Data Centre which serves as the hub of the entire Mascom Mobile Network across Botswana powered by a back – up energy centre to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the network. The architecture of the Innovation Centre reflects the company’s drive towards innovation in the cellular communications field; this is clearly defined by the “green” features on the design which endevoured to include as many energy efficient elements as possible.
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The centre will increase ICT knowledge and to serve as a platform to allow citizens to have access to cutting edge telecommunication technology. This building, has already received local and international accolades and recognition. • It was named the Best Builder Award in Botswana by PPC Cement Annual awards. • It also received the highly coveted prize for Best Projects 2011 in Africa by Construction News Magazine. • Further the iconic telecommunications tower located at this building, which is affectionately known as the “Cool Tower” was short listed in best Mining and Industrial Category by Southern African Institute for Steel Construction. Mascom is also investing significantly in the development of its network to ensure
seamless delivery of service to their valued customers. In 2012 Mascom announced an increase on their 2.5G capacity by 50%, coverage and capacity increase of the 3.5G by more than 100% and launched the first 4G LTE Pilot in Botswana and one of the first in the SADC region. These developments denote the following: • 50% increase in 2.5G capacity: 99 Increased capacity for more than 95% of the population 99 Enhanced voice services at higher performance rates 99 Lower latency for EDGE based services • More than 100% increase in 3.5G coverage and capacity: 99 Introduced the fastest data speed at 21 Megabits per seconds, improved
from the already existing 7 Megabits per second. 99 14 new urban areas and villages added to Gaborone and Francistown. 99 Target to have 80% of the population covered by 3.5G by end of 2012. • Launch of the first 4G LTE Pilot in Botswana and one of the first in the SADC Region: 99 This new technology will allow data speeds of about 100 Megabits per second. 99 The 4G LTE doubles the existing capacity and reduces latency (e.g. time a request takes to return to sender).
99 Brings new more advanced devices, new interfaces, peer to peer applications and new IP based services (e.g. online TV streaming, Cloud Computing synchronization, full data voice and video convergence, IP TV, standards).
Mascom Wireless Tsholetsa House, Plot 4705/06, Botswana Road, Main Mall, Gaborone Tel: 3903396/8 Fax: 3903415 Email: enquiries@mascom.bw www.mascom.bw Best of Botswana
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Consult IT Established in 2004 and situated in Gaborone, Consult IT is a software and information technology services company, which offers a comprehensive and integrated service to a wide range of Clients. Capabilities and experience CIT has been involved in a number of projects, ranging from small to large. The company comprises of a staff complement of 15. CIT employees possess a diverse collection of skills, gained whilst working across a variety of business environments. In an industry where intellectual capital/ property is important, CIT has ensured that it has staff experienced and skilled in essential service areas. CIT has formed various relationships with companies both locally and regionally, which allows us to draw on a large pool of resources and knowledge. Core services • Livestock Identification, Traceability and Tracking Solutions • High Availability Solutions • IT Consulting Services »» Project Management »» Knowledge Management »» ICT Strategies and Policies • IT Infrastructure Design and Implementation • Systems Design and Development • End to End Technology Solutions Provision Core Services Products
CIT’s solutions are provided through bestof-breed software products supported by specialised product skills, systems integration services and educational offerings. Consult IT is 100 percent citizen owned. Our core speciality is in Livestock Identification, Traceability and Tracking Systems. With our involvement with the Botswana Livestock Identification and Trace-back System (LITS), we have proven ourselves as world leaders in this arena. Vision To be the pre-eminent African IT services company, with distinction in animal traceability and tracking.
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Products • Livestock Identification, Traceability and Tracking Systems • Solar Systems • PMS Solutions • Record and Document Management Solutions • ERP Solutions • Bespoke Solutions • Network and Infrastructure Architectures
P/Bag 238, Gaborone, Botswana Plot 183 Unit 4 & 5, Gaborone International Commerce Park Tel: +267 391 5012 Fax: +267 391 5013 Email: enquiries@cit.co.bw www.cit.co.bw
Tel: + 26 7 393 6031 Fax: + 26 7 393 6036 info@outsourcedigital.co.bw www.outsourcedigital.co.bw
Outsource Digital is an innovative offi ce automation specialist company, and is the fi rst choice for turnkey business automation solutions. Through outstanding service, competitive pricing and a vast distribution network they have developed a trusted and respected brand – driven by integrity, teamwork, and innovation.
COPIERS AND MULTI FUNCTION PRODUCTS (MFP’S) Outsource Digital provides a complete office automation product range of faxes, copiers, scanners, duplicators and printers to suit all your business requirements by providing solutions for small, medium or large environments. Outsource Digital offers an extensive range of machines with the most popular models being the Studio355/455 BW MFP Series and the Studio 6530C MFP Series which delivers accelerated Productivity and superior colour quality. PABX, VoIP and IP In a fast moving world the speed and efficiency of business communications are vital to the success and productivity of every small, medium and large business and homes. Enterprise networks based on the Internet Protocol technology are at the forefront of delivering these requirements. Outsource Digital is the leader in partnering to deliver the systems and expertise needed by many companies in this area. By offering a wide range of high quality and affordable solutions, Outsource Digital has an outstanding record of helping companies identify affordable solutions to their communication needs while presenting extremely high cost savings that amortize the investment over a very short period of time, often showing immediate payback. COMPUTERS / SERVERS / SOFTWARE In addition to the offi ce automation offerings, Outsource Digital completes the total business solutions package by offering a range of award winning Desktops, Laptops and related
hardware as in servers and data storage services assisting you in securing the most effective and affordable software. Print Audit 5 is the world’s most comprehensive suite of print tracking products. Its three components Analysis, Reduction and Recovery can be purchased individually or as a suite. SURVEILLANCE AND SECURITY SOLUTIONS CCTV: In today’s world Surveillance and Security products are key factors for protecting your family, staff, and assets, ensuring their safety and security 24/7. The products are easy to install and maintain and provide peace of mind for the business and home owner. There are various options available to consumers depending on their needs and budget parameters. Analogue CCTV is more cost effective to install, easier to operate and maintain. The ideal security option is digital CCTV since digital is far more fl exible, offers recording in a higher defi nition of multiple tracks. There are additional factors available such as storage capacity, defi nition (mega pixels) and the frame rate. Access Control: Gone are the days of your employees clocking in and out of their workplace or wondering who accessed your premises when and for how long. Simply install a T50 Fingerprint Access control device or a Terminal Biometric Nitgen Fingerkey and your employees can move swiftly through the process and you always have the data at your fingertips.
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Chapter 16 Media, Marketing and Events
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Yarona FM Yarona FM is a national broadcaster based in Gaborone, Botswana. The Yarona FM core audience comprises of young, upwardly mobile men and women within the 20-29 age bracket with spillage on either side of this age group.
The station began its national broadcasts in 2008 after starting out as a regional broadcaster in 1999. Yarona FM is available in the following urban and semi urban cities, towns and villages in Botswana: Gaborone Lobatse, Mahalapye, Serowe, Palapye, Selibe Phikwe, Francistown, Maun and Orapa. Brand The Yarona FM brand is POSITIVE, HIGH ENERGY, DANCE, URBAN, VIBRANT, INNOVATIVE and YOUTH. The station rocks the freshest, newest tracks first and encapsulates an urban lifestyle underpinned by a hunger for success and a drive for progress. Sporting the most recognisable presenters in the game today, Yarona FM simply Rocks! All Day, All Night, All Week. The Yarona FM positioning statement, ‘Live The Music” is testament to this. Music is not all the station is about though. Great contests, promotions, charity initiatives and various community engagements keep Yarona FM Number One.
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Awards Lilac Media Awards 2012 Winner - Best Overall Radio Station Winner - Best Station in Sports Winner - Best Station in International News Winner - Best in Music Winner - Best Station in General Content Winner - Best Station in Talk Shows Runner-up - Most Trustworthy Station Runner-up - Best Station in Local News Runner-up - Best Station in Business News MISA Awards 2012- People’s choice category Best Radio Station 2012 Best Presenter - Tshepang T-Izzy Motsisi Best News Reader - Thapelo Mhauli 31st Annual BNSC SPORTS AWARDS 2011 Broadcast Media House Of The Year The station has also produced a litany of award winning broadcasters who are actively engaged within the local broadcast landscape today. Frequencies (From South to North) • Lobatse: 102.1 FM • Gaborone: 106.6 FM • Mahalapye: 99.9 FM • Serowe: 102.9 FM • Palapye: 105.1 FM • Selibe Phikwe: 97.5 FM • Francistown: 100.1 FM • Maun: 97.5 FM • Orapa: 105.7
Digurugumba Yarona FM began this promotion in 2008 as a celebration of our birthday. This has since morphed into the biggest, most captivating radio promotion on air today. Its all about cash, smega, zaka, kuzati, chelete, nyuku, cheese, maphepha, codesa, lebotha, DIGURUGUMBA Ntate! The promotion now runs for a period of three months in the last quarter of every year and is a chance for the Yarona FM massive to win themselves lots of money. CSR Hotness In The Cold The Hotness In the Cold campaign is a charity initiative began by our midmorning presenter - Tshepang Motsisi, popularly known as T-Izzy. This campaign is a partnership between Yarona FM and T-Izzy and has been running for the past five years now and involves inviting the Yarona FM audience to donate their old clothes to us so we can distribute them to the less fortunate over the winter months so as to help them keep warm. The campaign has received an overwhelming response and donations grow yearly. The campaign has since donated clothes to orphanages and child-care trusts etc. and other deserving organisations in Francistown, Thamaga, Lobatse, Mahalapye, Palapye, Old Naledi, Gamodubu and Monwane village. In September 2012 T-Izzy recieved a Vision 2016 award under the under the vison pillar, United and Proud Nation, in recognition of his philanthropic efforts.
The Yarona Fat Boy Challenge The Yarona FM Fat Boy Challenge is a weight-loss initiative engineered by the station to promote a healthy lifestyle, in a fun way to the Yarona FM audience. The Challenge involves local celebrities and corporate execs who participate in a rigorous three month training programme led by reknowned fitness instructor Tshepang “Chyna” Mokaila of “Chyna’s Kata Bo fame. The Yarona FM Fat Boy Challenege is also open to members of the Yarona FM audience. Pledges are made per kilogram lost by the participants, and the monies are donated to charity at the beginning of the next annual challenge. Now in its fifth instalment (since 2008), the Yarona FM Fatboy Challenge has become a staple in the Botswana fitness calendar. Each edition has generated great excitement and participation from Batswana, managing to raise over P10,000 each year, through pledges made by the participants. The Yarona FM Smart Student Campaign This is a school tour that takes Yarona FM presenters to various schools across the country where they hold discussions with students on a wide variety of challenges that they (students) may face. The campaign has been on hold since 2011 but is set to return in 2013. Subject matters touched on by the presenters in these intimate closely monitored sessions range from avoiding Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Staying in School, Study Tips, Abstaining from Sex and Career guidance.
Sales For all sales enquiries and tailor-made campaigns and outside broadcasts. Tel: +267 391 2305 Fax: +267 390 1063 SOCIAL MEDIA The station has a very strong social media presence, with: by Twitter - @TheRealYaronaFM Over 13 000 followers on twitter
Facebook - Yarona FM - Live The Music Over 10 000 members on Yarona FM Facebook page Yarona FM News - The Real Story and has over 6000 members
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RedPepper PRC is an innovative Brand Possibility Agency with a mission to create memorable experiences that shape the way people engage and connect with brands. Under the direction of Thapelo Letsholo, the company has re-branded to become focused on unlocking the true potential of their clients’ brands. Based in Gaborone, Botswana, RedPepper PRC has a broad reach throughout Africa and is focused on influencing the growth of companies through targeted and creative communication. The agency provides effective outcomes that not only exceed current market expectations, but also continue to build and grow over time.
As passionate believers in the benefits of collaboration, the team draws upon a broad network and collective team of first-class local and international talent to deliver and produce the very best. With a strong network of select partners, RedPepper PRC thrives on finding and maximising the opportunities for brands and delivering exactly what they need to excel and prosper. Through strong attention to detail, use of clear and effective language – and the power of engagement on an experiential level, the team works collaboratively with clients to create compelling branded materials and experiences.
As it has become harder and harder to stand apart from the crowd and differentiate, every brand needs a creative team who are in tune with the true potential of their organisation. RedPepper PRC works hard to push the limits of what is possible, making each impression brighter, sharper, more unique and more engaging. Delivering solutions that don’t get forgotten - making brands brilliant. High impact, brand-driven experiences that encourage audience engagement can be executed across print, environmental, press and event channels, built upon a solid foundation of communication strategy, marketing and product launch experience. With a wealth of production experience and unrivalled technical capability, RedPepper lives by the philosophy that anything is possible. Assuming the role of project custodian, RedPepper PRC can manage event logistics, merchandising and media placement so that clients don’t have to worry about the fine print. With precise attention to detail and a committed, focused team on hand, quality outcomes are a certainty.
Tel: +267 395 1363 Fax: +267 395 1368 Email: info@redpepperprc.com www.redpepperprc.com
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Kamoso: empowering leaders today, to create an inspired vision for the Africa of tomorrow.
In February 2012, an innovative new creative agency, Kamoso Consulting was established in Botswana. Leveraging the resources of international brand consultancy SouthSouthWest and Gaborone–based communications firm RedPepper, Kamoso Consulting provides a unique and valuable role in assisting Botswana’s evolving economy at the dawn of the African century. Drawing on a depth of local and international knowledge and experience, the agency develops powerful strategies, enhancing the value of organisations, products and services. This drives results by converting business strategy into meaningful brand activation and engagement. Directors Thapelo Letsholo and Andy Sargent first met during an inbound trade mission from Australia, hosted by the Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority (BEDIA) in February 2011. After identifying a niche in the market for their combined offering, their respective companies have been working closely together ever since. “We are proud to welcome Kamoso as a member of the Botswana business community, which has been the outcome of a joint effort with BEDIA. Collaborating with such extensive experience and professionalism required no hesitation.” – Reitumetse Aphiri, BEDIA. “The decision to formalise our partnership and form Kamoso was driven by the genuine desire to continue to build local capacity and further facilitate the transferal of skills, in and out of Botswana. Botswana is the logical base for us in Africa as the economy is stable and the business environment is well regulated. There is general excitement across all sectors for the future of the nation, driven by the responsible management of recent economic growth and responsible development.” Andy Sargent, Kamoso.
Consistent with the aim of delivering projects of national significance, by early 2013 Kamoso will have launched no less than three major brand identities across the tourism, education and government sectors. Target industries were identified as central to Botswana achieving Vision 2016 (Botswana’s strategy to propel its socioeconomic and political development) – proof of Kamoso playing a vital role in the continued growth of both the public and private sectors across Botswana. Due to the depth of engagement with client organisations, Kamoso prefers to partner with organisations long term, meaning that these projects will all be overseen past their launch phase, ensuring the strategic objectives are met and a viable brand positing can be achieved and upheld. “What has been inspiring in our extensive engagement processes with client organisations and their stakeholders is the genuine focus on the national interests and that we are already discussing post 2016 ambitions.” – Jonathan Price, Kamoso Carrying strong endorsement from institutions such as BEDIA and the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) has assisted Kamoso as it enters the market with a powerful service offering unlike any other domestically. “Branding is an essential part of the growth and development of any country – especially in an expanding economy such as Botswana’s. The unique drive of Kamoso to connect business strategy with brand strategy and activation is a breath of fresh air in Botswana.” – Bosisi Ntshole, Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA).
Tel: +267 395 1363 Email: dumela@Kamoso.co.bw Web: www.kamoso.co.bw
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PressPhoto PressPhoto is the leading photo agency in Botswana with its imagery, services and technology.
We are an essential source of real time editorial and creative pictures. We cover Botswana and beyond for media and other secondary users and have a strong photographic network to reach all over Botswana where news happens. We cover most of the international events where Botswana might have interest in. PressPhoto is a very young and focused photo agency with a global standard in practice. Every day we add lots of new pictures for our clients. Pressphoto not only takes pictures for today, it also preserves the present for the future as we believe that photography is a powerful tool to contribute in the process of development and echo the voice of less powered voices. PressPhoto provides a variety of photographic services starting from hardcore photojournalism to feature photography, documentary photography, corporate photography, and PR photography. Our photography team provides clients demand based services, training and photography
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consultation. Besides our own assignments we also take care of special and exclusive assignments for our clients. Our photo archive is also a very good source of news and creative pictures. To meet the deadline of our clients we provide on time services to them. Our experienced photographic team will make sure your assignment from concept to final creation meets the standard. Whether for sport or entertainment, portrait or lifestyle, corporate or advertising, we can co-ordinate your commission – from start to final creative.
Private Bag: 351/219 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 73800901 +267 71776751 Fax: +267 3186519 editor@thepressphoto.com massmedia_bots@yahoo.com www.thepressphoto.com Best of Botswana
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Global Expo Botswana Fostering Economic Diversification, Skills & Entrepreneurship.
Global Expo Botswana is the country’s premier international business-tobusiness exhibition which is multisectoral in focus. The Exhibition is endorsed by the Government of the Republic of Botswana through the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Objectives The aim of this Exhibition is to offer exhibitors and visitors an opportunity to actively promote their businesses and to stimulate intra-regional business exchange. Why Global Expo Botswana? • Attract foreign direct investment.
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• Promote joint-venture opportunities between citizens and foreign investors. • Stimulate a culture of entrepreneurship locally. • Promote exports of locally-produced goods. • Promote access to the Botswana market for international exhibitors. Global Expo Botswana Services • Modular booth systems. • Internet and Email facilities and wireless internet. • Exhibitors’ lounges. • Conference and seminar facilities. • Government department facilitators.
• Business day invitations. • Complimentary exhibitors’ handbook and catalogue. • Assistance with visa applications. Why Invest in Botswana? • No foreign exchange controls. • Preferential market access to SACU, SADC, EU, MERCSOR and US markets. • Duty-free importation of machinery to be used in production. • One of the lowest corporate tax rates in the region at 15% for the Manufacturing entities and for the International financial service companies. • Free market enterprise. • Most transparent country in Africa and
amongst the least corrupt in the world (Transparency International). • GDP per capita at current prices = US$ 7,730. • World Bank Survey - Doing Business Report 2012 ranked Botswana no: 54. Global Expo Botswana Value Added Services Investment Forum, Buyer-Seller meetings and workshops will run concurrent to the exhibition as part of value addition. Exhibitor and Visitor Survey at a Glance Exhibitor Profile: • Agribusiness and agricultural products • Textiles and garments
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Manufactured products Construction materials Automobiles Electrical goods and appliances Timber and furniture Engineering products Chemicals and cosmetics Machinery Information technology Consultancy services Leather and associated technologies Mining Tourism Power and renewable energy
Visitor Profile: • Importers
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Wholesalers and traders Agents Business executives Mining supply chain management programme Distributors Government procurement agencies International buyers Retailers
Tel: +267 3181931 Fax: +267 3170423 www.facebook.com/pages/ Global-Expo-Botswana-2012 twitter.com/Global_Expo/ www.globalexpo.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Chapter 17 Beverages
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Kgalagadi Breweries (Pty) Ltd (KBL) and Botswana Breweries Limited (BBL) KBL and BBL are the Botswana subsidiaries of SABMiller plc. – the world’s second largest brewer by volume, with more than 200 brands, brewing interests and distribution agreements in 75 countries across six continents.
KBL and BBL are Botswana’s leading producers and distributors of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and are among the nation’s largest manufacturing firms. KBL’s portfolio of beer brands meets the needs of a wide range of consumers and includes St. Louis Larger, Castle Lager, Castle Lite, Ohlsson’s, Lion Lager, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Miller Genuine Draft, Redd’s, Baron’s, St Louis 24, St Louis Export, Grolsch, Hansa Marzen Gold, Sarita, and Brutal Fruit. Through its Sparkling Soft Drinks Division, KBL is the only producer and distributor of Coca-Cola brands in Botswana with a state of the art manufacturing plant in Gaborone. BBL brews Chibuku and Phafana - rich traditional opaque beer brews made from sorghum and maize, as well as the fortified non-alcoholic beverage Keone Mooka Mageu that comes in banana, cream and plain flavours. Botswana Breweries and Kgalagadi Breweries have recorded numerous successes, including retaining and improving its high safety standards which saw an improved NOSA rating from 4-star to 5-star, which was very gratifying. The
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Company earned the SABMiller Africa awards for best in Forecasting Excellence and Internal Control and Governance and was joint recipient - with KBL - of the SABMiller Corporate Governance Award, the Best Corporate Social Responsibility Reporter and Runners-up in the Commerce & Industry Sector for the Best Published Corporate Reports and Accounts for the year 2010/2011. Sechaba Brewery Holdings Limited Sechaba Brewery Holdings Limited is an investment company with interests in KBL and BBL. It holds 60% of the shares of these two companies and is an affiliate of SABMiller plc, who through SABMiller B.V. holds a 40% share. KBL and BBL are sole brewers for their product categories in Botswana. The head offices of KBL and BBL are located in Gaborone where the companies also maintain offices for sales, distribution, marketing and corporate affairs. KBL has one clear beer brewery, a sparkling soft drinks plant and six sales and distribution depots. BBL has four traditional beer breweries and five distribution depots strategically located in the east, north and south of the country. SABMiller Plc has management control in both operating companies in a partnership that dates back to 1977. As one of the largest brewing companies in the world, its expertise benefits the management, technical, brand building and distribution of KBL and BBL. Together KBL and BBL employ over
1100, people throughout the country. The mission, values and strategies of the broader SABMiller Group, tailored to the needs of the Botswana market, are firmly entrenched in each company. Botswana currently has a population of approximately two million people and a beer consumption of about 20 litres per capita. One Future: sustainable development strategy Sechaba Brewery Holdings Ltd understands that their business is not something separate from society. It is, at the same time, an employer, a customer, a supplier and a taxpayer. Sechaba Brewery Holdings
Ltd has made remarkable efforts to embrace sustainable development as a critical success factor for the business as denoted through the Ten Priorities. Sustainable development is fundamental to business success. They have a clear and well-embedded approach that continues to deliver tangible benefits for their business and the communities in which they work. They understand that their long-term profitability depends on being part of a successful economy where jobs are created, incomes increase and the quality of life for their communities improves. A force for good Sechaba Brewery Holdings Ltd believes that
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the most effective way for them to meet their sustainable development objectives is by maximising the success of the business. The interests of Sechaba and the wider community are inextricably linked. Their activities provide high-quality products that society wants and enjoys. As long as their market remains free and competitive, business will succeed if relationships are managed well, resources used efficiently and needs of consumers and the communities in which they operate are met. This robust approach to sustainable development underpins both their ability to grow and their licence to operate. Partnerships Sechaba has directly developed partnerships and projects with stakeholders and communities who in turn enhance their ability to operate and enable them, with improved insight and knowledge, to become effective in implementing meaningful programmes for local communities. Sustainable development Sechaba believes that in order for their companies to achieve competitive advantage – and ultimately profitability-sustainable development needs to be part of what they do every day. Strategic focus is underpinned by 10 sustainable development priorities. These define the material issues for their business and have been developed through extensive consultation with both internal and external stakeholders.
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They focus their resources on the priorities which they believe are the most material for their business. As a result they have established four key focus areas: alcohol responsibility; HIV/AIDS; enterprise development; and corporate social investment (CSI). Benefitting communities The prosperity of KBL’s and BBL’s business is closely aligned to the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they work. Their corporate social investment (CSI) activities aim to improve the quality of life for Batswana, helping them build strong relationships with communities, consumers and employees. The KBL and BBL CSI strategy is driven by Kgalagadi Beverages Trust (KBT) and reflects group strategic themes of benefiting communities and encouraging enterprise development; and at least 80% of their CSI spend is focused in these areas. As a result of this level of commitment, KBT, KBL and BBL are recognised by external stakeholders as national leaders in CSI. Contributing to the reduction of HIV/AIDS in Botswana Over the past decade, KBL and BBL have consistently made calls to all stakeholders to tackle HIV/AIDS stigma and prejudice as a way to remove barriers for effective treatment. Project Tshelang was among the first initiatives of its kind in Botswana when it was launched in 2001. Tshelang means “Live” or “Stay Alive” and provides
a consistent set of guidelines for managing employees with HIV, AIDS and other chronic diseases, to ensure the fair and consistent treatment and support for all at KBL and BBL and those that depend on them. The focus of Project Tshelang continues to include prevention of new infections and manage the spread of HIV by providing employees and their families with education, awareness programmes and access to Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT). HIV-positive employees, once diagnosed, have access to the companies’ managed healthcare system, including the provision of free anti-retroviral drugs for employees and their immediate dependants. Project Tshelang also provides medical assistance for chronic illnesses including arthritis, asthma, epilepsy, gout, heart conditions, hypertension, thyroid dysfunction, and hepatitis A, B and C. Some HIV-positive employees at KBL and BBL have championed communications to fellow employees, encouraging them to be tested and to learn more about HIV/ AIDS. These champions and peer educators continue to play a major role in changing behaviours and perceptions amongst their colleagues as well as preventing new infections. Discouraging irresponsible drinking KBL and BBL promote responsible consumption as part of their dayto-day activities, whether designing marketing campaigns, developing new products or selling their beverages in the marketplace. They also strive to ensure that their employees understand the risks that arise from irresponsible drinking – 100% of their employees are now trained in the six core principles of their Alcohol Framework. KBL and BBL believe that consumers should receive accurate and balanced information about irresponsible consumption and to this end, they have launched a number of targeted information campaigns
for stakeholders, the current one being Ikgalemele – ‘Know your Responsibility!’. They continue to promote TalkingAlcohol.com, a website that educates users about alcohol and its consumption in an engaging and readily understood format, employing the latest research and expert advice. Topics explored related to drinking include health, parenting, social considerations, drink driving, underage drinking, gender issues, as well as tips on how to drink sensibly. Investing in local suppliers Enterprise development supports the longterm growth and stability of both their business and the economy. KBL and BBL recognise that using local suppliers for their raw material procurement not only supports local entrepreneurship but can also benefit the business commercially. Local sourcing is often more cost-effective than importing raw materials; and encouraging enterprise in supply chains directly contributes to Botswana’s economy. KBL’s and BBL’s close collaboration with suppliers continues to ensure that they procure high quality goods and services to protect against reputation risk. At the same time they are facilitating employment creation and providing opportunities for Batswana entrepreneurs to be empowered and to improve their standard of living and that of their employees.
Kgalagadi Breweries (Pty) Ltd Plot 20768, Kubu Road Broadhurst Industrial Gaborone, Botswana PO Box 706 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 395 3619 Fax: +267 390 1447 Botswana Breweries (Pty) Ltd Chibuku House Nkrumah Road, Old Industrial Site Gaborone, Botswana PO Box 97 Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 395 3831 Fax: +267 391 1924 Best of Botswana
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Original* Iced A superior quality ready-made cocktail range that is set to revolutionise the cocktail market. A first of its kind and an original mix of the finest of ingredients, Original* Iced cocktails are served ready-made and chilled to perfection.
Original* Iced is a product by Snow Bliss that was conceived on the concept of delivering a cocktail of a superior quality, that is ultra convenient, sophisticated, yet still cost-effective. Having been in the market since 2008, a truly innovative South African product as it’s the first of its nature, it has represented South Africa as one of the most original, fresh and innovative ideas to surface. Now launching in Botswana, the cocktail range is sure to take the market by storm as
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it has never been seen before in the country - but most sought after by those familiar with the product. The coctktail range is distributed by Vestone Beverages Co, a 100% citizen-owned Distribution Company in Botswana that distributes its own beverage brands and International beverage brands of top quality. The cocktail range will be launching three of its revolutionary readymade variants: the schnappy strawberry tang of the Strawberry Daiquiri; the sweet bitterness of the Margarita; and the tropical smoothness of the Pina Colada. Made from real fruit ingredients and an appropriate alcohol content, the cocktails are delectable to taste. The product has walked away with several awards: the South African Fairlady Consumer Award for the consumer’s most popular alcoholic beverage in 2010 to mention but one. It is our belief that the cocktail will withstand the test of time in the market for many years to come as cocktail lovers can now enjoy the perfect cocktail, every time, any time and perhaps most importantly - anywhere. Conveniently
available in pouches which freeze within eight hours, high quality Strawberry Daiquiri, Margarita and Pina Colada Original* Iced Cocktails can be sipped on at a barbeque or at a cocktail party. Snow Bliss, the manufacturing company of Original* Iced Cocktails is an ISO 22 000 certified beverage manufacture, hence it ensures that the highest quality standards are adhered to at all times for the perfect Original cocktail.
Contact Distributor for Enquiries: Vestone Beverages Co. P.O Box 26382, Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 3951 363 Fax: +267 3951 368 www.originaliced.co.za Best of Botswana
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Chapter 18 Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development
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Sustainable Development The Concept and Botswana’s Culture There is a tendency to equate sustainable development with economic growth, as if they were one in the same. The debate over this has raged in policy circles for as long as the theatre of ‘development studies’ has existed. As far back as 1983, the United Nations, recognising this definition of growth as deficient, established the World Commission on Environment and Development also known as the Brundtland Commission, whose mandate it was to unite the countries of the world in order that they pursue sustainable development together. The term ‘sustainable development’ was used by the Brundtland Commission in their 1987 report “Our Common Future”, which coined what has become the most oftenquoted definition of sustainable development as development that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. It is now generally accepted that sustainable development involves more than economic profitability. It calls for a change in the make-up of growth that compels enhancement in quality of life that is less material-oriented and energy-intensive and more balanced in its impact. These changes require that all the nations of the world take stock of, and conserve, ecological capital in their income generation and distribution activities. Income generation and distribution is only one aspect of the quality of growth; for it to take on the connotation of ‘sustainable development’ it must take into account the carrying capacity of natural systems along with the social challenges faced by humanity. Since that time, international acceptance of, and commitment to, sustainable development has only increased. The United Nations - a body that is as close to global government as the world has ever come and which works with not just constituent sovereign political nations, but also important non-state actors in the sphere of international relations - renewed its commitment to sustainable development when it adopted the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in 2000. These eight international development goals encompass: eradicating extreme poverty and hunger; achieving universal primary education; promoting gender equality and empowering women; reducing child mortality rates; improving maternal health; combating HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases; ensuring environmental sustainability; and developing a global partnership for development. At that time, all 193 United Nations member states
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alongside some 23 major international organisations agreed to achieve these goals by the year 2015. Such reinforcement has served to promote and further reinforce universal acceptance of what sustainable development is, as a concept. Sustainable development, has different dimensions - alongside the economic, the ecological and the political, stands the cultural dynamic. The inclusion of the cultural aspect reflects the complexity of contemporary society. While development policies and practices have universal applications, no two people or places are the same. Politics and ideologies may converge, but no two histories and visions of a future humanity are exactly alike. From race; to religion; to language, sustainable development cannot occur in a cultural vacuum. Thus for our own purposes, we must set the scene; and we do this by placing sustainable development in the Botswana tableau. As far back as 1895, the Tswana had a vision of a land of their own, one in which they steered their own destiny and shaped their own future. This was long before national self-determination as an ideology had come into the human consciousness or won any particular prominence. In that year, in order to safeguard their land and people, a number of Tswana chiefs undertook the journey to London to ask the Queen to extend British protection over their territories. Even then, after guaranteeing that they would preserve the Bechuanaland Protectorate, the British government continued to regard the protectorate as a temporary measure, until it could be handed over to Rhodesia or, after 1910, to the new Union of South Africa. Sometime during the late 1950s it became clear that the Tswana would not tolerate being surrendered to South Africa, and that moves must be taken to develop the territory towards political and economic self-sufficiency. So on 30 September 1966, The Republic of Botswana was born.
Botswana, Lefatshe la Botswana, is the land of the Tswana peoples united, and in this manner we trace the birth of unity, kagisano, as a national guiding principle, core and vital to the Botswana cultural identity. Botswana’s founding constitution was drafted in 1965 and laid out the fundamental principles that the Tswana choose to live and be governed by, under the law, molao. While the constitution pledged itself to democratic values, the kgotla, a public gathering of the tribe, had already enshrined this tenet. This age-old forum, led by the village chief or tribal elders, ensured that decisions which impacted the entire community were arrived at through discussion, deliberation, compromise and consent, after all had spoken and every point of view was heard. Botswana’s kgotla has always been public participation in action. Evidence that the guiding principles of development, self reliance and social justice have always been cultural imperatives, can be located as far back as Botswana’s first National Development Plan (1968-1973), which directed government’s development efforts to raising the standards of living and quality of life of all Batswana. This national priority placed poverty alleviation and the provision of basic infrastructure and social services at the top of the national agenda. It encapsulated the essence of botho, courtesy and courage, responsibility for and respect towards others, empowerment through the empowering of others, achievement and an appreciation of accomplishment and the notion that there is one justice for all under Botswana’s sun - and concretised within the national equation. Latterly, under the stewardship of former President Sir Ketumile Masire, Botswana’s Vision 2016 was birthed. It called upon Batswana to rededicate themselves to sustainable development in line with their cultural values. Vision 2016, essentially a call to arms which directed Batswana to muster around a set of developmental goals
and precepts, is upheld by seven pillars: a nation informed and educated; a nation open, democratic and accountable; a nation moral and tolerant; a nation united and proud; a nation safe and secure; a nation prosperous, productive and innovative; and a nation compassionate, just and caring. This serves to highlight and illuminate sustainable development and what it means in the cultural context of Botswana.
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The Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) The Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) was established by the Small Business Act, of 2004 as a Statutory Authority of the Government of Botswana, and more specifically the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI); carrying the mandate of entrepreneurship and enterprise development in Botswana.
Dr. Tebogo Kingsley Matome – Chief Executive Officer for LEA
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LEA is a co-ordinated and focused one-stop shop Authority that provides development and support services to the local industry needs of SMMEs, encompassing training, mentoring, business plan finalisation, market access facilitation, and facilitation of technology adaptation and adoption. Since 2010, LEA has focused on the four sub-sectors of horticulture, diary, piggery and leather. This decision was influenced by the organisation’s drive to achieve economic diversification, the status quo of our import substitution and the availability of raw materials in the identified sub-sectors. LEA targets women, youth, and the unemployed to capacitate them with necessary entrepreneurial skills. . The Authority’s mandate is to promote entrepreneurship and SMME development through: • Facilitating access to finance through business plan development; • Providing business development services inter alia with screening, training and mentoring;
• Identifying business opportunities for existing and future SMMEs; • Promoting domestic and international linkages, especially between SMMEs and government, large business entities and other SMMEs; • Facilitating changes in regulations, quality management systems and standards, infrastructure and access to finance; • Facilitating technology adoption and diffusion; • Promote general entrepreneurship and SMME awareness. The Authority’s key deliverables: • The promotion of citizen entrepreneurship; • The further diversification of the economy; • The promotion of exports; • The development of a competitive SMME community; • The creation of sustainable employment opportunities;
• The promotion of the development of vertical integration and the horizontal linkages between SMMEs and primary industries in agriculture, mining and tourism; • Improved efficiency in the delivery of services to business; • The promotion of business linkages between small and large enterprises. Vision and Mission LEA aims to be the centre of excellence for entrepreneurship and sustainable SMME development in Botswana; and to promote and facilitate entrepreneurship and SMME development through targeted interventions in pursuit of economic diversification. The Authority prides itself on having an extensive country-wide footprint of 13 branches. The highly specialised quality of service is standardised in all the branches and clients are therefore guaranteed excellent service in the entire LEA branch network regardless of the location. The 13 branches are in Gaborone, Francistown, Selibe-Phikwe, Serowe, Molepolole, Mochudi, Maun, Masunga, Kasane, Ghanzi, Tsabong, Ramotswa, and Kanye. In addition to the branches, there are four business incubators whose objective is to provide business space, shared facilities and impact-driven interventions geared at attaining accelerated growth of the incubated enterprises. Such Incubators are as follows: Gaborone Leather Incubator; Pilane Multipurpose Business Incubator; Glen Valley Horticulture Incubator; and Francistown Light Industrial Incubator. The Botswana SMME Conference and Fair LEA provides a number of entrepreneurial and SMME development interventions to entrepreneurs and enterprises which enrol for its services. The Botswana SMME Conference and Fair is an annual flagship event hosted by LEA, with the broad aims of: serving as a platform for stakeholders in the SADC region to consult and collaborate on regional SMME sector development; availing business opportunities to SMMEs across the region; and most importantly, to serve as the single largest market access intervention for the LEA-supported SMMEs. The primary objectives for LEA’s hosting and participation in the Botswana
SMME Conference and Fair are to: • Create an opportunity for SMMEs to market their products and services; • Forge business linkages between the SMMEs and big businesses; • To provide a platform for consultation and collaboration on local and regional SMME sector development; • To bring focus on the quest for improved SMME access to local and international markets; • Facilitate interactions and networking between SMMEs and the various components of the local market base; • Showcase SMME business concepts, products and services for marketing and market penetration purposes; • Provide a forum for SMME Pitso participants to discuss a common theme, share best practices, and develop relevant solutions for capacity building; • Mobilise SMME support institutions to impart specialist knowledge and skills to SMMEs through the SMME Pitso and corporate exhibition for facilitated competence as SMMEs participate in markets; • Recognise and reward achievement among SMMEs through the Entrepreneurship of the Year Awards. In pursuit of the above objectives, the event was structured to have supporting activities both annually and bi-annually. Annually • Corporate exhibition • International exhibition (SMME and corporate) • Local non-LEA SMME Exhibition • Buyer/Seller Forums for LEAsupported SMMEs • Buyer Seminars for Corporate Exhibitors and Sponsors • The SMME Pitso – open to all SMMEs (local & international) and SMME support institutions. • SMME Awards Ceremony with an Entrepreneur of the Year Award Bi-Annually • Conference • Fashion Show
Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) Private Bag 191, Gaborone 2nd floor, Block A, Plot 50676 Fairgrounds Office Park, Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 3644000 Fax: +267 3644001 Toll free number: 0800 155 155 Email: botsalea@lea.co.bw www.lea.co.bw Best of Botswana
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Banking on the community In the 63 years that Barclays Bank has operated in Botswana, it has become more than just the biggest financial institution in the country, but a part of the nation’s fabric.
The Barclays brand is associated with the drive to make a positive impact in communities and individuals. This is borne out of the Bank’s conviction that as one of the oldest corporate citizens, it has a responsibility to contribute towards an improvement of the quality of life of other citizens. In doing this, Barclays Bank has partnered with Government and NGOs to find sustainable ways of social upliftment. Empowering an HIV-free generation Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), schools and development partners came together to celebrate Teach Aids across Botswana on 15 June 2012. Colleagues from Barclays Bank of Botswana and US Peace Corps volunteers were instrumental in delivering the tool to schools across the country, and even watched the animation with young learners. The initiative is a partnership between Barclays Bank and Teach AIDS, an international organisation that seeks to teach schoolchildren about HIV/AIDS in a fun and relaxed manner.
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Barclays has provided funding to localise the CD Rom to Botswana, and it features local celebrities including Scar, Zeus, Jazelle, and Thato. The animated feature is available online in both English and Setswana and was first launched on World AIDS Day 2011. It is anticipated that over 400,000 learners at both primary and secondary schools throughout Botswana will have access to the CD, and thus providing them with a valuable life skill that will enable them to make informed choices and live a life free of HIV. Working towards financial literacy Working with the Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development (YALDA), an international non-profit organisation that was established to create a resourceful networking database for people with an interest in Africa, Barclays Bank of Botswana has created a financial literacy programme for university and college students. The financial literacy programme aims to reach 150 students from four of Botswana’s tertiary institutions. The programme consists of training on money management as well
as other aspects of financial literacy. The different topics include: • • • •
The art of saving Building a financial safety net The secret to successful investment Creating multiple streams of income
Investing in enterprise development In an effort to support an enterprise skills development project for caregivers of orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC), Barclays Bank of Botswana has donated P288,116 to Mothers for All, an organisation that works to alleviate the profound challenges faced by people who care for Botswana’s OVCs. Mothers for All provides incomegenerating skills and train women in a variety of life skills, as well as health, environmental awareness and financial management. “I am proud that Barclays Bank of Botswana has been a long term partner to Mother for All and part of its success. I am inspired by the mothers and their efforts to improve their lives and those of their
families,” said Aupa Monyatsi, the Interim Managing Director of Barclays Bank of Botswana, during a visit to the organisation in Selebi Phikwe. “My life has changed with Mothers for All,” stated a caregiver from Bobonong, “I have been provided with skills and information that enables me to provide and care for my children. I enjoy the work and sharing my expanding knowledge with my community.” To date, Mothers for All has trained 90 women to make various products from recycled paper. The products include beads, cards, packages and bookmarkers. These are sold on the national and international market. The latest investment from Barclays Bank will be utilised to train the caregivers in new products and skills in an effort to expand the enterprise that is based on environmental preservation and recycling. The training will be done for the groups in Maun, Ghanzi and Gumare. Currently, Mothers-For-All has a very successful network of groups nationwide, from as far as Gumare and Ghanzi, in the
north, to Semolale in the east on the border of Botswana and South Africa. Mothers For All is able to buy from each mother at least once, if not twice in a month. These mothers manage their groups independently through a group leader who rotates annually. There is a regional coordinator in the Delta region who offers support to the Maun, Gumare and Ghanzi mothers. The organisation believes that the system of mothers working from home, which enables them to make an income without having to leave their own environment, breeds a sense of security and well-being. With more financial security,
mothers become more empowered, and can contribute to the household income. This is the second investment Barclays Bank has made in Mothers for All. The partnership began in 2009 with the Delta Expansion Project when a grant of P228,539 was provided to expand the paper bead project into the Delta region and train all the mothers in recycled paper production. Training workshops in AIDS Awareness, Money Management and Environmental Awareness were also provided for.
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KBL & BBL - Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Sechaba Brewery Holdings Limited, the investment company behind Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) and Botswana Breweries Limited (BBL), believes in prosperity only alongside their respective communities.
Benefiting communities They believe that the prosperity of their business is closely aligned to the health and well-being of their communities and that investment in communities will repay itself in terms of reputation, the commitment of their employees and the loyalty of their customers. They endeavour to make Botswana a better place by developing entrepreneurs, educating consumers and alleviating poverty. Focused approach to corporate social investment KBL & BBL base their CSI projects on a rigorous understanding of the needs of communities in Botswana. Effective implementation of these projects is crucial and receives the same vigour in planning and analysing the outcome of these projects as with any other business investment.
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Projects and initiatives are selected on the basis of a thorough understanding of local needs and associated benefits. Consistency is ensured with these investments through 10 sustainable development priorities. KBL & BBL invest heavily in responsible drinking programmes, the provision of HIV/ Aids testing and treatment to employees and the procurement of goods and services from smallholder farmers. These areas are considered as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and are deemed fundamental to the responsible operation of their business; hence they are budgeted and managed separately. The Business Place The Business Place continues to play a crucial role towards mobilising Botswana’s efforts for economic diversification and delivery of the youth entrepreneurship agenda. KBL has continued to be a prominent partner who has supported The Business Place financially and in kind throughout. This has enabled The Business Place to become more effective in helping to create citizen-owned businesses. Since inception in 2006, eight of the successful candidates who benefited from start-up capital through the KickStart Program were initiates of The Business Place. As one of the founding members, KBL has pledged P400,000 over three years towards operating costs of the business centre. Through their social investment arm, Kgalagadi Beverages Trust (KBT), KBL and BBL donated a recreational park to the Gaborone community and the City Council. KickStart In 2004, Kgalagadi Beverages Trust (KBT) launched KickStart, a youth entrepreneurship development programme aimed at 18 to 30-year-olds who either
want to start businesses or expand their existing businesses. KickStart provides business skills training, mentoring and grants to assist small businesses. Now in its eighth year, KickStart is the largest and most successful enterprise development programme run by a group of private sector companies in Botswana. KickStart continues to be highly successful in inculcating a culture of entrepreneurship among young Batswana who have over the years seized the opportunity as a platform for growth and business success. A recent evaluation showed that over 80% of the entrepreneurs supported by the programme in Botswana were still trading after seven years. Many of these have grown into highly successful businesses employing significant numbers of people. In contrast, 40% of other businesses fail in their first year rising to 60% by the end of their second year. To date, KickStart has distributed close to P9-million to youth entrepreneurship projects and provided business skills training to more than 107 young entrepreneurs. Kick-starting fledgling businesses Sustainable development and enterprise are an integral part of KBL’s and BBL’s long-term sustainability - helping create jobs and wealth within their communities. Successful entrepreneurs meet the needs of consumers, create jobs and improve local incomes. In turn, economic growth provides greater market opportunities, better qualified employees and healthier communities for the companies – leading to a sustained and symbiotic interdependence. The KickStart programme is implemented in such a way that it covers topics such as budget-setting, panel reviews, training and mentoring. Grants range from P1,000 to P100,000 each; and mentorship takes place for a period of 12 months.
Kgalagadi Breweries (Pty) Ltd Plot 20768 Kubu Road Broadhurst Industrial Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 395 3619 Fax: +267 390 1447 Botswana Breweries (Pty) Ltd Chibuku House Nkrumah Road Old Industrial Site Gaborone, Botswana Tel: +267 395 3831 Fax: +267 391 1924 Best of Botswana
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Lady Khama Charitable Trust The Lady Khama Charitable Trust was founded in 2002 in Lady Ruth Khama’s honour by her son His Excellency Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, the current President of The Republic of Botswana. Through the Trust, the legacy of Lady Khama’s community development work, which mainly focussed on children and women, has continued.
The Trust allocates its funds to dedicated projects in Botswana proposed by charitable organisations that can demonstrate good governance and financial discipline in their support of the disadvantaged, in particular women and children in need. Who was Lady Khama? Lady Ruth Khama was the first woman to have the First Lady of the Republic of Botswana title after her husband Sir Seretse Khama became president in 1966. She was unfailingly by her husband’s side as he met the challenge of transforming the poverty-stricken Protectorate of Bechuanaland (now Botswana) into a prosperous and peaceful democracy. A devoted mother herself, she was always
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concerned about the needs of women and children, especially those who were disadvantaged. This concern manifested itself in her leadership of numerous charities; most notably the Botswana Red Cross Society, the Botswana Council of Women, and the SOS Children’s Villages. Something of her character is reflected in the core principles of the Red Cross, such as humanity, impartiality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. Her dedication to these ideals was a source of personal strength that predates the time of her famous marriage, which elevated her as a global symbol of the triumph of love of family and community over racial ignorance and hate. Several books were written about Lady
Khama and Sir Seretse’s story, including “Colour Bar – The Triumph of Seretse Khama and his Nation”, which was published in 2007 by Penguin, and “A Marriage of Inconvenience – Persecution of Ruth and Seretse Khama”, which was published in 1990 by HarperCollins. Purpose The Lady Khama Charitable Trust’s purpose is to help improve the lives of vulnerable women and children in Botswana. The Trust aims to achieve this by initiating, establishing, supplementing and promoting charitable and educational activities in Botswana and by raising and investing funds to support this mission. Methodology The Trust partners with existing charitable organisations working at both national and grassroots level. The focus is on supporting organisations that are well run, small and dynamic. More often than not, these organisations work in remote areas and often struggle to procure support as a result. The strength of The Lady Khama Charitable Trust is in local fundraising and identifying the projects and beneficiaries that are most in need of help and most likely to use the funds to the best advantage.
Beneficiaries include: • Bana ba Metsi • Botswana Red Cross • Childline • Little Friends • Ray of Hope • Society of St Vincent De Paul • SOS Children’s Village • St Peters Day Care Centre • Stepping Stones International • The Flying Mission • Top Banana • Tshidilo Stimulation Centre The legacy of Ruth Khama and her values lives on through the Lady Khama Charitable Trust, which hopes to form a legacy in its own right through fostering and growing a culture of community aid and support. These goals go hand-in-hand with creating a healthier future Batswana community in every aspect.
Working Method In addition to its own fundraising activities, the Lady Khama Charitable Trust looks for funding from local and international donors, individuals, corporations and organisations. As a result of the two main fundraising activities – being the Gala Dinner and Family Fun day – to date the Trust has been able to donate over 4-million pula to local charitable organisations. Since inception in 2002, the Trust has raised about 5-million pula. Beneficiaries Projects and initiatives that receive funding from the Lady Khama Charitable Trust are evaluated quarterly on a case-by-case basis. The Trust ensures that funds are used for their intended purpose through regular feedback and updates given by the charity organisations. Over the years the Trust has donated money, vehicles, wheelchairs and paid medical bills for children in desperate need.
Same Siziba (Trust Coordinator) Tel: +267 393 4501 Mobile: +267 7595 8918 Email: same.siziba@lkct.org or info@lkct.org www.lkct.org Best of Botswana
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Chapter 19 Future Botswana and Parastatals
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E-Government in Botswana There is a buzz about the Botswana government enclave, and it’s known as e-government. But what exactly is it? What does the ‘e’ entail? In brief, e-government is ‘electronic’ government.
Known as e-gov, digital government, online government, or connected government amongst other known aliases, it involves digital interactions between a government and its citizens (G2C), government and businesses (G2B), government and employees (G2E), and also between government and governmental agencies and organisations (G2G). It is a digital and internet-based information technology (IT) system that allows citizens greater access to government information and services.
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The tech revolution took the world by storm and there’s not a corner of the globe that hasn’t been affected, let alone a corner of Botswana. Technology has brought about tremendous change in every aspect of our daily lives. It’s changed how we live, how we work, how business is conducted, as well as how government serves the people. For the first time in a very long time, a genuinely new opportunity has presented itself - the prospect of government reinvented and reengineered. With the assistance and expertise of the IT industry, Botswana’s government has recognised the reality that through the application of the same practices, principles and technologies that drive e-commerce, they can achieve similarly stunning results. The resultant effect: e-government Botswana. What it can bring to Botswana There are a number of possible e-government scenarios envisaged by the Government of Botswana and partnering entities.
To cite: a high school graduate in Francistown wants to know how to apply to study law at a government-owned tertiary institution located in Gaborone, some 500 kilometres away. This institution’s e-government portal would not only allow this student to access the required information regarding entrance qualifications and eligibility (we are all familiar with the internet as an information gathering or research tool - that being a website’s most basic function), it would also permit this potential under-grad to download the requisite application forms and submit them. Further, it would allow for this scholar to interface with the university’s selection and interview panel utilising graphical user interfaces, instant-messaging, audio/ video presentations, and a number of other ways that would surpass the sending of an enquiring email letter to the contact address provided on the site. The student could in actuality, through this virtual reality, attend his pre-qualification interview, from 500 kilometres away.
Another scenario is: farmer Joe would be able to register for, attend, participate in, submit course work for and graduate from an agricultural course on the latest techniques in animal husbandry, taught by professionals based in China and sponsored by the Botswana government, without ever leaving his laptop at the farm in Pandamatenga - some 1000 kilometres from Gaborone and 12,000 kilometres from Beijing. This is the power of e-gov, the creation of a new approach to the provision of public services where all public bodies deliver current and integrated services. Where they are with it The Government of Botswana’s national e-government strategy for 2011-2016 is entitled ‘1Gov’ and it outlines an ambitious, but achievable e-government endeavour. This plan outlines five major project areas: portal enhancement; multiple access; technical rationalisation and integration; Botswana’s e-government and service transformation, reform, organisational and network governance (Be STRONG) programme; and the skills transformation in support of e-government programme (STEP). Alongside which another 25 interrelated projects will collectively move all appropriate government services online, significantly improve public sector service delivery, and accelerate the uptake and usage of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) across all segments of Botswana society. While the operation of a number of these e-government initiatives will not be fully completed within the five-year timeline of this plan, the building blocks required will have been put in place. In terms of implementation, the Botswana government has already launched a new and greatly enhanced web portal - one which allows for easy and speedy retrieval of relevant information and related services and one in which, for the first time, information from all ministries and authorities is presented. The public at large can now access Botswana legislation through the use of Botswana e-laws - a site sponsored by the Attorney General’s Chambers to promote easy access to the Laws of Botswana, law reports and other legal information. The Sesigo, a global development project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is a collaborative effort between the Government of Botswana’s African Comprehensive HIV/ AIDS Partnership (ACHAP) as the grantee, and the Government of Botswana through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture and the Botswana National Library Service. The main objective of the project is to allow access to computers and the internet by communities that might otherwise not have benefited from the use of modern ICT services. Its aim is to transform the Botswana National Library Service by enabling it to provide the full range of information services available via digital platform, where all can access, at no cost, ICT services at public libraries. Thus far the project has equipped five community libraries, 16 branch libraries and one village reading room with computers - enabling public access to computers and the internet in 17 of these. And this is only the beginning. The range and scope of the Botswana government e-initiative is nothing short of grandiose. Government is partnering with development organisations, philanthropic entities, multi-national corporations, and so on, in realising its e-ambitions; and it still hopes to cast this net even wider. It welcomes all organisations wishing to partner with it in this tremendous effort to join them.
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Water Utilities Corporation Water Sector Reforms Programme.
Vision We aspire to be a leader in utility services Mission To provide sustainable water and wastewater management services in a cost effective and environmentally friendly manner to the economy  Values Botho - We display a strong work ethic and respect for people. Batho Pele/People First - We understand and exceed expectations by putting the customer first. Therisanyo/Consultation - We value open and free exchange of views and ideas. Botswerere/Quality - We provide a high quality of products and service delivery to our customers. Kgetsi Ya Tsie /Team Work - We believe in working together to accomplish more.
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Background Over the years, there have been several water suppliers in Botswana. The Water Utilities Corporation has been supplying towns and major villages. In addition, it has been supplying the Department of Water Affairs and District Councils with bulk water for onward distribution to the remaining areas in the country. With the implementation of the Water Sector Reforms, this is changing. The Water Utilities Corporation will take over all water and wastewater services in the country. What necessitated the implementation of the Water Sector Reforms? The National Water Master Plan Review (NWMPR) of 2005-2006 recommended a major restructuring of the water sector which includes, amongst others, the separation of water resources management from water service delivery. The Office of the President also directed that the water sector be reformed such that only two organizations should result. Following this, the Government engaged the World Bank to work with the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources to rationalize the water sector. It is from this study that the Water Utilities Corporation will be taking over all water service delivery in the country. What is the relationship between WUC and the Department of Water Affairs? WUC is a parastatal while the DWA is a government Department under the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources. WUC treats and supplies water to cities, towns and villages in these urban centres peripheries. It also provides bulk water to the Department of Water Affairs and District Councils for onward distribution to some villages. Which areas/villages are going to be taken over as part of the reforms? According to the plan, the Water Utilities Corporation will take over all potable water service delivery in the country in the next three years and all wastewater services in the next five years. Which villages will be taken over first? As to which village will be taken over when, will be dependent on various factors, factors such as which villages have infrastructure that is ready for takeover and which ones have infrastructure that has to be upgraded before the takeover. Villages with inter-linked water supply schemes may also necessitate that they be taken over at the same time.
How long is the process going to take? According to the plan, the Water Utilities Corporation will take over all potable water services in the country in three years and all waste water services in the next five years, both effective 2009. Are water tariffs in the villages taken over going to change? The tariffs in the villages taken over will not change immediately as a result of the Water Sector Reforms. If any changes do happen, they will not be directly linked to the reforms. Does the Water Utilities Corporation have the human resource capacity to take over water service delivery to the whole country? The Corporation will take over some employees from the Department of Water Affairs and District Councils who have been working in those areas. In the event that they do not manage to fill all positions they will recruit within WUC and eventually from the open market. What will become of the Department of Water Affairs? The Water Utilities Corporation will be responsible for water and wastewater service delivery. The Department of Water Affairs will thus be responsible for water resources planning and management which will encompass the construction of dams.
What will happen to DWA and District Council Water Units employees? The Water Utilities Corporation will advertise and appoint those employees from the DWA and District Councils who qualify. Those who are not absorbed by WUC will remain with their current employers. They may be re-deployed within the department or to any other government department. Are DWA/Council employees going to be retrenched as a result of the reforms? No. Those not absorbed by WUC will remain will DWA or District Councils or be redeployed to other government departments. What is expected of customers in the villages to be taken over? All WUC customer signs water supply agreements when they apply for water connection. Following the takeover from DWA and District Councils, WUC expects all former DWA and District Council customers to sign new water supply agreements.
Toll Free: 0800 555 555 SMS: 71324860 Email:Â contactcentre@wuc.bw www.wuc.bw Best of Botswana
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Botswana’s Infrastructure – Supporting Sustainable Economic Development Botswana’s Infrastructure at Independence When Botswana gained independence in 1966, its small rural-based, and overwhelmingly illiterate population of half a million people numbered amongst the world’s poorest. Botswana was the globe’s second poorest nation with a GDP per capita of US$70. With the discovery of diamonds in Botswana still pending, Britain committed sizeable development resources to only those colonies with significant endowments, resulting in the development of physical and institutional infrastructure. Deemed resource deprived, Botswana as a colony was unable to attract these funds and consequently suffered serious development neglect. At the onset of self-governance, agriculture was the economy’s largest sector and the rearing of cattle dominated social and economic life, with beef accounting for 85% of total export earnings. Newly anointed Botswana inherited 12km of tarred roads, three secondary schools and six university graduates from Imperial Britain and its prospects for development were considered bleak. Infrastructural Advances Contrary to those early predictions, the advances made by Botswana since independence have been extraordinary, due to the discovery and effective management of mineral wealth, sound macroeconomic policies and accelerated investment in infrastructure. The Government of Botswana, attentive to the country’s economic vulnerabilities, chiefly the challenges of being land locked and the country’s remoteness from global market centres, took the longterm view with regards to sustainable economic development and made the supply of infrastructure a key developmental priority, identifying it as necessary for sustainable economic development. Botswana, for the most part an extensive elevated region of flat land, is divided by a plateau that splits the country into two topographic areas, bush country and grasslands to the east and the Okavango Swamp and the Kalahari Desert to the west. The east is characterised by a comparatively high population density and is where Botswana’s larger cities are to be found, as well as most of its trade and industry. Further, Botswana’s most agriculturally viable land, as well as its crop production, is clustered around the capital Gaborone and Francistown, also in the east. Conversely, the west of the country is sparsely populated with a lesser natural
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resource endowment. The distribution of Botswana’s infrastructure networks generally mirrors the patterns of economic activity and population, a greater density of power, transport and ICT infrastructure can be seen in the east of the country. That said, Botswana’s infrastructure framework does provide, and make available, decent levels of connectivity throughout the country’s populated centres. Roads The 12km of tarred road in 1966 have transformed into a total road network of some 28,152km by 2010, with total paved road coverage exceeding 8,000km. Botswana has a strong record of road network expansion, quality and preservation, with the World Bank reporting that 80% of the main road network and 73% of the rural road network are in a good or fair condition. Rail Railway network density per million people in Botswana (494km) is the second-highest in sub-Saharan Africa. Botswana Railways, Botswana’s national railway corporation, maintains 888km of narrow gauge track that runs along its south-east section connecting the border of Zimbabwe to the city of Francistown, onwards to Gaborone and finally to the Botswana-South Africa border. Airports and Air Transport The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) is tasked with the management and supervision of air transport, the provision of air navigation services and airport management. It administers and maintains Botswana’s four international airports, four international minor airports and inspects another 15 domestic airports. With regards to air traffic, Botswana has experienced continuous levels of growth in overall air passenger numbers. The national carrier Air Botswana operates one of the continent’s newest fleets, consisting mainly of small turboprop aircraft. Additionally, the country’s aeronautical strategy entails taking full advantage of its proximity to Johannesburg, one of Africa’s most important air transport hubs. Water and Sanitation With regard to water supply, Botswana has scarce water resources due to the semi-arid climatic conditions found here as well as recurring drought. The nation’s current rate of population growth, 1.5% per annum, has
placed even greater strain on an already heavily burdened system. Households, agriculture, mining and industry in general, all compete for supply. In spite of this, Botswana has one of the highest access rates to improved water sources in Africa, with 95% of the population having access to improved water sources. This was and is a conscious policy decision – to move the population up the water supply and sanitation ladder. With regard to sanitation, Botswana has managed to improve service options by moving its inhabitants away from traditional to improved latrines and by increasing access to flush toilets. Power Supply In the past Botswana purchased, relatively cheaply, most of its power from South Africa. During this time, with South Africa power supply assured, good governance allowed for the development of a national power utility, the Botswana Power Corporation. Simultaneously sound power regulation policies and incentives were put in place. This system of purchasing South African power and concentrating on increasing access and the quality of distribution worked well, until the electricity generation crisis hit South Africa, which reduced power supply from there appreciably. This external shock made it imperative that Botswana secure without further delay investments in its own generation capacity. Even then, between 2006 and 2008 Botswana more than doubled its electrification rate, moving it from 22% to 50%. Further, the 600MW expansion of the government-owned 132MW Moropule Power Plant continues to advance, with the expectation that this US$825-million project will be completed by the end of 2012. ICT Infrastructure Botswana has made a big push regarding the ICT (information and communication technology) sector over the course of the last decade, with areas such as mobile communications taking off. From zero mobile phone subscriptions 15 years ago, subscriptions now exceed the country’s population. The government has taken most of the steps necessary for the creation of a sustainable ICT sector. In 1996 it passed two important pieces of telecommunications legislation. The first eliminated the Botswana Telecommunications Corporation’s (BTC) legal monopoly over the provision of telecommunications
services. The second established the Botswana Telecommunications Authority (BTA) as sectoral regulator. In 2006 further reforms were undertaken that included the legalisation of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) as well as a technologyneutral licensing scheme by means of which existing operators could provide any telecommunications service. Two of the market’s mobile operators, Mascom and Orange, then launched their own international voice gateways and internet services with different strategies in competition against numerous Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who are rolling out wireless access infrastructure of their own. Infrastructure Challenges The contribution of infrastructure to economic growth and prosperity promises to increase even more as improvements are made. With respect to its road and rail networks and regional integration, full regional connectivity has yet to be achieved. With regard to air transport and air services, a consequence of the lack of competition has been that service quality is an issue. In the provision of rural water, Botswana is more costly than the average sub-Saharan Africa country because of its large, sparsely populated rural areas. The power sector is key to Botswana’s sustainable development and currently its major bottleneck, thus the timely completion of the Moropule Power Plant expansion is vital. With regards to ICT, internet penetration is below average as is Botswana’s fixed-line penetration. New and Improved Infrastructure Strategies The Botswana government has taken the offensive with regards to infrastructure. It has prioritised the expansion of its road network. Plans are underway to privatise the Botswana Telecommunications Corporation. The public corporations running the utilities sector are all exploring outsourcing as well as public/ private partnerships as a means of increasing efficiency. Alternative energy solutions are being explored and employed. Entities such as the Botswana Innovation Hub have been established and tasked with ICT research, development and enhancement. With regards to infrastructure, the government of Botswana is committed to the raising of infrastructure services as both a sound investment in sustainable economic development as well as a moral economic imperative.
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Participators Index Air Botswana..............................................................................................................................................................................................74 Articulate Image & Lifestyle Consultancy...................................................................................................................................................96 Atlas Financial Group...............................................................................................................................................................................156 Auto Track................................................................................................................................................................................................208 Barclays Bank of Botswana...............................................................................................................................................48, 128, 142, 246 BIDPA - Botswana Vision 2016..................................................................................................................................................................42 BIFM - Botswana Insurance Fund Management.....................................................................................................................................148 BIHL Group - Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited .............................................................................................................................144 BIHL Sure!................................................................................................................................................................................................152 BLIL - Botswana Life Insurance Limited..................................................................................................................................................150 Botswana Accountancy College (BAC)....................................................................................................................................................100 Botswana Breweries Limited (BBL)..................................................................................................................................................234, 250 Botswana Chamber of Mines...................................................................................................................................................................178 Botswana College of Agriculture (BCA)....................................................................................................................................................114 Botswana College of Distance and Open Learning (BOCODOL).............................................................................................................108 Botswana Confederation of Commerce, Industry and Manpower (BOCCIM).........................................................................................124 Botswana Couriers...................................................................................................................................................................................198 Botswana Development Corporation Limited (BDC)................................................................................................................................122 Botswana Examinations Council (BEC)....................................................................................................................................................106 Botswana Innovation Hub..........................................................................................................................................................................36 Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC).......................................................................................................................................116 Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF)...................................................................................................................................127 Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS)............................................................................................................................................134 Botswana Vision 2016................................................................................................................................................................................40 Brand Botswana....................................................................................................................................................................... IFC, 22, OBC Car World.................................................................................................................................................................................................202 Centre for Development and Growth.......................................................................................................................................................254 Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA).............................................................................................................................132 Colour in the Desert Fashion Week............................................................................................................................................................88 Consult IT.................................................................................................................................................................................................216 De Beers Group................................................................................................................................................................................170, 174 Diplomat Africa ........................................................................................................................................................................................226 Fast + Furious International..............................................................................................................................................................194, 200 First National Bank of Botswana................................................................................................................................................49, 136, 248 G4S (Botswana) Limited...................................................................................................................................................................158, 168 Global Expo Botswana.............................................................................................................................................................................230 Grindrod Petrologistics Botswana...........................................................................................................................................................196 Integrated Engineers................................................................................................................................................................................190 Issues Fashion Studio................................................................................................................................................................................90 Kamoso Consulting..................................................................................................................................................................................224 Key Capital...............................................................................................................................................................................................126 Kgalagadi Breweries (KBL)...............................................................................................................................................................234, 250 Kickstart...................................................................................................................................................................................................220 Lady Khama Charitable Trust...................................................................................................................................................................252 Lansmore Masa Square Hotel....................................................................................................................................................................80 Livingstone Kolobeng College.................................................................................................................................................................110 Local Enterprise Authority (LEA)...............................................................................................................................................................244 Mafia Soul Clothing....................................................................................................................................................................................92 Mahindra..................................................................................................................................................................................................206 Mascom Wireless...............................................................................................................................................................................68, 212 Mmile Mhutsiwa & Associates.................................................................................................................................................................184 Morupule Coal Mine (MCM).....................................................................................................................................................................180 National Development Bank (NDB)............................................................................................................................................................46 Orange Botswana.....................................................................................................................................................................................214 Original* Iced............................................................................................................................................................................................238 Outsource Digital .............................................................................................................................................................................210, 217 PABAAP....................................................................................................................................................................................................192 PressPhoto...............................................................................................................................................................................................228 Prevailing Securities.................................................................................................................................................................................162 Pule Modisana Holdings..........................................................................................................................................................................154 RedPepper PRC.......................................................................................................................................................................................222 Renault.....................................................................................................................................................................................................204 Saatchi and Saatchi.................................................................................................................................................................................188 Stanbic Bank Botswana...........................................................................................................................................................................140 The Best of Africa.........................................................................................................................................................................................8 Ultimate Cycle Base...................................................................................................................................................................................70 Urban Space..............................................................................................................................................................................................94 VIVO Energy ............................................................................................................................................................................................IBC Water Utilities Corporation.......................................................................................................................................................................260 Woodmed Medical Supplies......................................................................................................................................................................98 Yarona FM................................................................................................................................................................................................218
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the initial Wilderness dream of 26 years ago was to conserve the remote and wild places of africa by enabling people to visit and at the same time earn a return for the business and its employees. this was not a grand or complex idea but an important one. Wilderness started off by offering “journeys and experiences to discerning globally caring travellers”; however, today Wilderness is in the business of “building sustainable conservation economies”, achieved through the employment of a responsible tourism model.
Wilderness began operating in Botswana and over time, the business has evolved into a specialist luxury safari operation with bases in seven SaDC countries. today, Wilderness holdings is a Botswana based company, listed on the Botswana Stock exchange.
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Vivo Energy, creating Africa’s most respected energy business Vivo Energy is the company behind the downstream Shell brand in Africa. We are here to offer customers the very best of Shell’s products and services, including supply reliability, technical expertise, and unmatched customer service, in the countries in which we operate. In doing so, we have in place industry-leading health and safety standards, and are committed to delivering Shell’s high-quality fuels and lubricants in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. A joint venture between Vitol (40%), Helios Investment Partners (40%) and Shell (20%), Vivo Energy represents a unique combination ofresources, experience and expertise. Our team has the experience to go beyond meeting initial customer needs. Through access to Shell’s superior technology, products and related services we are able to add additional value to customers’ operations. In this way we aim to be the first and trusted choice for our customers.
Shell trademarks used under license.
Think Road Safety. Do the Right Thing. Drive Safely. Road safety poses a significant safety risk to our businesses, and we have spent considerable time and energy understanding how to reduce fatalities and incidents on the road in our operations – and we have know-how and learnings to share. Having teamed up private industry, government and NGO’s, we recognize the need to help reduce fatalities on our roads, as well as encourage responsible road usage. Ensure your vehicle is road worthy (tyres, brakes and lights etc.) Do not exceed the speed limits Reduce speed during bad weather/poor visibility Observe adequate following distance Don’t text or talk on your mobile phone while driving Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs Be patient and avoid aggressive situation build-up Feeling tired or sleepy? – Take a short break
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Shell trademarks used under license.