BOFINET BITS & BYTES VOL 3, ISSUE 2

News letter Volume 3 , Issue 2

FOREWORD

BOFINET EXPANDS HIGH SPEED INTERNET TO FOUR VILLAGES

MINISTERS TSHERE AND NTLHAILE MEET BOFINET

BIG WIN FOR BOFINET AT THE AFRICA PUBLIC SECTOR CONFERENCE & AWARDS

BOFINET ENFORCES WORKFORCE INTERGRITY THROUGH THE NEW ETHICS & FRAUD HOTLINE

BOFINET SUPPORTS TLOKWENG COMMUNITY WITH A FREE WI-FI PARK

Chief Executive Officer (A) Foreword

Mr. Mpho Koolese I welcome you to this issue of Bits & Bytes, our external communication platform with which we provide comprehensive updates to you, our stakeholder, on how Botswana Fibre Networks is performing against its mission of transforming communities through digital services. This issue covers a myriad of updates from our business, including updates on network projects, leadership development as well as compliance and ethics initiatives.

We have successfully completed our 2024 external audit and will present our Annual Financial Statements for the year ended 31st March 2024 to the Shareholder, represented by the Ministry of Communications and Innovation, at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for 11 February 2025.

Subsequent to that, our 2024 annual report will be made available to all our stakeholders through our website, www.bofinet.co.bw.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

BoFiNet continues its quest to achieve the vision that was set out in the National Broadband Strategy of 2018; “to connect every citizen, business and community to high-speed broadband infrastructure at the appropriate quality of service and affordable prices”. In line with this, we are pleased to report the completion of our backbone infrastructure projects that were started in 2023; Takatokwane to Morwamosu and Oodi to Machaneng. These two (2) projects were intended to expand our core network and create redundancy routes to ensure uninterrupted service provision to the country. In total, the two (2) projects covered 497km and twenty-one (21) villages, and one (1) boarder post.

In addition to the core network expansion, we have kickstarted four (4) new local access network projects aimed at connecting private sector and government facilities within towns and villages to high-capacity, high-speed network. The new projects are Moshupa, Thamaga, Ramotswa and Taung. These projects commenced in the just-ended quarter and are anticipated to be completed in April 2025.

Completion of these projects will pave way for easier access to services, higher productivity and better user experience for customers in these areas. These projects will bring the total number of completed local access projects to twenty-six (26).

We are excited to inform our stakeholders that the Digital Delta Data Centre has been completed and is now functional. We received the Engineers’ practical completion certificate on the 20th of December 2024. The Uptime Institute certification process is planned to take place from the 24th to the 26th of February 2025.

This certification is important to us as it represents assurance to our customers that our data centre is of world-class standards in availability and performance. We are committed to ensuring that the infrastructure and services that we provide are world-class and are backed by international quality standards.

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Chief Executive Officer (A) Foreword (continued) BoFiNet recently sponsored the National Data Protection Conference that was organised by the Botswana Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF). This was an important conversation for us to play a leading role in, as the national ICT services provider. We are committed to supporting the Government in ensuring the successful implementation of the Data Protection Act of 2018; and this conference provided us with the platform to engage with various stakeholders and assure them of our readiness to host them at the Digital Delta Data Centre.

At BoFiNet, our employees are our greatest asset; we demonstrate this through the wellness programs, training and development opportunities made available to them. This quarter, we sponsored a cohort of senior managers for a Senior Management Development

Programme, through Stellenbosch Business School. This is one of the initiatives aimed at developing leadership competencies within the organisation, and ensuring that there is a pipeline of capable leaders Lastly, as a demonstration of our commitment to the highest levels of integrity and ethics, BoFiNet has partnered with KPMG to provide an anonymous toll-free service for reporting acts of corruption and fraud. The service was launched in August. We implore our stakeholders to report any incidents of corruption, fraud, theft or misconduct to the anonymous toll-free number 0800 155 172.

Let me take this opportunity to thank you for your valued support over the past year. I also wish you a productive and successful 2025. I invite you to follow and engage with us on our digital media pages on Facebook and LinkedIn. We’d love to hear your views on how we are doing.

Rea Leboga.

BoFiNet values you.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

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TAKATOKWANE-MORWAMOSU & OODIMACHANENG BACKBONE NETWORK COMPLETE

Tshepo Poitshego Project Support Manager

BoFiNet has over the years expanded its network infrastructure in an effort to reach parts of the country that were initially not covered.

Recently, BoFiNet completed fibre infrastructure network deployment from the Takatokwane Morwamosu and Oodi-Machaneng areas. These backbone projects had similar scopes that entailed the supply, installation and commissioning of an overhead optical fibre network on defined routes, together with the required sub-projects to provide broadband services These deployments will enable provision of broadband backhaul capacity for the 3G, 4G and 5G networks by mobile operators and enable the schools connectivity initiative (driven through the Universal Access Service Fund (UASF)), as well as the Government online connectivity initiatives for a

future connected-Botswana.

The achievement of these milestones will indeed accelerate the country’s aspirations of a digital economy.

Currently, 212 localities out of the 399 total gazetted localities are connected to the national open access backbone broadband infrastructure. Takatokwane – Morwamosu project spans over 180 km and covers 6 villages being Takatokwane, Dutlwe, Tshwaane, Khekhenye, Motokwe and Morwamosu). Oodi – Machaneng project spans over 317 km and covers 15 villages being Oodi, Modipane, Dikwididi, Mabalane, Sikwane, Mmathubudukwane, Ramonaka, Malolwane, Oliphant’s Drift, Ramotlabaki, Mmaphashalala, Dovedale, Kudumatse, Makwate, Machaneng and one border post named Parrs Halt Border Post.

According to BoFiNet’s Project Manager, Ms Tshepo Poitshego, “Eighty-three percent (83%) of the workforce engaged to deliver the projects were citizen-owned contractors (five of the six work packages). This effort was in line with Government’s efforts to empower local businesses.”

Machaneng 317km of optic fibre 180km of optic fibre

Takatokwane

Morwamosu

Oodi BOFINET Newsletter | December 2024

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HIGH SPEED INTERNET EXPANDED TO FOUR NEW VILLAGES

This month, December 2024, BoFiNet will begin deploying a high-speed fibre local access network, also known as Fibre to the Business (FTTB), in Moshupa, Thamaga, Ramotswa and Taung. The objective of the project is to enable efficiency of connectivity in the public and private sector through the provision of high-speed internet infrastructure.

The fibre infrastructure part of the project is expected to run for four months, from December 2024 to March 2025. According to one of the project managers, Mr Noga Noga, “We are currently in the initial phase of fibre installation, whilst the active equipment is in the contracting stage.”

BOFINET Newsletter | December 2024

Targeted Areas for FTTx Deployment Central and local government offices Educational institutions Hospitality establishments such as hotels, lodges, and guesthouses Commercial hubs like filling stations, shopping centers, bus ranks, and office parks

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MINISTERS TSHERE AND NTLHAILE MEET BOFINET

On Tuesday, November 26th, the newly appointed Minister of Communications and Innovation, Hon. David Tshere, along with his Assistant, Hon. Shawn Nthaile, paid a visit BoFiNet and the Digital Delta Data Centre for a meet-and-greet session.

The purpose of their visit was to familiarise themselves with the role BoFiNet plays and to share their preliminary expectations and the direction they envision for this organisation. They were welcomed by the BoFiNet Executive Management, led by Acting CEO, Mr. Mpho Koolese, as well as the Governing Body.

Mr. Koolese stated, “The Ministers’ feedback was very positive and demonstrated the support that BoFiNet receives from our parent Ministry. We look forward to more engagements with them in the future.”

Much of the discussion centered around the highly anticipated Digital Delta Data Centre, which aims to advance the data protection agenda by safeguarding Botswana’s data. The team proudly informed the Ministers that the level 4 commissioning of the Data Centre project has been completed and is now operational. We await its official launch soon.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

Progress Update on the Digital Delta Data Centre 1000 square meter, Carrier-Neutral, Data Centre situated at the Botswana Digital Innovation Hub(BDIH) in Gaborone.​ The Data Centre is designed to Tier-3 Uptime Institute standards.​ Construction is complete and the Data Centre is being commissioned to achieve Uptime Institute Tier-3 Certification.

The Data Centre is ready for the market and to meet the Data Protection ACT regulatory requirements by 12 January 2025.

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BIG WIN FOR BOFINET AT THE AFRICA PUBLIC SECTOR CONFERENCE & AWARDS 2024

On Friday 4th October 2024 BoFiNet was recognized at the 5th Africa Public Sector Conference & Awards (APSCA 2024) as one of the Africa Top 50 Innovative Public Sector Agencies. This award celebrates BoFiNet’s commitment to exceptional innovation and impactful delivery of public services.

Before the award ceremony, our Acting CEO, Mr. Mpho Koolese, participated in a panel discussion titled "Transforming Public Services through Digitalisation and e-Gov Initiatives." In his remarks, Mr. Koolese highlighted various projects BoFiNet has undertaken that demonstrate digital innovation aimed at advancing the country of Botswana. The panel included Mr. Koolese, Mr. Martin Mokgware (CEO of BOCRA), Mr. Frank Davies Esq. (Board Chair of DVLA Ghana), Mr. Clifford Braimah (CEO of Ghana Water Company), and Ms. Kabale Tache Arero (Lands Commission, Kenya).

The Africa Public Sector Conference brings together public sector leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the continent to forge new paths toward sustainable development. The first edition was hosted in Rwanda, the second and third editions in Ghana, and the fourth edition in Kenya.

Botswana will now host the 5th edition.

BOFINET Newsletter | December 2024

Visit https://africapublicsector.com/ for more information about APSCA 2024 6

WORKFORCE INTEGRITY ENHANCED THROUGH NEW ETHICS & FRAUD HOTLINE

Itireleng Kaunda Head of Internal Audit At BoFiNet, integrity and professionalism are at the heart of everything we do. In alignment with our core values and commitment to ethical standards, the Internal Audit Unit, led by Ms. Itireleng Kaunda, has made significant advancements by reintroducing and launching the BoFiNet Ethics Hotline to promote transparency and accountability. This initiative reflects our dedication to maintaining internal controls, efficient risk management processes, and a strong governance framework. Here’s what you need to know about this new tool designed to safeguard our workplace and reputation.

Why the BoFiNet Fraud Hotline Matters The Ethics Hotline, operated independently by KPMG, serves as a trusted platform for employees and other stakeholders to report unethical behavior or practices anonymously. Its primary goal is to promote an honest work culture while ensuring that any concerns can be raised in confidence and addressed appropriately.

Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, the hotline is always available to protect the ethical standards we uphold as an organisation.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

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WORKFORCE INTEGRITY ENHANCED THROUGH NEW ETHICS & FRAUD HOTLINE (continued)

Understanding the BoFiNet Whistleblowing Policy The BoFiNet Whistleblower Policy underscores our pledge to foster a professional and ethical work environment. It ensures that every employee and stakeholder have clear channels to report concerns without fear of retaliation. This policy applies to all BoFiNet employees, operational divisions, entities, and anyone conducting business with BoFiNet. By adhering to ethical standards, BoFiNet not only nurtures trust within the organization but also enhances its credibility with local and international partners. As a team, we have built a reputation for “Doing the Right Thing,” one of our core values.

Objectives of the Policy Provide clear whistleblowing mechanisms.

Guide employees on how to escalate concerns.

Offer assurance that whistleblowers are protected.

If you witness or suspect any unethical behavior, don’t hesitate to use the hotline. Here’s to building a stronger, more transparent BoFiNet!

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

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EMPOWERING LEADERS FOR THE FUTURE: THE SENIOR MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME Why SMDP is Important for BoFiNet

Masego Chijoro Head of Human Resources (A) At BoFiNet, our commitment to excellence and growth extends beyond our cutting-edge technological offerings to the development of our greatest asset – our people. In line with our mission to be a world-class provider of digital infrastructure, we have invested in the professional growth of our leaders through the Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP).

The SMDP is a prestigious initiative designed to equip our senior managers with the skills, knowledge, and strategic insight needed to drive BoFiNet’s vision forward. Conducted online through the renowned Stellenbosch Business School, is a tailored learning experience aimed at enhancing leadership and management competencies. The programme typically includes modules on strategic thinking, financial acumen, organisational transformation, and innovation management. Additionally, it places a strong emphasis on ethical leadership and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

1. Strengthening Leadership Capacity: The SMDP will enable our managers to refine their decision-making and problem-solving skills, ensuring that they can lead with confidence and clarity in this dynamic industry we operate in.

2. Driving Organisational Growth: by providing the right tools, the programme enhances their ability to craft and execute strategies that align with BoFiNet’s Unleash 2025 objectives to accelerate our growth and competitiveness. Moreover, shifting their thinking towards the future beyond the current strategy. This empowers managers to transition from making contributions at a functional level to making a strategic impact on the organization, which is critical for their success in their roles.

3. Enhancing Employee Engagement: Managers who undergo the SMDP return with renewed energy and perspective, enabling them to inspire and mentor their teams effectively. So we all benefit!

4. Preparing for Future Challenges: As BoFiNet continues to expand, we face increasingly complex challenges.

The SMDP ensures that our leaders are not only prepared to navigate these challenges but also to turn them into opportunities for growth.

The benefits of the SMDP extend beyond the individual participants. When managers grow, so do their teams. Employees gain from working under leaders who are better equipped to support their professional development, inspiring a positive work environment, and align team efforts with organisational goals. This ripple effect strengthens the overall culture at BoFiNet, making it a place where everyone can thrive.

We are proud of these senior managers and applaud their commitment to personal and professional growth. Their dedication not only reflects their individual aspirations but also their belief in BoFiNet’s mission and values. As an organisation, we remain steadfast in our dedication to investing in our people. The SMDP is just one of many initiatives aimed at building a resilient, innovative, and inclusive workforce.

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FREE WI-FI PARK ESTABLISHED TO SUPPORT TLOKWENG COMMUNITY

On 26th September 2024, BoFiNet, in partnership with ICT Dynamix, proudly handed over the Tlokweng WiFi Park to the community. The park, officially opened by Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Mabuse Pule, and Tlokweng District Council Chairperson, Hon. Collen Mochotlhi, is located at the Tlokweng Community Hall and offers free, fast, and reliable internet to everyone.

This initiative is more than just providing connectivitty, it’s about empowering the community with access to digital opportunities, learning resources, and improved communication. From students to entrepreneurs, this WiFi park will serve as a hub for growth and innovation, bridging the digital divide and bringing endless possibilities to the Tlokweng community.

This space allows students to access educational resources, entrepreneurs to expand their reach, and the community to explore new digital opportunities—all in a comfortable area equipped with seats and shade,” he said.

The handover event saw an impressive turnout of community members, local leaders, and representatives from BoFiNet, all celebrating the transformative impact of fibre-fast internet in Tlokweng. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for other communities across Botswana looking to enhance their digital footprint and connectivity.

BoFiNet Program Manager, Mr. Emphraim Kedisang, who was also present at the event Mr. Kedisang shared the vision behind the project: “By deploying fast and reliable fibre internet in Tlokweng and establishing a WiFi Park, we are not only enhancing connectivity but also providing a platform for growth and development.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

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REFLECTING ON THE 11-YEAR JOURNEY Botswana Fibre Networks (BoFiNet) is a wholesale provider of national & international telecommunications infrastructure & broadband internet services. We provide services to licensed Internet Service Providers (ISPs) & Public Telephony Operators locally & internationally.

BoFiNet is mandated to facilitate the growth of ICT services in Botswana; providing affordable and quality universal access to broadband services on an open-access basis.

2013

BoFiNet Launched

Separation of Assets: BoFiNet took over the national backbone infrastructure and international assets, focusing on wholesale services, while BTC remained a retail provider BoFiNet inherited 6,000 km of fibre optic network from BTC and went on a rapid network expansion drive, connecting urban and rural areas, growing the network coverage to over 12,400km totay.

2020

Launch of UNLEASH 2025 Strategy New transformational strategy focusing digitilisation & commercialisation. Our strategic priorities are: • Sustainability •Commercial Growth •Digital Transformation Maturity •People • Governance

on

Start 2009

Global Connectivity

The Government of Botswana, through BTC, completes investments in: • • •

East Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) West Africa Cable System (WACS) West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC)

2021

Launch of UPICtv

2015

Free Wi-Fi Hotspots

Botswana Hotspots is a public Wi-Fi internet service provided in partnership with Universal Access Services Fund (UASF). It is available in high density areas such as bus ranks, hospitals, airports and shopping malls across the country.

2020

Homegrown subscription-based streaming service Aims to grow the local creative industry by offering a platform to showcase content locally & internationally.

Job creation: approximately 5,000 individuals Currently 91 local titles on the platform & all local radio & TV stations Growing the portfolio into live sports broadcast Upgraded the NOWtv IPtv platform in 2024.

Recently awarded P1million under the LTDF towards content development

2016-18

Deployment of the Government Data Network (GDN)

2018

•Groundbreaking of the national Data Centre construction project •The 1,000sqm, 400-rack facility is a strategic national asset and a critical part of the ICT ecosystem in the country.

•It is part of the national strategy to effectively link the country’s priority sectors with regional value chains.

•It will not only pave the way for the country to take sovereignty of its data but also facilitate socio-economic transformation.

Self Sustainability

Financial Independence: Shifted to self-sufficient operations Improved Efficiency: Boosted performance and invested in better network infrastructure.

Built a secure, efficient state-of-the-art core network linking all Government ministries and agencies at a cost of P500million. BoFiNet was also contracted by the Government to build a Security Operations Centre (SOC), which enables the Government to monitor its network for vulnerabilities and manage cyber threats.

Digital Delta Data Centre

2021-2023

SmartBots Village Connectivity Phase 1 •Contracted by the Government to deliver SmartBots Village Connectivity project Phase 1.

•The aim is to create an ecosystem that connects 500 cities, towns and villages in Botswana with fast, reliable broadband internet to propel Botswana into a knowledge-based society.

•BoFiNet has successfully completed connecting all 1,138 facilities covering, dikgotla, schools and health facilities in over 144 villages across the country.

EXPANDING OUR FOOTPRINT i). National Backbone Infrastructure Currently, 212 localities out of the 399 total gazetted localities are connected to the national open access backbone broadband infrastructure.

12,000km+ national fibre coverage countrywide.

ii). Last Mile Connection/Local BoFiNet has over the years expanded its local access network deployed through fibre.

The deployment of this high broadband infrastructure has seen the tremendous growth of business broadband connections and the provision of services. iii). Regional connectivity Botswana serves as a gateway for neighbouring landlocked countries and BoFiNet services customers as far as DRC and Malawi.

1272 free hotspots available in public areas.

IMPACT ON BOTSWANA’S INTERNET USAGE Internet traffic has been growing steadily over the years, with the most significant growth realised in 2022, attributed to the increase in number of users due to SmartBots village connectivity project.

The graph displays public hotspot usage trends from 2018 to 2024, highlighting a significant increase in utilisation.

INTERNET USAGE (GBPS)

PUBLIC HOTSPOTS UTILISATION

12 0. 00

4,000, 000 3,500, 000 3,000, 000

10 0. 00

Utilisation

Utilisation (Gbps)

80 .0 0

60 .0 0

40 .0 0

20 .0 0

Year

2,351,759

2,500, 000 2,000, 000 1,000, 000 500,000

1,600,908

1,259,879

1,500, 000

0

0.00

3,573,764

562,762

2018

872,029

2019

741,235

2020

2021 Year

2022

2023

@Botswana Fibre Networks

2024

BOFINET IN PICTURES

BoFiNet was the connectivity partner for the President’s Inauguration, providing unlimited Wi-Fi at four (4) venues: Molapo Crossing, Tsholofelo Park, Main Mall and National Stadium.

UPICtv, BOCRA, UNESCO, and other representatives from the television broadcasting sector came together at Mogoditshane SSS to observe World Television Day.

A delegation from MCKT), and their counterparts BoFiNet, through the Digital Delta Data Centre, sponsored the Data Protection Conference. from the Ministry of ICT in Namibia conducting a Mr Shadrack Makhane, seen here giving an overview of the Digital Delta Data Centre. benchmarking tour of the Digital Delta Data Centre

As a commemoration for World Cancer Awareness Month, the BoFi Ladies participated in an engaging closed session focused on women’s health.

BOFINET Newsletter | December 2024

The Twantsho Botsotsi Cybercrime Awareness Roadshow made its third stop in Masunga, engaging over 150 community members, including Dikgosi, in an informative session on cybercrime and digital safety.

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MEET TUMELO: BOFINET’S NEW DATA PROTECTION OFFICER A Journey of Growth and Excellence Tumelo’s academic and professional journey is a testament to her dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth. Armed with a degree in Business Information Systems from the University of Botswana, Tumelo began her career in 2015 as a Sales Consultant in the ICT sector, where she not only sold telecommunications solutions but also developed project management skills by coordinating resources and managing technical teams.

Tumelo Keakopa-Pheto Data Protection Officer On October 29, 2024, Botswana’s National Assembly passed the Data Protection Act 2024 (the new Act), which aims to regulate the processing of personal data in Botswana. The new Act requires entities to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for overseeing internal compliance with the Act. BoFiNet is proud to introduce Tumelo KeakopaPheto as our new Data Protection Officer (DPO). A multiskilled professional with a rich and diverse career journey, Tumelo brings a wealth of experience and passion to this critical role.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

Her career path evolved in 2016 when she joined a Records Management Consultancy firm as a Project Manager. This role expanded her expertise in records management strategies and allowed her to gain practical experience as a consultant. To formalize her growing skill set, Tumelo pursued a Prince2 Practitioner certificate and a Training of Trainers certification. By 2018, she had further advanced her knowledge by completing a Master’s in Archives and Records Management, which set the stage for her interest in data protection.

The Path to Data Protection Tumelo’s journey into the field of data protection began during her master’s studies. A course on “Legal Aspects of Information” introduced her to the Botswana Data Protection Act of 2018, sparking her interest in the subject. She soon realised the vital role records management professionals could play in ensuring data protection compliance.

In 2021, Tumelo published a research article in the ESARBICA Journal, highlighting the role of records management professionals in safeguarding personal information throughout its lifecycle. This commitment to understanding and advancing the field led her to pursue certifications in Data Protection and Compliance, further solidifying her expertise.

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MEET TUMELO: BOFINET’S NEW DATA PROTECTION OFFICER Joining BoFiNet: A New Chapter Tumelo joined BoFiNet in 2023 as a Records Administrator, where she played a key role in implementing the organization’s records management program. During this time, she was actively involved in the SharePoint Online Configuration and Customization Project, which aimed to centralise corporate information management, enhance collaboration, and improve data security.

Her pursuit of a Microsoft Purview Information Protection and Compliance Certificate during this period showcased her commitment to staying at the forefront of data protection. In 2024, Tumelo was appointed as BoFiNet’s Data Protection Officer, a role she describes as both an honor and a responsibility.

(continued) When asked about the importance of her role, Tumelo summarised it eloquently: “In simple terms, I advise and oversee how personal data is collected, stored, and processed, ensuring privacy principles prescribed in the act are upheld at every stage.”

Tumelo emphasises that compliance is a journey and requires collaboration across all departments. She looks forward to engaging with BoFiNet’s teams through compliance assessments and awareness sessions, ensuring that everyone contributes to maintaining the organization’s high standards of data protection. Please join us in welcoming Tumelo to her new role and supporting her efforts to uphold data privacy at BoFiNet.

The Role of a Data Protection Officer With the Botswana Data Protection Act No. 18 of 2024 now in effect, Tumelo’s role as DPO is more vital than ever. Her day-to-day responsibilities include: Developing and coordinating the implementation of BoFiNet’s data protection compliance program.

Collaborating with various departments to conduct compliance assessments.

Monitoring and reporting on data protection compliance.

Raising awareness about data protection across the organisation.

Responding to inquiries from the regulator and data subjects.

Tumelo’s role ensures that personal data collected by BoFiNet is processed in line with legal requirements, safeguarding individuals’ privacy and building trust.

BOFINET Newsletter |December 2024

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