• Facility a constraint to airlines interested in flying to Maun
• Its runway not strong enough to withstand bigger aircrafts
• The terminal building inadequate to process high number of passengers
• Feasibility study to determine whether to relocate or expand the airport underway
• Calls being made for its relocation
By Joseph Kgamanyane
While the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) continues to be financially burdened by maintaining its strategic airfields across the country, the situation has been worsened by the reviewed lease rates by land boards, now costing the authority millions per year.
Before the rates were reviewed in 2022, CAAB used to pay land boards P2300 for the 23 airfields annually, but the organisation’s chief executive officer, Dr Bao Mosinyi has revealed that they are now paying over P20 million for the same services.
Speaking during a media engagement in Maun this week, Mosinyi said owing to the changes they now owe land boards lots of money which the authority cannot afford to pay as the airstrips themselves are not generating meaningful revenue.
“This is something that is not sustainable because the airstrips just don’t make any type of mon-
ey for us. Collectively, they don’t make P1000 per month though they are very expensive to maintain,” Mosinyi said calling for the government’s intervention.
“Something will need to happen, there are rumors that the ministry is reviewing the rates for better and if that doesn’t happen government will have to find a way to help us survive this.”
Meanwhile, Mosinyi has revealed that their approved fiveyear strategy covering 20242029 is focused amongst others on revenue growth targeting to make at least 500 million a year by 2029. “We need to make money because government subvention has been going down over the years since the expectation is that we have to sustain ourselves for the most part.”
He added that the strategy also seeks to improve their operational efficiency as without government subvention the organisation is not viable.
“By 2029, for every pula that we make we want to have used 83
thebe in costs because right now without government subvention we use P1.60 to make a Pula,” he stated.
However, the CEO is pleased that in their efforts to be self-sustainable, they have not only improved in revenue generation but are also significantly controlling costs, revealing that in the past year, their unaudited financials show revenue generation of P265 million. According to him, in 2020 they generated P176 million, 2021 (P61 million), and P181 million in 2023.
Mosinyi has also indicated that to support their strategy, the organisation needs to be restructured.
“There has always been that need to restructure CAAB and the board has agreed to that. The proposal is currently at government level for that exercise to be facilitated,” he noted.
Mosinyi has however assured that the restructuring process seeks to optimise what they have, allaying fears of massive staff retrenchment.
“The staff number may decrease or increase but the overall number will not change a lot, the efficiency of how we do things is the benefit that will come from the restructuring when implement-
ed,” he assured. That as it may, the CEO has also indicated the need to appoint a substantive board for CAAB lamenting that there is a challenge to do corporate governance
From page 1
By Staff Writer
With the feasibility study currently underway to determine the fate of Maun International Airport, the situation on the ground is that the current facility remains a constraint to the interest from airlines that continue to show interest in introducing direct flights to the tourism hub. In a period spanning three weeks, two airlines have introduced new routes to Maun, and have all launched their inaugu-
ral flights. Ethiopian Airlines launched its route from Addis Ababa to Maun with the inaugural flight on June 10.
On Wednesday this week, Fly Namibia launched its Windhoek – Maun flight with an inaugural flight landing at Maun International Airport, before taking off to Katima Mulilo on its way back to Windhoek. These travel developments have been applauded for their impact in enabling tourism and the growth of the aviation sector in Maun, however, the glaring challenges lie with the facility.
Maun International Airport has a 3.7 km runway, suitable to land any aircraft, but not strong enough to withstand the weight that comes with bigger aircraft. The terminal building is also inadequate to process the high number of passengers coming in or departing from the airport. These shortcomings have been confirmed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) Chief Executive Officer Dr Bao Mosinyi this week as they welcomed Fly Namibia to Maun.
“We do have limitations in this airport. We feel disappointed that a longer runway was constructed during the expansion, but it cannot take heavier aircraft because it is not strong enough,” he regretted.
He said there is a more pressing need to connect Maun International Airport to further destinations, which requires a stronger runway.
Mosinyi has further pointed out that Maun terminal was a challenge, highlighting the limitations due to the small space when it comes to ushering in all the flights that fly into the terminal due to limited check-in counters.
Dr Mosinyi, while engaging the media ahead of the flight launch indicated that whatever the recommendation and final decision on the airport – the biggest aviation investment ever to be made will be in Maun.
In Dr Mosinyi’s view, the time is now to move away from the piecemeal approach to addressing the inadequacies of Maun International Airport – the busiest
in the region after South Africa’s OR Tambo.
Pundits have posited from the time residents of Botshabelo were relocated to Disaneng some over 15 years ago, that the best decision would have been to relocate the airport outside Maun, and leave the current one for use by charter planes ferrying tourists into the Okavango Delta. This, they argued would even create an economic opportunity for many sectors including transport and transfers, small businesses, retailers, and hotels among others.
This debate, from over a decade ago has come back to haunt the aviation industry and all eyes will be on the report of the consultant about the best option that
will be in the interest of the tourism industry, the aviation sector, and the people of Maun and the environs.
Further to this Mosinyi has reiterated his stand that whatever the decision that will be made, it will have to hold the future in the long term. This is as larger airlines around the world continue to show insatiable interest in flying into Maun, a great opportunity for economic growth.
Dr Mosinyi indicated that South African Airways has shown interest and applied to fly into Maun, while another international airline from Europe, which he did not mention may soon start a direct long-haul route into Maun.
With such prospects in the growth of the aviation and tour-
ism sectors – as well as the value chains, relocating Maun International Airport, remains and is the most viable option.
Meanwhile, when giving a vote of thanks, councillor for Boyei in Maun Ntlogelang Kebonyekgotla declared his desire for Maun airport to be relocated elsewhere outside Maun, leaving the current one to service the charter and transfer operators. Kebonyekgotla posited that this would allow for the construction of a world class facility that would accommodate large and heavy aircraft, that would include cargo planes. A new airport outside Maun will also boost the local economy while also creating jobs.
By Staff Writer
Soda Ash and grade salt producer, Botswana Ash (Botash) looks to expand to other natural sodium-related products, while also contributing to building resilient communities in the area it operates, against the odds of challenges from poor service provision from key providers of transport, water, and housing.
This emerged during a recent media engagement at Botash operation on the Sua Pan, outside Sowa Town for journalists to appreciate the operations of the mine and also the role that it plays in community develop-
ment as part of its CSR.
In his engagement with the media, Botash Managing Director Kangangwani Phatshwane revealed plans to expand into three more products of natural sodium – which have been under development over the past few years. This as the mine has continued to make profitability trends over the years focusing mainly on soda ash and grade salt.
Phatshwane highlighted that the three products – sodium sulphate, sodium bicarbonate, and sulphate potash will be launched, with market readiness, adding that they are expected to ensure the mine’s
financial sustainability.
While the mine operations have been doing well over the years, recording impressive economic performance even during the downturn of COVID-19, Phatshwane has indicated a challenge about service provision from some key state-owned entities and service providers.
Transport remains a critical service for BOTASH to move its products into South Africa and other neighbouring countries, and for larger offtake, rail has remained a preferred option. But Phatshwane has decried that Botswana Railways has failed to live up to expectations. According to him, 10 years
ago, 100% of their product was on rail, but that changed as in 2023 the amount had dropped to 30%. “This means 70 % was on the road since Botash had not closed,” he said. Phatshwane further highlighted that with 70% of their product on the road, there were consequences as this translated into more and more trucks on the road, posing a threat to road safety and also contributing to damage caused on the road, more expensive and leaving a considerable amount of carbon footprint.
He said the operation also faces serious challenges with water provision which is erratic,
highlighting that Water Utilities Corporation was failing to meet the demand of the mine and the township.
Phatshwane also decried the poor maintenance of houses that the mine staff rent and occupy from Botswana Housing Corporation (BHC). He said while BHC owns the estate, the biggest by its standards, it was failing to maintain the houses in an acceptable manner.
Meanwhile, BOTASH, the largest producer of natural sodium and related products in the continent, currently sits on a resource that is expected to last until 2050. The resource allows for the extraction of 21
million cubic metres of brine with an output capacity of 300,000 tonnes of grade salt and 280,000 tonnes of soda ash.
Members of the media also had the opportunity to appreciate some of the CSR projects that the mine is engaged in, among them the Flamingo International School – owned and operated by Botash in Sowa Town, as well as the water reticulation project at Dukwi Primary School.
They also visited the Nata Kgotla Leobo project, also funded by the mine as well as the Malelejwe road bridge,
By Berninah Bogaisang
Sankoyo Tshwaragano Management Trust (STDT) which operates in NG 33 is currently working on reviewing its management plan to be able to do hunting in the next hunting season.
The trust, which was initially involved in hunting and photographic tourism changed its management plan in 2014 to cater for the former only after a hunting ban was imposed in Botswana. Following the lifting of the hunting ban, the trust now wants to revert to its initial operation that practiced both. This was revealed by Kgosi Gokgathang Moalosi of Sankoyo during a media tour hosted by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism over the weekend to appreciate the community beneficiation of hunting.
Moalosi explained that the trust changed its management plan to photographic tourism following a directive to do so. He lamented that the change has since disadvantaged his community as elephant-human conflict has greatly increased
over the years since 2014. He said currently, communities are unable to utilise the trust’s initiative to plough for locals as they never get to harvest their produce due to elephants.
When they practiced hunting, Moalosi said they were able to control elephant movements from homesteads to grazing areas adding that farmers were able to plough and harvest without the animals having to raid their crops.
“Our concession was divided into two sections where on the wetland side we did photographic and on the dry area we practiced hunting. By hunting in the dry area we were able to drive elephants into photographic areas which were undisturbed and far from homesteads,” Moalosi said. He emphasised that through hunting the trust was also able to generate more income as compared to photographic and it was also able to implement several projects which changed lives in the community.
“Though photographic tourism is sustainable because it is done all year around as compared to hunting which is seasonal,
hunting brings in more money for community beneficiation within a short period of time,” Moalosi stressed.
Meanwhile, STMT manager, Nkgolola Samakata has revealed that they were able to
wire 56 house-holds in Sankoyo to take advantage of the government’s initiative to install free electricity, indicating that some have already been connected by the Botswana Power Corporation. He further
indicated that they have embarked on a project to construct toilets for every house hold in the village to improve sanitation as well as avoid incidents of people losing their lives to wildlife when using the bushes.
“We also have a tertiary sponsorship program for our beneficiaries where prospective students select courses of their preference and we sponsor and also offer them living allowances,” Samakata added.
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By Bhekinkosi Phiri
A 42-year-old man from Samedupi was fatally trampled by an elephant while in transit from a nearby home to his residence on Monday.
Maun Station Commander Superintendent Dennis Zilawe confirmed that the tragic incident occurred at night under the cover of the bush, making it difficult for the man to anticipate the attack.
According to him, the deceased was on Monday morning reported to be missing, prompting a search party to be dispatched. The search team reportedly found him unconscious on the ground on rubble suspected to have been caused by the elephant’s trampling. Despite being swiftly transported to Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital by the police, the man was however pronounced dead upon arrival. Superintendent Zilawe issued a warning to the public, especially residents of surrounding areas, to exercise caution, particularly at night. He noted an
increase in elephant sightings near settlements, attributing this to their migration in search of water due to limited sources in their native areas.
“We advise the public to proceed with caution, especially at night, as elephants are being forced to migrate to areas where they can find water,” Zilawe stated.
In a separate incident, police are investigating a fatal accident that is suspected to have claimed the life of the driver of a vehicle on Friday. According to Zilawe, the incidents occurred after the car which was carrying three individuals, a man and two women, collided with an electric pole.
The occupants were transported to Letsholathebe II Memorial Hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries and subsequently released. However, the following day, the driver complained of feeling unwell and admitted himself to Maun Private Hospital. His condition necessitated immediate transfer to Gaborone for further medical attention.
Despite receiving healthcare, the man is said to have later passed away.
Superintendent Zilawe noted that while the exact cause of death is not yet conclusively linked to the car accident, investigations are ongoing. “The nature of the man’s passing is under investigation to determine whether it was due to injuries sustained from the car accident or other circumstances,” he explained highlighting that an autopsy is being con-
ducted to provide further clarity. The police boss also emphasised the importance of road safety, particularly at night, and urged the public to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol. “Although this was the only accident recorded during the weekend, we advise the public to be more conscious when driving at night and to avoid unlawfully driving under the influence of alcohol,” Zilawe stressed.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
A 37-year-old Motswana man
Steven Nyamadzabo was arraigned before Kasane Magistrate court this week for the alleged murder of a 30-yearold Zimbabwean man Tatenda Mupindo at Sesheke Bar in Kazungula on Saturday.
Kasane Senior Magistrate Wame Mosugelo, acceded to the request by the investigating office and the prosecution that the accused be further remanded in custody while investigations continue.
It is alleged that the accused person, Nyamadzabo who works as a Blockman at Heels and Houses Butchery stabbed the deceased on the neck with a knife during a fight that occurred at around 2345hrs at the said bar. Confirming the incident, Kazungula Police Station Commander Superintendent Phetogo Philemon said that after receiving the report during that night, they rushed to the scene where they found the deceased lying unconscious near the A3 road in Kazungula. He stated that the victim was taken to Kasane Primary
Hospital where he was certified dead by medical doctors.
Meanwhile, the Investigating Officer Constable Victor Maluke pleaded with the court to remand the accused person in custody as investigations were at the infancy stage, adding that he is currently busy collecting statements from the witnesses. He stated that currently, he has been able to locate one witness, adding that he was still to locate others for more witness accounts and statements.
Maluke said a further remand in custody for the accused was
also in his best interest and safety given that the public was still angry and shocked by the incident, and may take the law into its own hands should he be released. He pleaded with the court to give him a month for to complete his investigations into the matter.
Public Prosecutor Orateng Ramoabi told the court that the matter is still fresh and its investigations are still ongoing, which would allow for the police to complete investigations. The accused will appear in court on July 18, for status update.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Kasane Magistrate Thabang
Chokwe has this week granted bail to two South African men, Hosia Pitso and James Msibe who were found in possession of suspected stolen vehicles at Duncan Plaza Mall in Kazungula last month.
Chokwe ordered the 62-yearold Pitso, from Diepkloof Soweto in Johannesburg to pay an amount of P25 000 and bring one surety at P5 000 as bail condition. He also ordered t Msibe from Mofolo in Johannesburg to pay an amount of
P30 000 and avail one surety who shall bind himself with a sum of P 5000.
Msibe was found in possession of a White Ford Ranger bearing registration number JX 13 GB GP, Chassis number AFAPXXMJ2PLT54331, and engine number YMP2LPLT54331 valued at around R 850 000 that is suspected to have been stolen outside Botswana.
While Pitso is reported to have been found in possession of a White Toyota Fortuner bearing registration number KXS 638 MP, Chassis number AHJA3GS600228744, and engine
number IGD0356732, valued at around R 650 000, also suspected to have been obtained unlawfully outside Botswana. Public Prosecutor Sub Inspector Tobokani Muzila had during their initial appearance successfully pleaded with the court to deny the duo bail, and instead remand them in custody for a further period of 14 days to allow the police to complete their investigations and also because the matter is still fresh.
Kasane Magistrate Thabang Chokwe then remanded them in custody to allow the police to do their investigations and
to allow the court to find a Zulu interpreter for the first accused person Msibe.
Officer Commanding District No.7 Senior Superintendent Meshack Pulenyane had previously stated that the duo was found with the vehicles at around 1320 hours of that day on their way to Lusaka, Zambia. He stated that Kazungula police liaised with South African police who confirmed that the vehicles were stolen. According to him, police were doing their routine stop and search surveillance when they nabbed the duo.
By Joseph Kgamanyane
‘Tapyowa NG32 Experience,’ an annual event organised by Okavango Kopano Mokoro Community Trust (OKMCT) which comprises fascinating mokoro races and an extravaganza of a cultural showcase this past weekend delivered to expectations attracting a large number of spectators.
The event which strives to offer tourists an experience of the prestigious Okavango Delta by using mokoro returned in its second edition at Xaxaba village right in the heart of the delta. Besides attracting an increased number of people and the event itself generally being well organised, this time around Tapyowa also had new partners in the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sports, and Culture. As custodians of cultural preservation and sports development, the ministry found it fit to collaborate with OKMCT and injected P115,000 to support Tapyowa.
The races comprised of the 100m, 200 m 400, and 800 m for both male and female categories as well as the 200m race for veterans.
For the ladies’ category, Kenayang Ditshupegebo of Ditshiping scoped first position in 100m, and the 400m champion went to Magdeline Nxhereko of Xaxaba while Olopeng Cheu from Boro won the 800m race. In the men’s category, Omphetetse Retiyo (Boro) came first in the 100m race, and Ketsweletse Kehemetswe of Xuoxao won the 200 while Gorata Moagi (Daunara) and Gaoidiwe Moagi (Daunara) scooped first position in the 400m and 800m races respectively.
Isaiah Poloko (Xaxaba) won the veterans’ 200m race, followed by Gideon Pitlagano (Xuoxao)
while Botsalo Mbuse (Boro) came third. In the end, all the over 30 participants went home with something in cash prizes and medals.
In an interview, OKMCT general manager Seikaneng Moepedi said they are happy to have achieved what they intended, which was for people to experience the delta, especially for those who were attending the event for the first time.
As a way to also boost the trust’s coffers, they have this time around introduced tented accommodations and stalls which were secured at certain fees. “We have seen what the event can do for us, there has been a great improvement as compared to last year’s edition, people came in large numbers and the set-up showed
our commitment,” he said.
Besides glitches of power delay and low water levels, Moepedi was delighted that the event has grown big and assured that the third edition set for June 27th, 2025 will be even much bigger.
North West district commissioner, Thabang Waloka hailed OKMCT for exploring opportunities
to diversify the country’s tourism products from its competitors noting that the use of mokoro to promote sports and cultural tourism has the potential to attract more tourists. He also appreciated the event for being crucial in increasing cash flow and subsequently improving the livelihoods of communities in NG32.
Moepedi added the event forms part of their strategy to expand their tourism products offering while also boosting the economic livelihoods of the five villages they operate in being- Boro, Xharaxao, Xuoxao, Daunara, and Xaxaba located in NG32 (a controlled hunting area). This he highlighted was through engaging locals from these villages for services such as catering among others.
the Chobe National Park, on the banks of the Chobe River and since then community de-
velopment and empowerment have been at the heart of its operations.
With the employment demographic largely favourable to the Chobe community, the
Delta Duty Free Pty Ltd has an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic individual to join a dynamic team in Kasane, Botswana and occasionally work remotely. This permanent position is well suited for an individual that is looking to advance their career in strategic management and gain hands-on experience in a thriving and supportive workplace.
Delta Duty Free Pty Ltd Background
Delta Duty Free was founded in November 2021 to serve markets outside of Botswana such as Angola, the DRC (Katanga and Goma provinces), Rwanda, Malawi, South Sudan, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Burundi. We discovered a high demand for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and because of this, the gap needed to be filled in providing this service and opened Delta Duty Free, bond store, In Kasane, Kazungula.
Job Summary
• Arranging business development meetings with prospective local and international clients
• Develop a growth strategy focused both on financial gain and customer satisfaction
• Conduct research to identify new markets and customer needs
• Prepare sales contracts ensuring adherence to law-established rules and guidelines
• Provide trustworthy feedback and after-sales support
• Build long-term relationships with new and existing customers
• Building and maintaining current long term client relationship and identifying areas for potential clients
• Develop new sales areas and improving sales through various methods
• Collaborate with sales and design team to ensure requirements are met, such as sales numbers and profit goals
• Train junior salespeople to improve sales goals and meet expectation
• Strong understanding of company products or services as well as business position and competition to keep business competitive
Qualifications and Experience
• Minimum Diploma in Strategic Management, Marketing, Business Management, Logistics and Supply Chain or a similar area
• Exceptional sales experience in business or a related area
• Five years or more of proven experience with international suppliers in the liquor industry, logistics management, distributions and duty free customs knowledge are an added advantage
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal, in order to express technical and nontechnical concepts clearly and concisely
• Technical skills required to create proposals and find solutions to meet client requirements, such as using software programs
• Excellent organizational skills to meet goals and set priorities
• Be proactive, organized and handle work under stressful and uncertain environments
Salary
• P240000 per anum together with yearly employee bonuses if the company has performed well in the financial year
Delta Duty Free Pty Ltd
Kazungula Industrial Plot 5799
P O Box 21931, Maun, Botswana
Contact: +267 73195135
Please send through applications to Markch@DDF.co.bw
Closing Date: 12/07/2024
Lodge would later develop programs aimed at empowering other disadvantaged groups of society – women and the youth. This ethos aligns seamlessly with that of other Chobe Holdings Limited subsidiaries, under which Chobe Game Lodge falls.
Of these programs, the multipronged skills development program, which started as the youth empowerment training program, and later evolved to the newly revamped Hospitality Skills Development program has been ongoing for over 20 years and has imparted skills on out-of-school youth across Chobe and the country at large, empowering them to be compatible with work market.
The program has since its inception enrolled over 350 trainees and employed over 100 with some leaving after gaining the training and experience.
Chobe Game Lodge’s Human Resources Manager Shiyani Tsietso has shared that it is the relationship between the lodge and Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC) that birthed the Youth Empowerment Training Program in 2006 with an agreement to train out school youth.
“The aim was to equip or empower the youth of Chobe with real-life work experience.
We trained youth in our food and beverages departments to get experience as kitchen porters, chefs, waiters, and bar salespeople,” Tsietso revealed, By the time BNYC stopped the program, in 2020 due to Covid 19, the initiative had trained more than 300 youth, and employed 70, and some
of those who started with the program in 2006 are still with the lodge and in commanding positions.
Following the Covid-19 era, Chobe Game Lodge went solo and started a similar program, a game changer whose intention was to keep out-of-school youth off the streets and from the many social ills in society that include drug abuse among others.
“We call this program Hospitality Skills Development, and this program we have included laundry, maintenance, and the guides department,” Tsietso said.
The program, a CSR initiative aimed at giving back to the community the lodge operates, has also been beneficial to the operation as it creates a pool of people from which to employ when there are vacancies, Tsietso said.
“Since October 2022, we have enrolled and trained 47 youth and employed 14 of which some left and 10 remain in our employ.”
The program also helps the mental well-being of Chobe Game Lodge employees, and as Tsietso put it, ‘these youths are the children of our employees, meaning it helps reduce stress on them when their children are just sitting home doing nothing.”
The famous Chobe Angels, the all-female guiding team at Chobe Game Lodge has become a beneficiary of the hospitality skills development program as it creates a pool of female-trained professional guides to employ. The guiding department has two trainee guides at any given time.
*With Professor Joseph Mbaiwa
Journalists and media houses in Botswana were last week made to visit projects by rural communities living in wildlife areas. These projects are implemented under the Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme. This visit was organised by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Its main goal was to allow journalists to learn about the positive impacts that trophy hunting has so far had on communities living in wildlife areas in Botswana. Trophy hunting, despite its controversial nature in the Western world, provides some benefits to communities living in wildlife areas in Botswana. For example, trophy hunting generates significant revenue for communities that undertake hunting through hunting permits, licenses, lease fees, sale of hunting quotas, and fees paid by hunters.
Trophy hunting is a key employment creation sector in Botswana. Hunting operations often employ local guides, trackers, cooks, and other support staff from nearby communities. This provides employment opportunities and income for residents who might otherwise have limited options for formal employment.
In addition, Community Trusts employ a significant number of their community members. Trophy hunting thus creates job opportunities and provides a source of income for local residents who may otherwise rely on subsistence agriculture or other less reliable forms of livelihood. By offering alternative economic opportunities, trophy hunting can reduce pressures on natural resources and habitats from activities such as farming. The idea of CBNRM is built on the principle that when local communities derive benefits from natural resources in their local environment, they may be obliged to use such resources sustainably.
In this regard, trophy hunting provides an incentive for conservation. By assigning a monetary value to wildlife, trophy hunting can create incentives for communities and landowners to conserve and protect wildlife habitats.
This can lead to better management practices and protection against poaching and
habitat destruction. Trophy hunting accompanied by strict regulations and quotas from the government promotes wildlife conservation. These regulations aim to ensure that hunting practices are sustainable and do not threaten the long-term viability of wildlife populations.
By controlling hunting practices, including which species can be hunted and when, trophy hunting can contribute to population management and biodiversity conservation. In addition, trophy hunting is generally considered a wildlife conflict mitigation approach. That is, trophy hunting can help mitigate human-wildlife conflicts by reducing the population of certain species that pose threats to local communities or livestock.
Community involvement and ownership in wildlife utilisation have a role in achieving wildlife conservation. That is, communities have a stake in managing and conserving wildlife because they directly benefit from hunting revenues. This sense of ownership can lead to increased vigilance against poaching and habitat destruction, as well as active participation in conservation initiatives.
Finally, trophy hunting encourages conservation education in rural areas. That is, Botswana through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks and those involved in trophy hunting include educational components for hunters and local communities about the importance of conservation and sustainable wildlife management. This education can foster a greater understanding of the ecological roles of different species and the need for conservation efforts.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that the effectiveness of trophy hunting as a conservation tool can vary widely based on factors such as governance, enforcement of regulations, transparency in revenue distribution, and ethical considerations surrounding animal welfare.
*Joseph E. Mbaiwa, PhD is a Professor of Tourism Studies, at the Okavango Research Institute, University of Botswana in Maun.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Conservation scientists from UNSW Sydney’s Centre for Ecosystem Science have found the need to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accurately count hundreds of thousands of flamingos in the Makgadikgadi pans in Botswana, which are among the largest salt pans in the world.
The survey which commenced three years ago estimates that there are 532,197 flamingos on the northern basin of Sua Pan, the eastern pan in the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana. The researchers used aerial photographs collected in June 2019 to count the flamingos through the Artificial Intelligence method. The Artificial Intelligence survey is expected to make future surveying of numbers of iconic species and potentially other bird and mammal species much easier.
In an interview, UNSW Sydney Professor of Environmental Science Richard Kingsford said the number of flamingos counted in the Makgadikgadi pans exceeded all historical records in the area since the 1970s, and it is the first estimate of flamingos from the area in a decade. He revealed that counting half a million flamingos using machine learning helps establish the significant conservation importance of the Makgadikgadi Pans.
He stated that the vast concentrations of flamingos are spectacular and one of nature’s wonders but also major conservation significance. Kingsford stated that the survey allows them to tackle the
conservation of the Makgadikgadi Pans and its flamingos, an important Bird Area (IBA) including the Nxai Pan National Parks.
“We need to protect the flooding regime, by making sure water from the Nata River in the north and other rivers to the Makgadikgadi Pans, such as the Boteti River are maintained,’’ he said.
Kingsford has stated that from past observations of breeding, Sua Pan is one of the most important breeding sites for flamingos in Africa and for lesser flamingos especially those that are Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the pans are one of only six major breeding sites. He noted that the flamingos observed in June 2019 were feeding, rather than breeding, highlighting Sua Pan’s ability to support huge concentrations of individuals outside of breeding attempts.
‘‘The significance of Sua Pan as a key flamingo habitat in southern
Africa and beyond reinforces the need for its ongoing protection.
Successful breeding requires very special conditions, including the right amount of flooding to create islands of salty mud for raising chicks, isolated from predators,’’ he said.
According to Kingsford, there is currently insufficient protection of the Makgadikgadi Pans from adventure tourism developments, dam building upstream and other human-related threats. He said that these fragile environments must be protected if they are to conserve these incredible birds, which are an important part of these rare ecosystems and a major tourist attraction. He expressed that regular monitoring is necessary for ensuring the continued suitability of Sua Pan as feeding and breeding habitat. Kingsford noted that the researchers hope that their machine learning method, used to count birds in aerial photographs,
will help this cause, as traditional methods for counting such large numbers are usually tedious and time-consuming.
‘‘This work builds on the collaboration underway between researchers at the University of NSW and researchers and citizen scientists in Botswana,’’ he said. Meanwhile, Kingsford stated that the conservation scientists used machine learning to estimate the numbers from 3715 photographs taken from a Cessna aeroplane that flew a series of transects across the pans, at a height of 500600m and speed of 175-195 kilometres per hour. Kingsford stated that the team needed to control for the overlapping of photographs on the margins and then ‘teach’ the computer to recognise each pink dot as a flamingo, but that was made challenging by turbulence affecting the stability of the plane.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
The Botswana Wildlife Film School in Kasane has this week graduated the first batch of 20 students, which is one of the key deliverables under the project Botswana Ignite, commonly known as the Steve Harvey Global partnership project.
The Wildlife Documentary Academy aims to equip young Batswana filmmakers to meaningfully participate in the global space within this genre and is intended to train a minimum of 240 young people over the course of three years. The project is also intended to facilitate the creative industry in the film and television space. Another batch of 20 students has commenced training this week. Speaking during the official launch of the academy, Assistant Minister of Presidential Affairs Boitumelo Gofhamodimo said the project is one of the flagships under the Economic Recovery and Transformation Program by which President Mokgweetsi Masisi is determined to boost the economy of Botswana by diversi-
fying the economy and unlocking the value chains towards economic growth. Gofhamodimo added that the wildlife documentary genre represents a significant part of the global content market.
“What is clear is that while Botswana’s animals and iconic images have graced many documentaries, there is very little participation by Batswana in the making of such. The main reason has been lack of skills, networking, and other opportunities for Batswana to participate,” she said. She stated that the partnership with Steve Harvey Global is meant to catalyse participation in this space through their networks and influence. Gofhamodimo noted that they expect that the graduates from the training will form the first cohort of highly trained and passionate producers of content in the wildlife documentary space.
She further indicated that the hope is for the graduates not to only produce their works for global consumption, but to also service producers from other parts of the world who come to Botswana to
make documentaries.
“We expect these graduates to be the first point of call for any producers coming to Botswana to do such works. In that way, we are confident that significant foreign earnings will be realised through such a genre. In addition, we expect these graduates to produce uniquely Botswana stories that would add diversity to this genre,” she said.
According to Gofhamodimo, there was a careful choice of locating the school in Kasane and that was meant to immerse the students into the environment that hosts the world’s best flora and fauna. He said that was also meant to inspire and allow them to understand the environment they will be exposed to for the rest of their lives.
In an interview, Botswana Ignite project director, Duncan Irvine said Botswana has unique and abundant wildlife resources but it was unfortunate that filmmakers from around the world only come here to shoot and go back home. He stated that there are few Batswana in the industry and
what they want to do is to expand it out so that they can exploit the resources that they have.
“We want to see more wildlife documentaries that are not just filmed in Botswana but are also created, filmed, directed, edited, and sold to the international broadcasters as a product of Batswana,” he said.
One of the graduates Tamia Wright who is proud to be one of the first fruits of the Botswana Wildlife Film School says she was privileged to immerse herself in the art of capturing the beauty of her country. She noted that the experience has not only deepened her passion for wildlife but has highlighted the importance of sharing narratives from a Motswana perspective.
“I am filled with joy when I reflect on how my life has transformed since starting the course, being here has inspired me to consistently consider the bigger picture, I now feel more confident and motivated than ever to explore my creative side,” she said.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
To address Botswana’s taxonomic impediments, the government through the department of national museum and monuments in the Ministry of Environment and Tourism is in the process of constructing a Natural History Museum.
This was revealed by the Minister of Justice, who is also a Member of Parliament for Chobe, Machana Shamukuni when officially opening the three-day Botswana Biodiversity Symposium in Kasane this week.
The event was held under the theme “We can’t conserve what we don’t know - Addressing Botswana’s taxonomic impediments towards sustainable Ecosystem Management.” The symposium aimed at creating a platform for national and international experts in biodiversity to share research findings to enhance biodiversity conservation in Botswana.
Shamukuni noted that the National History Museum will be a state-of-the-art facility consisting of an iconic building with offices and well-equipped laboratories that will cater for National Herbarium, Zoology, Geology, Taxidermy as well as Natural History exhibitions. He noted that the government also promises to continue equipping more officers in the field of taxonomy and related fields.
Shamukuni has further stated that effective conservation and man-
agement of biodiversity depends on the understanding of taxonomy. He said that it is unfortunate that inadequate taxonomic information and infrastructure, coupled with declining taxonomic expertise limit the ability to make informed decisions about conservation. He expressed that it was against this background that the Symposium’s theme emphasises the need to know all organisms that the country has to conserve, and for that to materialize taxonomic impediments should be addressed.
Shamukuni noted that knowledge creation and the application of knowledge have become central to economic growth around the world today, and Botswana should not be left behind. He said that Botswana’s economy is heavily dependent on resources, especially minerals, which will not last forever. He urged researchers to change the status quo through research and innovation that would lead to a knowledge-based economy.
“It is from Botswana where knowledge on biodiversity conservation should be sourced by the world, this is because the country is a testimony of excellent management of natural resources. Well-researched knowledge on biodiversity and its management will also inform Government policies, hence boosting sustainable utilisation of natural resources,” he said.
According to him, biodiversity
Picturecredit:BotswanaNationalMuseum
and ecosystem services are central to the economy and development of Botswana, and therefore their value cannot be overemphasised. Shamukuni expressed that it was unfortunate that the value is often ignored until the time when the resource is exhausted. He stated that biodiversity provides several goods and services important for survival on earth and these resources are essential for subsistence and commercial purposes.
“In Botswana, biodiversity provides opportunities for commu-
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nities to generate income through utilisation and management of biological resources in their proximity through the Community Based Natural Resources Management (CBNRM) programme. This helps in the provision of employment to the community hence reducing poverty. Tourism which is one of the key contributors to Botswana’s economy is also largely dependent upon biological resources,” said Shamukuni.
Shamukuni has lamented that biodiversity is facing several threats, and most of them are influenced by activities of mankind and these include among others, loss, fragmentation, and degradation of habitats, the spread of alien invasive species, unsustainable use of natural resources, climate change, inappropriate fire regimes and changes to the
aquatic environment and water flows.
For his part, UNDP Economic Advisor Etienne de Souza said that there is a need for comprehensive and up-to-date data and research about the state of biodiversity. He noted that this knowledge forms the backbone of any effective strategy to counteract the decline in global biodiversity.
“We must not only gather this information but also ensure that it is accessible, shareable, and usable by all stakeholders. It is through this collaborative approach that we can develop strategies that are both informed and effective. Platforms like this one provide an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences, continue to learn from each other, strengthen our capacities, acknowledge interconnections, and jointly identify synergies in our areas of focus,”
he said.
Souza expressed that Botswana’s taxonomic challenges highlight a critical aspect of this global issue and addressing these impediments is essential for sustainable ecosystem management. He noted that by enhancing the understanding of biodiversity, they empower themselves to make informed decisions that support conservation efforts and promote sustainable development. Souza noted that collective efforts towards addressing biodiversity loss hinge on their ability to gather, share, and utilise comprehensive biodiversity data. He urged researchers to commit to fostering transformative changes in their policies, practices, and technologies to safeguard the rich biodiversity of the planet for future generations.
By Berninah Bogaisang
Capacity-building in terms of developing and strengthening the marketing, entrepreneurship, and management skills for community trusts to survive, adapt, and thrive in a fast-changing world is needed, Professor Joseph Mbaiwa of Okavango Research Institute has observed.
He emphasised that the root cause for community trusts’ failure and collapse range from the lack of entrepreneurship, marketing, and business management skills.
Currently, some trusts across Ngamiland are faced with similar challenges of mismanagement, and poor implementation of business management skills among others. This has led to some failing to provide for their beneficiaries or only a section of people benefiting, leaving behind the community at large, Speaking during a media tour
hosted by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism aimed at raising awareness on community beneficiation through hunting over the weekend, Mbaiwa highlighted the need to emphasise that the tourism sector is an industry where marketing is done on an international level, adding that CBOs do not have the necessary skills to market their products on the global stage.
He, however, noted that from his observation over the past two decades, the skills set has improved in the tourism businesses, with some Batswana owning lodges, and actively participating in tourism activities such as tour guiding and photographic tourism. Mbaiwa was of the view that trusts are also lagging behind in terms of business management skills particularly financial management skills citing that there has been a fair share of misappropriation and misuse which has seen some community trusts failing. He acknowledged the various trust’s contributions to creating employment in their communities and providing services such as water, housing, and transport since most of the communities are located in hard-to-reach areas. According to Mbaiwa for conservation to exist, people should benefit from the environment more than the costs, he emphasised that if communities benefit more from natural resources they will be able to ensure the conservation of the same.
“CBNRM was introduced because wildlife species were declining and communities living with wildlife were lacking in terms of rural development, the main aim was for the community to benefit and at the same time conserve natural resources around them,” Mbaiwa said.
Biden tells campaign team he will remain candidate despite dismal debate showing, growing pressure from some Democrats.
United States President Joe Biden has pledged to continue his re-election campaign “to the end”, as the embattled Democrat fights to keep his candidacy alive amid growing alarm over his physical and mental fitness.
Biden, 81, on Wednesday insisted that he would keep running despite growing pressure from within his party to step aside following last week’s disastrous debate performance against his Republican challenger Donald Trump.
“Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can, as simply and straightforward as I can: I am running … no one’s pushing me out,” Biden said on a call with campaign staffers.
“I’m not leaving. I’m in this race to the end, and we’re going to win.”
Biden’s defiant remarks came after US media reports indicated that the president and his team have acknowledged that his candidacy is at risk of collapsing within days if he cannot convince the public of his fitness for office.
White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre denied those reports, insisting Biden was “clear-eyed, and he is staying in the race”.
Concerns about Biden’s age and condition have boiled over since last Thursday’s debate, when the president gave several answers that meandered into
incoherence.
While acknowledging that Biden performed poorly at the debate, his team has dismissed suggestions that he has dementia or is otherwise cognitively impaired.
White House officials initially blamed Biden’s poor performance on a cold.
Biden on Tuesday said he had been exhausted after making back-to-back trips to France and Italy, although he spent the week leading up to the debate behind closed doors at the presidential retreat, Camp David.
Raul Grijalva, a House representative from Arizona, on Wednesday became the second elected Democrat to call on Biden to step aside, following Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett the previous day.
Several other elected Democrats have publicly questioned Biden’s condition or said they believe he will lose against Trump in November.
“The unfortunate reality is that the status quo will likely deliver us President Trump. When your current strategy isn’t working, it’s rarely the right decision to double down,” Seth Moulton, a Democratic representative from Massachusetts, said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that he was “taking time” to consider the best path forward for his party.
“President Biden is not going to
get younger.”
Democrat disquiet
Late on Wednesday, Biden received a boost from a group of Democratic governors who reiterated their support for the president after a meeting with him and Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House.
“The president has always had our backs. We’re going to have his back as well,” Maryland Governor Wes Moore told reporters.
“The president is our nominee,” Moore said. “The president is our party leader.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who also attended the meeting, said Biden was “in it to win it and I support him.”
At 78, Biden was the oldest person ever sworn into the US presidency following his victory in the 2020 election over Trump. A second victory would see him leave office at the age of 86. If Trump were to win in November, he would also be 78 when he enters office for his second term.
Biden’s age has been a longstanding concern among voters, and his support among the public appears to have slipped substantially since his debate appearance.
In a New York Times/Siena College poll released on Wednesday, Trump led Biden 49 percent to 41 percent among registered voters, the highest
margin since 2015.
Nearly three-quarters of voters, including a majority of Democrats, believe the president is too old to do a second term, a five-point rise since the debate, according to the poll.
In a CNN poll published earlier this week, three-quarters of registered voters said Democrats would have a better chance at winning the election with someone other than Biden on the ticket.
Voters also favoured Trump over Biden, 49 percent to 43 percent.
Harris did moderately better, gaining the support of 45 percent of voters compared with Trump’s 47 percent. If Biden were to step aside, it would cast the race into uncharted territory. The US presidential primary season, when party members typically vote on who they want to be their candidate, has already ended, although the party’s candidate will not be finalised until the Democratic National Convention next month.
Harris, who has rallied behind her boss, is considered the most likely successor if Biden were to step aside.
Other names floated include Whitmer, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. https://www.aljazeera.com/ news
Police say protests were co-opted by ‘suspects’ engaging in ‘criminal activities’.
Kenyan police have arrested more than 270 people who they said were masquerading as protesters and suspected of going on a criminal rampage during antigovernment rallies in the country.
“Security forces across the country singled out suspects found engaging in criminal activities in the guise of protesting and took them to custody,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said in a statement posted on X late on Tuesday.
It said 204 suspects were arrested in Nairobi, the capital, and another 68 in other areas of the country.
“The DCI has further deployed scrupulous investigators across the affected regions to pursue suspects captured on CCTV cameras and mobile phone recordings violently
robbing, stealing and destroying properties and businesses of innocent citizens,” the statement added.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki also condemned the protests, describing them as an “orgy of violence”, warning that the government would take action against anyone engaging in “anarchic chaos and cruel plunder”.
“This reign of terror against the people of Kenya and the impunity of dangerous criminal gangs must end at whatever cost,” he said.
Riot police used tear gas and charged at stone-throwing protesters in central Nairobi and across Kenya on Tuesday in widespread unrest since at least two dozen protesters died in clashes last week. The demonstrations began against a controversial finance bill that contained new taxes, adding to the hardships
of people already suffering a cost-of-living crisis.
While President William Ruto later abandoned the measure, protesters have since called for his resignation in a wider campaign against his rule, using the hashtag “RutoMustGo”.
They have also rejected his calls for dialogue.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) said 39 people had been killed and 361 injured during two weeks of rallies, with the worst violence occurring in Nairobi on June 25. The KNCHR on Monday also condemned the use of force against demonstrators as “excessive and disproportionate”.
In Mombasa, Milan Waudo told the Reuters news agency, “People are dying in the streets, and the only thing he can talk about is money. We are not money. We are people. We are human beings.
* With Dr Bernard Morapedi
Alcohol use disorder is an umbrella term that includes several conditions that people may refer to as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction and alcoholism. Alcohol is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the World. Alcohol is the most abused drug in Botswana amongst teenagers and above.
People with alcohol use disorder often have heavy and frequent alcohol consumption. They often can’t stop drinking even if alcohol cause them social, physical and mental problems. This can develop slowly over time or quiet abruptly in some individuals. The severity of the problem also differs amongst individual, from mild to severe.
an eye opener or to steady your nerves? A positive answer to one of the questions suggests a possible alcohol abuse problem. Further evaluation and assessment are then needed to confirm that there is a problem.
The management of alcohol use disorders is very challenging and often requires multiple disciplines. This includes behavioral therapies which is done by a counsellor or a therapist. This focuses on teaching ways to change behaviour that can eventually lead to cutting down on alcohol. Motivational and behavioral therapy are the cornerstones of managing alcohol use disorders.
“He [Ruto] needs to care about his people, because if he can’t care about his people then we don’t need him in that chair.”
Reporting from Nairobi, Al Jazeera’s Zein Brasravi said the rallies are a “reflection” of the anger that people are feeling after the deaths of protesters.
“Protesters here say that they feel that their voices are still not heard and the government still doesn’t understand why they’re coming out and protesting,” he said on Wednesday.
Activists blamed Tuesday’s violence on infiltrators they said had been unleashed by the government to discredit their movement and said it was now time to disperse. Still, more demonstrations have been called for Thursday and Sunday. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/
Recognising and diagnosing alcohol use disorders can be challenging as often the individuals are in denial about the problem. Some of the signs that may suggest that some has a problem include; continuing to drink alcohol despite it causing problems, frequent black outs, feeling irritable when not drinking, giving up other activities to drink and having problems at work, school or at home due to alcohol consumption.
There are several screening tools used to screen for alcohol use disorder. The most common being the CAGE questionnaire which consists of four “yes or no” questions. The questions in the CAGE questionnaire asks an individual; do you want to cut down on your alcohol consumption, do you get annoyed when people comment on your drinking, do you ever feel guilty about you drinking and lastly do you need a drink in the morning as
Support groups such as alcohol anonymous and church group are also helpful in helping to quit alcohol as people with alcohol use disorder meet and offer support to each other to help quit and continue being alcohol free. There are certain medications which can also be used to help to decrease the obsession with alcohol drinking and can be helpful when used in conjunction with other therapies. Managing this condition can be difficult and, in some instances, may require institutionalisation. It is important to recognise it early before it becomes severe.
* Repeat Specialist Physician MBChB (UP), Dip HIV MAN (SA), MMED (Internal Medicine), FCP (SA).
Based at Doctors INN health center and Maun Private Hospital. drbernard.morapedi@ gmail.com 75170521
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PUBLIC NOTICE I Lydia Modisaemang of ID No: 746328106
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ENTER INTO A TRANSACTION WITH A NON-CITIZEN IN TERMS OF SECTION 34 OF TRIBAL LAND ACT, 2018.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in terms of Section 34 of the Tribal Land Act, that OAGENG SELEKE, intends to enter into sale agreement with AGDUA INVESTMENTS PTY LTD directors being foreign nationals GERARD TSHIAMWENE & CHRISTELLE MOSAU, a non-citizen, in respect of the below mentioned property, for the sum of P72 000.00 only namely;
CERTAIN: Piece of land being Residential Plot.
SITUATE: At Maun, Disaneng ward, in the Batawana Tribal Territory.
MEASURING: 7.07m x 20m x 40m x 35m x 25m
HELD UNDER: Maun Sub Land Board Customary Certificate dated 11 April 2018 made in favour of OAGENG SELEKE.
SUBJECT TO: such terms and conditions as the aforesaid of Customary Certificate will more fully point out.
Any citizen interested in a similar transaction in respect of the above property shall be given priority notwithstanding the agreement reached by the above parties.
Any citizen objecting to this transaction should do so in writing, giving reasons thereof, to Maun Sub Land Board, Private Bag 201, Maun, within thirty (30) days.
Dated at Maun 03 July 2024.
would like to change the car ownership of model Harrier, colour white, registration number B483 BMH from Riaza Ldual Investments (Pty) Ltd to my name Lydia Modisaemang. Anyone with
an objection can call 71658030/74387909 or in writing to P O Box 20600, Maun within 21 days of publication of this notice (1175)
EMPLOYMENT
2 farm workers needed
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Malebogo Zilberman plot M3853, Matshwane, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change her plot from residential to multi residential use.
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Kealeboga Nkebo Bojosi plot 21616, Boseja, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change his plot from residential to multi residential use.
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Boikobo Kebatetswe plot 17686, Boseja, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change his plot from commercial to Light Industrial (Hardware) use.
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Onneetse Paul plot 20177, Boseja, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change his plot from residential to multi residential use.
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Goitsemodimo Sherwen plot 2116, Boseja, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change her plot from residential to Guest House use.
Notice to neighbours of residential plot for Gomolemo Reitseng plot 21907, Disaneng, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change her plot from residential to self catering apartments use.
Notice to neighbours of multi residential plot for Tineo Investments (Pty) Ltd plot 16606, Sedie, Maun. The owner of the said plot wish to change her plot from residential to self catering apartments use.
Owners of the neighbouring plots are thus consulted for approval / non approval. Neighbours may contact North West District Council, Physical Planning Office at 6861844 if they disapprove of this change within 21 days.
ON THE RIVER 600M FROM THE TAR ROAD IN SEDIE
This property is also suitable for a restaurant or guest house. Three bedrooms in the main house and two more at the garage. Two lounges the one upstairs can accommodate up to 40 people. Borehole, swimming pool walled with sliding gate. Outside building with two rooms.
Registered in the name of a non-trading company whereby ownership will change by the transfer of shares.
Enquiries to ecowild@ngami.net
Asking price P3.5m negotiable
at Setatunga, Maun. Apply at Mmoloki Mabenyane P O Box 7,Maun. Conatct: 74843635(1175)
Looking for farm worker at Okwa farms Ghanzi. Call B.Kilano at 72545727 (1175)
Residential plot for sale at Matsaudi Village measuring 40 by 20 price P55 000.00. Contact numbers:71285560/72229571 (1175)
Accommodation:
3 Bedroom House (Plot 1205) P7000 pm
3 Bedroom House (Plot 1204)
Utilities: BPC Power Borehole River Pump
Included: Swimming Pool Airconditioning Standby Generator WiFi Equipped Remote gate control Gardener
Excluded: TV and Decoders
Note:
The Units are on a shared property and the following must be observed: Privacy
Use of communal areas
Noise
Protocol regarding geysers, air conditioners and standby generator
Enquiries: Lebo at 75107431
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Denzel Seetso and Chelsea Chalanyuka are the winners of the men’s and women’s singles categories of the Botswana Open Tennis Championship that was held in Gaborone at the National Tennis Centre recently.
Seetso emerged the winner after beating Esi Molefe 6-1 6-1 in the men’s singles category while Chalanyuka walloped Kelebogile Monnayoo 6-1 6-1 in the women’s singles. Seetso paired with Mark Nawa in the men’s doubles and won 6-1 6-0 against Batsomi Marobela and Esi Molefe. Under the women’s doubles category, Chalanyuka teamed up with Kelebogile Monnayoo and walloped Kagello Malumo and Mbali Qame 6-2 6-2.
Men’s veteran singles were won by Siyabulela Nkachela beating Freedom Tapera 6-4 6-1 while Tapera and Mohammed Waja won the veteran doubles 6-4 7-5 against Masiza Ntshengase and Cyprian Dlamini.
The tournament attracted close to 100 players with at least 80% being local players. The total prize money for the tournament
amounted to P76 450 and the winner of the men’s and women’s singles walked away with P10 000 respectively.
Men’s and women’s doubles winners received P2 200 each, while men’s senior singles, women’s senior singles, men’s senior doubles, and women’s senior doubles pocketed P1 100 each.
In an interview, Botswana Tennis Association (BTA) Public Relations and Marketing Director Tshephang Tlhankane said that the objectives of the tournament are to attract as many international players as possible to eventually turn it into an ITF calendar and points-earning tournament which improves players’ world ranking.
‘‘This tournament is very important because it exposes our players to international competition which is good to gauge where we are in terms of development and in terms of the quality of players we have against the world’s best players. It also gives Botswana exposure in the international world of tennis,” he said.
Tlhankane has noted that the tournament, which was funded
by BTA with the help of Majestic Five Hotel went exceptionally well.
Meanwhile, Tlhankane has told Times Sport that the association will be hosting an international
tournament called Davis Cup, also known as the World Cup of Tennis starting on the 17th July-20th July 2024 in Gaborone. According to him, Botswana will be hosting Africa Group 5 from
the 17th to the 20th of July 2024, which is a team event where each country guns for promotion to Group 4.
He stated that the last time Botswana hosted the competition
was in 2006 and they will be hosting Ethiopia, Mauritius, Madagascar, Congo, Gabon, Seychelles, Mauritania, Lesotho, Djibouti, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, and Lybia.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Real Brothers FC from Boteti region have been promoted to the Debswana First Division North League 2024/2025 season, following a 2-1 win in their last Northern Block Playoffs match against Tonota FC in Maun last weekend at APU grounds.
Real Brothers won the Playoffs with six points after from two games and losing one game while Gumare Young Stars took position two with five points
after winning one game and drawing two games. Kazungula Young Fighters secured the third position with four points while Tonota FC took the last position with one point.
In an interview, Real Brothers FC President Goitseone Molatlhiwa said that going to the Northern Block playoffs, they only had one week for preparations, which they used to play friendly games to gauge their performance.
He stated that going into the
playoffs their main intention was to win all their games. Molatlhiwa stated that the competition was tough and challenging for them as most of their players are young, of height, and could not resist the pressure they got from other teams like Gumare Young Stars, which consists of very strong players.
“Most of our players are aged below 24, their physique was not stronger compared to that of our opponents and they could not re-
From page 12
a grant of P50 000, which is less than a quarter of what they need, therefore they now have to come up with an initiative to raise the funds.
“If wishes were horses I would say we need at least P200 000 for us to be able to successfully send the national team to Eswatini, mind you we need transport, accommodation, meals for athletes, and even affiliation to Region V,” he said.
Maphorisa has revealed that they have tried to schedule tournaments to raise funds to send the team but it is very slow. He stated that they held a tournament ear-
lier in April in which they raised close to P 5000. Maphorisa has expressed that this past weekend through the Women’s Commission they are yet to know how much was made through the tournament that was held in Francistown and how much they would be given as the tournament was held by a commission under BODA, who have their powers to decide how much to donate to the national team.
“We also have the P50 000 from BNSC which is not automatic that we will direct the funds to the national team as the grant has its specific allocations which we have to follow, we are yet to receive alms from independent
stakeholders,” he said.
Maphorisa has told Times Sport that these kinds of tournaments are very important as they help them to rank themselves regionally. He said that there is a newly formed Association named African Darts Council (ADC) whose games may lead to qualifications to play with other African countries outside Region V and perhaps end up playing in the Darts World Cup through such channels.
Maphorisa has added that this route will also earn them points at BNSC which would potentially see them move from Tier 4 to 3 or 2.
sist their pressure. After realising the challenge, we decided to improve our strategic agility in the field hence my players managed to weave through the defence quickly and score,” he said. Since this marked their first promotion to the first-division league, Molathiwa said they will enter the league as underdogs to remain at the top six position at the end of the league. He noted that during their second participation in the First Division League that’s when they will start battling for a win. Molathiwa stated that as they prepare for
the league they intend to beef up their squad with five players. For his part, Gumare Young Stars Coach Tapudzani Brown said that though they did not win the Playoffs, the competition was not a tough one and there was no pressure as compared to the games they played during the Regional Playoffs. He noted that lack of experience affected their performance as Young Stars because some of the teams they played against were well-experienced. Brown noted that their goalkeeper was red-carded during their first game, therefore,
that was a challenge as it led to players doubling efforts to normalise the situation.
“From here going forward since we have qualified for the Orange FA Cup we plan to keep our players if possible, though we know that that some higher teams will come looking for our them, but we cannot block some players to compete at higher competitions like Premier League and First Division. We also intend to strengthen our team and bring more experienced players who can sustain us to do well in the Orange FA Cup,’’ he said.
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
