Kgosi Sethodi resigns, denies BDP Maun East candidacy
• Sethodi confirms resignation, says he is paving way for heir
• Makes farewell address at Chanoga Kgotla today
• Denies any links to the BDP parliamentary candidacy in Maun East
• BDP yet to announce candidate for the constituency
Kgosi Sethodi resigns, denies BDP Maun East candidacy
By Staff Writer
Kgosi Oateng Sethodi of Chanoga Village is expected to bid farewell to the villagers this morning (Friday) following his resignation from the position; atleast this much he has confirmed. While his resignation coincides with the BDP, still to field a candidate for the Maun East constituency in coming general elections Sethodi vehemently denies any links to BDP’s candidacy in the constituency.
Sethodi, who is also a Member of Ntlo ya Kgosi revealed in an interview that his resignation was purely to pave way for the rightful heir of the Chanoga chieftaincy, former Kgosi’s son, Kabo Sekopo 31, whom he has held fort for since 2012.
According to Sethodi, when Kgosi Thapietsile Sekopo retired from office in 2012, he requested him (Sethodi) who is his sister’s son, to hold fort as his children especially his boy child, Kabo who was
young. Kgosi Sekopo however passed away in June 2024. To drive his point home, Sethodi noted that there have been allegations that he was hanging onto the throne while the rightful heir has become of age, adding he has never refused to step down as he was aware all along that he held fort for Kabo as tasked by his uncle then.
When asked about his political affiliation with the BDP
Sethodi explained he has not had any discussions with anyone from the ruling party about the Maun East constituency. He flatly denied any link to politics, let alone BDP despite the timing and coincidence of his resignation.
But political pundits, who have been reading the jostling and shoving among the BDP ranks in the constituency since the vetting out of the three prospective candidates’ businessman and former regional Chairman Reaboka Mbulawa, former Maun East MP and junior minister Kon-
stantinos Markus, and businessman Chris Bethia by the Central Committee will only believe Sethodi when the name of the BDP candidate is announced – and it is not him. They argue that the timing of his resignation could not have been of such a coincidence, after all, they posit, he could have waited until after the elections to resign and avoid causing any undue confusion among his people.
But if it’s not Sethodi, then who is the BDP candidate for Maun East, and why has it taken the party long to announce the name?
Maun East, became the star and controversial constituency for the BDP when, among all 61 constituencies – all its prospective candidates were vetted out. Since then, different narratives have been driven from various fronts – advancing the interests of some of those vetted out and had hopes of being called back to represent the constituency. It is also alleged that some
begged the constituents to pray to the party leadership for their pardon so they are allowed to stand against incumbent Maun East Member of Parliament Goretetse Kekgonegile from the Botswana Congress Party. Though BDP Secretary General Kavis Kario recently in-
formed this publication that after they are done their primary elections, an announcement will be made on who has been selected that has not been the case.
Kario had in a previous interview confirmed that they have received a complaint letter regarding the delays of
resolving Maun East matter however he indicated that he was not handling the issues. BDP concluded its primaries in July, that were conducted in two different set with the first 35 branches voting on the 20th July 2024 and the last set of 26 branches voting on the 27th July 2024.
Saleshando fears BDP may collapse the country’s economy
By Berninah Bogaisang
Botswana Congress Party’s (BCP) President Dumelang
Saleshando has said reports continue to show a declining economy under the leadership
of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), and that the situation may be even more dire should the BDP be voted back into power come the October polls.
Saleshando said this as he
launched the party’s prospective parliamentary candidate Caterpillar Hikuama and 9 council candidates for Maun West Constituency over the weekend in Maun.
Saleshando averred that President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s foreign trips are an attributing factor threatening the public coffers and the country’s economic stability. He emphasised that the president was not doing his job as he spends most of his time travelling.
Saleshando pleaded with the electorates to consider the BCP as the alternative come the general elections.
The launch marked the party’s fifth in the North West region, after Okavango East, Okavango West, Chobe and Ngami represented by Gabatsholwe Disho, Kenny Kapinga, Simasiku Mapulanga and Philemon Aron respectively as parliamentary candidates.
The Party is yet to launch it’s President and parliamentary candidate for Maun North Dumelang Saleshando and it is secretary general and Maun East Parliamentary candidate Goretetse Kekgonegile and their council candidates.
Saleshando has since accused
the ruling party of neglecting the people of Ngamiland on developmental issues, among them maintenance of roads, access to education, access to safe clean water and health services among others.
Saleshando further called on Maun West electorates to vote for Hikuama, emphasising that he has put their interest at heart during his term in parliament. He highlighted that Hikuama advocated for issues such as provision of safe drinking water in ungazzeted
settlements which he said BDP has since rejected.
For his part Hikuama, who indicated that he had no intention of running for re-election this year, said he has since changed his mind to run for elections until BCP removes the BDP from power. Hikuama further highlighted that the BDP government has no intention of taking Batswana out of poverty with the resources the country has.
“The reason why Batswana are very poor yet our country
is rich is because of the current leadership, we have to change the leadership to see significant development and eradication of poverty in our country,” Hikuama said. Hikuama emphasised that BDP has not lived up to its promises during the 2019 general elections citing that it should not be voted as it failed to deliver, living behind poor and dilapidated infrastructure in schools, and high unemployment rate among them.
Ronald reflects on ODC achievements, challenges
.... as their political term comes to an end
By Joseph Kgamanyane
As the Okavango District Council (ODC) sat for the last full session this week before the upcoming general elections, Chairman Gaopalelwe Ronald used the opportunity to reflect on the achievements and the challenges that they encountered as a district.
With over 18 months in office, Ronald also acknowledged councilors, Mpoke Karapo and Lesedi Boy who also held fort of the chairmanship during the 5-year term.
In relation to infrastructure development, Ronald highlighted that one of the achievements was the construction of 261 destitute and RADP houses at cost of over P28 million since the beginning of their term in 2019.
“These will go a long way in restoring the dignity of our people. All the houses were completed and handed over to beneficiaries for occupation,” he said.
Further, Ronald revealed that for this financial year 2024/25, council is constructing a total of 5 houses (2 destitute houses and 3 RADP houses). Of the 5 houses 4 projects have started and are at mobilization stage while one is still at the procurement stage.
Another milestone, was improving educational facilities in schools - the nine primary school backlog projects which were implemented through the ESP III programme. The primary schools which benefited are Etsha 1, Shambombo, Etsha 13, Samochima, Shakawe, Mohembo West, Eretsha, Mokgacha and Tsodilo.
“All the other projects are complete except for one project at Tsodilo which is also at finishing stage with expected completion date revised to the 30th August 2024,” stated the chairman. The projects he stated made a significant contribution in employment creation for about 135 individuals (27 females, 100 males) and 47 youths.
Still under primary education facilities, Ronald revealed that the Okavango District Council managed to undertake major maintenance in 10 Primary Schools at value of over P16 million. The maintenance works were carried out at Shakawe, Etsha 13, Etsha 6, Kelekele, Gumare, Tlhale,
Seronga, Gunotsoga, Xakao and Beetsha.
“An additional funding amounting to P17 393 000,00 has also been allocated for maintenance works at Nxamasere, Gudigwa, Kauwxhi and Nokaneng Primary Schools, of which two are on-going while Kauxwi and Nokaneng are at procurement stage,” he revealed.
As for Community Constituency Projects, the chairman indicated that over the past five years, they managed to implement a total of 113 projects at value of over P49 million. These projects he said included maintenance of VDC houses, solar panel installations at types in VDC plots, maintenance of hostels and classrooms, building reception classes and offices, graveling and paving of internal roads, electrification and installation of tower lights, as well as water reticulation projects.
“Overall, these projects have made a significant impact in reducing maintenance backlogs, addressing housing and office space shortages, and somewhat meeting the infrastructure needs of our villages of Qangwa, Habu, and Xaixai, construction of a Kgotla at Shakawe, installation of palisades at the Gumare sports complex, construction of SHHA houses,” he applauded.
With regards to road infrastructure, he said it is worth noting that since 2019 to date, there has been improvement in terms of funding district road projects. This as he lamented that for the longest time, the district was neglected especially on the aspect of road infrastructure development.
“For sure, it has not been all smooth and rosy in terms of delivery of some of these projects, most of them could have long been completed during this term if it was not because of challenges with initial awarded contractors. Nokaneng-Gumare project, road being one of them.”
He indicated that the Development Manager (DM) has since been appointed in order to fast track implementation of these projects. According to him, the development Manager for Nokaneng – Gumare DM4 Nama Knight Piesold JV has completed Preliminary design and is awaiting construction approval. With regard to Mohem-
bo-Gudigwa road, the chairman indicated that Bigen Consulting (PTY) LTD who is the Development Manager for project Mohembo – Gudigwa was currently doing a design review of the project. “The other project which entails shoulder construction and asphalt overlay of Gumare – Sepopa and Sepopa Mohembo are ongoing despite the slow progress due to non-availability of quality construction materials,” he concluded.
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Minors, 116 arrested for drugs last year alone
By Staff Writer
The World Drug Report released in June this year indicates that 296 million people were hooked to illicit drugs and substance abuse as of 2021. An increase of 23 percent in the past 10 years. Last year Botswana Police Service recorded 1 232 drug related cases, in which 1 784 people were arrested and 116 of these were minors aged between 10 and 19 years.
The staggering figures were divulged by Minister of defence and security, Thomas Mmusi, during the Anti -
Drug Campaign in Mahalapye this Wednesday. Mmusi said these figures were disturbing especially that more of the young people are caught in the web of illicit drug trafficking and abuse.
“Only 27 percent of illicit drugs and substance users are on treatment for drug use. They are below 25 years of age and are found in Africa, these are disturbing statistics about Africa and it’s the youth,” highlighted Mmusi.
The Minister called on all stakeholders to join forces in fighting the war against illicit drug and substance abuse in
the country.
“The magnitude of the problem in the country is a menace. As government we have put in place stiffer policies and laws to curb drug trafficking. However, we need families, communities and society at large to join in fighting this scourge.”
Since Monday, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has been sensitising and educating residents of Mahalapye on the effects and social ills brought about by illicit drugs and substance abuse.
The Agency visited six junior secondary schools in
Mahalapye including Madiba Senior Secondary school. During the tour of the schools DEA capacitated Guidance and Counselling teachers and Parents and Teachers Associations. The agency also sensitised students on the adverse effects of illicit drug use. From these interactions, students highlighted peer pressure, family upbringing, the need for a sense of belonging and urge to look cool as some of the reasons they end up using illicit drugs. Students also urged government to tighten laws and penalties against drug dealers.
Police investigate mysterious death incidents, one suicide
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Police in Chobe are investigating two incidents in which two men were found dead recently in Kachikau and Kazungula respectively without any known cause, while in another incident, a man was founding hanging from a tree in what is suspected to be suicide.
Acting Officer Commanding District, No 7 Superintendent Kgotlaetsile Oodira told The Ngami Times that, a 62-year old man of Kachikau village was found dead on August 13, 2024 at a cattle post by his herd boy. Oodira stated that the deceased’s employee found him lying on the
ground unconscious next to his kraal, when he arrived at the cattle post following the end of his leave days.
He noted that after witnessing the incident the employee called the police who rushed to the scene, and took the deceased to hospital where he was certified dead. Oodira further indicated that body of the deceased was found intact with no signs of injuries. Kazungula Police are also investigating an incident in which a 43-year old man of Old Kazungula was found dead in Kazungula on August 15th. According to Kazungula Police Station Commander Superintendent Phetogo Phillimon, the incident was
reported to the police by a passer-by who found the deceased lying unconscious next to the road with no sign of life.
The police then went to the scene where they rushed man’s body to Kasane Primary Hospital where he was certified dead. Phillimon has revealed that the deceased’s body has been referred to Letsholathebe Memorial Hospital in Maun and currently undergoing post mortem.
In another incident, Philemon said that they are investigating a suicide incident that happened on the 17th August 2024 in Kazungula, in which a 61-year old man was found
hanging from a tree by his wife and a neighbour. He stated during that day, the deceased’s wife had enlisted the help of their neighbour to look for deceased at his other plot. This as he was not answering his phone. Phillimon said the duo followed the deceased’s footprints which led them the shocking discovery. The police were called to the scene and as part of their routine, they took the body of the deceased to Kasane Primary hospital where he was certified dead.
The deceased’s body has since been referred to Letsholathebe Memorial Hospital in Maun for post mortem.
Death row inmate gets two life sentences
By Staff Writer
Death row inmate, Gobuamang Ntsuape was on Friday sentenced to two life sentences for the double murder of a police officer, and an additional 60 years behind bars for four attempted murders. Thirty-eight-year-old Ntsuape is already on death row for killing Sadi Kgosietsile, the mother of his former girlfriend Dorcas Kgosietsile, and serving for arson, attempted murder and malicious damage of property.
Sentencing the Ramotswa born native, Judge Barnabas Nyamadzabo said Ntsuape’s
previous convictions “reflect in bad light, even in the context of his diagnosis of a depressive illness”. A mental health condition which leads to violence and suicide when one is faced with stressful situations.
“The murder charge herein consists of more than one count, a sign that there was unnecessary loss of lives including of a law enforcement officer. Not only of four other people, including the convict himself, nearly lost their lives. This shows the he (Ntsuape) had not learnt from his past wrongdoing”, highlighted Justice Nyamadzabo.
“From the above those factors that aggravate the offence on a balance of scales outweigh the mitigating factors, and in my view calls for a more exemplary sentence.
For count one murder and count two murder the convict is sentenced to life imprisonment, and for count three to six being attempted murder, the convict is sentenced to 15 years,” imprisonment for each count.
Ntsuape who is a father of two children pleaded guilty to double murder and four attempted murder, confessed before Judge Nyamadzabo that he wanted to make
amends and smoke the peace pipe “with families of the deceased and society at large.” Remorse and regret which failed to save him from a stiff prison sentence.
According to the facts of the criminal matter, on the 1st of December 2016 in Gerald estates in Francistown while being ferried to prison from court, Ntsuape pounced on the driver of the Quantum minibus and wrestled the steering wheel, causing the vehicle to veer of the road and overturn, an action which court found to be impulsive and akin to suicide for Ntsaupe.
Xere Cultural Festival returns!
• Festival a celebration of Basarwa cultural heritage
By Joseph Kgamanyane
Organised by the Xere Conservation Trust through the financial and technical support of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the Xere Cultural Festival which is a vibrant celebration of Basarwa cultural heritage returns for its second edition this weekend.
The much anticipated event, starts today, August 23rd till Saturday 24th August, 2024 at Xere settlement, located in Boteti, just 14km outside Rakops and adjacent to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR).
The organisers recently hosted a media team for an ear-
ly experience of the festival through a tour which included a game drive into CKGR, a site visit to the event’s venue – and also got to enjoy a mesmerising performance by Xere Dance Troupe during a born fire session.
The festival offers patrons an opportunity to interact with the Basarwa community, and to indulge in their culture and the environment within which they live through music, dance, food and various traditional activities.
The two-day event will comprise of a Sundowner, an exclusive game drive into CKGR and a tour of cultural village for the showcasing of Sesarwa culture such as hunt-
ing, cooking and healing processes among other activities. There will also be an urban night performance featuring Culture Spears, Vee Mampeezy, Franco, Nature Boy, DJ KSB, Monnamogolo Wa Thulaganyo and Chokoma to mention but a few. President Mokgweetsi Masisi and his Vice, Slumber Tsogwane are also expected to grace the festival among other dignitaries.
By Friday last week, Boteti Deputy District Commissioner Ewetse Selelo assured that preparations for the event were at an advanced stage with the final touches expected to be concluded this week. At the time, rehearsals showcasing Sesarwa culture through music, dance among other activities as well as the construction of megwaafatshe (Sesarwa traditional huts) were already ongoing.
Selelo is anticipating for the festival to attract many people indicating that those invited have already confirmed their attendance. “We are expecting more than 5000 people coming from outside to enjoy this festival with us,” said Selelo who attributed the anticipated high attendance to the robust advertisement and promotion of the event already launched by the organisers. He stressed that proceeds will go to the trust, which will use part of it to develop the village, and address social challenges like poverty.
“In the first edition we had our own challenges but I can assure you that we are doing all we can for this edition to have returns that will go to the Trust for the villagers to benefit from. We agreed that the
giving back to the community.
The deputy district commissioner highlighted that government has already allocated
Trust should assess the needs of the village,” he said when asked as to how much has the festival achieved in terms of
P6.1 million for the construction of a cultural centre which he said it is currently at tendering stage.
Mesmerising performance by Xere Dance Troupe during a born ire sessionMegwaafatshe ready for occupation
Health ministry on high alert as Mpox spreads across Africa
By Berninah Bogaisang
Botswana’s ministry of health is on high alert, and has announced reactive measures to protect citizens following the declaration of MPox as a Public Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Health minister Dr Edwin Dikoloti announced that currently Botswana has not recorded any case of MPox however, he indicated that the on-going outbreak which has become an international concern has prompted his Ministry to intensify monitoring and screening of Mpox at key entry points, such as borders and airports, and focusing on other higher-risk areas to prevent the spread.
Giving an update on the state of MPox during a press briefing this week, Dikoloti assured the general public that his ministry through the Botswana Public Health Institute (BPHI), has significantly enhanced their epidemiological surveillance systems. Further emphasising that the general infection control that worked during the Covid-19 pandemic is effective in stopping the spread of Mpox.
“The government of Botswana is prepared to test for Mpox as needed. Our laboratory network has been strengthened during Covid to conduct genomic sequencing to add to the global knowledge on the disease,” Dikoloti said. He further noted that though
Mpox is a self-limiting viral infection, there is no cure, however he highlighted that medications to be used for its management are available in various health care facilities throughout the country.
Dikoloti added that the disease, previously known as monkey pox, is a viral zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans, and between humans historically through close contact and affects people of all ages. He emphasised that symptoms include rash, fever, swollen throat, muscle pain, fatigue and chills, thus encouraging encouraged the general public to report to local health authority if they suspect that they may have the infection similar to those he had mentioned.
Dikoloti further encouraged the general public to regularly wash their hands, isolate themselves when they have symptoms and for as long as advised by the healthcare
workers when they have been confirmed to have the disease.
He advised people to always take advice only from authoritative sources like the minis-
try of health further adding that they should be wary of misinformation which has already started making rounds on social media circles.
ORI’s annual STEAM Festival inspires innovators
By Bhekinkosi Phiri
The University of Botswana’s Okavango Research Institute (ORI) in Maun hosted its sec-
ond annual STEAM Festival last week, bringing together professionals from diverse industries ranging from aviation and water distribution to
inspire the next generation of students destined for STEM fields.
Oliver Moses, chairman of the organising committee at
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ORI, highlighted the festival’s mission stating, “This festival is designed to immerse our young talent in an environment that showcases the potential paths their careers could take by providing them with insights into various industries. It’s all about them, and I believe they have untapped potential that can move the world and change lives.”
The festival, which sought to ignite a passion for Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation (RSTI) among young minds, attracted several schools from the region, including Maun Secondary School, Delta Waters, and Leapotswe School. Students engaged with industry experts, exploring the possibilities that lie ahead in their future careers.
“I think this current generation has a lot of potential, es-
pecially as they are part of the technology age,” Moses remarked. “They have a unique opportunity to innovate in many fields, such as developing apps and tools. The potential is endless.”
Students made the most of the event, visiting stalls and interacting with doctors, scientists, and pilots, keen to learn how these professionals charted their career paths. One student shared, “I am thankful for this experience, and it has helped me discover what I want to be when I grow up.”
Despite the festival’s success, Moses acknowledged some challenges, noting a lower turnout due to the event coinciding with exam season. However, he remained optimistic about the festival’s impact. “I think this event was a success, but for the next one, we’ll aim to involve more students from other regions
and increase their engagement with the festival. As we speak, this festival has laid the foundation for adopting some schools and students into our institution for mentorship and better grooming of their potential.”
The Okavango Research Institute, a critical arm of the University of Botswana, plays a pivotal role in research related to the Okavango Delta. Its contributions span from climate analysis to cultural studies, all essential to environmental conservation. Moses concluded with a message to the young attendees: “I believe all the curious souls here have learned to ask the most fundamental question that will shape their marks on society: ‘Who do I want to be?’ To that, I would answer, ‘Anything.”
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‘Take your Elephants from our Villages!’
The Okavango Research Institute (ORI) has during the month of July/August 2024 been engaged in consultations with communities to develop a strategy that will reduce and manage the human wildlife conflicts.
Findings indicate that human-elephant conflicts have in recent years escalated as elephants have now come to be found in and around human settlements. In most of the areas we made consultations such as those in Okavango, North west, Chobe, Boteti, North East and Mmadinare area, the call by communities at kgotla meetings was the same and it was:
“Take your elephants from our villages and go with them”
This cry cannot be ignored and needs the attention of all stakeholders. This cry suggests that resource competition between humans and elephants in Botswana can longer be ignored.
During consultations, communities noted that elephants need food and water hence they have moved in and around human settlements. In this regard, it appears as if natural habitats are reduced or fragmented resulting in elephants moving into human settlements and farms to access resources, leading to damage to crops and property.
Conversely, human encroachment into wildlife areas can also not be ruled out. Communities in wildlife areas thus complain of elephants raiding farms and destroying crops, causing significant economic losses for farmers. Elephants also cause substantial damage to infrastructure such as fences, boreholes, houses, and water supplies. Encounters between elephants and humans are noted to at times result in injuries or fatalities. Communities describe elephants as aggressive and dangerous to them and demand that they be removed from their areas. Some of the comments we got from Seronga Village this week at a Kgotla meeting include the following:
Salvinia Weed remains a threat to Okavango Delta watercourses
• Take your elephants and keep them somewhere else away from our village. Elephants kill us, destroy our crops and our boreholes. Take them away from us….A comment from a Seronga gentleman…..Comment from Seronga at Kgotla
• Ga gona fa re gatang teng. Go ditlou gongwe le gongwe. Di lwela makorotela le leruo la rona. Bolayong ditlou tse le fokotse palo ya tsone. Ga re kgone go lema, go tshwara ditlhapi le go tlhokomela leruo la rona…. A gentleman made the comment at Seronga Kgotla.
• I have a 23-year-old son who was attacked by an elephant while young and has been a cripple ever since. We bath him, feed him and do everything for him. There is no compensation for those injured by elephants. Government says they only give compensation if someone is killed by an elephant not injured Comment from a lady at Seronga Kgotla
The increase of and spread in elephant populations and distribution vis a vis crop damage has automatically impoverished communities in Botswana especially those in Nkange, Mmadinare, Boteti, Ngamiland, Chobe or northern Botswana where crop and livestock infrastructure damage due to elephants is prevalent. This scenario has not only increased incidents of human-elephant conflicts and poverty but has also increased the hatred of elephants by local communities consequently creating unconducive scenarios for natural resources conservation. This scenario needs to be corrected in order to achieve sustainable development.
*Joseph E. Mbaiwa, PhD is a Professor of Tourism Studies, at the Okavango Research Institute, University of Botswana in Maun.
By Staff Reporter
While there have been assurances made by authorities on the successful control of the Salvinia weed in the Okavango Delta water system, latest indications are that the invasive plant remains very much a threat.
Salvinia Weed or Salvinia molesta, an invasive aquatic plant that poses serious harm to the ecosystems’ biodiversity, taking over water watercourses is a nightmare to any wetland if left uncontrolled, as it literally kills other plant species and blocks channels, its other name, Kariba weed is derived from the fact that it infested a large part of Kariba some years back. Infestations have been identified much lower in the Okavango Delta downstream, which spells a much more serious threat if these mats had come downstream with flood water, boats or animal movements from upstream. This would pose serious consequencies on the tributaries and water courses.
Recently, the North West District Council sent team of councillors and government officials to investigate the cause of low water down flows from upstream through some tributaries and the findings were shocking: with papyrus and salvinia weed cited as the major contributors to these blockages.
As low and downstream as the Santantadibe River, by the buffalo fence near Daunara Village, The Ngami Times team recently came across a large infestation of the weed, atleast a kilometre of what the team was able to visualise. This (as the image above shows) is a complete cover, with mats have taken over this very important part of the River. On this particular trip, officials from the Water and Sanitation department were on site taking samples of the weed. What was even concerning about the particular site of infestation is that it is frequented by members of the community, tour operators, government officials and tourists alike as it’s under a wooden bridge that connects settlements in the area – yet it still spread to the extent it did unabated. However, as fate would have it
– an event to hand over a newly constructed bridge at the site presented an opportunity for the Water and Sanitation officials in attendance to speak to the other stakeholders about the infestation of salvinia.
Speaking at this event, Itseng Kgosidialwa water engineer with the department pointed to the failure to report infestations to their offices in time and during dry seasons when the weed can easily be removed as the major challenge. The official would go on to urge members of the public to report the infestation, for early physical control and avoid the catastrophic effects of the weed.
Contrary to assertions by the department – some villagers who spoke to this publication would point to the department for its failure to act on their reports, adding that by the time such responses are made the infestations would have covered proportional levels. They also revealed that in most instances the mats of the weed come down with the flood waters from upstream, then edging on lagoons along the water ways.
To further illustrate their extensive understating of the dangers posed by Mutjimbamo - as they refer to the weed, they revealed that the weed can single headedly block a channel, ensure that all living organisms living under water suffocates due to lack of oxygen and sunshine, with other plant species dying in the process.
This would prevent access to the channel, and their livelihoods affected at they cannot fish, or get reeds from the river. The covered watercourses also become a threat to their lives as it becomes easy for one drown in the covered lagoons and channels.
Government has over the years led in the control of the Salvinia Weed, opting for the most effective biological method – of using salvinia weevils, that bred and released onto a site whenever there is an infestation. The weevils wood feed on the flooding weed, until its destroyed. In the previous years, various environmental projects spanning the wetland and 1000th World Heritage Site, funded by donor
agencies also had a part on controlling the weed, and trained safari workers in camps on salvinia control, and the breeding
*Kariba Weed - an aquatic plant in Botswana
Kariba weed Salvinia molesta commonly called as salvinia, Kariba weed, African payal and in local language as motshimbaamo, is a free-floating fern that inhabits still and flowing fresh water bodies. The plant’s native range is south eastern Brazil, South America. The plant is sterile and reproduces by vegetative propagation of the rhizomes. Leaves are arranged in a whorl of three: two lateral leaves are floating and the third is dissected into filiform segments covering with hairs, which functions as root. In Southern Africa, salvinia was collected by the botanists firstly at Kazungula island in the eastern Caprivi in 1948. Impacts of Kariba weed
The negative impacts of salvinia in the country includes: blocking streams and channels, choking of back water bodies, affecting the navigation and recreational activities such as fishing and tourism, elimination of indigenous vegetation, and causing an eye sore to the tourists who visit the wild life areas of the wetland systems. The weed is common in the Moremi Wildlife reserve of the Okavango Delta and Kwando/ Linyanti/Chobe Rivers
History of Integrated Control
Use of herbicides
The first effort for the development planning in the weed control in Botswana began in 1972.
The Department of Agricultural Research in the country applied the herbicide, paraquat between 1972 and 1976 in Linyanti and Chobe River. These costly operations demonstrated the principal difficulty encountered in applying herbicides to the weed growing under canopy of thick vegetation such as papyrus and reeds. Such inaccessible locations serve as reservoirs for reinfestation by the weed. Bunding, Fencing and Drying of Swamps Bunds constructed in the inflow channels to dry out the weed-infested Xini and Bodu-
matau Hippo pools and associated wetlands with the use of diesel-powered pumps in 1986 and 1988. The operations yielded substantial control of salvinia augmented by the release of C. salviniae transported from Linyanti River. The dense weed mat in Xaxanaka lagoon was removed with the assistance of Department of Wild Life in 1992. Salvinia was sighted in Gomoti River in 1985 and the river became seasonal after 1992.
Early Periods of Biological Control
The confidence in biological control increased through these operations and subsequent control has been primarily the biological control as a longterm measure to the chemical control. The entomologists of Agricultural Research in Botswana imported two insects, Curculionid weevil Cyrtobagous singularis Hustache (Coleoptera: Curculopnidae) and the grasshopper, Paulinia acuminata DeGeer. (Orthoptera: Acrididae) recommended by the Commonwealth Institute of Biological Control (CIBC) at Trinidad and were released in Linyanti River and in Chobe River during 1972 –1976 periods. The P. acuminata could not control the weed as the winter nights affected the grasshopper significantly. C. singularis also failed to control the Salvinia as it feeds only the young leaves not the growing points. The release of C. salviniae in Lake Moondara infestation in north-eastern Queensland in Australia was the first real success story in the control of S. molesta. Although published in ‘Nature Journal’ in November 1981 news of the event did not reach Botswana until March 1982.
* Dr. C. Naidu KurugundlaAquatic Vegetation Control Unit Water Quality and Conservation Division Water Affairs Maun, Botswana
of weevils. Safari workers in the delta were capacitated on dealing with the weed first hand without consulting authorities.
Foundation, elephant protection society hand over new bridge
By Staff Writer
Daunara Foundation, a non-profit making arm of Daunara Investments and NGO – elephant protection society handed over the new Daunara wooden bridge to the community this week.
The bridge project which replaced the aging old one over Santantadibe river, connects Daunara village to Morutsha, Xuoxao, Ghabamochaa and Shorobe and very important conduit in the business of tourism in the area, and also movement of goods and people.
Built within a space of a month, against the initially an-
ticipated 3 months, the project was managed and implemented by Elephant Protections Society, funded by Daunara Foundation, while Lodge builders Botswana were the contractor engaged.
The department water and sanitation as authority in the construction of bridges, gave the guidelines and ensured the project followed the set standards through constant monitoring. This was said to have made the bridge the most compliant in the sensitive environment.
Giving the highlights of the project, Oaitse Nawa of elephant protection society said
the need for a new wooden bridge became apparent with the aging of the old one, which had become a safety concern for users. He revealed that Elephant Protection Society works with local communities and identifies the needs in those areas, and within the Daunara community they identified a project to replace the old wooden bridge with a new one.
The society then convened consultative meetings with all the concerned stakeholders, that included village leadership, the Daunara Action Group and Daunara Foundation, social welfare office
EXECUTIVE MAUN HOUSE FOR SALE ON THE RIVER 600M FROM THE TAR ROAD IN SEDIE
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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
from the North West District Council, Department of Water affairs among others. Having been given the approval to construct the bridge – the most immediate challenge was the funds to carry out the project.
He said the Daunara Foundation raised their hand to fund the project – as a philanthropic gesture towards the community and the public that use the facility. Initially projected to cost just over half a million Pula, the project once complete, and with all the associated works is said to have cost over P600 000.
Kgosi Boingotlo Nonyane of Shorobe – who conducted the commissioning and hand over of the project, highlighted the importance of such developments in areas where connecting to other communities would otherwise be a challenge due to the many rivers and tributaries.
Kgosi Nonyane, said like many other bridges in the area – the Daunara Bridge serves as conduit for safe movement of people and goods, that also facilitates the upliftment of their livelihoods.
This cannot be, he said if the bridges are not looked after, leaving them susceptible to veldt fires which have already burnt down some key bridges in the area. He thus called on the communities in the area to jealously guard against any form of vandalism, while also ensuring that the facility is clear of veldt fires.
The wooden bridge, hailed as the most compliant in the area – was constructed as the the standards set by the department of water and sanitation, and this was attested to by an engineer from the department Itseng Kgosidialwa at the hand over event.
Kgosidialwa emphasised the importance of engaging relevant authorities with any construction ideas to ensure the projects meet the set standards, safe for use, durable and also environmentally friendly. He applauded the managers of the project and the contractor for compliance.
Mpox Disease
The World Health Organization on Aug. 14 declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), WHO’s highest level of alarm. This is the second time WHO has declared Mpox a PHEIC in two years. This has created panic amongst a lot of people wondering what this condition is and some comparing it to the global pandemic that was covid-19.
Closer to home they has been a recent outbreak of cases of Mpox in South Africa. All the cases were classified as severe cases of Mpox and required hospitalization. Interestingly all cases are male, between the ages of 30 and 39 with co-morbidities (HIV-positive), and five of the seven identified as “men who have sex with men.”
Preliminary investigations indicate that all the confirmed cases had no history of travel to countries with ongoing Mpox outbreaks. Mpox (previously referred to as monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic infection that is caused by monkeypox virus and results in a rash similar to that of smallpox. Some animals which transmit the disease to humans include squirrels, rats, and certain species of monkeys. Mpox virus can be acquired through contact with an infected animal’s bodily fluids or through a bite. It can also be acquired through preparation of bushmeat. Human to human transmission occurs through contact with bodily fluids, lesions on the skin or on internal mucosal surfaces, such as in the mouth or throat, respiratory droplets and contaminated objects. The virus can cross the placenta from the mother to her foetus, which can lead to congenital Mpox, although the rate of transmission or risk by trimester is not known. The time period from exposure to the virus to the development of symptoms can range from 4 to 21 days. Mpox has traditionally caused a systemic illness that includes fevers, chills, and body pains, with a characteristic rash that is important to differentiate from that of other vesicular eruptions. However, during the 2022 to 2023 multi-country outbreak,
some patients presented with genital, anal, and/or oral lesions without the systemic illness. Other common sites of the rash include the trunk, arms, legs, hands and feet. About a third of patients diagnosed with Mpox have concomitant sexually transmitted infections, which include gonorrhoea, chlamydia, herpes simplex virus and syphilis.
The management of this condition includes managing the skin lesions and the pain. Patients should be counselled to avoid scratching the lesions as much as possible. It is important to keep the lesions clean and dry. They lesions can be cleaned with sterile water or an antiseptic. The aim is to prevent secondary bacterial infection. The lesions can be extremely painful, particularly the rectal and penile lesions and these are often the reasons for hospitalisation. Pain management can be done with simple analgesics, anti-inflammatories and often escalated to injectable options. There is antiviral medication which was initially developed for the treatment of small pox that can be used to treat Mpox. This medication unfortunately is not readily available and is reserved for those with severe and complicated disease.
There seems to be a lot of panic surrounding Mpox. It is worth noting that this disease has been around for some years. It is also very unlikely that we will go into “lockdown” because of the disease looking at its mode of transmission, however people must still remain vigilant and be on the lookout for symptoms or signs of the disease and avoid spread when we eventually start seeing cases of it.
By Dr Bernard Morapedi Specialist Physician
MBChB (UP), Dip HIV MAN (SA), MMED (Internal
Based at Doctors INN health center and Maun Private Hospital. drbernard.morapedi@gmail. com 75170521
* With Dr Bernard Morapedi
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS
istration number B 636 ARJ
PUBLIC NOTICE
I Honey Moses of ID No 502 429 303 would like to change the Tractor ownership, reg-
All employment advertise worldwide distribution, FREE OF CHARGE. Personal notices for Births, Deaths, Engagements and Marriages are carried free of charge.
from Elephant Back Safaris to my name, Honey Moses. Anyone with objection can conatct 71110666/73551616 or in writing to P O Box 278 Nata within 30 days of publication of this notice (1181)
Nametsegang Mbeha would
APPLICATION FOR LOST TITLE DEED
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to apply for a lost Title Deed being Deed of Transfer No. 9/2006 registered at the Deeds Registry in Gaborone on the 9th day of January 2006 passed by GASEITSEWE TONOKI in favour of SELOMA TIRO in respect of the Undermentioned property namely;
CERTAIN; Piece of land being Lot 15148 Gaborone West;
SITUATE; In Gaborone West Extension 5;
MEASURING; 450m2 (Four Hundred and Fifty Square Metres)
WHICH PROPERTY; was held under Certificate of Registered State Title No.20/84 dated the 23rd January 1984 and subsequent Deeds, the last being Deed of Transfer No. 294/2005 dated 21st February 2005 made in favour of GASEITSEWE TONOKI;
All persons having objections to the issuance of such Title Deed are hereby required to lodge same in writing with the Registrar of Deeds within three (3) weeks from the last publication hereof.
DATED AT MAUN THIS 15TH DAY OF AUGUST 2024
LECHA & ASSOCIATES
Laha House, 1st Floor Old Mall Extension P.O.Box 21532 Maun
NOTICE OF NEXT OF KIN MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY given that by virtue of section 31 of the Administration of Estates Act (Cap: 33:01), heirs and next of kin of the deceased and all persons having claims against the above estate, are being called upon to attend before the Master of the High Court at Maun High Court on the date and time specified opposite the names of their deceased relatives for purposes of recommending for appointment, a person or persons as Executor/Executrix Dative as well as identifying beneficiaries and to discuss any other business relating to their deceased relative.
Name of Deceased Person: SCHALK VAN-RENBURG
Estate Number : ESHMN-000067-24
Date of Meeting : 30-10-2024
Time : 1100 HRS
THUS DONE AT MAUN THIS 20TH DAY OF AUGUST 2024.
LLP attorneys
Applicant’s Attorneys
Tsodilo House, Unit D14/15
P O Box 985, MAUN
like to change tribal lot 280932 Maun from single residential to commercial-self catering Units. Anyone with opinion should forward it to Physical Planner North West District Council telephone 6861844 within (14) days of this publication (1181)
Seloma Tiro would like to change plot 135-PM MaunBoro from single residential to Lodge and Campsite. Anyone with opinion should forward it to Physical Planner North West District Council telephone 6861844 within (14) days of
this publication (1181)
I Ontiretse Minty
Basimalakane, owner of plot 7631 at Phase 1, Gumare wishes to change land use from single family residential to multi-family residential. For any objections please contact the Okavango District Council Physical Planning Office Tel 6874040 or call 71414027 within (14) days of publication of this notice (1181) EMPLOYMENT
Jay Ho Investments T/A Tandurei The Indian Restaurant is looking for; 2x Indian
IN THE SMALL CLAIMS COURT FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT HELD FRANCISTOWN
CASE NO: CCSFT 000118-24
In the matter between:
GOITSEMODIMO MMOTLANA PLAINTIFF and MOESI ACE RAMONWANA DEFENDANT
NOTICE OF SALE IN EXECUTION
BE PLEASED TO TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to judgment of the above Honorable Court, the following will be sold by public auction by Deputy Sheriff Philip Maitseo to the highest bidder as follows:
Date of Sale: 20th September 2024
Time: 09:00am
Venue: Maun Police Station PROPERTY TO BE SOLD: Samsung double door fridge, Defy fridge single door, Electric Generator 3.5 KV, Pressure washing machine, Microwave, Gas stove, Dining table with four chairs CONDITIONS OF SALE: Cash or bank guaranteed cheques.
DATED AT MAUN ON THIS 20TH DAY OF AUGUST 2024
DEPUTY SHERIFF PHILIP MAITSEO 71320924/75176140
C/o GOITSEMODIMO MMOTLANA (PLAINTIFF’S ADDRESS) BLOCK 1, PLOT 9423 FRANCISTOWN
Cuisine Chefs. Qualifications: Diploma in Food production or equivalent to Food Safety Management.Duties including Indian and Chinese cuisine food preparation Experience;minimum 5 years in food production. Send to:Vpraveen06@ gmail.com (1181)
Qualified electrical engineer wanted with atleast 5 years experience in the related field with traceable references, driver’s license is required. An excellent remuneration package will be offered. Apply to Goitshepa Consulting Pty Ltd Maun. Email: patiencemafojane@gmail.com. Closing date: 04 September 2024 (1181)
I am looking for two experience herdboys , they must have five years experience, the farm is situated at the vicinity of Khoemacau mine, they must be 25 years and above. Apply to P O Box 411 Maun or contact M.S Garebagae on 72488147/ 73735422/77129220 (1181) Farm work wanted at Matsaudi, Maun. Apply to Translogix-Ek’seni Ek’seni, P O Box 20469 Boseja Maun. Contact 72496183 (1181) Farm worker wanted at Samedupi. Apply to P O Box 1663 Maun or conatct Boitshepo Mochine cell 71624584 (1181) Farm labourer wanted at Sitatunga. Apply to Magonamo Mmolainyane, P O Box 20785 Maun, Boseja. Contact 72361379/71646982 (1181) Farm workers (2) wanted at Maun and Gumare. Apply to Private Bag 137 Maun. Contact Aaron Samoxa 72544004/71969283 (1181)
NOTICE OF DEBTORS AND CREDITORS MEETING
Master’s Reference: ESHFT-000047-23
IN THE ESTATE OF THE LATE ROBERT CLINTON PHILLIPS who died at LENMED BOKAMOSO PRIVATE HOSPITAL, MMOPANE on the 17TH OF NOVEMBER 2022
NOTICE IS HEREBY to the creditors and debtors in the above Estate to file their claims and pay their debts to the undersigned within thirty (30) days from the date of the last publication hereof and are being called upon to attend before the Master of the High Court at Maun High Court on the date and time specified opposite the names of their deceased:
Name of Deceased Person: CLINTON ROBERT PHILLIPS
Estate Number: ESHMN-000047-23
Date of Meeting: 07-11-2023
Time: 1100 HRS
THUS DONE AT MAUN THIS 20TH DAY OF AUGUST 2024.
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Nhabe Women’s Football league kicks off Preseason
By Bhekinkosi Phiri
The Nhabe Women’s Football League launched its preseason over the weekend with a thrilling series of matches, drawing four women’s teams from across the region. The event, which took place in Maun, was a vibrant celebration of women’s sports, bringing together female footballers, and spectators.
Phenyo Moitoi, the organiser of the tournament, expressed the significance of the event, noting, “It’s unfortunate that many people in this region
are unaware of the women’s football league that has been active for some time now. We wanted to bring all these talented women together to showcase their skills and start preparations for the upcoming league season.”
The tournament featured fierce competition among the participating teams: Miami Copper Queens, Real Killers, Saint Daniels, and Western Dynamite.
The first match saw Miami Copper Queens dominate Real Killers with a decisive 9-1 victory. In the second
game, Saint Daniels, a team known for its remarkable improvement faced off against Western Dynamite but ultimately lost 3-1. The losers’ final saw Real Killers redeem themselves with a 2-0 win over Saint Daniels. The grand finale was a spectacle, with Western Dynamite overpowering Miami Copper Queens, winning 6-2. Since inception, the Nhabe Women’s Football League has been built on foundational pillars such as empowering women through sports, teaching leadership skills,
and addressing critical regional issues like unemployment, gender-based violence, and substance abuse. The league’s mission is to uplift the psychological and social well-being of women and girls, transforming them into pillars of strength within their communities.
Moitoi highlighted the challenges female athletes face during the off-season, stating, “We saw it fit to bring these women together and empower them to return to sports. Unfortunately, when the league ends, many women struggle
to maintain their skills due to personal life challenges. Some are distracted by the lifestyle of going out, which is prevalent in this town.”
In addition to the personal challenges faced by the players, Moitoi also pointed out that the league itself faces significant obstacles, primarily due to a lack of sponsorship. The league is currently funded through contributions from the organizers, which has been financially taxing. Moitoi appealed to the community for support, emphasizing the league’s success in
nurturing talent, with some young women even being selected for the U17 Botswana team.
“I believe in women’s sports and sports in general, which has the power to unite and move nations. Women need to be part of the conversation and supported just as much as their male counterparts. It’s a long and hard road, but I believe we can grow the sport as a community. I invite any interested parties to join us on this journey,” Moitoi concluded.
Majaga, Masuge in Paris for the Paralympics
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Edwin Masuge and Gloria Majaga will represent Botswana at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which will take place from the 28th August to the 8th September in France. Masuge will take part in the
men’s T13 400m while Majaga will compete in the women’s T13 100m and 400m. Athletes who compete in category T13 are track and field athletes with visual impairment. The duo left to Paris on the 5th August 2024 and are currently on training camp.
Maun welcomes Olympic Team!
From page 11
road show set to cover the length and breadth of the country.
Khupe stated that the show has also coincided with broader sporting initiative; being the Fokotsa Dino Campaign as well as the official launch of the Matlhagola Tsela Initiative by their sister organization the BNSC.
“Additionally and fortuitously, a lot of our Olympians are natives of Maun, making it the perfect location to kick start this three-prolonged ceremony,” she said.
According to Khupe, the event will be officiated by the MYSC Minister Tumiso Rakgare, however they have also benefited from the support of Maun leadership, who will also feature on the programme of the day. Khupe noted that there is a planned motorcade to the stadium to showcase the athletes. She revealed that they will be launching Matlhagola Tsela Initiative simultaneously, with the school children participating in a variety of sporting activities Meanwhile, among the athletes that participated at the Olympics seven of them in-
cluding Ndori, Scotch, Pesela, Haingura, Ntweng, Masalalela and Nkape are from Maun Track and Field Athletics club. Ngamiland is considered as one of the regions that played a very crucial role in producing some of the best athletes including the likes of former 400m champion Amantle Montsho.
The Botswana’s Paris 2024 Olympics athletics team was made up of Tebogo (100m/200m),Ndori (400m), Scotch (400m), Kebinatshipi (400m), Masalela (800m), Haingura (800m), Ntweng (800m/400mh),Nkape (800m) and Nowe (800m). The men’s 4*400m relay team consisted of Tebogo, Ndori, Scotch, Kebinatshipi, Lee Eppie, Pesela and Masilo. Two swimmers Maxine Egner (women 100m freestyle) and Adrian Robinson (men’s100m breaststroke) also formed part of the team. The team competed under the guidance of Head Coach Chilume Ntshwarang and Assistant Coach Dose Mosimanyane. Oabona Theetso was the nation’s team manager for the Paris 2024 Olympics while Oreeditse Marakakgoro was the Chef de Mission for the team.
Masuge and Majaga will be accompanied by Boikanyo Ratlou as Team Manager, Katlego Maotwe as Team Coach, Kaelo Kgosiyang as Team Physiotherapist and Tebogo Tshenyo as Chef De Mission. In an interview, Chef De Mission Tshenyo stated that the team has been on training camp since June this year therefore she believes that they are ready to compete at the Paralympics. She noted that it would not be the first time for the team to participate in an international competition.
“In their journey to earn a spot at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the duo had participated at the international competitions that include the Paris 2023 Para Athletics World Champion-
ships that were held in June last year and the Kobe 2024 World Para Championships that were held in Japan in May this year,” she said. According to Tshenyo, Majaga made a historical moment at the Kobe 2024 World Para Championships clocking her personal best of 13.41 to finish on 3rd position and won a bronze in the T13 400M that secured a qualification to the Paris Paralympics.
Tshenyo told Times Sport that they wish to see more of their athletes qualifying for the Paralympics, but challenges faced by Paralympic Association of Botswana (PASSOBO) restrict them from sending more athletes to the Paralympic qualifying events. She stat-
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ENTER INTO A CONTROLLED TRANSACTION IN TERMS OF THE TRIBAL LAND ACT, 2018
This notice is issued in compliance to the provisions of the Tribal Land Act of 2018, Section 34, subsection (1) (a) to (e) and the transactions involves CERTAIN: Piece of land being a residential plot No. 619 SITUATE:Batawana Tribal Territory, Matsaudi MEASURING: 40 x 40 square metres (standard) HELD: Certificate of Customary Land Grant in favour of Agnes Hughes
This transaction is between Agnes Hughes (Seller) and David Tomlinson (Purchaser) who is a non-citizen (American) for the sum of BWP45, 000.00 (Forty-five Thousand Pula Only)
Any citizen of Botswana interested in entering a similar transaction in respect of the above-mentioned property may do so.
Any person objecting to this transaction should do so in writing, giving reasons thereof to the Tawana Land Board and the undersigned within thirty (30) days of publication of this notice.
DATED at Maun this 21st day of August 2024
Samantha Hughes P O Box 20985, Maun Telephone 77179185
ed that most of the paralympics qualifying events are held in other countries as such it becomes very expensive for the association to send more athletes to such events.
Tshenyo has indicated that in the previous qualifying events that were held international, they had sent a team of 10 athletes and it was unfortunate that they were allocated two Paralympic qualifying slots.
She noted that unlike other mainstream sports. a paralympic is more expensive because athletes need special care and treatment, while the rules and regulations of the sport are also unique.
Meanwhile, Tshenyo has pleaded with different stakeholders to support the Paralym-
pic team. She lamented that as compared to the Paris 2024 Olympics team their team has received a minimal support from different stakeholders. “The Paralympics team is just the same as the Olympics team, therefore we urge Batswana to give the team same support, the team is going there to represent our country and to raise our flag high, besides financial support there are other forms of support that they can offer such as emotional/psychological support,’’ she said. She urged the business community to support the PASSOBO with sponsorships so that they can be able to organise more competitions in their continued efforts of developing the sport.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ENTER INTO A CONTROLLED TRANSACTION IN TERMS OF THE TRIBAL LAND ACT, 2018
This notice is issued in compliance to the provisions of the Tribal Land Act of 2018, Section 34, subsection (1) (a) to (e) and the transactions involves
CERTAIN: Piece of land being a residential plot No. 620
SITUATE:Batawana Tribal Territory, Matsaudi MEASURING:40 x 40 square metres ( Standard) HELD: Certificate of Customary Land Grant in favour of Maggie Martin
This transaction is between Maggie Martin (Seller) and David Tomlinson (Purchaser) who is a non-citizen (American) for the sum of BWP35, 000.00 (thirty-five Thousand Pula Only)
Any citizen of Botswana interested in entering a similar transaction in respect of the above-mentioned property may do so.
Any person objecting to this transaction should do so in writing, giving reasons thereof to the Tawana Land Board and the undersigned within thirty (30) days of publication of this notice.
DATED at Maun this 21st day of August 2024
Samantha Hughes P O Box 20985, Maun Telephone 77179185
Nhabe Women’s Football league Preseason kicks off Page 11
Maun welcomes Olympic Team!
By Kgosietsile Bontsi
Maun will this morning (Friday) play host to the Olympics Team home welcoming event, at Maun Sports Complex. The tourism destination becomes the second place to host the home coming celebration after the Gaborone hosted the
national welcome event when the Team first arrived from Paris, France, - and was led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi. The home coming celebrations are a collaboration by the Botswana National Olympics Committee (BNOC), Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) and Ministry
of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture (MYSC), and from Maun, will take the team to Gantsi, Kang and Jwaneng.
The welcome ceremony will feature eight athletes that include Boitumelo Masilo (4*400m), Bayapo Ndori (400m), Leungo Scotch(400m), Tumo
Nkape (800m), Oratile Nowe(800m), Victor Ntweng (800m/400m), Anthony Pesela (4X400m) and Kethobogile Hainguira(800m).
However, the other athletes will not form part of the team due to other engagements, as 200m gold medallist Letsile Tebogo and 4 X 400m re-
lay finalist Collen Kebitshipi are currently at Lausanne in Switzerland for the Wanda Diamond League which commenced yesterday (Thursday August 22).
The event marked one of the great milestones in history of sports as Botswana brought home a gold medal and silver
medal from the 2024 Olympics that were held in Paris, France from the 26th July 2024 to the 11th August 2024.
In an interview, BNOC Business Development and Strategy Manager Baboni Khupe said that Maun was chosen as a first stop on their planned
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