UDC Government reshuffles top civil servants

Torto, Khumotaka, Baipoledi and Chengeta in the mix In a calculated political maneuver, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government in Botswana has embarked on a cautious reshuffling of its top civil servants. This move, coming in the wake of a historic electoral victory, sees President Duma Boko’s administration strategically placing key figures in positions to drive the nation’s agenda forward. The reshuffle, however, is underscored by both budgetary prudence and legal constraints, reflecting the...

P500 million Harvey Job: Lightning rod for controversy

Local filmmakers argue Botswana Ignites marginalizes them Calls for cancellation or restructuring to ensure inclusivity In a bold move to revolutionize its budding film and television sector, the Botswana government has teamed up with iconic American comedian and television host Steve Harvey. The project, known as “Botswana Ignite,” has stirred a mix of excitement and controversy. While some hail it as a groundbreaking initiative set to propel the nation’s creative industry onto the global stage,...

Minister Mohwasa vs. Lawmaker Khan – A contrast

Minister Mohwasa’s approach is marked by caution in handling affairs Lawmaker Khan advocates for swift, radical reforms to eradicate corruption An early glimpse of how UDC backbenchers might engage with the Executive At the epicenter of Botswana’s political dialogue, a significant debate is unfolding between two significant figures: Minister of State President Moeti Mohwasa and Molepolole North Member of Parliament Arafat Khan. Their divergent perspectives encapsulate a broader discourse on governance, corruption, and the role...

Gov’t revamps, rebrands SHHA Turnkey Programme

The air was thick with anticipation as Hon. Onneetse Ramogapi, Minister of Water and Human Settlement, took to the podium to announce a sweeping revamp of Botswana’s SHHA Turnkey Programme. This initiative, designed to facilitate home ownership among low- and middle-income groups, has been a cornerstone of Botswana’s housing policy since its inception in 1973. Now, with a bold vision, the ministry is set to not only revamp and rebrand the programme but also launch...

Orapa United Joins Rollers and Galaxy in the Annals of History

Despite enduring three seasons without a title sponsor, local clubs have demonstrated their tenacity, competing toe-to-toe with Africa’s football powerhouses. The diamond-mining club, Orapa United, has become the third team from Botswana to reach the group stages of the CAF Confederations Cup, a historic achievement in their 12-year existence. Orapa United’s road to the CAF Confederation Cup began when Jwaneng Galaxy, the Orange FA Cup champions, opted to compete in the CAF Champions League, thereby...

Minergy sees signs of recovery after significant financial setbacks

The Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE)-listed coal miner, Minergy Limited, is poised to commence full production at its Masama Coal Mine by November 2024, aiming to recover from substantial financial losses incurred due to operational disruptions following the suspension of its mining contractor. Minergy Limited successfully resumed operations at Masama Coal Mine in February 2024. The company has announced its commitment to unveiling a long-term resource development plan for the lifespan of Masama Coal Mine, a...

Local brewers report P304.2 million profit in six months

Sechaba Breweries Holdings Limited subsidiaries, Kgalagadi Breweries and Coca Cola Beverages Botswana, have reported a remarkable profit-after-tax totaling P304.2 million from sales of beer, beverages, soft drinks, and purified water during the first half of 2024. Sechaba Brewery Holdings Limited holds a 49.9% stake in both Kgalagadi Breweries (Pty) Ltd (KBL) and Coca Cola Beverages (Botswana) (Pty) Ltd (CCBB). KBL specializes in the manufacturing, importation, distribution, and marketing of clear beers, alcoholic fruit beverages, and...

Engen Botswana Loses Market Share to Citizen-Owned Companies

Botswana’s preeminent fuel supplier, Engen Botswana Limited, is witnessing a significant erosion of its market share within the fuel industry. This downturn is attributed to a governmental mandate that urges state departments and state-owned enterprises to procure fuel exclusively from suppliers that are 100 percent citizen-owned. The Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE)-listed entity has expressed concerns regarding the increasingly challenging operating environment for both multinational and domestic fuel importers. This is primarily due to the government’s...

A Comprehensive Guide to Fixed Income Bonds

When most people think about investing, the first things that come to mind are complex stocks or real estate investment into multi-residential property. However, there’s another powerful tool for wealth creation that often flies under the radar: Fixed income securities, commonly known as bonds. Bonds can play a pivotal role in a well-rounded investment strategy, offering stability and reliable income. But what exactly are bonds, and why should you consider investing in them? Let us...

Nearly half of Botswana’s population faces basic food shortages

A recent survey by Statistics Botswana has unveiled a grim reality: a significant portion of the nation’s population is grappling with the daily struggle to secure basic food essentials, largely due to insufficient financial resources. The survey, conducted by the state-owned statistical entity, found that 49.4% of Botswana’s population across cities, towns, and villages are experiencing difficulties in obtaining basic food items. Within this segment, 20.2% suffer from hunger, occasionally going days without eating, while...