UDC’s rules out 2019 election audit

The Botswana government has dismissed demands for an independent audit of the disputed 2019 General Elections, quelling fresh calls for an inquiry into allegations of electoral fraud and rigging. Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa, addressed Parliament, affirming that the administration will focus on economic transformation, job creation, and electoral reforms rather than revisiting past election controversies. This stance persists despite persistent accusations from the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) that the...

P3.7 billion debt bombshell shakes Boko government

President Advocate Duma Boko has disclosed that his administration has spent about P3.7 billion settling unpaid government invoices inherited from previous administrations, warning that these accumulated debts have slowed progress on delivering promised economic reforms. Boko said some of the outstanding bills date back to 2018, emphasizing that the government’s initial efforts have focused on stabilizing public finances before accelerating development programs. Addressing delegates at the Botswana National Front (BNF) National Conference in Jwaneng over...

CMS exposed as drug shortages spread nationwide   

Botswana’s worsening medicine shortage has sparked a heated parliamentary showdown, with Lobatse Member of Parliament Kamal Jacobs demanding accountability from health officials over persistent drug stock-outs in public facilities. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing turned confrontational as Jacobs questioned the leadership of Acting Central Medical Stores (CMS) Director Dr. Bene Paramadhas, blaming administrative failures for putting patients’ lives at risk. The Ministry of Health, however, defended the appointment of Dr. Paramadhas and maintained that...

BDC’s dairy venture takes shape

Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) has launched an ambitious plan to import 1,000 high-yield dairy cattle from Brazil, starting with the arrival of 200 pregnant Girolando cows destined for Milk Valley Farm. This project aims to boost local milk production, cut Botswana’s dependence on imported dairy products, and strengthen food security. BDC sees this phased importation as a major investment to transform the country’s dairy industry, though its long-term success will hinge on effective execution, cost...

Mokgware blames job crisis on previous leadership failures

Botswana has unveiled a new initiative designed to transform its mining expertise into a globally marketable service by exporting skilled professionals. This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs and Naledi Mining Services Company, creating pathways for qualified Batswana to access mining employment opportunities both regionally and internationally. The partnership establishes a structured system to identify, prepare, and connect mining professionals with employers abroad. It...

Busang defends BHC housing projects amid criticism

Botswana Housing Corporation’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Professor Selinah Busang, has come out strongly in defense of the corporation’s housing developments, dismissing recent criticism over the aesthetic appeal of its homes. Busang emphasized that BHC’s projects have significantly transformed communities, enhanced neighborhoods, and created lasting value for homeowners nationwide. Her remarks followed comments by Honourable Mabeo in parliament, who questioned the beauty of BHC homes. Busang challenged critics to visit the areas where the corporation...

BDC, BADEA Forge €100 million financing alliance

Botswana Development Corporation Limited (BDC) and the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) have formalized a significant financing partnership through two Statements of Intent, setting the stage for funding facilities totaling €100 million – roughly BWP 1.5 billion at current exchange rates. The agreements were signed in Gaborone by BDC Managing Director Oteng Keabetswe and BADEA Board Chairman H.E. Dr. Fahad Aldossari. These proposed facilities await final approval, including the completion of term...

Climate crisis threatens to erase billions from Botswana economy

Botswana stands at a critical crossroads as climate change threatens to deepen economic struggles, strain public finances, and imperil livelihoods. Yet amid these mounting challenges lies a rare opportunity to reshape the nation’s economy through renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and green industries. The 2026 World Bank Botswana Economic Update, titled *Seizing the Moment: How Botswana Can Turn Crisis into Opportunity*, underscores that the country’s future prosperity hinges on its ability to swiftly adapt to climate...

Inside The Secret Struggles Of Pastors’ Wives Today

PASTOR’S WIFE BREAKS SILENCE ON HIDDEN MINISTRY PAIN Behind the smiles, unwavering faith and public expectations, many pastors’ wives are quietly battling rejection, grief and emotional exhaustion, according to author Saziso Patience Itani. Speaking in an exclusive interview with WeekendLife ahead of the 1 August launch of her new book titled Pastor’s Wife: Refined, Restored and Still Called. Saziso Itani says the role is often misunderstood and the women who carry it are expected to...

Powertel, Paratus launch Fiber Optic Corridor

Powertel Communications and Paratus Zimbabwe have officially launched the first phase of a major cross-border fiber optic project, marking a significant leap forward in Southern Africa’s digital infrastructure. The newly operational route, now carrying live traffic, creates a high-capacity digital corridor linking Zimbabwe with Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, and the wider Paratus network spanning the continent. This milestone is the first major achievement under a public-private partnership agreement signed in June 2025 between the two...