BOTSWANA

Google announcement upset govt - Ramsay

2012-02-11T13:05:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: In response to a questionnaire, government chief spokesman, Jeff Ramsay, said they were investigating why Google had decided to release the statement unilaterally when it was supposed to be a joint effort. Ramsay was responding to a wide range of issues around the forthcoming shooting of Botswana streets with Google cameras for availability to web browsers on the Internet. Said Ramsay on what is being done to conscientise Batswana about their rights to privacy during the filming of the Google Street View: "A public awareness campaign will be carried out during shooting. As noted above, there shall be safeguards to personal privacy, e.g. individual identities are not to be revealed."

He added that members of the public who may feel that their rights were being violated by Google cameras once the filming starts should contact his office. Ramsay disclosed that while negotiating with the Google team, the government had made it clear which places could and which could not be filmed because of security and privacy concerns. "We shall further be monitoring at every stage of the filming process and have a right to veto filming in any location," he said. "Filming will be limited to designated areas."

Botswana is undermining Russia/China - Opposition

2012-02-09T11:50:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: The opposition parties have critisised Botswana for its stance on the issue of violation of human rights in Syria.

Botswana National Front's publicity secretary, Moeti Mohwasa said Botswana is undermining Russia and China by criticising its decision to exercise veto power against the global efforts to put an end to the widespread violation of human rights in Syria.Russia and China's decisions are influenced by the 1993 resolution, which was passed, that enabled foreign intervention such as those in Libya and other countries, Mohwasa said. He added that the government protests for justice and fairness but has never stood up to criticise the West's abuse of the veto power during the slaughtering ofPalestinians by Israel. He said Botswana is like a pawn to the West and an en-colonialism government. "It is unfortunate that Botswana government was not able to intervene because when America was using the veto power, it was silent. It is not like we condone such, we have to look at the situation and approach it differently," he said.When commenting on this issue, Botswana Congress Party's spokesperson, Taolo Lucas said Botswana needs to take a crucial and diplomatic approach and engage Russia and Chinese embassies for better resolutions to the matter."Otherwise this reckless and inconsistency of foreign policies will spoil our relationships with other nations. As a country we need to refine our foreign relations so that we can build better relations globally," he said. Lucas also said Botswana always jumps into other sovereign states' ways of rulership and criticises them without consultation." He said such subliminal jabs come as personal interests of the Khama administration and when the Foreign Minister wishes to shout at other countries."Our government has a habit of shouting at some countries, like what they were doing with Zimbabwe, but never uttered a single word when the Soviet government abused its powers." he said. Meanwhile the government is appealing to the two countries to rethink their decisions on the Syria resolution. Mmegi has since established that the Foreign Affairs Minister, Phandu Skelemani summoned Chinese and Russian ambassadors on Sunday to urge them to alter their decision.

Google opens a window into Botswana

2012-02-09T11:45:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: However, government spokesman, Jeff Ramsay said the Google team will be strictly monitored to protect the public and in the interest of national security. He also said the Google team will have limited access He promised that that people's privacy will be not be compromised by Google and the technology will not expose Botswana's sensitive structures to its enemies.Google said its Google Maps with Street View allows users to explore places around the world through 360-degree street-level imagery. This free feature, which was launched in 2007, is also available in Google Earth and on Google Maps for Mobile, it added.

The head of communications and public affairs for Google in Sub-Saharan Africa, Julie Taylor said the technology giant looks forward to bringing benefits of Street View to Botswana users and businesses. "We also want to help Botswana showcase its extraordinary national parks and wildlife destinations to the rest of the world".The Minister of Wildlife and Tourism, Onkokame Kitso Mokaila said Street View will give international visitors to virtually explore the country, and a chance to carry out tourism research in advance before coming to the country. "We are looking forward to Google bringing us some of their most innovative technology."The Google Street View feature is already available in more than 30 countries around the world.South Africa was the first African country to get this technology just before the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Big and small 'five' on a Botswana safari

2012-02-09T11:22:00.000+02:00

Totaltravel: I am in Botswana, home to the largest remaining elephant population in the world.

That is one of the joys of Botswana.

Unlike some of the other African safari destinations, Botswana has been careful to keep its national parks open only to low impact tourism, so you don't see mass convoys of cars. This makes the whole experience feel more authentic.

At the heat of the day - the point at which the sun is hottest, as morning gives way to afternoon - there's a three-hour siesta-type period.

The animals head for water and rest. We do the same and stop for lunch.

Later, we head east towards the Savuti region. On the way, we spot a pack of lions hiding beneath a bush.

A cuddly-looking cub nestles into its mum's neck, and they gleefully play, while I look on in disbelief that we're so close.

However, it soon became clear that this safari holiday wasn't all about the big predators. Our guide shows as much enthusiasm for insects as he does for big cats, and Botswana is also famed for its vast birdlife - showcased beautifully near our camp on the Savuti marsh.

We witness a feeding frenzy of thousands, made up of 150 different species of birds, all feeding from one pool.

Our guide points out eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, red-billed hornbills, and black egrets, to name just a few.

Later, we stumble across a huge flock of pelicans, all wobbling their beaks simultaneously, to cool themselves down. I can't help but chuckle; it's such an amusing sight.

A little later, I have to pinch myself as we stop for a cup of tea and biscuit, and as I sip from my mug, an Ostrich grazes on the marsh ahead, while two elephants chomp away behind.

Then we watch a male leopard leap elegantly out of a tree and prowl straight past us. It's completely surreal.

This region is a lot busier than Moremi. The Savuti attracts more tourists as the landscape is prettier and the wildlife more concentrated.

Driving across the centre of the marsh, herds of wildebeest, elephant, buffalo, impala and zebra can be seen in one sweep of the binoculars.

After a lucky sighting of rare wild dogs and giraffes, we hop on a boat to neighbouring Namibia.

The Savanna Lodge on the Chobe River, consisting of twelve thatched chalets, is our final stop. After camping, this is pure luxury.

My room is large and comfortable with a balcony overlooking the river.

There's a small restaurant, lounge area and bar, with incredible panoramic views of the vast floodplains of Chobe National Park.

We explore Chobe by boat. A family of elephants swims by as the sun sets in the background.

It's the perfect end to an incredible holiday. It may have been an adventurous trip, but it wasn't particularly active. We only left the car once for a short walk up a rock face to see some ancient drawings, and the drives between camps were long.

But, they were well worth it. And as I sip my gin and tonic watching the sunset, I can't think of anywhere in the world I'd rather be.

KEY FACTS - BOTSWANA SAFARI

BEST FOR: Couples or friends who have been on safari before.

TIME TO GO: May-October.

DON'T MISS: The "small five" insect species as well as the big five.

NEED TO KNOW: Not all guides are experts, so find a highly qualified one.

DON'T FORGET: Neutral-coloured long sleeves and trousers for early morning drives.

Bakwena named Ombudsman in shake-up

2012-02-09T11:08:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: Motshwarakgole cited instances whereby trade unions and the DPSM were in the process of negotiating but President Ian Khama would pre-empt the talks by telling Kgotla gatherings that there would be no salary increments. "That was interference and it nullified negotiations," he said. On the new DPSM director, he said Morupisi will not run the office well unless government limited its interference and there was a clear separation of powers.Former Leader of Opposition, Botsalo Ntuane and his team had suggested that Lizo Ngcongco, Brigadier Thulaganyo Masisi and acting Ombudsman Matshidiso Bokole be considered for the post. Ngcongco left his job as Botswana's first parliamentary counsel under controversial circumstances last year.

When Domkrag had a field day in Parliament

2012-02-09T11:04:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: First to the plate was vice-president Mompati Merafhe: "Let us discuss this matter and put it to rest. We should not be struggling as if we are trying to determine the sex of angels. The opposition have themselves to blame.If they were not fighting amongst themselves, we would not be in this situation. "Our colleagues here are clinically alive but politically dead. I don't see why people should be fighting for maemo a koloinyana e ntsho (I don't see why people should be fighting over a seat in a black car)."The eloquent Mahalapye West MP was in his element as he jeered and lampooned the opposition, saying their attempt at unity was a forlorn dream.

South Africa’s ANC Party Upholds Charges Against Malema Strengthening Zuma

2012-02-09T10:45:00.000+02:00

Bloomberg: Malema, 30, was cast out of the ANC for five years on Nov. 10, after a disciplinary committee found he brought the party into disrepute by calling for the ouster of the government of neighboring Botswana and insulting ANC leaders. An appeals panel, led by businessman Cyril Ramaphosa, upheld the charges yesterday, while judging that Malema could appeal against the severity of his sentence.

Youth empowerment is lacking

2012-02-09T09:45:00.000+02:00

The Botswana Gazette: Does it make sense for the government to be sponsoring us (young people) to run businesses, and not support those businesses to grow? Government officials always leave facilities (youth businesses in villages) such as printing and promotional companies and go to Gaborone to use established private companies. I always see some of the government websites and newsletters that are not appealing nor interesting or user friendly done by a certain company that always wins the (publishing) tenders. My suggestion is that when it comes to websites, the government should let the youth present what they can do. They can do as the Botswana Telecommunications Corporation did with the telephone directory cover. It just specified their requirements on how they want it been done, where they specified what they wanted done and then sent it out to the public to come up with the design.

Botswana commits to war on terror

2012-02-06T16:50:00.001+02:00

Mmegi Online

Despite resources constraints, Botswana made progress by creating strong legislative environment against terrorism and its proceeds by either amending or enacting new legislation, Tsiane pointed out. She said the meeting was beneficiary to the country, as it will provide opportunity for Botswana's National Counter Terrorism Committee and UN Conference on Environment and Development to transfer knowledge on concepts and frameworks for developing national programme. Tsiane said the programme is ideal for counter-terrorism and to technical experts from relevant departments dealing with border control, law enforcement, legal issues, international cooperation and financing. She said that 13 pieces of legislation are in place to be used in anti-terrorism activities and related crime which includes money laundering, irregular migration, aviation security and severe customs control with the net result of disrupting the movement of terrorists, their finances and wares.Tsiane also said: ÒBotswana maintains that an integral part of the fight against terrorism includes maintenance of credibility and impartiality by all including government and civil society in order that the legitimacy of their judicial and executive actions is preserved."

It is too early for salary increment - Khama

2012-02-06T16:49:00.001+02:00

Mmegi Online

Addressing a Kgotla meeting here yesterday, Khama said people must understand that though there was a slight improvement, Botswana still had a deficit. "Remember that we still have a deficit," he said. "The key thing is that we do not want to lay workers off. Take note of this before making any proposal for an increment."

New tertiary regulatory body starts work in July

2012-02-06T16:48:00.001+02:00

Mmegi Online

However, Molutsi was quick to add that administrative costs were not expected to drop in the first operational year of the new institution. "Bringing the two together also means creation of other departments like that of sectoral planning and finance which were not present," he added. The creation of the new entity would enhance organisational capacity.In addition, the incorporation of the two bodies into a larger one should further help guide the critical area of tertiary education in this country.

It is too early for salary increment - Khama

2012-02-06T16:36:00.001+02:00

Mmegi Online

Addressing a Kgotla meeting here yesterday, Khama said people must understand that though there was a slight improvement, Botswana still had a deficit. "Remember that we still have a deficit," he said. "The key thing is that we do not want to lay workers off. Take note of this before making any proposal for an increment."

Khama slams lethargic land boards

2012-02-06T16:24:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: Khama further said he wondered whether landboards were really committed to helping develop the country. He added that concerns regarding landboards were common countrywide. The President said this when showing dissatisfaction with the answer that land board officials gave one of the residents who complained of complex procedures that have hindered his progress since 2009. The complainant told the President that he had applied for a change of land use, from arable farm to a commercial diary farm. He later applied for extension and an officer who attended to him then told him that he would be duly assisted and that he could go ahead and fence the farm. "I was told that the technical officer, who would measure the plot, was still at school. In the meantime the power line was constructed such that it passed through the said plot. Now I am sent from pillar to post when I demand compensation. I have lost all hope because am now told that only the board has (the power) to approve the change of land use, not the officer in her own capacity," he said as he sought presidential intervention.

Tough contract talks for BFA, Tshosane

2012-02-06T11:08:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: With the Zebras' exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, focus shifts sharply to coach Stanley Tshosane's contract, which runs out next month.Tshosane elevated his status when he became the first coach to take the Zebras to the AFCON finals, a feat that had eluded even some decorated expatriate mentors. Mmegi Sport can reveal that contract talks had already started when the coach left for the AFCON finals being co-hosted by Equatorial Guinea and Gabon last month. However, it has emerged that the BFA chiefs face a tough challenge to convince the former BDF XI coach to stay and guide th e team through the 2013 AFCON and 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

Botswana Elections Reports (2009) : Way Forward For The Opposition

2012-01-19T16:57:00.000+02:00

The 2009 general elections have clearly shown that the opposition is weak and still has a long way to go. Despite the public’s criticism against Khama towards the elections,BDP has won with flying colours. But what did we expect? We haven’t seen any opposition party taking the interest of poor working class by heart. All around the world, except in Botswana, millions and millions of ordinary people took to the streets their concerns. This was so because the opposition movements organized and offered direction and clarity to the masses. If there is no clarity in practice of which party represents which economic class, the opposition parties will never, never ever oust the capitalist BDP from state power.

Botswana Stock Exchange: The Recent Financial Crisis: Some Reflections on its Likely Financial and Economic Effects on Botswana

2012-01-12T17:16:00.000+02:00

Botswana Stock Exchange: The Recent Financial Crisis: Some Reflections on its Likely Financial and Economic Effects on Botswana

Reaching out to Communities in Botswana

2011-11-26T12:22:00.001+02:00

News Watch

Ghanzi, Botswana–This is the first installment from reporting on cheetah conservation and human/predator co-existence from Southern Africa. We begin in Botswana….

Its my first week volunteering and observing the work that Cheetah Conservation Botswana (CCB) does from their base camp located outside the town of Ghanzi.

From what I can surmise on this hot morning, the job takes place behind the wheel. OK, I am exaggerating, but the truth is that locations are not close by. They are many miles away, down ungraded gravel roads, and those are the ones in fair condition. Turning off the main road is a guarantee of throwing the tires out of alignment, and once one turns off, it can be another long bumpy ride way into the bush before reaching the final destination of a farm house, a marking tree, a local community, a cattle post, etc. The trusty Toyota Hilux that CCB uses takes a beating. Petrol and repairs are vital to be able to just get a day’s work done

Botswana to get link to great lakes region Via Mpulungu Port

2011-11-26T12:16:00.000+02:00

The Monitor

A Chinese company is carrying out a feasibility study on the proposed diversion of the railway line to Zambia's Mpulungu port from the Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), which is connected to the Botswana Railways through Zambia Railways via Victorial Falls Town in Zimbabwe.

Icons of Botswana

2011-11-26T12:11:00.001+02:00

The Monitor

'Uncle Wes', as he is affectionately called by his colleagues and friends, moved to Gauteng to work in the factories soon after leaving school. Amongst his early jobs, he sold insurance and worked for a medical bookshop, which serviced almost the entire Southern African region. This was in the early 1950s, a period characterised by the infamous apartheid system. Like many of his fellow blacks living in South Africa during this time, the apartheid regime was a thorn in Seleka's flesh.

Seretse Khama: The drama of a royal romance in Botswana

2011-11-26T11:53:00.000+02:00

BBC News

A play about Botswana's first President, Seretse Khama, whose marriage to a white English woman while he was still a student caused a political storm in the UK and Africa, has been shown off Broadway in New York .

Southern African Students Fund at University of Oxford, UK 2012

2011-11-26T10:53:00.000+02:00

Scholarships News

Scholarship Description: St Antonys College is offering a scholarship to a student from Southern Africa for the academic year 2012-3. The scholarship is available only for study on the MSc in African Studies. Applications should be made for the MSc in African Studies and all successful eligible applicants from the region will be considered for the scholarship. St Antonys should be named as college of first choice in the University application. A separate application for the scholarship is not required. Your application for admission to the course must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions office by the closing date of the 2nd application deadline (20 January 2012) if you wish to be considered. Incomplete applications received by this deadline will not be considered

Botswana diamond industry eyes booming Chinese marke

2011-11-26T10:42:00.001+02:00

SINA English

"China's tariff reduction and exemption will further enhance exports from Botswana to China, and benefit the economic growth," he said, adding that it is a big chance for the diamond industry in the country especially when the recent agreement between Botswana and De Beers provides for an independent sales outlet for Botswana, which will begin at 10 percent of Debswana's run of mine production and rise to 15 percent over a five year period.

FIFA grassroot programme launched

2011-10-31T12:09:00.001+02:00

The Botswana Gazette

FIFA grassroot programme launched PDF Print E-mail
Written by OAITSE MATHALA
Wednesday, 26 October 2011 00:00

Mamelodi pleads with Grassroot coaches

The Botswana Football Association in conjunction with the world football governing body, FIFA on Sunday launched a FIFA grassroot programme in the country. This followed the successful completion of the first ever FIFA Grassroot coaching course held at the Lekidi Football Centre last week.

The programme, according to FIFA Development Officer for Southern and East Africa Ashford Mamelodi, is aimed at introducing the young boys and girls to the game of football. Speaking during the official closing ceremony of the two-day course last Friday, Mamelodi congratulated the BFA that “the grassroot programme has finally come to Botswana”.

He pointed out that with the course having come to Botswana, it is a historical milestone but emphasised that it is historical depending on what will be done after the launch of the programme.

Mamelodi implied FIFA has in the previous trained individuals in other countries but the knowledge they had imparted to those individuals ended up going to waste, therefore, argued the participants that they should distribute that valuable knowledge to other structures to make sure the country benefits in the long run. “Now you know what is supposed to be done, we now rely on you guys. We have you guys to make sure things are done the right way,” he said.

The renowned football administrator is of the view that Botswana can be a force to reckon with in the next ten years if the participants show commitment to the programme and disseminate well what they have been taught. “The reason why we won’t qualify in 10 years will be you guys,” he told the participants.

The CAF and FIFA Coaching Instructor, Govinden Thondoo conducted the course. He echoed Mamelodi’s words that the participants of the course are the ones to disseminate this philosophy around their communities and everywhere in Botswana. “Launching the programme is an easy task but what happens after is difficult,” he said, further wishing them success in this adventure.

One of the participants, former Township Rollers defender Aaron Radira assured the FIFA men that the knowledge imparted in them will not go in to waste. “On behalf of my colleagues, I want to assure you that this will not go to waste,” he said. While they are happy to be the first group to attend this course in country, they understand very well that the future of Botswana football lies with them.

With the programme being first launched in Gaborone only, Mamelodi has gone on to say there is need to decentralise the programme. “Don’t ever say we don’t have stadiums, grassroot football can be played anywhere,” he said. He would like to see it being rolled out to other places such as Francistown, Kgalagadi and Kasane. He appealed that the football community and the government to come up with an arrangement that would see the initiation of the ‘National Grassroot Day’.

David Fani, the BFA president hopes the Grassroot programme will fit well with other BFA development programmes such as Re ba bona ha, School of Excellence and the Chappies Little League.

BDF shoot down Police in opener

2011-08-30T08:19:00.000+02:00

The Monitor: "The victory proved that BDF's win against Police in the first round of the 2011 league was not a hoax. BDF remain the only team to have beaten the 2010 league runners-up this season.
"

'via Blog this'

Botswana sends aid to starving Somalis

2011-08-30T08:18:00.000+02:00

Africa Review: "“(This second) consignment consists of locally produced foodstuffs such as mealie meal, sorghum, beef, cooking oil, beans and some blankets,” said Ms Oliphant in the Zambian capital Lusaka on Monday after inspecting the consignment that is being transported by road through Zambia and Tanzania en route to Kenya.

"

'via Blog this'

Rammidi sets BMD rally alight

2011-08-30T08:17:00.000+02:00

The Monitor: ""Mosadimogolo Mmadomi ga a toga," he said insisting that all was not well in the BDP. "The BDP is ailing and unfortunately its caregivers are stubborn and do not want to agree that the BDP is besieged by endless challenges," he said."

'via Blog this'

IFAW, Environment Canada and INTERPOL in Botswana at the Front Lines of the War on Wildlife Trafficking

2011-08-30T08:15:00.000+02:00

MarketWatch: "The training attracted wildlife enforcement officials and police officers from Botswana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The curriculum was designed by experts from Environment Canada and covers international wildlife law, interagency cooperation, risk management, interrogation techniques, investigative procedures, national legislation and enforcement tools.

"This training comes at a critical time as iconic species such as rhinos and elephants face tremendous threats to their survival that can only be met with increased regional cooperation," said Kelvin Alie, Prevention of Illegal Wildlife Trade Program Director. "Thanks to the combined expertise of INTERPOL, Environment Canada and IFAW, we've increased the capacity to stop wildlife thieves and safeguard animals in the wild.""

'via Blog this'

Allyson Felix of US 2nd in 400, edged by Amantle Montsho of Botswana for title at worlds

2011-08-30T08:10:00.000+02:00

The Washington Post: "“Starting from here, I will be an example for the young athletes in Botswana,” Montsho said. “They will work hard since they see me winning the gold medal here.”

Born in Mabudutsa, in the far north of the country, Montsho was already impressing with her performances in the 100 and 200 in school. But without a coach to help her get to the next level, she relocated to Senegal."

'via Blog this'

Youth league likely to dominate headlines

2011-08-30T08:08:00.000+02:00

BusinessDay: "AFRICAN National Congress (ANC) Youth League president Julius Malema ’s disciplinary hearing is likely to dominate the political week, with his supporters planning to hold a night vigil outside Luthuli House tonight.

Mr Malema and five other league leaders have been charged with violating the ANC’s constitution when they announced a plan to help opposition parties in Botswana effect a regime change."

'via Blog this'

Recent Drury graduate headed to Botswana

2011-08-29T10:58:00.000+02:00

Recent Drury graduate headed to Botswana: ""Botswana is the second most infected country in the world, but I am ready to join the fight and to represent the kindness and generosity of the people of the United States," Lawson said."

'via Blog this'

Malema mobilises his foot soldiers - Times LIVE

2011-08-29T08:20:00.000+02:00

Malema mobilises his foot soldiers - Times LIVE: "Malema's sermon from the pulpit came as the ANC's allies, the SA Communist Party and trade union federation Cosatu, welcomed the ruling party's decision to take action against Malema and his spokesman, Floyd Shivambu, for bringing the party into disrepute "through his utterances on Botswana and for sowing divisions in the ranks of the [ANC]"."

'via Blog this'

Botswana Should Develop Solar Farms for Its Energy Needs

2011-06-29T10:49:00.000+02:00

boidus: "That Botswana suffers from chronic power shortages is a fact. Also it should be noted that Botswana Government though the Ministry of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources (MMEWR) are currently engaged in various power coal plant initiatives, notably Mmamabula Energy Project (MEP), the P20 billion project."

Two men arrested for hijacking Botswana Ambassador

2011-06-13T10:51:00.000+02:00

Eyewitness News: "“Then they kept the minster at hostage for quite sometime so that they could get some banking details information so that they could use the minster bank card to withdraw money in the different automatic teller machines around Johannesburg,” he said."

Zim striker chasing Botswana award

2011-05-30T11:56:00.000+02:00

"UNHERALDED Zimbabwe-born striker Tendai Ndoro has been shortlisted for the 2010/11 Botswana premiership Player of the Season Award.
The former Railstars hitman, Ndoro, who was at the centre of a ownership wrangle between Division One side Kujatana and former premiership side Bantu Rovers before his move to Botswana this year has been in terrific form for Nico United in the beMobile League."

After donning England colours, Walker itching to play for Bots

2011-05-26T09:50:00.000+02:00

The Monitor:

"He featured as a guest player in the Stadium Squash Club (SSC) Exhibition Tournament at the weekend. 'I'd really like to think that one day I could play for Botswana...Although I've played for England and stayed there for a long time, it's never been home, Botswana is still home.'
His parents also reiterated their son's wish to represent the country, while Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Kitso Mokaila, who is also SSC patron, believes Walker has a strong case since his parents are Batswana."

'Whispers voices' exhibition opens

2011-05-26T09:28:00.000+02:00

The Monitor

"'Nobody is watching blue skies or flowers blooming, and that's where the real life is. In today's fast-paced world, we are hungry to cut down trees and to construct skyscrapers all in the search for money,' Balusbramanian said."

BAA misled the nation

2011-05-19T10:08:00.000+02:00

The Botswana Gazette: "“I heard them misleading you (the media), saying that the team was prepared but they did not ask me as the team manager. The team was not prepared,” he said.
Dube, who was at the press briefing, noted that one journalist directed a question to him asking about the preparedness of the team but he was denied the opportunity to respond to the question. Instead, Gaseitsewe responded by saying the team was prepared.

“The team had a two-week training schedule and that was not enough,” the former 800 meters runner indicated. He said the main reason behind this is that the Association lost focus; diverting its focus from preparing the team for the competitions to preparing for the hosting of the competition which many believe was publicised than the Botswana team. He further revealed that since voted into office in February, the Executive Committee has never met to discuss anything pertaining to the preparation of the team. He said that their boss, Bantsi, was never open to suggestions."

Botswana strike threatens ruling party power

2011-05-10T12:04:00.001+02:00

Botswana strike threatens ruling party power: "'If we can come together we can take our government as it happened in Egypt and Tunisia.'"

Felix edges Montsho to win 400 at Diamond League, but Jones, Jackson fall short in Doha - The Washington Post

2011-05-10T12:03:00.000+02:00

Felix edges Montsho to win 400 at Diamond League, but Jones, Jackson fall short in Doha - The Washington Post: "Felix edged a hard-charging Amantle Montsho to win the 400 meters in 50.33 seconds. The reigning three-time world champion in the 200 held on down the stretch to finish 0.08 ahead of Botswana’s Montsho. Patricia Hall of Jamaica was third."

17th Northern BOCCIM Trade Fair approaches

2011-04-29T11:11:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online: "Preparations for one of the biggest calendar events in Botswana's second city, the Northern BOCCIM Trade Fair (BNTF), are at an advanced stage."

Its 11 years of Lethlafula

2011-04-29T11:06:00.000+02:00

Botswana Gazette: "The traditional food and dance festival Orange Lethlafula will take place on Saturday, 28th May at Botswana Craft. In its 11th year, the popular annual festival that is organised as part of the harvest celebrations in Botswana is an opportunity for everyone, old and young, to join in for a feast of traditional Setswana food, folklore and dancing."

Angola avails 87.000 square kilometres of land for tourist project

2011-04-29T09:54:00.000+02:00

Angola Press

Angola availed at least 87.000 square kilometres of land under the Okavango/Zambeze tourist project which is comprised by five countries of the Southern Africa. The countries which are involved in Okavango/Zambeze tourist project are Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This was said to Angop on Tuesday in Luanda by the executive co-ordinator of the referred project, the Angolan Amélia Cazalma. She said that Okavango/Zambeze project is a transborder initiative and it is an ambitious project aimed at developing the communities. Amélia Cazalma said that the project will also facilitate the integration and protection of the communities, the social and economic development, biodiversity protection at the member countries, as well as the economic growth of the eastern Kuando-Kubango province.

Drifting on the delta

2011-04-19T14:24:00.000+02:00

Botswana’s Okavango Delta, an African Venice of winding waterways, stiches together the largest inland delta system in the world.

Gutu and Mukamba blow for U23s

2011-04-19T14:22:00.000+02:00

The Young Warriors put up a commendable fight to hold the Botswana Under-23s to a 2-2 draw in the first leg of an All-Africa Games qualifier in Molepolole, but the match ended on a sour note following the injury time dismissals of Denvar Mukamba and Archford Gutu.

Bots on cloud nine

2011-04-04T13:48:00.000+02:00

Southern Times: "Buried beneath the grand celebrations that have followed Botswana's sensational maiden qualification for the Nations Cup finals is the remarkable story of a 25-year-old striker, whose goals have oiled the campaign, but who remains not good enough to play for his club."

FXB Center Partners With The Merck Company Foundation to Reduce Mother-to-Child HIV

2011-03-25T13:48:00.000+02:00

The Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Center (FXB) of the University of Medicine and Dentistry (UMDNJ) School of Nursing will provide training to 150 clinicians in Botswana who will then train more than 6,000 healthcare workers thanks to a grant of nearly $375,000 from The Merck Company Foundation.

'The Last Lions' reviews from 826 Valencia

2011-03-25T13:34:00.000+02:00

This week's monthly offering from the 826 Valencia student program is the National Geographic documentary "The Last Lions." The movie is now playing in Bay Area theaters.

BEC results show decline in performance

2011-03-25T13:30:00.000+02:00

Mmegi

The Botswana Examinations Council (BEC) has released the 2010 Botswana Government Certificate in Secondary Education (BGCSE) results, showing an overall decline of performance of two percent compared to last year.

Japan: Donation of Relief Money from Botswana

2011-03-25T12:12:00.000+02:00

reliefweb.int

Mmegi Online :: Govt to procure 5m litre biodiesel plant

2011-03-19T11:59:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online :: Govt to procure 5m litre biodiesel plant: "In order to kick-start production of alternative energy and improve Botswana's diversity of fuel supply sources, government plans to purchase and install a five-million litre biodiesel processing plant later this year."

Japanese funds available to Botswana

2011-03-17T13:18:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online

Seacom takes broadband service to five more states

2011-03-17T13:16:00.000+02:00

Mail & Guardian Online

Gladiators to play Botswana

2011-03-07T14:59:00.000+02:00

Namibia Sport

Botswana’s Vice President Merafhe Hospitalized in South Africa

2011-02-01T16:02:00.000+02:00

Businessweek

Mammals of Botswana

2011-01-28T10:16:00.000+02:00

"There are 162 mammal species in Botswana, of which 1 is critically endangered, 1 is endangered, 6 are vulnerable, and 6 are near-threatened.[1]"

Kalahari Bushmen in 'remarkable' legal victory

2011-01-28T09:53:00.000+02:00

"The Basarwa Bushmen are traditional hunter-gatherers who have lived in the Kalahari for generations"

De Beers Botswana Managing Director `Stable' After Attack by Lion on Farm

2011-01-13T16:32:00.000+02:00

Botswana Stock Exchange

Myopia and narrow self-interest kill good ideas

2011-01-13T14:15:00.000+02:00

Botswana Gazette

Businesses more bullish in 2011

2011-01-12T12:10:00.000+02:00

Mmegi: "Businesses in Botswana are showing a significant increase in confidence in 2011 expecting the operating climate to improve fuelling the their willingness to invest more in order to increase production as they expect sales to rise, according to a survey carried out by the Bank of Botswana.

The Business Expectations Survey (BES) shows 67 percent of businesses expect that conditions will be more favourable in the first half of 2011 while 73 percent of respondents believe the whole of 2011 will have improved conditions."

Zimbabwe: Botswana Project Poses Fresh Threat to Victoria Falls

2011-01-12T12:09:00.000+02:00

allAfrica.com: "The attractiveness of the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, is under threat if Botswana goes ahead with its planned extraction of large volumes of water from Chobe River for use in its interior, a cabinet minister has said.

This would affect foreign currency inflows for both Zimbabwe and Zambia pumped in by tourists who throng the falls annually to witness the 'smoke that thunders.'

Botswana has notified other southern African countries of its intentions to abstract some 30 cubic metres from the Chombe River where it meets the Zambezi River for a planned irrigation scheme in the Pandamatenga area and for domestic water supply."

Botswana: Get To Know The People And The Wildlife « Travel News

2011-01-12T12:01:00.000+02:00

Travel News: "Travel along the Okavango Delta teeming with abundant wildlife to the might Victoria Falls in Zambia, meeting the warm hearted Tswana people of Maun to get a real taste for the different cultures and landscapes this fascinating part of the world has to offer."

Twenty five swimmers, down from the expected 29, will leave Kenya this Sunday to take part in the Confederation of African Nations Zone 3 & 4

2010-12-31T13:21:00.001+02:00

Kenya Broadcasting Corporation: Twenty five swimmers, down from the expected 29, will leave the country this Sunday to take part in the Confederation of African Nations zone three and four invitational championships that will be held from the 3rd to 8^th of January in Gaborone, Botswana.

Nine Botswana properties make the 2011 Conde Nast Traveler Gold List

2010-12-31T13:14:00.000+02:00

Travel Daily News: "Re-affirming its status as Africa's premier safari destination, Botswana is home to nine properties showcased among the 2011 Conde Nast Traveler Gold List. This is the 17th year Conde Nast Traveler has issued its Gold List, which is comprised of over 25,000 Conde Nast Traveler readers’ top picks of the world's best hotels, resorts, cruise lines and more."

DJ Discovery Metals Awarded Mining License For Boseto Copper Project

2010-12-21T11:37:00.001+02:00

Helpful information about "http://www.tradingmarkets.com/news/stock-alert/dvylf_dj-discovery-metals-awarded-mining-license-for-boseto-copper-project-1380237.html".

Discovery Metals Ltd (DME.LN), said Tuesday that it has been awarded the mining license for the Boseto copper project in northwest Botswana.

in reference to:

"Discovery Metals Ltd (DME.LN), said Tuesday that it has been awarded the mining license for the Boseto copper project in northwest Botswana."
- http://www.tradingmarkets.com/news/stock-alert/dvylf_dj-discovery-metals-awarded-mining-license-for-boseto-copper-project-1380237.html (view on Google Sidewiki)

Chinese vice president leaves for four-nation visits

2010-11-15T11:27:00.000+02:00

Chinese vice president leaves for four-nation visits

Khama insists Zim policy unchanged

2010-11-15T08:47:00.000+02:00

Khama insists Zim policy unchanged

Chinese vice president leaves for four-nation visits

2010-11-15T08:46:00.001+02:00

Chinese vice president leaves for four-nation visits

'Don't worry, Emma will get her house,' says Leapfrog

2010-11-15T08:46:00.000+02:00

Mmegi

BNSC Announces Annual Awards Nominees

2010-11-15T08:45:00.001+02:00

Mmegi

WB insists on trimming public service

2010-11-15T08:45:00.000+02:00

Mmegi

Obiageli Ezekwesili's comments reinforce the World Bank and IMF's criticism of Botswana's 159,000-strong public service, which represents 44 percent of total formal sector employment.

Freelance Photojournalist Arrested, Detained

2010-11-03T11:22:00.000+02:00

allAfrica.com: "The Central Police Station Commander, Kavin Mookodi, who ordered the arrest, claimed that Mogapaesi was misbehaving and disturbing the police who were doing their work. The police further claimed that Mogapaesi refused to cooperate with police officers who had asked all members of the press to move out of the way as they were transferring some suspects who had just been remanded in custody."

Fashion parade shows floral attire still the in-thing

2010-11-03T11:19:00.000+02:00

Mmegi: "One can safely say the floral look and bright colours, which were made famous during the hippy era, are not going anywhere any time soon. The show also indicated that Afro-chic German prints decorated with silky ribbons are still in vogue this spring and many women are expected to be seen spotting them at wedding parties and evening events. For men, stripped shirts made their appearance at the fashion show and this proves that theses items, which made a big comeback a few seasons ago, are still fashionable men's smart casual and formal wear. Golf t-shirts are some of the items that refuse to go away and as a few seasons back, the upturned collar is still an in-thing. Needless to say, jeans and cargo pants still remain favourites among men this spring as proven at the fashion show. What is perhaps worth mentioning at this point is that the fashion show did not showcase the latest fashion trends across the world."

BCP to report Nkate to DPP, police

2010-11-03T11:15:00.000+02:00

Botswana Gazette: "“Nkate’s credibility is in tatters. He cannot be trusted. He must be released from his duties as he can’t be the face of BEDIA when his credibility is in shambles,” Gobotswang said. The party is also investigating whether Nkate a former magistrate and practicing attorney is still a member of the Law Society of Botswana (LSB). If the investigations turn positive, the party will want LSB to relieve him of his practicing certificate."

Human-Rights Organization Cyber Attacked

2010-11-03T10:55:00.000+02:00

The New New Internet: “This is ludicrous; if we wanted to do such thing, we could have done so a long time ago,” the permanent secretary of the Botswana Government Communication and Information System Dr. Jeff Ramsay told ITWeb. “Survival International has been attacking Botswana for years now.”

Zebras spurred into fantastic turnaround

2010-11-03T10:29:00.000+02:00

FIFA.com

All hail the beauty queen!

2010-11-03T10:28:00.000+02:00

People's Daily Online

CRISIS AT BOTSWANA MISSION IN WASHINGTON

2010-10-20T16:15:00.000+02:00

The Botswana Gazette

Now doctors urge condoms for prisoners

2010-10-20T13:38:00.000+02:00

The Botswana Gazette

Japan, Botswana agree to boost cooperation on resources development

2010-10-20T11:06:00.000+02:00

The Mainichi Daily News

LOC Launches African Athletics Logo

2010-10-20T09:30:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online

Equatorial Guinea - Botswana Friendly Ends In Chaos Equatorial Guinea’s fans went wild after their team lost a friendly match to Botswana.

2010-10-14T11:47:00.001+02:00

Equatorial Guinea fans, visibly enraged by their team’s 2-0 loss to Botswana in a friendly match played in Malabo on Tuesday, took to acts of vandalism, ripping out chairs and throwing fireworks on to the pitch, which prompted police intervention, state media RTVGE said.

Ancient animal urine provides insight into climate change

2010-10-13T12:10:00.000+02:00

EurekAlert

Five Envoys present Letters of Credence to President

2010-10-13T12:07:00.000+02:00

GBC News

SEDCO, Botswana LEA alliance for SMME benefit

2010-10-06T10:56:00.000+02:00

The Swazi Observer

Which way Botswana's labour movement?

2010-08-28T09:48:00.001+02:00

Mmegi

Kuru Festival: 'Alcohol-free' doesn't mean 'free alcohol'

2010-08-28T09:48:00.000+02:00

Mmegi

Botswana Minister of Energy, Minerals & Water Resources visits AWDC

2010-08-28T09:46:00.000+02:00

Botswana Minister of Energy, Minerals & Water Resources visits AWDC

Acquiring a Taste for Recycled Water

2010-08-23T16:44:00.000+02:00

allAfrica.com

Paralympics still underfunded despite support from bank

2010-08-17T11:54:00.000+02:00

Sunday Standard

Kirby takes over Court of Appeal

2010-08-04T13:50:00.000+02:00

Mmegi Online

LEA, BCA team up to boost ‘agro’ industry

2010-08-04T13:37:00.001+02:00

We found that unemployment is actually not due to lack of knowledge or training but lack of insight and application. We have identified that there is a need to equip graduates for the government, the private sector and self employment