Sunday, July 12, 2009

Media Statement with reference to media reports, e.g. "Kalafatis lawyers want Khama" etc.

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D8) 25/6/09: Media Statement with reference to media reports, e.g. "Kalafatis lawyers want Khama" etc.

With reference to various media reports, this Office can confirm that the Permanent Secretary to the President has received a letter from Boko & Co. Attorneys, purportedly acting on behalf of the family of the late John Kalafatis, who are said to seek H.E. the President’s assistance in matters related to certain ‘causes of action’ they intend to pursue.

While the content of the letter is under consideration, we wish to express our concern at the fact that a letter that is apparently intended for His Excellency’s attention should have found its way into the local media almost simultaneously with its receipt by his office.

The same letter makes the claim (since reproduced in the Mmegi newspaper of 19/6/09) that His Excellency the President “recently extended similar assistance to one Louis Nchindo in a criminal case against the DPP.” This office would like to inform the public that this statement is false and without substance.

With respect to other matters contained in the same letter, this Office wishes to once more reiterate its position that it would be improper for this Office to interfere in any way with the ongoing investigation into the Kalafatis case. We are therefore not prepared to comment on various allegations that are being circulated in the media surrounding the case, including the content of the above letter, at this time, pending the investigation’s outcome

H.H. the Vice President Departs for AU Summit

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D7) 27/6/09: H.H. the Vice President Departs for AU Summit

On Tuesday morning (30/6/09), at 0800 hrs, His Honour the Vice President Lieutenant General Mompati Merafhe will depart for Sirte, Libya in order to attend the 13th Ordinary Assembly of the African Union Heads of States & Government. His Honour will be attending the Assembly on behalf of His Excellency the President, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama.

The Assembly is to take place from the 1st to the 3rd of July, 2009, and will be preceded by a Meeting of the Executive Council (composed of Ministers) from the 28th to the 30th of June, 2009.

The theme for the Summit is “INVESTING IN AGRICULTURE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH AND FOOD SECURITY”.

Additional issues that are expected to dominate the deliberations of the Summit include:

• the Transformation of the African Union Commission into an African Union Authority;
• the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC); and
• the issue of the Abuse of the Principle of Universal Jurisdiction by some non-African States.

The Assembly will also choose a new Chairperson for the African Union for the period 2010 to 2011. In this respect it is expected that Southern Africa will assume the Chairmanship for the period, taking over from North Africa.

His Honour the Vice President will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Honourable Mr. Phandu T.C. Skelemani, and senior Government officials.

The Vice President and his entourage will return to Botswana on the 4th July 2009.

Please further note that on Monday (29/6/09) at 1530 hours His Honour is scheduled to tour the construction site of the new Bokamoso Private Hospital. The visit will also provide His Honour with an opportunity to inspect the on-going construction work on the Gaborone Molepolole Road.

No plans for Presidential appointment of Mayors and Council Chairpersons

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D6) 25/6/09: No plans for Presidential appointment of Mayors and Council Chairpersons


The Ministry of Local Government, has noted with concern misleading content contained in the lead editorial that appeared in the 17th June 2009 edition of the Botswana Gazette (“Presidential Power to appoint mayors and council chairmen would be a step backwards”), as well as its accompanying article (“Presidential Appointment Powers – The Bill enabling the President to appoint mayors and district chairmen should be Dead on Arrival”).

In its editorial the newspaper falsely claims that: “-the Executive is contemplating yet another measure to limit democracy by taking away Councillors’ right to elect their own leaders.” The newspaper goes on to further falsely assert that the positions would in future be appointed by the President.

Ministry has since confirmed that the proposed Local Government (District Councils) (Amendment) Bill, 2009 as published in the Government Gazette of 29th May 2009 is, in fact, simply “intended to amend the Local Government (District Councils) Act in order to provide for elections to the position of Council Chairperson or Mayor to be held every two and a half years in accordance with the standing orders made by the council.”

The Bill further proposes to amend the existing Act “to prohibit members of councils from concurrently holding positions as public officers.”

The above reforms have been proposed for the straightforward purpose of facilitating continuity and fostering productivity in town, city and district councils. Nowhere does the Bill contemplate giving the President any new powers to elect mayors and chairpersons.
The potential possibility of a President appointing a Council Chair is, in fact, only provided for in the original, 1965, legislation under extraordinary circumstance of establishing a new council.

BEAC Report now online

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D5) 2/7/09: BEAC Report now online

The Government Implementation Coordination Office (GICO) in the Office of the President wishes to inform members of the public that the BUSINESS and ECONOMIC ADVISORY COUNCIL (BEAC) Strategy document on ‘Botswana Excellence: A Strategy for Economic Diversification and Sustainable Growth’ is available free online at the following URL:
www.gov.bw/docs/BotswanaExcellenceStrategynovember08.pdf

Training Workshop for Criminal Justice Officials on International Cooperation in Combating Terrorism 7-9 July, 2009: Gaborone, Botswana

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D4) 6/7/09: Training Workshop for Criminal Justice Officials on International Cooperation in Combating Terrorism 7-9 July, 2009: Gaborone, Botswana

The Office of the President in Conjunction with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime – Terrorism Prevention Branch will conduct a training workshop on “International Cooperation in Combating Terrorism’’ from the 7th to 9th July, 2009 at the GICC.

The purpose of the workshop is to train criminal justice officials on international cooperation in matters related to combating terrorism especially in the areas of extradition and mutual legal assistance.

The workshop will bring together Criminal Justice officials from Botswana, Namibia and Zambia in an endeavour to strengthen judicial cooperation between the countries.

Open Response to MISA- Botswana enquiry on the nature and purpose of the Working Committee on Advertising

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D3) 3/7/09: Open Response to MISA- Botswana enquiry on the nature and purpose of the Working Committee on Advertising

This Office yesterday received an enquiry from MISA-Botswana as to the nature and purpose of the recently established Working Committee on Advertising. Below please find our response, which in the interest of greater public understanding and transparency we hereby copy to domestic media.

RE: WORKING COMMITTEE ON ADVERTISING

To ensure greater cost control and more effective messaging in Government sponsored advertising, the Permanent Secretary to the President has directed that a Working Committee to Oversee Government Sponsored Advertising be established. The said Committee met for the first time on 19 June 2009.

Contrary to speculation appearing in some media, it is neither the mission nor intent of the said Committee to target any media house. It may be further noted that the Committee will be concerned with advertising in public as well as private media, including international as well as domestic ad spend.

The membership of the Working Committee currently consists of Director level officials drawn from the Office of President, Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology (MCST), Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM); and three additional Ministries on a rotational basis.

The Terms of Reference for the Committee are as follows – “The Working Committee Shall:

• "exercise quality assurance over all Government sponsored advertising. This shall be done through weekly monitoring, evaluation and feedback to the Accounting Officers of the Ministries;
• "receive and advise on submissions of anticipated advertising initiatives from line Ministries;
• "undertake such additional advertising or marketing research as it may be directed to undertake in order to advance its mandate;
• "from time to time come up with additional long-term strategies to advance its mandate in line with Presidential Directive CAB: 30/2006 of August 2006, and any other relevant directives;
• "report to the Permanent Secretary to the President through the BGCIS [Botswana Government Communication and Information System] Coordinator, acting in consultation with the Permanent Secretary MCST and the Director DPSM.”

While the need to introduce cost control and quality assurance measures in the delivery of Government sponsored advertising has been given additional impetus in the context of the current economic downturn, it has otherwise been long recognised and indeed provided for in existing policy.

In particular, as has been previously reported on various occasions to the press and public, the vetting of Government sponsored advertising to ensure appropriate cost control and effective messaging was originally provided for by Presidential Directive CAB: 30/2006 of August 2006, which mandated that the BGCIS be given the responsibility of ensuring that advertising by Government is at all times cost effective and serves a public purpose.

In carrying out this mandate BGCIS was further tasked with monitoring and or coordinating the buying of advertising and marketing space for Government, as well as the content development and production of Government information products.

In line with the above mandate, an inter-ministerial task force was established in late September 2006 to facilitate implementation of the BGCIS Directive. Among its findings the Task Force identified marketing or advertising services as a core BGCIS Function. In reaching said conclusion the Task Force was mindful of, and in conformity with, identified international best practice benchmarks, e.g.

• The Advertising and Marketing Division and Media Buying Agency of the Central Information Office, which services the UK Government;
• The Communications Services Agency of the South African;
• The Central Advertising System in Australia;
• The Secretariat for Communications of the Federal Government in Canada;
• The Marketing and Special Projects Department of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS); and
• The Corporate Services Section of the Office of the Prime Minister in New Zealand.

Response to 3/7/09 Mail & Guardian article `Draughts of Change`

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D2) 8/7/09: Response to 3/7/09 Mail & Guardian article “Draughts of Change”

The 3 July 2009 edition of your newspaper carries an article (Draughts of change”), critiquing what it describes as the Government of Botswana’s “implementation of its draconian 30% alcohol levy”.

The same article makes additional dubious claims, e.g. the alcohol tax “is driving locals to drink” and that Windhoek Lager “is the cheapest mainstream beer in the country because it is brewed over the border” (conveniently ignoring the fact that the levy is applied to all alcoholic beverages sold in the country).

The simple fact of the matter is that the use of alcohol specific taxes to curb consumption and mitigate harm has is common international practice.

In this respect Botswana lagged behind other nations, including South Africa, in belatedly introducing its own alcohol tax.

Outside of the liquor industry, alcohol specific taxes, enjoy widespread support among experts in the field of substance abuse policy, as well as public safety and health stakeholders, as an effective instrument for reducing alcohol related harm, such as motor vehicle mortality, violent crime, family violence and child abuse.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the effect of price changes on alcohol consumption has been found by some to be greater in low to middle income countries than high income countries, while young and underage consumers are known to be particularly sensitive to price.

The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) 2004 Global Status Report: Alcohol Policy, for example, concluded that:

“Extensive studies conducted in many developed and some developing countries demonstrate that increases in taxes and prices are related to reductions in alcohol consumption and harm… Ideally taxes on alcoholic beverages should be placed high on the list of possible policy measures as they are effective, cost-effective, easy to implement, and can generate government revenue and reduce both consumption and harm.”

According to the same report of the 117 countries that participated in a taxation survey 95% imposed either a general sales tax or VAT on alcohol, while the majority went further in imposing additional alcohol specific taxes, ranging from 3% to 200% of retail price.

Among a representative sub-sample of countries that provided data on alcohol specific excise taxes as a percentage of their domestic retail price, it was thus found that the average total tax burden on beer, wine and spirits, was respectively: 38%, 37% and 56%.

Alcohol specific taxes, of course, have the additional advantage of providing Governments with revenue that can be used to finance the costs borne by public health services, law enforcement agencies and justice systems as a result of alcohol related maladies, as well as help finance preventative interventions such as public awareness campaigns.

In the light of such evidence that the 58th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Yaoundé in September 2008, recommended increasing taxes to influence prices and reduce alcohol affordability as one of a number of long-term actions to fight alcohol consumption on the continent.

In this regional and global context, it is hard to see your correspondent’s justification for describing Botswana’s 30% levy, which was introduced as part of a holistic campaign to combat substance abuse in the country, as being especially draconian.

Right of Reply to the Botswana Gazette by Mr.S.Q.Madisa,Dep.Sen.Private Secretary & Press Liaison Officer to the President: Khama did not hire Jet

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline


D1b) Right of Reply to the Botswana Gazette by Mr. Sipho Qedindaba Madisa, Deputy Senior Private Secretary & Press Liaison Officer to the President: “KHAMA DID NOT HIRE JET”

The 8 July 2009 edition of your newspaper carried on its second page an article titled “Khama Hires Jet”, which included alleged responses by myself to your reporter that were certainly not uttered by me.

I am disappointed, to say the least, at such apparently unethical and unprofessional conduct and am at a loss as to why your reporter would rush to print an unverified article when he knew very well that his action was out of order given that he was still to be furnished with answers to his questionnaire, which had been delayed for reasons advanced to him. This is the sort of thing that leads one to suspect malice of intent.

I know respectable and credible journalists who play by the book and would never go out of their way to so misinform the public for reasons perhaps best known to themselves. They respect their profession and are governed by the media code of ethics. It is disturbing to note therefore that under seeming pressure to run a story your reporter broke ranks with established rules and inappropriately and improperly impressed upon the reading public untruths, by forcing words into my mouth.

For the record, His Excellency the President or the Office of the President did not charter an aircraft for the said state visit. Instead, what I can confirm is that the manufacturers of the expected presidential jet felt obliged to facilitate the state visit because of the inconvenience caused the Botswana Government.
This trip had long been planned for and Bombardier was privy to this background. All expenses were therefore incurred by Bombardier and Botswana Government did not spend a single thebe contrary to your allegations.

At no point during our discourse did the cost of charter ever arise. Instead, of particular note was the question on delivery which I answered as captured in the article under contention.

Furthermore, that the delayed delivery of the aircraft was “raking in a lot of money from Botswana as a result” is not true because, for the readers sake, the truth is there is a penalty fee for failure to deliver. That means, the total purchase price will be less the penalty fee to the day of delivery.

In this respect one can only wonder if truly there are any officials at the enclave who share the expenses sentiment as claimed, or is this a mere figment of imagination.

Members of the press, like others should show basic respect – that is do unto others as you would like them do unto you. Always endeavour to tell the truth, for the truth will set you free. What moves me deeply is the fact that when I enquired with the reporter about his conduct he had nothing to say.

Press Statement: OP denies chartering jet for foreign visit.

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

D1a) 8/7/09: Press Statement: OP denies chartering jet for foreign visit.

This Office notes with dismay a report in one of today’s newspapers [i.e. “Khama Hires a Jet” in Botswana Gazette of 8/7/09] in which it is falsely claimed that H.E. the President has chartered a jet from a Canadian jet manufacturing company, Bombardier, for use in foreign trips such as his recent Official Visit to Singapore.

We are also concerned that the same report misleadingly insinuates that millions are thus being used to charter aircraft for foreign trips and its publication of the further unsubstantiated claim that some unnamed “officials in government believe Bombardier is raking in a lot of money from Botswana as a result of the delayed delivery of anew Presidential jet.”

For the record, this Office can reassure the public that no such charter or payments have been made.

In fact, Bombardier provided a jet free of charge for use by His Excellency’s delegation to Singapore, as a result of the company’s failure to meet its delivery deadline.

We further observe that, far from “raking in a lot of money”, the same company, in accordance with its contractual obligations, is actually being made to pay penalty fees for each day it fails to meet the said deadline.

Finally, this Office is of the firm view that an understandable inability of public officials to at all times conform to various newspapers own deadlines does not in any way absolve the press from its professional obligation to at all times ensure that what is published is accurate; much less provide media practitioners with a license to embellish and distort such information as has been availed to them.

Memorandum of Understanding signed during President Khama’s visit to Singapore.

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

C3) 24/6/09: Memorandum of Understanding signed during President Khama’s visit to Singapore.

Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority (BEDIA) and Singapore Business Federation (SBF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the 23rd June 2009. The Memorandum of Understanding is intended to facilitate trade and investment between the two countries.

BEDIA CEO, Mrs. Dorcas Makgatho-Malesu and her SBF counterpart, Mr. Teng Dar signed the MOU at a ceremony that was graced by H.E President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama. The chairperson of SBF, Mr. Tony Chew, said at the signing ceremony that trade between Botswana and Singapore increased from US$14 million in 2006 to US$27 million in 2008 placing Botswana as Singapore's 150 trading partner in 2008. He urged Singapore companies to tap into Botswana's business links and opportunities such as access to economic blocs in Southern Africa such as SADC and SACU.

He said that the MoU will provide a platform for collaboration between the two countries, particularly in the fields of tourism, health care, education and financial services, sectors that Singapore is traditionally strong at. Mr. Chew further said that Singapore through SBF will be setting up an African Business Platform aimed at developing business links between business communities in Singapore and Southern Africa. For her part, Mrs Makgatho-Malesu assured Singapore investors of liberal tax regime of 15 and 25 per cent tax to corporate and personal respectively. Mrs Makgato-Malesu said Botswana provides conducive investment environment, with the country being the most transparent, least corrupt in Africa as stated by Transparency International.

H.E.Lt.Gen.Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of the Republic of Botswana, at a Round Table Discussion with the Singapore Business Community

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

C2) 22/6/09: Statement by H.E. Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of the Republic of Botswana, at a Round Table Discussion with the Singapore Business Community:

Mr. Teng Theng Dar, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Business Federation; The High Commissioner for Botswana, Mrs Naomi Majinda; Distinguished Members of the Singapore Business Community; Ladies and Gentlemen

1. It is an honour for me to address this distinguished gathering of entrepreneurs. I appreciate the efforts of the Singapore Business Federation in making this meeting possible. I appreciate that in your field of work you take crucial commercial decisions and since in business time means money, your decision to be here this afternoon was not taken lightly.

2. I wish to begin by commending you Mr. Teng Theng Dar and your Botswana counterpart Mrs Dorcus Makgato-Malesu, for having come up with a structured mechanism for co-operation. The Memorandum of Understanding to be signed between the Sinapore Business Federation and BEDIA will serve as an effective stepping stone to a stronger and sustained relationship between Singaporean investors and Botswana.

3. The purpose of my address this afternoon is to invite you to consider Botswana as a destination for your investments. As a Government we are strongly committed to an open economy, private sector growth and development.

4. Since independence in 1966 Botswana made concerted efforts to create an environment conducive to foreign direct investment. We have pursued policies and practices, instituted laws and created institutions that enhance good governance, respect for the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law and the sanctity of commercial contracts.

5. Botswana holds good promise for its people and entrepreneurs willing to invest their hard earned money in the country in the full knowledge that they can earn a good return.

6. Over the years, we have taken a deliberate stance of placing a high national priority in creating modern infrastructure for facilitating continued socio-economic growth. In this regard, we have constructed a network of roads, air transport and fibre optic based telecommunications systems, which link Botswana with the rest of the world.

7. We continue to upgrade our physical infrastructure to make it more responsive to the needs of a modern economy. We recognize the private sector as an important partner and a vital engine for economic growth and social progression. We firmly believe that the role of Government is to create a conducive investment climate, while the private sector is responsible for wealth creation and distribution.

8. My Government is determined to continue nurturing this environment which facilitates private sector growth, and enable it to contribute to our development agenda. We continue to work diligently to strengthen the public-private partnership. Our fiscal and monetary policies are aimed at maintaining a stable and predictable macroeconomic environment.

9. The policies we have consistently implemented catapulted Botswana from a least developed country to middle income status it is today. But that is not the end state. Our strategy now is to reach a state of a high income economy. We are therefore inviting you to join us on this journey of opportunity by investing in Botswana.

10. We have among other things developed specific initiatives through focused ‘Hubs’ to drive economic diversification, specifically the Innovation Hub, the Transport and Logistics Hub, the Health Hub, the Education Hub and the Diamond Hub.

11. It is envisaged that the private sector will play a key role in the development of the Hubs. These Hubs have been created to serve as centres of excellence in various fields with potential to promote economic diversification. The various centres of excellence are expected to elevate Botswana’s competitiveness and re-position the country as a cost effective destination of choice.

12. Over and above the already identified opportunities in the Hubs, my Government has opened up many mining and energy exploration activities. We are confident that there is a lot to be discovered and are therefore inviting you to come and join us in this initiative.

13. Detailed information on specific opportunities will be provided in the presentation by the Chief Executive Officer BEDIA. As entrepreneurs I am fully aware that you must undertake due diligence and arrive at commercial decisions.

14. It must be on account of the wealth that will be generated for your shareholders while creating sustainable job opportunities for Batswana and thereby meaningfully contributing to Botswana’s economic development.

15. While Botswana has a small local market, strategic and foreword looking investors can use the country as a base to manufacture products for export to the region as well as to the European Union countries where Botswana’s goods are admitted quota-free and duty-free.

16. Botswana is a member of Southern African Development Community (SADC), an economic block with a total population of about 250 million and an import-bill exceeding US$200 billion per annum. According to the SADC Trade Protocol, which came into force in September 2001, all trade barriers between Member States will be removed over a period of 8 to 12 years.

17. In the same vein, the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) which groups 5 countries (Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland and South Africa) offers investors the opportunity to export their manufactured products duty free to member countries without any restrictions whatsoever.

18. In addition Botswana has duty free and quota free access to the US market under the United States African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Over 6000 different products can be exported to the US market.

19. In conclusion I encourage you to visit Botswana with a view to exploring and assessing for yourself the vast investment opportunities available. Thank you for your attention.

H.E.Lt.Gen.Seretse Khama Ian Khama at a State Banquet held in his honour by the Hon.Dr.L.Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

C1) 22/6/09: Statement by H.E. Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, President of the Republic of Botswana, at a State Banquet held in his honour by the Honourable Dr. Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore

Your Excellency, the Prime Minister and Madame Lee; Honourable Ministers; Excellencies the High Commissioners; Honourable Members of Parliament here present; Distinguished Guests; Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. Let me begin by thanking His Excellency President Nathan for the kind invitation.

2. This being my first visit as President of the Republic of Botswana, I appreciate the invitation and I am particularly delighted to be in Singapore. My presence here today is a reaffirmation of the value we attach to the relationship and the friendship we have cultivated over the years. I also bring greetings and good wishes from the people of Botswana.

3. I am committed to expanding these excellent bilateral relations for the common good. The path established by my predecessors will not be hard to find, let alone follow. I therefore come with the desire to consolidate our profound and meaningful relationship, and look forward to a fruitful stay in this very beautiful and tranquil Republic.

4. I am also grateful to you, Mr. Prime Minister, for the warm words you have said about me and my country. The words are very touching especially when they are expressed by those we value as true and well meaning friends.

5. Botswana and Singapore are worlds apart geographically. But we can both be proud that we have succeeded in defying these geographical distances between our countries, by creating what today stands out as a working and exemplary relationship based on partnership and collaboration. Ours is therefore, a relationship defined by a strong foundation of mutual respect and shared values of democracy; good governance; the rule of law and respect for human rights.

6. Our common membership of the Commonwealth, the Non Aligned Movement and the United Nations provides opportunities for our countries to work together in a meaningful way at the multilateral level. Our ability to coordinate positions on issues before such fora can be critical in ensuring that reason and common sense prevails.

7. In facing up to its development challenges, Botswana has had to rely on Singapore as a dependable development partner. To this end, we have received a lot of development assistance especially in the area of human resource development. The partnership has over the years proved to be an enduring one and its benefits are beginning to impact positively on the national economy of Botswana.

8. The most daunting challenge in our development initiatives has been to address the issue of service delivery, especially the public sector. Singapore presented us the best case study, hence our unending desire to learn more about this successful model. We have sent many Batswana to Singapore to learn first hand about Management techniques, as well as gain knowledge in certain specialized fields.

9. Singapore has been instrumental in setting up the Botswana National Productivity Centre, which is modelled along the lines of the Singapore Productivity and Standards Board. There is also the ongoing exercise to transform through Singapore’s assistance the Botswana Institute of Administration and Commerce into a fully fledged Public Service College.

10. We certainly have a lot to learn from Singapore, the success your country showcases demonstrates that, where there is purposely leadership, a lot can be achieved. Singapore is globally famous for its vibrant seaport, hard work, high levels of productivity, high standards of education, quality of life, picture square environs and a disciplined population and national pride. Singapore projects all the qualities of a centre of excellence, and she is an important player in the South East Asia region and in world affairs.

Your Excellency,

11. I am aware that your country has for the past few days been hosting a very important conference, “The Second Singapore International Water Week”. Botswana is represented at this important meeting. We attach a lot of importance to water, a trait we share with your country as we both are deficient in water resources. The essence of making this conference an annual event in your national calendar underlines the importance your country attaches to water as a source of life and sustenance of human development. It is my hope that, from the conference there will be many lessons learnt both in terms of the management, technologies and business issues related to water.

Your Excellency,

12. Developing countries are facing up to a major challenge out of the current global economic slowdown, the prospects for growth look gloomy, to say the least. What makes most of us anxious is the fact that, there are no projections pointing to anything positive, all we hear is that, the turn around of the world economy will take a while; some are even predicting 5 years at most. The current global economic crisis can only mean that, most of the developing countries will fail to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDG’s), and the African continent stands to be the most affected.

13. It is however pleasing to note that, at the last Meeting Group of 20 (G20) held in London, United Kingdom this past April, the development partners committed themselves to assist the developing countries by maintaining their lines of credit, but also desist from being inward looking by encouraging Foreign Direct Investment and reducing tariffs. We can only hope that they will be true to their word.

14. Botswana is beginning to feel the impact of the economic downturn. To get ourselves out of the present circumstances, my government has embarked on programmes whose aim is to bring relief, but above all to create sustainable development.

15. Our greatest ambition is to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on the mining sector. We therefore identified a number of mega projects, which we define as hubs. The hubs focus into the fields of: Agriculture (to ensure self sufficiency in food production and security); Innovation (mainly in modern technologies and ICT); Diamond (to create value addition in down stream production, this includes Jewellery manufacturing); Health (to create specialist health care facilities of international standards); Transport (to create the nerve centre for the SADC regions transport infrastructure), and Education ( to create centres of excellence in the field of education and learning).

16. In order to render these hubs effective, Botswana is looking for partners from both the private and public sector to invest in these various sectors/hubs.

17. In the same regard, we have had to readjust our approach to Education by placing more emphasis to science based and technical education. We have moved further to establish a University for Science and Technology, so as to meet the needs of our economy in the technical and specialised fields.

18. It goes without saying that, we take the cue from the Singaporean experience, and we also count on your support in this endeavour. We equally call upon the notables within Singapore’s private sector to take advantage of the investment opportunities in Botswana. It also worth pointing out, that, in my delegation I have officials from the Botswana Export Development and Investment Agency (BEDIA), who are here to promote the investment opportunities I have alluded to. BEDIA is also here to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Singapore Business Federation (SBF). We envisage that from the MoU, our business people will fashion out business dealings which will benefit our two countries and people.

Your Excellency,

19. Let me conclude by once again expressing my appreciation for the invitation and the warm welcome. As I stated earlier, Botswana has the greatest admiration for Singapore, and we have reason to believe that, we can learn a lot from your example and success. It is equally important to emphasize that the relations between our two nations have over the years been profound, but we need this time around to explore further areas to engender our cooperation.

20. I will do my best to nurture this relationship for the mutual benefit of our two countries and peoples.

21. Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, May I now ask you to rise and join me in a toast:

• To the continued good health of His Excellency, President Nathan;
• To the continued friendship and cooperation between the Governments and Peoples of Botswana and Singapore; and
• To International Peace and Security! I thank you for your attention.

Former President Mogae returns from Nigeria

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B8) 9/7/09: Former President Mogae returns from Nigeria

His Excellency the Former President Mr. Festus G. Mogae returned this morning from Nigeria, where he had gone at the invitation of the Executive Governor of the Bayelsa State Chief Timipre Sylva. Bayelsa State is one of the oil and gas-rich Nigerian states.

The Former President had been invited to give a lecture on ‘Transformational Leadership: The Botswana Model’ as part of Governor Timipre Sylva Annual Birthday Lecture Series for Good Governance. The full text of the lecture, which was delivered yesterday, is reproduced below.

After the lecture Mr. Mogae commissioned one of the many link roads constructed by the Sylva administration. The road was named after him as ‘Festus Mogae Drive’.

Some of the priorities of the State Government are said to include infrastructure development including roads linking villages and administrative centres, consolidating good governance and transforming leadership. In this respect they wanted to hear how Botswana managed to transform the wealth from its mineral resources into social development and economic growth and sustained good governance.

Address by H.E. the Former President of the Republic of Botswana Mr. Festus G. Mogae on ‘Transformational Leadership: The Botswana Model’ given during Governor Timipre Slyva Annual Birthday Lecture Series for Good Governance at Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, 7th July 2009

Director of Ceremonies, Your Excellency Executive Governor of the Bayelsa State Chief Timipre Sylva Honourable Members of the State Government Distinguished Guests Ladies and Gentlemen

1. It is an honour for me to be invited to give a talk on good governance at a time when an increasing number of African countries are adopting democratic principles. Good Governance ensures social, political and economic stability in any country. I would therefore like to thank the Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva, for according me this opportunity.

2. I also wish to express my gratitude to you Sir, members of your government, and the people of Bayelsa State, for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to me.

3. This lecture presents an opportunity for a fruitful exchange of ideas and experiences on Good Governance. I will endeavour to share with you Botswana’s relative success in achieving steady economic growth with social development and political stability.

4. Ladies and gentlemen, the debate on good governance in Africa is timely because positive political trends have been occurring across the continent with many countries opening their political systems to give people the opportunity to participate in deciding who should govern them.

5. We all know that Africa has gone through painful experiences since independence in the 1960s. Some African countries experienced the most despotic and brutal regimes that violated fundamental human rights, and adopted political and economic policies that were generally misguided and unsustainable. That fostered instability, civil strife and unconstitutional seizures of power.

6. Corruption became endemic, lack of accountability and transparency and the absence of good governance became the order of the day. The riches from the continent’s natural resources benefited the few and corrupt condemning millions to poverty and hunger. Lack of governance attracted negative media that only concentrated on the negative instead of harping on the success stories.

7. However, as I have already stated, things are changing for the better. New positive trends are becoming common in the continent. Free and fair elections are being conducted under international observation and supervision. African institutions are also monitoring the conduct of elections in African countries. More countries are exploring better and transparent ways of utilizing the wealth from their natural resources for social and economic development.

8. Democratisation is taking root in most of the African countries, and the expectation is that good governance, transparency, accountability and respect for human rights will similarly improve and are in fact improving.

9. There are now positive stories coming out of the African continent highlighting high levels of economic growth and political and religious tolerance. There are concerted efforts by governments across the continent to embrace good political and corporate governance.

10. In my own region, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), member states have adopted Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections. We established the SADC Electoral Commissions Forum in 1998 as a way of consolidating democracy in the region, and the SADC Parliamentary Forum which is a grouping of the region’s national parliaments.

11. But what is good governance? Is the holding of regular elections enough?

12. Good Governance is about adherence to a legitimate constitution, upholding the rule of law as well as broad based participation of the people in the way they are governed. Gender equity and providing for the needs of vulnerable groups is also paramount.

13. Good Governance is a about establishing clear rules and procedures that facilitate speedy and timely decision making. It is about a system of checks and balances to ensure that the various arms of government, that is, the legislature, judiciary, and executive, operate within clearly delineated limits of authority. It is about being accountable to the people.

14. On the other hand, poor governance can manifest itself in many forms such as abuse of state power, violation of human rights and basic freedoms, such as freedom of association, expression, and the right to development, collapse of state apparatus, centralization of power as well as undefined systems and procedures in public policy formulation and execution.

15. Such conditions result in unstable socio-economic and political environment which engender poor service delivery, corruption and lack of certainty about the future. Under such circumstances the process of development and enjoyment of fundamental human freedoms is seriously compromised and frustrated.

16. Ladies and gentlemen, the role of government in governance is manifested largely through government’s exercise of power and authority, including in the creation of a conducive policy and regulatory environment for business sector development and operation. This includes, among other things, establishing a legal system that protects and enforces the constitution, laws and regulations and providing short to long-term strategic guidance.

17. The public sector, which includes government, should be strong but small and efficient. Without such a public sector, business cannot deliver according to expectation. This necessarily calls for capacity building of the public sector, including, inter alia, provision of skills, institutional reforms and reviews, and strengthening of laws, regulations and procedures, and so on. Capacity building in this regard, is meant to ensure that government is able to meet its share of governance responsibility.

18. Perhaps illustrative of the importance of such capacity building, is the fact that weak institutions tend to have greater potential for corruption. Corruption, in addition to being costly, cripples development, by, among other things, undermining the rule of law, the institutional foundation on which economic growth and development rely.

19. Strong, efficient and transparent government institutions are fundamental to economic growth and sustainable development. As former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has said, ‘Good Governance is the single most important factor in eradicating poverty and promoting development’. Yes, a fundamental change in the governance of African countries is the key to all other changes.

20. Ladies and gentlemen, I will now briefly outline the governance experience in my country, Botswana. Botswana has been a multi-party democracy since independence in 1966 and we will be going to our tenth general election in three months time. A fundamental tenet of Botswana’s democracy is broad based inclusivity and participation.

21. Botswana’s democratic norms are rooted in our society’s longstanding tradition of decision making through public consultation. Since time immemorial local authorities have consulted their people in open fora known as Kgotla, where participants were free to express opinions without fear. This quality is consistent with such Setswana saying as “Mmualebe o bua la gagwe” (Every person is entitled to his opinion however unpopular) and “Mafoko a Kgotla a mantle otlhe” (All statements made at the Kgotla are permissible).

22. Today our modern representative democracy still recognizes the need to hold itself accountable to ordinary people assembled in Kgotla, as well as in additional settings of the private sector, bi-annual public-private sector conference, civil society and, of course, the citizenry as a whole through the ballot box.

23. Since independence we have had peaceful and smooth transitions of power from the first president Sir Seretse Khama to Sir Ketumile Masire in 1980 and from Sir Ketumile Masire to me in 1998 and from me to Seretse Khama Ian Khama in 2008.

24. In more recent times, we have amended our constitution to limit the Presidential term to two five-year terms and I was the first president to retire under this constitutional requirement. I retired on 31st March 2008 and there was no talk of me amending the constitution to seek a third term.

25. To broaden citizen participation in elections we amended our electoral laws to reduce the voting age from 21 to 18 years, and extended the franchise to our citizens residing outside the country. Elections are now overseen by an Independent Electoral Commission presided over by a Judge of the High Court.

26. The judiciary and legislature are independent and have each performed their watch dog role over the executive admirably. In addition, Botswana has had a vibrant, robust and independent media and civil society. Openness to public scrutiny and transparency has reinforced accountability. No one is spared from scrutiny by the media.

27. In addition to the constitutionally-entrenched oversight organisations such as the Auditor General and Directorate of Public Prosecutions, we have established independent organisations such as the Auditor General, Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime, Ombudsman and Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board.

28. These key anti-corruption and accountability institutions ensure strict adherence to proper financial management practices and good corporate governance.

29. They have strong legal mandates and powers to investigate and report on possible abuses and departures from financial laws and regulations, designed to protect the public interest with regard to, among other things, safeguarding of the collection, custody and use of public funds and assets, including land, the security of private property, as well as the freedom to trade anywhere in the country.

30. An independent judiciary underpins these institutions, and we continue to exercise vigilance to ensure that they all adapt to the changing times.

31. In Botswana we are committed to the goal of ‘zero tolerance’ for corruption. Our resolve is that corrupt practices must remain a ‘high risk low return undertaking’. This has earned Botswana a rating, by Transparency International, as the least corrupt country in Africa and the developing world, and indeed among the best in the world.

32. Our experience is that one key element of promoting good governance is to have a transparent system that allows interaction among development agents, without unnecessary hindrances to information access. Transparency is promoted more effectively through information flow between governments and other stakeholders.

33. This includes creation of formal and informal channels for constant dialogue and consultation between partners. Some such channels include creation and sustenance of inclusive but relevant fora that can accommodate various interests.

34. To further enhance information flow, the government has established a directorate within the Office of the President called Government Communications and Information System. This is a government communications network whose mission is to ensure that Botswana is better informed about itself and the world is well informed about Botswana.

35. Ladies and gentlemen, a particular aspect of governance of major interest to me is the management of natural resources. It is known all over the world that Africa is endowed with natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals, wildlife and forests, but because of poor governance the wealth accruing from these resources does not benefit millions of our people. They remain poor and susceptible to disease while few of their compatriots live high life. As an oil-rich State I would like to believe that you are also interested in the proper management of natural resources.

36. In Botswana we decided at independence to reaffirm the principle that the natural resources of Botswana are a common heritage. Botswana therefore owes its advances in development to the exploitation of minerals, especially diamonds.

37. All mining rights are vested in the state and revenue through direct shareholding, where appropriate taxes and royalties accrue to the national coffers. These are the resources that we have used to develop schools, health facilities, and physical infrastructure and sustain the costs associated with the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

38. The revenues earned from diamonds are a matter of public knowledge and reported in published government accounts. We have done relatively better in transforming the wealth from our minerals into social development and economic growth. We managed because we developed transparent policies and regulatory framework which enforced accountability.

39. Ladies and gentlemen, allow to reiterate as a point of emphasis that for democracy to be said to be working it is necessary that the continent’s natural resources be managed in a transparent and accountable manner. People should benefit from these resources because they belong to them. Secondly, for democracy to grow roots on the African continent, leaders should commit to handing over power after the expiration of their term of office.

40. In Botswana we have demonstrated that it is possible to be transparent and accountable. It only takes good policies, commitment and accepting that natural resources do not belong to leaders and their families and friends, but are a common heritage for present and future generations. What we have achieved can be achieved by other African states.

CONCLUSION

42. Ladies and gentlemen, good governance is all embracing. It is not a menu from which to pick and choose. All elements of governance such as political, economic, social, public sector management, the media and civil society, area equally crucial. But all these have to be underpinned by values of broad based citizen participation, transparency, accountability and fairness.

43. Strong and functioning democratic institutions and values can facilitate economic development, create an environment which encourages individual and group initiatives and equitably distribution of resources.

44. Allow me to conclude by quoting Dr Mo Ibrahim of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation which focuses on governance in Africa.
Dr Ibrahim says,

• ‘Without good governance, the State’s resources cannot be effectively administered to provide education and health- care services, of which acute shortages exist in much of the continent. Potential gains from increased aid and debt relief cannot be as effective as they could be.
• ‘Without good governance, laws cannot be justly applied and security upheld. Africa faces high risks of internal insecurity, which can quickly develop into humanitarian crises in the absence of security and the rule of law.
• ‘Without good governance, people cannot be fairly represented, and democracy cannot be allowed to flourish. Civil society cannot fulfil its potential to contribute to development in the absence of sound governance.
• ‘Without good governance, businesses cannot operate. The private sector is an engine of growth - generating employment, prosperity and tax revenue-but only if it is able to thrive.
• ‘Without good governance, international investors will be deterred. Africa is experiencing record flows of FDI, but they are still a small fraction of the global total and must be increased if the continent is to have a chance of achieving the Millennium Development Goals by 2015.’

45. I thank you for your attention.

The Secretary for Defence,Justice and Security, Mr.A.Makgonatsotlhe, at the opening Workshop on International Cooperation in Combating Terrorism

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B7) 8/7/09: Statement by the Secretary for Defence, Justice and Security, Mr. Augustine Makgonatsotlhe, at the opening Workshop on International Cooperation in Combating Terrorism:

Director of Ceremonies, Distinguished UNODC Staff Members, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. It is a great honour and privilege for me to perform the official opening of this important workshop that aims at strengthening capacity in the criminal justice system.

2. Let me take this opportunity to welcome the team of experts from the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). We are greatly honoured to have you here to share with us the best practice in dealing with the threat of terrorism.

3. I also wish to commend and welcome judicial officers from our sister Republics of Namibia and Zambia for honouring our invitation to this workshop.

4. May I also take this opportunity to commend local participants, the majority of whom are drawn from Magistrates, Prosecutors and legal practitioners, for turning up in large numbers. We remain grateful to the Terrorism Prevention Branch in the Southern African Region based in Pretoria, Republic of South Africa, for ensuring that this workshop takes place against the challenges we initially faced.

5. Director of Ceremonies, given the commitment demonstrated by Member States of the United Nations on strengthening measures to combat terrorism and all its manifestations in their respective countries I have no doubt in my mind that the Terrorism Prevention Branch will succeed in achieving a functional universal legal regime against terrorism. This commitment is clearly demonstrated in a good number of initiatives that resulted in the immense achievements on the part of the UNODC.

6. Since the launch of its Global Project on Strengthening the Legal Regime against terrorism in 2003, UNODC has provided legal support to more than 150 countries all over the world – of which 114 received country-specific assistance – and has trained more than 6,000 national criminal justice officials.

7. At the regional level, UNODC has provided all 53 African countries with direct or indirect technical assistance for the ratification and implementation of the universal legal instruments against terrorism; it has organized 26 regional and sub-regional workshops; and trained approximately 1,400 national criminal justice officials. So far, 16 African countries have drafted and 8 have passed new anti-terrorism legislation.

8. Ever since 9/11 terrorist attacks and the subsequent United Nations Resolution 1373 on Counter-Terrorism Botswana took appropriate measures to prevent and fight terrorism in all its forms. A National Counter-Terrorism Committee was set up to coordinate the implementation of the international instruments against Terrorism.

9. The committee has set up a Task Force to deal directly with critical areas such as incidences of money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism. To this end, the Bank of Botswana, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the DCEC, Attorney General and the Police are all out to ensure that money transmission service providers in Botswana take appropriate measures to comply with international financial rules and regulations.

10. As early as 2001, the Bank of Botswana issued a Circular to all financial institutions in Botswana to comply with the UN Resolution 1373 which called on the combating of money laundering and terrorism financing. Such measures include blockage of transmission and forfeiture of properties and interests of persons known to pose significant risk in money laundering and/or terrorism.

11. Botswana is a member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an independent international body, based in Paris, France that issued forty recommendations that set up a universal framework for anti money-laundering efforts. These recommendations cover in the criminal justice system: law enforcement; provisions to combat the financing of Terrorism and International Cooperation initiatives.

12. Director of Ceremonies, it is indeed encouraging that this workshop will complement efforts already in place to combat terrorism in Botswana. We are particularly grateful that the target group for this workshop is criminal justice officials who will be better equipped on how to deal with cases of this nature.

13. This workshop is meant to foster international cooperation in combating terrorism. To achieve this, the participants will be given a presentation on the national legislation against terrorism and international cooperation in criminal matters (i.e. extradition and mutual legal assistance) including bilateral and multilateral treaties and agreements, by each participating country i.e. Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. You will be taken through a case study on how to combat terrorism through international cooperation and discuss some of the challenges to criminal justice counter-terrorism cooperation in Southern Africa.

14. At the end of this workshop you will be expected to master the tools which you will ultimately use to facilitate international cooperation in criminal matters by learning and understanding the Mutual Legal Assistance Request Writer Tool and Electronic Database. And lastly, you will learn how to use INTERPOL to prosecute international terrorism cases.

15. Director of Ceremonies, I am quite confident that the workshop participants will be taken through sessions that would ensure that the workshop objectives will be ultimately achieved. In conclusion, I would like to commend the UNODC for the impeccable work they are doing in this sensitive area that impacts on security of the nation and its people. I wish you a productive two day workshop and I hope you will all find it rewarding. It is now my honour to declare this workshop officially opened. I thank you.

This week in Parliament Q/A

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B6) Questions answered in Parliament by the Hon. Minister for Defence, Justice and Security:

B6a) 6/7/09: PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION NO. 684 ASKED ON BY Mr. D. Saleshando, MP. (Gaborone Central)

QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security if the constitutional provision detailing the procedure for the appointment of judges, expressly empowers the President to reject recommendations made by the Judicial Service Commission.

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker, the Constitution of Botswana provides that the power to appoint Judges ultimately resides with the President. In making such appointments the President is advised by the Judicial Service Commission. The advice given by the Judicial Service Commission is tendered to assist the President in reaching a decision. The Constitution does not expressly state what the President can do or not do with the advice, but considering that “advice” is a recommendation and is offered for a future action, it is reasonable to expect that the person so advised may in his/her future action take or reject the advice. To hold otherwise would render the constitutional provision absurd. I thank you, Mr. Speaker.

B6b) 6/7/09: QUESTION NO. 685 BY Mr. C. M. Batsile, MP. (Kanye North)

QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security when the construction of Kanye Magistrate Court will commence.

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker, Kanye Magistrate Court was approved to be built in the course of this financial year. In terms of our programme the Architectural design of the court is at the final stages and is expected to be completed this month (July). Construction is planned to commence in the second quarter of 2009/2010 financial year.

B6c) 6/7/09: PARLIAMENTARY QUESTION No. 690 asked by Ms B. M. Tshireletso MP (Mahalapye East)

QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security to state:-

(i) The number of missing persons who have not been found since the year 2000 to date; and
(ii) Whether parents/relatives have received counselling from his Ministry.

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker,

(i) Since the year 2000 to date, a total of one hundred and twenty two (122) people, comprising of 85 males and 37 females, whose ages range from 2 years to 107 years, were reported missing and their whereabouts have remained unknown to the police, their parents and relatives. In the same period, one hundred and fifty-six (156) people comprising of 114 males and 42 females, whose ages range from 1 year to 90 years, were reported missing and later found dead.

(ii) There are no specific programmes geared towards providing counselling for the families/relatives. However from time to time, the police in conjunction with other local structures continue to update and further check for any information or developments regarding investigations of the missing persons. Thank you

B6d) 3/7/09: QUESTION NO. 647 ASKED BY Mr. P.P.P. Moatlhodi MP. (Tonota South)
QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security whether it is true that the Commissioner of Police, through a Savingram dated 11th April 2009 requested all Botswana Local Police officers to be fingerprinted and medically examined before being considered for merger with the Botswana Police Service; if so, were members of the Botswana Local Police Service not fingerprinted and medically examined when they were first employed.

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker, It is true that as part of the agreed vetting process, the Commissioner of Police has directed the fingerprinting and medical examination of all Local Police officers whose records did not show that such examinations were done, before they could be considered for integration into the Botswana Police Service. Mr. Speaker, Records of some members of the Local Police Force did not contain any background investigation to include criminal records. It has therefore been found necessary to do such investigation. The same applies to medical examinations as there also have to be done to ensure that all have not fallen below the retention standard. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

B6e) 3/7/09: QUESTION NO. 650 ASKED BY Mr. P.P.P. Moatlhodi MP. (Tonota South)

QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security:

i. When the Botswana Local Police Service Act was repealed
ii. Why members of the Botswana Local Police Service are still under the Ministry of Local Government performing duties they have always been doing in customary Courts; and
iii. The Minister should further say if he views the merger between the Botswana Police Service and the Botswana Local Police Service in serious light.

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker,

i. The Botswana Local Police Act has not been repealed yet.
ii. It will only be repealed after the conclusion of the merger. This is expected to be concluded by the end of August 2009. Until then, those who have not yet been attested into the Botswana Police will continue to perform duties under the Local Police Act, as they are still under the Ministry of Local Government.
iii. All that has been done so far to include an implementation plan for the merger is a clear reflection that I take the merger seriously. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

B6f) 3/7/09: Question No. 678 ASKED BY Mr. D. Saleshando, MP. (Gaborone Central)

QUESTION: To ask the Minister for Defence, Justice and Security to state:

i) the total cost of incurred by the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) to host the air show of 25th April 2009; and
ii) if he does not consider it necessary to suspend costly ceremonial exercises by the BDF and Botswana Police Services in view of the current economic downturn.

ANSWERS: Mr. Speaker, the total cost incurred by the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) to prepare for and host the air show of 25th April 2009 is P1 321 413.00 for fuel cost and other operational costs. Air displays in general provide the military in this case the BDF in particular an opportunity to hone the command, control and coordination skills of its air staff:

I. Sharpen the flying skills of the aircrews involved because of the heightened need for accuracy and pressure of displaying skills.
II. Also sharpen skills of the ground crews due to the reduced time-lines for turn around and sortie generations.
III. Displays of this nature further serve to increase ‘esprit de corps’ or team spirit and morale through the required team work during the exercise. This team work though difficult to measure and the skills honing/sharpening at ‘a – c’ are highly priced components of combat effectiveness, and thus combat readiness.
IV. Air displays are an instrument of taking the BDF to the general public of Botswana to foster good civil military relations. This is also an opportunity to education the public about the BDF and its mandate, as well as a recruiting opportunity as young Batswana learn and see the different skills set required in the BDF.
V. In conclusion Mr. Speaker, air displays are primarily training exercises aimed at enhancing the military’s combat readiness. In this view, the same expenditure would have been incurred in a similar training aimed at achieving the same objective. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Remarks by the Hon. Minister for Defence, Justice and Security at the 2009 Judicial Service Conference

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B5) 9/7/09: Remarks by the Hon. Minister for Defence, Justice and Security at the 2009 Judicial Service Conference

Honourable Chief Justice, Honourable Judges of the High Court,
The Magistracy, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

1. I indeed feel honoured and privileged to perform the official opening of this Judicial Conference. I cherish every moment that gives me an opportunity to interact with you because I get to know your needs and desires, so I can cause government to provide for your needs in the best possible way.

2. I am informed that at this conference, the judiciary will take stock of its performance during the past year and chart the way forward for the year ahead.

3. In doing that I would urge you to look outside the Judiciary and see how other stake holders in the justice system have affected your performance and how they can improve their own systems. Likewise you will need to interrogate your system and see how it affects others that feed and draw out of it, and how these relationships can best be improved to provide quality service to the nation.

4. The theme of this conference can not be more appropriate, “Leveraging information technology and harnessing the Judicial Case Management for excellence in service delivery in the Administration of Justice”. It is so because the Administration of Justice is computerizing to improve efficiency and the government is in the process of establishing e-governance. We are in an information technology era and cannot possibly ignore its impact on our service delivery.

5. My Ministry is committed to assist the Administration of Justice to discharge its constitutional mandate. My Ministry’s commitment is and will be attested to by the provision of all the necessary amenities and infrastructure. These would include court buildings, adequate transportation, financial provisions to improve the human resource of the Administration of Justice and many other services that are vital for the effectiveness of the Judiciary.

6. My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen, the Administration of Justice has grown significantly over the past 20 years. It is no longer a dream or a far cry for a citizen as far a field as Gumare or Masunga inter alia, to have magistrates presiding over cases in their villages. Currently most major population centres enjoy the presence of Judicial Services. It is my ardent hope and desire that such services be extended through out the country, and the quality of such services be improved and enhanced significantly. We thank God that we averted what would have been a significant set-back to the provision of quality service coupled with commensurate infrastructure in our judiciary. That is, the threat of cancellation of the construction of the Gaborone division of the High Court and Court of Appeal.

7. My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is common place that our economy is going through trying times with arguably the worst economic recession since World War II. Despite this, I can assure you that in my Ministry’s NDP 10 submissions, we have tried as much as possible to include Administration of Justice’s projects that would ensure that we take quality services to the people, as well as improve conditions of those that are key to the provision of such services. NDP 10 is currently being discussed in Parliament and I am optimistic that our projects will be approved as submitted.

8. I must, however note that government is concerned by the escalating crime in the country. While we are registering some relative decrease in selected crimes, there is a significant rise in house breaking, stock theft and store breaking offences. My Ministry has introduced some new strategies to combat this menace and the introduction of complementary institutions by the Administration of Justice such as the stock theft court, will go a long way in achieving significant crime reduction.

9. The introduction of the Judicial Case Management in February 2009 is yet another notable and valuable transformation in the Judiciary. I am told it has significantly brought down the backlog of cases at the High Court. While this has gone some way in restoring the Public Conference in the Judiciary, it will do a lot better if introduced fully to the magistracy. I note that significant efforts are being made to that effect.

10. My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen, let me recognize the Honourable Chief Justice’s tireless efforts to improve the Judiciary. Your Lordship, I have interacted with you on numerous occasions and at all times you have come across to me as someone who does not accept less than yes when it comes to getting the best for the Judiciary. You have also expressed your concerns about certain of my Ministry’s requirements on the Judiciary as bordering on possible overstepping of our mandate. Sir, let me assure you that all is done in the spirit of making the Judiciary the best it can be. You know best how to do that and I know best how to facilitate you. We have one goal and we should work together to ensure the achievement of that goal.

11. In conclusion, let me on behalf of my Ministry and the Government and indeed on my own behalf, renew my pledge to support the Administration of Justice in its efforts to improve the Judiciary. Finally let me commend the Chief Justice and his team for shaping the Judiciary over the years into an institution of impeccable reputation and integrity, second to none.

12. It is now my honour to declare this conference officially open. May the Good Lord bless you and ensure that you have a wonderful and fruitful two days of deliberations. I thank you.

Speech by His Honour the Vice President, Lt. Gen. Mompati S. Merafhe, MP, at the Offficial Opening of the 2009 Ghanzi District Show

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B4) 27/6/09: SPEECH BY HIS HONOUR THE VICE PRESIDENT, LT. GEN. MOMPATI S. MERAFHE, MP, AT THE OFFFICIAL OPENING OF THE 2009 GHANZI DISTRICT SHOW:

[Salutations]… Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:

1. I was very delighted to receive the invitation to come and open this 2009 Ghanzi District Show because the opportunity of being here cannot be resisted by anyone, especially if they appreciate the importance of agriculture to our livelihoods as Batswana.

2. That this is the second most popular annual show after the Gaborone one cannot be disputed. This is demonstrated by the multitudes of people who have braved this cold weather from all over the country, and indeed from across our borders, to come and feast their eyes on the beautiful exhibits that are on display today. In fact the Ghanzi District Show is a standard item in a lot of people’s diaries.

3. Director of Ceremonies, it is not in doubt that we as Batswana have a strong affection for farming. This affection is however compromised by our largely urbanized society which prevents most of us from spending as much time in our farming areas as we did in the past. The importance of this occasion in providing an opportunity for farmers, and other entrepreneurs, to showcase their achievements, as well as to learn from each other can therefore not be over emphasized. This, Director of Ceremonies, is in line with my Government’s endeavour to diversify the country’s economy away from over dependence on minerals.

4. It is for this reason that I believe the organizers of the Ghanzi District Show could not have come up with a better theme than the one that says: “DIVERSIFIED, COMPETITIVE AND SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS: A way to Socio–Economic Growth”. The theme promotes the use of improved farming technologies, which if effectively applied will increase the contribution that the agricultural sector makes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This theme is also in line with Government’s initiative of establishing the Agriculture Hub, which falls within the ambit of the Cabinet Committee on the Economy and Employment, which I have the privilege of chairing.

5. The overall objective of the Agriculture Hub is to commercialize the agricultural sector and diversify it through viable and self sustaining agriculture enterprises while at the same time increasing the number of citizens who will benefit from agriculture.

6. Director of Ceremonies, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is not a secret that Ghanzi district is the mainstay of the livestock industry in Botswana. The district does not only pride itself in the ability to produce large numbers of livestock, it is also famous for maintaining high quality breeds. I am informed the district has in excess of 305 000 herd of cattle and 80 000 small stock. I therefore want to implore farmers to take advantage of initiatives that the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) has put in place to turn farming into a profitable undertaking. These initiatives include:

• the opening of an office in Ghanzi which I am told will be operational towards the end of the year,
• direct purchase of cattle from communal areas,
• the introduction of 24 hours offloading of cattle at the abattoir,
• collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services and the Police to lift restrictions on cattle movement and the establishment of central permitting facilities,
• the promotion of weaner production and feedlots.

7. Director of Ceremonies, it is important to mention that Botswana has recently signed the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA) with the European Union. The signing of this agreement accords Botswana Duty Free, Quota Free (DFQF) access of all products into the European Union market. This is indeed an opportunity for Botswana farmers as the European Union has a very lucrative market for our beef. It is therefore of utmost importance that farmers continue supplying cattle to the BMC.

8. I am alive to the challenges that farmers in this district are exposed to because of their proximity to the Foot and Mouth prone Ngamiland District. In order to minimize the threat of this disease crossing into the Ghanzi district, Government through the Department of Veterinary Services has invested a lot of resources in preventative measures along the Kuke Disease control cordon fence. These measures include the upgrading of some sections of the fence to a 2.4 meter game proof fence and upgrading the remainder to buffalo fence standard. The Department of Veterinary Services continues to monitor the situation and has intensified surveillance in 10 km radius of the Kuke fence. A high degree of vigilance therefore needs to be maintained by all of us to keep this hub of cattle production free from contracting the Foot and Mouth Disease.

9. In an endeavour to facilitate increased agricultural production and ensure food security in Botswana, my Government has also introduced the Integrated Support Programme for Arable Agriculture Development (ISPAAD). This is a programme through which farmers are assisted with draught power in the form of tractors as well as provided with inputs such as seeds and fertilizers to boost their crop production. The programme was introduced during the 2008/09 season and the expected grain yield is in excess of 93 000 metric tons. This is no doubt a great success if we were to make comparisons with the 2007/08 season yield of 43 000 metric tons. I however note with a sense of apprehension that in Ghanzi District the uptake of this programme was very low as only 714 hectares were ploughed by 423 farmers.

10. One of the components of ISPAAD is the strengthening of extension services, whereby extension officers are available to advise farmers on the types of crops to plant in different parts of the country. And I have been informed that soils in this district are suitable for crops such as beans and water melons. This information forms part of the advisory services you must get from your extension officers and reap the benefits of the available Government assistance programmes.

11. Director of Ceremonies, let me take this opportunity to commend the Ghanzi District Show Committee on having successfully organized this event over the years. My commendation also goes to the sponsors, volunteers, judges and exhibitors for the hard work and dedication they have put in to make this an exceptionally successful event.

12. Director of Ceremonies, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, it is now my great pleasure to declare the 2009 Ghanzi District Show officially open. I thank you Ladies and Gentlemen for the courtesy of your kind attention. PULA!!!

Remarks by H.H. the Vice-President Lt. Gen. M.S. Merafhe, MP, Patron of Mahalapye District Hospital at Mahalapye District Hospital Open Day Event

source: Republic of Botswana (11/7/09) TAUTONA TIMES no 18 of 2009
The Weekly Electronic Press Circular of the Office of the President
Democracy, Development, Dignity and Discipline

B3) 10/7/09: Remarks by H.H. the Vice-President Lt. Gen. M.S. Merafhe, MP, Patron of Mahalapye District Hospital at Mahalapye District Hospital Open Day Event:

[Salutations]…Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. Our gathering here today marks a historic event in which the hospital has opened its doors to welcome members of the public for a healthy interaction not motivated by ill health. To the best of my recollection, Director of Ceremonies, today’s occasion is the first event of its kind at this institution and therefore a cause for jubilant festivity.

2. My understanding is that this event is meant to publicize the hospital as a place of friendly and transparent service. Therefore if we are to build a hospital culture that addresses the needs of its people, it is important that the people being served should be well-informed about what is on offer at the health facility. While this may be viewed as rendering the hospital more vulnerable to criticism given that some shortcomings may be found, it is important to operate on the understanding that all feedback is crucial for continuous improvement. It is therefore my hope that this day will underscore the wave of change towards providing efficient service and quality healthcare for the entire Mahalapye District.

3. Director of Ceremonies, Ladies and Gentlemen, as you may all be aware, Mahalapye District Hospital opened it doors in August 2008. The hospital functions as a referral centre for a population of not less than 110,000 people from Mahalapye West, Mahalapye East, Shoshong and Tswapong South Constituencies. This hospital is amongst the four district hospitals that were recently completed as part of government’s effort to improve access to medical care. The four state of the art hospitals are a clear demonstration of the commitment of this Government to uplifting the standards of living of its citizens through provision of quality health care services. I am confident that through these efforts we will achieve our goal of providing health for all by the year 2016.

4. Today’s Open Day event is a way of bridging the communication gap between the hospital and the community it serves. I have no doubt that all present will get the opportunity to appreciate the specialist services rendered to all the surrounding village clinics in the Mahalapye Sub District. It is my view that when people function from an informed position, there is less speculation and more trust, which in turn will create a level of confidence by the public in the services provided.

5. Director of Ceremonies, as you may be aware, this facility provides various improved, good quality, affordable and cost effective specialist patient care services previously associated only with referral hospitals such as Nyangabgwe in Francistown and Princess Marina in Gaborone. These services include Accident & Emergency, Physiotherapy and Occupational therapy to mention but a few. The hospital is also equipped with high technology equipment and machinery in such areas of critical importance as theatre, laboratory, physiotherapy, radiology, catering, laundry and boiler house. Since its inception, the hospital has also been providing on-the-job training to young Batswana in medicine, nursing, information technology, management and other allied health programmes.

6. The Hospital logo which reads “Botsogo ke khumo” or “A Healthy Nation is a Wealthy Nation” reaffirms our commitment to the reality that the economic success of any nation is inextricably linked to the good health of its people. In the same spirit, Botswana Government continues to reassure citizens of its unwavering commitment to good health for all as evidenced by the incremental budget, over the years, for the health sector since independence.

7. Bagaetsho, I wish to reiterate the fact that Government alone cannot succeed in addressing the national health challenges. Active participation and commitment from members of the public and other stakeholders, especially the private sector, is crucial. However, some actions by our citizens militate against the efforts of Government to improve delivery of quality health services.

8. To date, problems related to alcohol abuse and road accidents continue to consume much of the revenue that would otherwise be used for improvement of health services. HIV and AIDS, Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) and Alcohol Related Problems remain the most challenging health issues in this country. It is a fact that the three A’s of Alcohol, Aids and Accidents as well as drug abuse defeat the positive gains made by Botswana over the years. This is the reason why Government decided to strengthen punitive measures against all those who continue to abuse alcohol and needlessly violate road traffic regulations, measures which have been termed draconian by our detractors. However I want to assure you that Government will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure the preservation of the valuable lives of our citizens.

9. Director of Ceremonies, I want to conclude my remarks by encouraging every individual to take personal responsibility for their own health. Let us all invest in our wellbeing for the realization of a Healthy Nation by 2016 and thereby become a wealthy nation. I thank you. PULA!