Tuesday Grill

13/11/2025

𝐊𝐀𝐙𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐋𝐀 𝐂𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐍: 𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝐔𝐍𝐑𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐃𝐑𝐔𝐆𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃

The Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BoMRA) has intensified its nationwide clampdown on illegal medicines, seizing 512 unregistered medicinal products during a coordinated operation in Kazungula and Kasane.

The enforcement exercise, carried out in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, targeted four shops and two street vendors found selling or possessing the illegal products, in direct violation of the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 2013.

BoMRA says the confiscated medicines pose a serious public health risk, warning that the sale and distribution of unregistered products undermine the safety and effectiveness of Botswana’s healthcare system.

This latest operation reflects BoMRA’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective, and quality-assured medicines reach the public. The authority vowed to continue strengthening border control measures, market surveillance, and public education efforts to combat the circulation of falsified or substandard products.

“The protection of public health remains our top priority,” BoMRA emphasized, urging citizens to buy medicines only from licensed pharmacies and authorized health facilities.

BoMRA reaffirmed its resolve to safeguard the nation against counterfeit and unsafe health products through continued collaboration with enforcement and border control partners.

13/11/2025

13/11/2025

𝐂𝐄𝐃𝐀 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 “𝐀 𝐃𝐢 𝐓𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞” 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

The Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency has unveiled its new financial product suite, “A Di Tsale” a bold step toward transforming Botswana’s agriculture sector. Speaking at the launch, Care taker Khalala Mokefane said the initiative aims to empower cooperatives, youth, and women’s groups to access funding and markets. He described the programme as a catalyst for shared prosperity, built on collaboration, innovation, and responsible entrepreneurship.

Mokefane highlighted that agricultural transformation cannot happen in isolation, urging stronger partnerships among farmers, policymakers, and industry players. He said CEDA, alongside institutions such as BDI, BMC, and LEA, is part of a broader ecosystem designed to support farmers from production to branding. “We want to help Botswana reclaim its place as Africa’s trusted food powerhouse,” he said.

CEDA’s new suite also includes an agricultural insurance programme to protect farmers from disease outbreaks, fires, and other unforeseen events. Mokefane said the goal is to build confidence, resilience, and long-term sustainability in the sector. “Every funded project is a seed of transformation, and every thriving farm is a symbol of national pride,” he added. “Together, we can feed our people, power our economy, and inspire Africa with a new story of productivity and progress.”

Catch the full article with all information in next week’s edition of The Tuesday Grill.

13/11/2025

𝐄𝐔 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬

The Delegation of the European Union to Botswana and SADC, working hand in hand with the Botswana Editors Forum, hosted a Fact-Checking and Verification Workshop for senior journalists and editors across print, broadcast, and digital platforms. The event aimed to strengthen accuracy, fairness, and transparency in Botswana’s media.

European Union Ambassador Petra Pereyra reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to a free, responsible, and fact-driven press. She called journalists “the backbone of democracy,” urging them to sharpen their tools against the flood of misinformation spreading “with the speed of light” and threatening public trust around the world.

Pereyra noted that the workshop formed part of ongoing EU efforts to empower media practitioners. She emphasized that credible journalism remains the cornerstone of democracy and that partnerships such as this one play a vital role in preserving integrity and accountability in public discourse.

Botswana Editors Forum chairperson Lawrence Seretse said the initiative came at a critical time, following President Duma Boko’s recent call for greater accountability in reporting. “Whether or not we agree with the President’s tone, his words remind us that credibility rests on truth, fairness, and transparency,” he said.

Seretse described fact-checking as not just a technical skill, but a moral discipline that safeguards newsroom integrity. He urged journalists to make verification a permanent part of their editorial practices, reaffirming BEF’s commitment to nurturing ethical and trustworthy journalism in Botswana.

Head of Politics, Press and Information, Martin Lermud, stressed that accurate information forms the foundation of informed decision making. “Your commitment to accuracy is a commitment to fostering informed citizens, a vibrant democracy, and a truthful society,” he said, adding that reliable reporting helps people make choices that shape their lives and communities.

12/11/2025

“You should not follow in the footsteps of the previous administration, which often suspended senior officers without credible reasons,” Saleshando said. “It is shocking to learn that the Governor of the Bank of Botswana, Cornelius Dekop, and the Commissioner General of BURS, Jeanette Makgolo, have been dismissed without any clear explanation. Someone must account to the nation and explain the reasons behind these decisions,” he said, responding to the State of the Nation Address.

12/11/2025

𝐁𝐒𝐁 𝐆𝐎𝐄𝐒 𝐃𝐈𝐆𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐋: 𝐂𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐋 𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐈𝐑 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐒

Botswana Savings Bank (BSB) has rolled out a new suite of digital banking channels designed to make banking faster, safer, and more convenient for customers across the country.

The digital upgrade, part of the Bank’s Lesedi 2025 Corporate Strategy ,includes a revamped mobile banking app, internet banking, and an expanded cellphone banking (USSD) service on 232 # featuring a new bill payments function.

With these platforms, BSB customers can now:
✅ Buy airtime from all mobile operators
✅ Purchase BPC electricity tokens
✅ Pay DStv subscriptions
✅ Check balances, view mini statements, and transfer funds, all in real time.

“This development marks a significant step in modernising service delivery and improving customer experience,” said Nixon Marumoloa, BSB Chief Executive Officer. “It strengthens the Bank’s role in driving financial inclusion and supporting Botswana’s digital economy.”

The initiative empowers customers to bank anytime, anywhere, reducing the need for branch visits while promoting the use of secure, accessible digital tools.

12/11/2025

𝐁𝐎𝐊𝐎 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐌𝐔 𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐋 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐄𝐑𝐀 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐒𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐀–𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒

President Droupadi Murmu’s visit marks a new chapter under President Duma Gideon Boko’s leadership

For the first time since Botswana and India established diplomatic relations nearly 60 years ago, Botswana has officially hosted a Head of State from India.

President Droupadi Murmu of India is in Botswana for a three-day State Visit (11th–13th November 2025) at the invitation of President Duma Gideon Boko. The visit is particularly historic, being the first State Visit hosted under President Boko’s new administration following the October 2024 general elections.

Speaking during the official ceremony held this morning at the Office of the President (OP), President Boko described the visit as “historic and deeply symbolic,” noting that India’s long-standing friendship and developmental support have made a significant impact across sectors in Botswana, from education, health, and military cooperation to trade and investment.

“Botswana will continue to consolidate her standing as a democratic nation, drawing inspiration from India, the mother of democracy,” said President Boko

During their bilateral talks, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas aligned with Botswana’s Economic Transformation Programme and the priorities outlined in the State of the Nation Address. India was invited to play a strategic role in Botswana’s drive for economic revival, digital innovation, and renewable energy development.

The two Presidents also endorsed the ongoing Botswana–India Business Forum, which aims to expand private-sector linkages, attract new investment, and facilitate trade opportunities between the two countries.

In a powerful symbol of environmental collaboration, Botswana will donate eight (8) cheetahs to assist India in regenerating its native cheetah population, demonstrating Botswana’s success in wildlife conservation and commitment to biodiversity.

President Boko further applauded India’s leadership in advocating for the Global South, its recognition as the world’s fifth-largest economy, and its historic role in championing Africa’s admission to the G20 during India’s 2023 presidency of the group.

“We are deeply appreciative of the spirit of solidarity and camaraderie shown by President Murmu’s visit. This is not only a visit of friendship but a reaffirmation of shared democratic values, mutual respect, and common aspirations for development,” President Boko concluded.

12/11/2025

𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐒𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐘 𝐓𝐎 𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃

Excitement is building as Botswana moves closer to hosting the World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026, a landmark event that will bring the world’s finest athletes to the country for the first time.

The Local Organising Committee says preparations are in full swing and nearing completion, marking a defining moment for both Botswana and Africa in the global sporting arena. Every element is being carefully polished to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for athletes, spectators, and partners.
In an interview with this publication, Moses Bantsi confirmed that planning is almost complete, covering eighteen functional areas. “We are currently in the rollout phase, where we put our plans into action,” he explained. This phase is expected to run until February next year before the event takes shape.

He added that the entire process is divided into four clear stages planning, rollout, event delivery, and post-event evaluation to guarantee precision and accountability.

Bantsi said the LOC is determined to make history by hosting an event that sets new standards. “This is the first time the World Athletics Relays will be hosted in Africa, and we want Botswana to be remembered for excellence,” he said. The committee has been working hand in hand with ministries, private partners, and volunteers to deliver a competition that not only meets but exceeds global expectations.

He noted that challenges remain, especially around sponsorships and facilities. “We are waiting for the National Stadium to be handed over on November 18, 2025, and the UB Stadium by the end of December,” he said. Both venues will undergo renovations under the supervision of the Botswana National Sports Commission.

These upgrades will include anti-doping control rooms, high-tech security systems, and a media tribune designed to accommodate journalists from around the world.

𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐏𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊’𝐒 𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐔𝐄...

https://wa.me/26774397748

12/11/2025

𝐍𝐨 𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐧, 𝐀𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬

Botswana and Angola have dismissed suggestions of a looming dispute over control of De Beers, saying they are working together on the future of the diamond company.

Speaking in Gaborone during a joint engagement, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, told Bloomberg the relationship between the two nations remains strong and coordinated. “We’re working on intra-African relations and trade relations, and we need to ensure that those principles also trickle down to diamonds,” she said.

“All we can comment on for now is we have a good partnership, good collaboration.”

Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas, Diamantino Pedro Azevedo, also stressed that there is no conflict between the two countries over De Beers’ ownership outlook.

“We are perfectly aligned on that matter,” he said.
Their remarks come as Anglo American Plc, which currently holds 85% of De Beers, finalises its exit from the company. Botswana owns the remaining 15% and contributes roughly twothirds of De Beers’ annual production, while Angola represents a key frontier for future exploration.

𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐏𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊’𝐒 𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐔𝐄...

https://wa.me/26774397748

11/11/2025

𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐮𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭-𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧

Botswana Railways appears to be scrambling for solutions as caretaker General Manager Dominic Ntwaagae unveils a last minute organisational turnaround plan with clear performance metrics. Sources say the move comes just weeks before his three month contract expires, a period widely viewed as lacking tangible achievements or a communicated strategy.

Insiders describe the announcement as a reaction to mounting political pressure rather than a proactive roadmap. The plan, outlined in an internal memo dated 10th November 2025, is seen as a response Botswana Railways unveils last-minute plan Caretaker GM Ntwaagae unveils a last minute turnaround plan with cost cuts, revenue targets, and cash flow goals, largely recycling the strategy he stopped, to meet presidential demands before his by previous management, which Ntwaagae reportedly halted upon his appointment.

“This is a classic case of panic,” said one source. “He has achieved nothing in three months and now, with the President demanding results and his contract ending, he is grabbing a pre-existing plan to create the illusion of action.”

𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊 𝐁𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐎 𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐏𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐊’𝐒 𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐔𝐄...

https://wa.me/26774397748

11/11/2025

"𝐈𝐓 𝐖𝐀𝐒 𝐓𝐎𝐎 𝐓𝐎𝐗𝐈𝐂 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐄": 𝐃𝐄𝐊𝐎𝐏 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐒 𝐁𝐨𝐁 𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐎𝐑

Outgoing Bank of Botswana Governor, Cornelius Dekop, has confirmed that he voluntarily resigned from his position, saying he could no longer continue under what he termed a “toxic environment” within the central bank.

Dekop’s departure, which had been in discussion internally for over a week, took a dramatic turn after the public announcement of his replacement was made before he received formal notice confirming his exit terms.

In a farewell message circulated to colleagues and associates, Dekop revealed that he had requested a mutual separation with agreed conditions, including a three-month notice period to ensure a smooth handover. He says he was verbally informed on Monday that the conditions had been accepted, with a formal letter expected the following day.

However, before he was officially notified, an announcement was issued naming one of his deputies as the next Governor, effective 11 February 2026. Dekop will remain in his position until then to complete the notice period.

> “Dear Colleagues and friends, it is with a heavy heart that I inform you that I had taken the difficult decision of vacating my position as Governor of the Bank of Botswana given the toxic environment I have been working in,” he wrote.
“Lo and behold, an announcement has just been made. They have announced one of my deputies as Governor from 11th February 2026 and I will be serving my notice period until then. Strange stuff.”

Dekop recently presided over the Bank’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, but sources indicate that internal tensions had escalated in recent months. Insiders point to governance disagreements and strained working relations following the change of government. The atmosphere is said to have worsened amid broader uncertainty regarding central bank direction and independence.