The Central Press

05/05/2026

Le irang kante

05/05/2026

The forensic audit of Botswana’s public sector reveals a substantial scale of suspected financial loss and exposure to misuse of funds. The programme identified 80 major cases requiring special investigation, involving contracts and expenditures with a combined value of about P160 billion. However, this figure represents money at risk, not necessarily all stolen.

More critically, the audit estimates an indicative loss of around P33 billion, reflecting likely financial damage from fraud, corruption, overpricing, non-delivery of services, and waste. This amount is described as a conservative estimate, meaning the actual losses could be higher once full investigations, asset tracing, and legal reviews are completed.

The findings show that losses were not isolated incidents but part of systemic weaknesses in procurement, governance, and financial controls. Funds were often exposed through non-competitive tenders, unsupported payments, and poor oversight. Overall, the audit highlights a significant erosion of public resources, with billions potentially lost due to mismanagement and suspected corruption, underscoring the urgent need for accountability and reform.

The forensic audit covered a wide range of government institutions, including several key ministries where risks in procurement, governance, and financial management were identified. The ministries involved include:
Ministry for State President, Defence and Security (including both BDF and DIS components)
Ministry of Finance (Accountant General and Special Funds)
Ministry of Health (Central Medical Stores and DHSM)
Ministry of Lands and Agriculture
Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs
Ministry of Minerals and Energy (including Department of Energy Affairs and HQ)
Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure
Ministry of Water and Human Settlement

05/05/2026

Minister Moeti Mohwasa has called on individuals implicated in corrupt activities to come forward and voluntarily return any government funds or property in their possession. He emphasized that those who are aware of their involvement in corruption should take responsibility by surrendering misappropriated resources, underscoring the government’s commitment to accountability and ethical conduct.

05/05/2026

Allegations of corruption within government ranks have once again raised troubling questions about transparency and accountability.

Reports suggest that the forensic audit meant to uncover wrongdoing has been handed to officials within the same political party implicated in the claims.This arrangement invites skepticism, How can the public trust results delivered by those potentially under scrutiny?

If the audit is credible, why not those who investigated the matter present it before parliament, where it can face broader oversight? The decision to withhold it from public view only fuels suspicion. Critics are now asking whether the findings are being selectively interpreted or worse, manipulated to protect certain individuals. In a democracy, justice must not only be done but be seen to be done. Without openness, confidence in the system continues to erode.

04/05/2026

Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa, is scheduled to deliver an update on the Forensic Audit Report during a media briefing on 5 May 2026 at 11:00 AM.

The update is expected to provide insights into the progress, key findings, and any actions taken following the audit. Stakeholders and members of the public anticipate clarity on accountability measures and the government’s commitment to transparency and good governance in addressing issues raised in the report.

04/05/2026

04/05/2026

Northern Mining Summit

04/05/2026

Private sector frustration is boiling over after government employees were granted a half day off while others were excluded. Many feel this decision deepens inequality between workers who are all citizens.

One disgruntled voice said, “Golo ha go lebega Batswana ele babereki ba puso hela, rona ba di private companies ga re Batswana?” The sentiment reflects a growing divide.

Others warn of political consequences, saying, “Ba re tlhokomologe hela jalo ka 2029 ka nako ya ditlhopho.” Whether symbolic or systemic, this disparity risks fueling resentment, raising serious questions about fairness, representation, and how leadership values different segments of the workforce.

04/05/2026

In recognition of Botswana’s historic first-place finish at the Debswana World Athletics Relays held at the National Stadium, the Government of Botswana has approved the early release of public servants to allow the nation to celebrate this momentous achievement. The directive underscores the significance of sport as a unifying force and a source of national pride.Effective today at 12:45hrs.

This decision enables employees across ministries, departments, and agencies to join their communities, families, and fellow citizens in celebrating Team Botswana’s exceptional performance on home soil. The victory represents not only athletic excellence but also the resilience, discipline, and spirit of the nation.

04/05/2026

The Northern Mining Summit Letlhakane 2026 is set to become a key platform for advancing Botswana’s mining sector and regional economic growth. Hosted in northern Botswana, the summit aims to bring together government leaders, investors, mining companies, and local communities to foster collaboration and innovation.

Focused on unlocking mineral potential, the event will promote exploration, attract investment, and strengthen public-private partnerships. It also highlights the importance of integrating small and medium enterprises into the mining value chain while exploring links between mining and tourism.

Expected outcomes include increased funding for exploration, strategic joint ventures, job creation, and expanded revenue streams. Ultimately, the summit represents a forward-looking initiative to drive sustainable development and empower communities across northern Botswana.

03/05/2026

‼️Botswana Erupts in Jubilation as Nation Clinches Historic Gold at World Athletics Relays

The mood across Botswana tonight is nothing short of electric. From Gaborone to Francistown, Maun to Kanye, the nation is united in a wave of pride, disbelief, and pure joy after Team Botswana stormed to Position 1 at the ended World Athletics Relays.

Tonight, Botswana doesn’t sleep. The nation celebrates as one, because when the baton came home in first place.

03/05/2026

Mens 4×4 Gold Champions