The Hope Online Botswana

20/05/2025

TSABONG COUNCIL'S 2025/26 BUDGET: AIMING FOR GROWTH AMID CHALLENGES

▪️Covers the success and impact of the rooftop solar project and the push for sustainability.

▪️Focuses on weaknesses such as project delays and reliance on central government funding.

▪️Highlights the potential in renewable energy, housing, education, and job creation.

▪️Addresses threats like implementation risks and public expectations.

BY STAFF WRITER
[email protected]

(Tsabong, May 19, 2025) – The Tsabong District Council has amnounced its 2025/26 budget with a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, and community upliftment.

Key highlights include the successful rollout of a rooftop solar project, efforts to boost local revenue, and major investments in housing, education, and job creation. However, the council faces challenges like project delays, reliance on central government funding, and the pressure to deliver on public expectations. While the budget sets a promising direction, effective implementation will be crucial to turn plans into progress.

Delivering his address today, the Council Chairperson, Elias Motlhanke has announced a comprehensive budget plan for the 2025/26 financial year, emphasizing sustainability, infrastructure development, and improved service delivery.

Motlhanke revealed that a total recurrent budget of P162,905,90.00 has been approved, with current expenditure standing at P11,891,320.00. Notably, the council has taken steps toward energy sustainability by successfully implementing a Rooftop Solar Plant at the Tsabong Rural Administration Centre (RAC), significantly cutting electricity costs. The solar project, which cost P2,930,042.59, began powering RAC facilities in mid-December 2024.

In a move to enhance financial independence, Motlhanke revealed that the council is working on its own Revenue Collection and Generation Strategy to combat low revenue collection and reduce reliance on the Revenue Support Grant (RSG) from the central government.

In addition to the recurrent budget, Motlhanke said the council has secured a P51,404,883.00 development budget aimed at uplifting various sectors through key projects. These include the implementation of the Constituency Community Projects (CCP), construction of Remote Area Development Programme (RADP) and destitute housing, development of early childhood facilities, and the Ipelegeng program, which alone accounts for P36,414,883.00 of the development funds.

However, he said the project implementation is currently on hold, awaiting approval of Project Memoranda by the Ministry. To address project delivery challenges, the council plans to revive its Project Implementation Team, ensuring timely ex*****on, budget compliance, and adherence to quality standards.

This budget highlights Tsabong District Council’s commitment to innovation, fiscal responsibility, and improved living standards for its residents as the region moves into the new financial year.

16/04/2025

MAUN EASTER EXPERIENCE – SEASON 2 BRINGS MAPHORISA AND PROFESSOR TO MAUN

By Staff Writer

(Maun, Botswana – April 2025) - Excitement is building as Minorah Entertainment officially launched the second edition of the Maun Easter Experience during a press conference held at Cresta Maun on Wednesday afternoon. Set for April 18, the Easter weekend event promises a vibrant mix of music, culture, and tourism, featuring top artists, traditional performances, and cultural exhibitions.

Founder and organizer, Olecks Motlamma revealed that Season 2 will feature the South African top music gurus, DJ Maphorisa and Professor. He further indicated that the event will bring together a rich mix of music, culture, and tourism – catering to both locals and visitors alike

Further, Motlamma highlighted the event's goal of becoming a cultural brand for Maun while empowering local creatives and entrepreneurs. With expanded partnerships and improved production, Season 2 aims to position Maun as a leading destination.

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MAUN EASTER EXPERIENCE – SEASON 2 SET TO AMAZE: MINORAH ENTERTAINMENT HOSTS PRESS CONFERENCE By Staff Writer (Maun, Botswana – April 2025) - Excitement is bu...

15/04/2025

TSOGWANE DISMISSES EXIT RUMOURS WHILE NLHATHO REPORTEDLY STEPPED ASIDE

By Staff Writer

(Gaborone, Botswana) – Former Vice President of the Republic Botswana and Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) former chairman, Slumber Tsogwane has broken his silence amid swirling rumours that he has bowed out of BDP presidential race.

While Tsogwane remains in the running, it appears that Maun-based businessman and health specialist, Dr. Maxwell Nlhatho, has quietly exited the race. Though no formal announcement has been made by Dr. Nlhatho, party insiders suggest his supporters are now rallying behind fellow candidate Ame Makoba.

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TSOGWANE DISMISSES EXIT RUMOURS WHILE NLHATHO REPORTEDLY STEPPED ASIDE By Staff Writer (Gaborone, Botswana) – Former Vice President of the Republic yBotswana...

15/04/2025

Celebrating my 1st year on Facebook. Thank you for your continuing support. I could never have made it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

15/04/2025

BCL IS NO LONGER IN GOVERNMENT HANDS - BOKO

By Staff Writer

(Selebi Phikwe – April 15, 2025) - In a heartfelt address to the people of Selebi Phikwe on Tuesday afternoon, The President of the Republic of Botswana, HE Advocate Duma Boko painted a sobering picture of the state of the once-thriving BCL Mine, telling residents that the government no longer has control over it.

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BCL IS NO LONGER IN GOVERNMENT HANDS - BOKO By Staff Writer (Selebi Phikwe – April 15, 2025) - In a heartfelt address to the people of Selebi Phikwe on Tuesd...

13/04/2025

KAIZER CHIEFS STUN SUNDOWNS TO SET UP SOWETO DERBY FINAL

By Staff Writer

Kaizer Chiefs pulled off a dramatic 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday evening at Loftus Versfeld, booking their place in the Nedbank Cup final where they will meet arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.

It was a night full of tension and emotion as Chiefs showed grit and determination to overcome the dominant Sundowns side. Tebogo Mokwena gave Sundowns the lead at stoppage time of the first half (45+5), sparking celebrations among the home fans. But Chiefs, never a side to go down easily, hit back through Wandile Dubai in the 57th minute after halftime.

Just when it looked like extra time might be on the cards, Ashley Du Preez stepped up with a moment of brilliance in the dying minute of the game to give Chiefs the lead, punishing a rare Sundowns mistake and sealing the win for Chiefs.

The final whistle was met with roars of relief and joy as Chiefs players and supporters soaked in the moment. After years of falling short, this win feels like a turning point and now, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated clashes in South African football.

A Soweto Derby final against Orlando Pirates awaits, a battle not just for silverware, but for pride, legacy, and the heart of the city.

KAIZER CHIEFS STUN SUNDOWNS TO SET UP SOWETO DERBY FINAL By Staff Writer Kaizer Chiefs pulled off a dramatic 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday evening...

11/04/2025

GRAND PRIX TO SHINE DESPITE TRACK REFURBISHMENT CONCERNS

By Staff Writer

(Gaborone, Botswana – April 11, 2025) - With less than 24 hours to go until the highly anticipated FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix, questions over the readiness of Gaborone National Stadium's track have finally been put to rest. Organizers have confirmed that the newly refurbished synthetic track will be completed today to host tomorrow’s international athletics showcase.

With earlier concerns now resolved, the Grand Prix will go ahead as planned on April 12, 2025. The track resurfacing, once under scrutiny for delays, is expected to be completed before end of business today, Friday.

Part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold series, the Grand Prix will feature stars like Letsile Tebogo, Dalilah Muhammad, Ferdinand Omanyala, and Chidi Okezie. Organizers and the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) have assured that the venue meets global standards, with athletes already arriving and praising the new track.

Now seen as a symbol of national pride, the event marks Botswana’s growing presence on the world athletics stage.

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GRAND PRIX TO SHINE DesYpite TRACK REFURBISHMENT CONCERNS By Staff Writer (Gaborone, Botswana – April 11, 2025) - With less than 24 hours to go until the hig...

10/04/2025

FNB PREMIERSHIP WEEKEND PREVIEW: A THRILLING MATCH DAY AHEAD

By Staff Writer

Botswana’s top flight football returns with a full slate of fixtures this weekend, as all 16 teams in the FNB Premiership lock horns on Saturday and Sunday, 12–13 April 2025. With title races heating up and survival battles intensifying, fans across the country are in for a weekend of passion, goals, and high drama.

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FNB PREMIERSHIP WEEKEND PREVIEW: A THRILLING MATCH DAY AHEAD By Staff Writer Botswana’s top flight football returns with a full slate of fixtures this weeken...

09/04/2025

LEAGUE TITLE: NAIL-BITING FINISH LOOMS AS FNB PREMIERSHIP HEATS UP

By Staff Writer

(Gaborone, April 9, 2025) - The 2024/25 FNB Premiership season is delivering a drama-packed finale worthy of Botswana’s passionate football fans, serving up one of the most thrilling seasons we have seen in years and with just six games left, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The race for the title is tighter than ever, Top 8 spots are still up for grabs, and the relegation battle is downright nerve-wracking.

TOP OF THE TABLE: FOUR-HORSE RACE

Jwaneng Galaxy and Gaborone United are tied on 48 points each. Galaxy remain unbeaten all season, yes, not a single loss while Gaborone has been scoring for fun. Right behind them, Tafic FC and Township Rollers are on 46 points, lurking and ready to pounce.

It’s hard to call. Tafic actually has the best goal difference (+22), which could make all the difference if it comes down to a tie.

MIDDLE OF THE PACK: THE FIGHT FOR TOP 8

Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Sua Flamingoes are not out of the title race either. Sitting on 43 points each, a strong run from either team could still shake up the top four. Then there is Morupule Wanderers, quietly consistent and solid in 7th with 37 points.

But the real tension lies in 8th, Orapa United are clinging to the final Top 8 spot with 31 points, but they have got Matebele FC and Extension Gunners breathing down their necks, both just two points behind. One slip, and the door opens wide for someone else.

BOTTOM OF THE TABLE: SURVIVAL MODE ACTIVATED

Down at the bottom, it is heartbreak for Union Flamengo Santos, with just 9 points and a jaw-dropping -42 goal difference, it would take nothing short of a miracle for them to survive.

Chadibe FC are not far behind either, sitting on 15 points and struggling to keep clean sheets. BDF XI SC might still have a shot, they are on 20 points and only two behind Security Systems, who are just outside the drop zone.

Every point matters now and one win and loss could change everything and could seal your fate.

Therefore, with 18 points still on the table, expect drama, surprises and the unexpected. This season has been full of twists, and something tells us the biggest plot twist is still to come.

The only question is: WHO WANTS IT MORE?

LEAGUE TITLE: NAIL-BITING FINISH LOOMS AS FNB PREMIERSHIP HEATS UP By Staff Writer (Gaborone, April 9, 2025) - The 2024/25 FNB Premiership season is deliveri...

09/04/2025

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09/04/2025

GOLDEN GRAND PRIX VENUE IN LIMBO AS STADIUM TRACK RAISES CONCERNS

By Staff Writer

With the FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix expected on Saturday, all eyes should be on the athletes, but instead, the spotlight has shifted to the venue, specifically, the condition of the track at the Botswana National Stadium in Gaborone, which is still not complete before the big race.

Sources close to this publication indicated that a team from the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) along with international experts are in a meeting regarding the situation, with information that the team has also quietly made its way to Francistown.

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GOLDEN GRAND PRIX VENUE IN LIMBO AS STADIUM TRACK RAISES CONCERNS By Staff Writer With the FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix expected on Saturday, all eyes shou...

07/04/2025

REVEREND TIEGO'S ‘TWO THEBE ADVICE’ TO A CRUMBLING BDP: TIME FOR NEW BLOOD

Can the BDP still win with the same old faces?

By Staff Writer

As Botswana turns the page to a new political chapter, the once-dominant Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) is left facing a sobering question: can it still win with the same old names leading the charge?

Reverend Thuso Tiego Joseph - Class 1 has offered strong advice to the struggling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), urging it to move away from recycling old leaders. He suggests the party should instead invest in young, fresh talent such as university or even high school students to groom future leadership by 2049.

Tiego argues that Batswana associate past national hardships with these familiar names and won't be inspired by them again. While acknowledging the party’s past, he emphasizes that wisdom now lies with those who’ve experienced both loss and growth. His message is clear, if the BDP doesn’t embrace change, it risks fading into history.

Meanwhile, with just three weeks to go before the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) Elective Congress in Maun on May 10, the mood in the party is anything but calm. From inner-circle jostling to questions of leadership renewal, the stakes couldn’t be higher and voices calling for change are growing louder.

As the BDP prepares to elect new leaders in Maun, names like Slumber Tsogwane, Mpho Balopi, Nonofo Molefhi and Amen Makoba are being floated for top positions. But that familiarity is exactly what worries Tiego. He argues that what the party needs now is a complete generational reset.

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REVEREND TIEGO'S ‘TWO THEBE ADVICE’ TO A CRUMBLING BDP: TIME FOR NEW BLOOD Can the BDP still win with the same old faces? By Staff Writer (Gaborone – April 7...