Edition 521 27 August - 3 September, 2010

There was a good turn-out in Maun at the weekend when the breast cancer awareness campaign, Journey of Hope, got underway with a fund-raising event and the departure of a cavalcade of pink Vespa scooters and motor cars bound for Gaborone where the Botswana campaign reaches a climax this weekend. Kay Potter, the Maun co-ordinator, said this week that P49 650.00 was raised during the Sunday event which started with a walk from the Shorobe road traffic circle to Audi Camp where a brunch was provided by the camp at no charge. The scooters and cars then left for their first overnight stop at Gweta Lodge and the following day reached Nata before continuing on to Francistown, Palapye, Serowe and Gaborone. It is hoped to raise about P1-million for breast cancer awareness this year.

DOG BRINGS BABY'S HEAD HOME

By Keagisitswe Dioka and Gaolebogwe Moipei

A family in Shashe ward is reeling with shock after they discovered a small baby's head in their compound last weekend.

In an interview with The Ngami Times, one of family members said that at around to 8 am on the day of the incident she found her dog eating something in front of her sister's house - and suspected to be a chicken.

She said she ignored the dog but another family member said she woke up and “found something” in front of her one roomed house.

She picked up a stick and started picking at the “thing.” She called her sister and the two were shocked to discover that the “‘thing” was actually the head and part of the torso of a baby.

They said they were able to see clearly the head, cheeks, eyes as well as the mouth.

They also thought the baby might have been six-months-old judging from the remains' physical appearance. Neighbours were called and the police notified. They said a neighbour told them that she suspected that the head may have been from a navy blue bag which was found three weeks ago and apparently been left under a tree.

No attempt made by anyone to investigate the bag's contents.

After the discovery of the head, the women and neighbours went to where the bag was seen, opened it and found baby's clothes such as vests, socks, and blankets. The clothes were in a bad state and were smelling bad.

Police officers responded quickly and came to the scene, where they were shown the bag which, together with the head, was taken away.

Community members were shocked about the incident and said that it had tainted the reputation of their area.

Early last year, a month old baby was killed by her mother at Disaneng ward.

She has been appearing before Maun magistrates in relation to the matter and is now being committed to the High Court for hearing.

Still in Maun, a 6 to 7 months old prenatal foetus was found dead next to the Botswana Female Welfare Association football pitch by a passerby. It is suspected to be an abortion.

Maun CID officer in charge, Assistant Superintendent Alakanani David, confirmed the Shashe discovery.

According to David, the incident was reported by a woman who saw her puppy in the morning “eating something.” David said police are not in a position to say what happened to the other parts of the body.

It is not known if the infant was born alive, or there was a miscarriage or abortion. A post-mortem will reveal the state of the infant before the body was eaten. David has advised women to use contraceptives when engaging in sexual activities to avoid unplanned pregnancies, adding that unplanned pregnancies may result in infants being dumped or abortions carried out.

No arrest has been made so far.

‘Witnesses statements after-thoughts' - accused

By Gaolebogwe Moipei

An accused police officer facing three counts offences of driving without a licence, driving an unroadworthy vehicle and failure to obey police orders has dismissed statements made by State witnesses as “after thoughts.”

Maun-based sergeant Lesika Batsile (35) appeared before Maun principal magistrate Clifford Foroma for the purpose of continuation of trial in which he cross-examined the investigating officer, Constable Gothatamang Makoba, of Maun traffic police. Batsile asked Makoba why he preferred to bring witnesses “such as Sergeant Bulala, Constable Montsho and Nonofo to testify something they are not sure about” with no actual evidence against him, adding that all their written statements were unsworn and that he was only served with drafts.

According to him, all the evidence led in court by Makoba's witnesses was nothing but after-thoughts. Makoba responded that at the time he charged the accused person, some traffic officers did not see him even though there were “about five” at the road block. He added that Batsile told him that he cannot talk to a constable and that was why he called Sergeant Bulala to testify in court. Batsile argued that he was not warned and cautioned accordingly for the alleged offences by Makoba before he was charged. In response, Makoba said that he did warn him (Batsile) orally, but the problem was that he was not co-operative during the investigations, and even at the time when the vehicle was tested by a transport officer, Batsile did not turn up. Batsile further asked Makoba if he was sure that he was driving along Tawana Road and where the vehicle was at the time of the offence. Makoba said the vehicle was at the customary court where it was parked after Batsile diverted from the road block. “Tawana Road and the customary court is one and the same thing according to you officer?” Batsile asked Makoba who responded that according to their procedures in terms of the Road Traffic Act, police do not charge people whilst (they are) driving but rather stop them and approach them before a charge is laid.

Batsile asked Makoba who was telling the truth among his witnesses and himself as one witness said the car which diverted from the road block was blue while he, the investigating officer said the car was white. He also asked about the distance saying another witness said the alleged car was about 10km away from the road block, adding that the prosecutor did not pre-examine his witness concerning this distance.

Makoba responded that the witness might have been mistaken as the car was about 10 -20 meters away from the road block adding that even the colour was white not blue and it was another mistake. Batsile further asked Makoba why the traffic charge sheet reflects that the offence was allegedly committed on September 5, last year whilst the charge sheet reflects that the offence was committed on June.

Makoba responded that maybe it was a mistake. Antonio Luanda of The Directorate of Public Prosecutions prosecuted the matter. The trial continues on September 20.

Drowned man's body found after four days

By Keagisitswe Dioka

MAKALAMABEDI - A massive search team comprising of police officers, soldiers and members of the community finally located the body of a 22-year-old Makalamabedi man who drowned in the Boteti River on August 21.

The body was found floating on the river on Wednesday, after efforts for the past four days had failed to yield any results.

It is understood that the young man was with another on a fishing expedition when their canoe capsized in the middle of the river and the other man was rescued by fellow-fishermen.

The incident has been confirmed by Maun police station commander Superintendent Joubert Kome who said since the incident occurred, they had tried to locate the body but without success, only to find the body on the fourth day.

The police had called in the Special Support Group (SSG) from Gaborone to assist them. He also said the place where the man is said to have drowned is very deep. He has however advised people to use bridges when crossing rivers to avoid incidents like this one. The incident has been also confirmed by Kgosi Diane Sepako, of Makalamabedi Village, who said village elders had been talking to fishermen to take care of themselves when fishing as the river alone and there are hippos, crocodiles and large snakes in the floodwaters.

This incident is one of several that have occurred on the Thamalakane and Boteti rivers. In Rakops, a 37 year old man died after he was reported missing on August 14 and was found floating in the Boteti River.

It is thought the man was inebriated. This incident was confirmed by Superintendent Morris Keaketswe, of Rakops Police. In Maun and the surrounding areas police have recorded eight cases of drowning since the beginning of the year. Last week on August 18, a man from Sexaxa near Matlapaneng, Maun, was found dead and his clothes found in a canoe that he was using. Through the help of police and soldiers his body was removed from the river. Another incident of drowning occurred earlier at Khumaga when a 13-year-old girl drowned. Kgosi Keeditse Orapeleng, of Kumaga, advised people to monitor movements of their children and said there was an added danger – flooded wells in which two heads of cattle have been found dead.

Three men charged for illegal hunting

By Wame Tshimololo

Three men have appeared before Maun principal magistrate Clifford Foroma for hunting wild animals without a licence.

The particulars of the offence state that Edwin McIntyre (42), Malvern Chupelo (20) and Peter Chirumarara (44) of Matshwane ward on January 31 hunted two steenbok and six guinea fowl at Hainaveld Farms.

It was then said they skinned the steenbok and cooked some of the meat.

The three accused persons pleaded guilty to the offence.

According to the facts of the case, the accused persons were arrested by Wildlife officers who were on patrol assessing damage done by wild animals. They were found in possession of skins, meat and feathers and these were taken to a forensic laboratory test for further analysis.

An affidavit, shotgun, okapi knife and an Isuzu vehicle were tendered as part of evidence. In plea of mitigations, McIntyre said that he is a breadwinner with five children, the youngest being a month old. Chupelo said that he is a Form Four student in Gaborone and asked for forgiveness and regretted the whole saga.

Chirumarara said he is married with three children. He submitted that he is a bread winner and said it was not his intension to hunt and kill the animals, adding that he was transporting McIntyre to his cattle post and on their way back McIntyre shot and killed the animals.

He further said that his Isuzu car is the only valuable assets he possesses ever since coming to Botswana.

Chirumarara might lose his vehicle to the State as an exhibit because it was used to commit a crime.

Isaac Mamadi prosecuted the matter, whilst the accused persons were unrepresented.

How can the 2009 and 2010 floods help us understand and implement the Okavango Delta Management Plan?

By Dr. Lin Cassidy, Political Ecologist and Professor. Piotr Wolski, Hydrologist – Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre, University of Botswana

The high floods of the past two years have seen water reaching places that have been dry for a generation.

For most of us the annual flood of the Okavango Delta is a blessing, something that underpins and sustains our lives here.

Not only is it the basis for Ngamiland's economic mainstay – tourism – but it also supports many of us through its renewal of the Delta's abundant natural resources, such as fish, reeds and thatching grass. It also renews the grazing areas and floodplain fields of subsistence farmers living around the edge of the Delta.

However, the floods of the last two years have disrupted the lives of quite a few people – some homes have been flooded and have had to be abandoned, access has been restricted by the flooding of roads, water supplies have been interrupted through the flooding of boreholes, and there are health risks associated with the flow of water around pit latrines and bush areas used as toilets. So what has this got to do with the Okavango Delta Management Plan (ODMP)?

The ODMP is a bold attempt to integrate resource management in the region, so that the Okavango and the services it provides can benefit us now and in the future. Integrated resource management means holistic management – that is, we can't manage fish without managing water, we can't manage water without managing land use.

We have to understand how all these and other aspects of the environment interact and influence each other. In other words, we have to manage the Okavango as a system, taking into account how different parts affect the whole, and being aware of it as dynamic and changing. And this is exactly what the ODMP sets out to do. It is based on something called the Ecosystem Approach. By focusing on the Okavango in its entirety, as an ecosystem that comprises many different inter-connected parts, government can make sure its decisions about one resource take into consideration the effects on other resources.

As explained by Prof. Hillary Masundire at a 2008 conference celebrating the finalisation of the ODMP, the Ecosystem Approach also draws attention to the fact that healthy functioning systems are dynamic and constantly changing, sometimes with predictable patterns, and sometimes unexpectedly. Because such variability is part of the natural functioning of the ecosystem, managers need to be able to plan for and accommodate this variability in their day-to-day activities. So let's have a quick look at the Okavango Delta as an ecosystem. Most of us understand and appreciate the annual flood pulse that moves through the Delta from Mohembo to Maun every year. We accept that every year there are areas that are wet some of the time and dry some of the time. We appreciate the annual dynamics and variability of the wetland ecosystem, because this variability fits in with the seasons of our livelihoods. The changes happen every year, so we can predict and plan for them. As a result, we know and understand that this variability is “normal”. But what about these very high floods, such as the ones we experienced this past season and the one before? They have brought dramatic and unexpected changes, and have disrupted our lives. They have led to the mobilization of the National Disaster Management Committee and the Ngamiland District Disaster Committee. Surely we can't call them “normal” too? Yes, we can. And, yes, we should. It is very important that we recognize that just because we did not anticipate them, these high floods are neither freak nor once-off events. In fact, in the last six decades, there were 14 years with Maun water levels comparable or higher than the 2010 one. These high floods occurred exclusively in the 1950-1970s. The small floods of the subsequent 1980s and 1990s contributed to the general perception of the Delta drying. But if we looked carefully, we should have seen the big floods coming again. Since 1996, with few exceptions, every year's flood was larger than the previous one. The presence of a few decades-long dry and wet periods are part of a longer natural cycle that exists within the Okavango. Even though our written records only cover the past century, we can study these longer-term changes through tree rings and sediment cores. These show that every 30 to 40 years the ecosystem moves from wetter to drier conditions, and that these oscillations have continued for the past 3000 years. As such, we need to plan for the big floods and manage for them, if we are truly going to adopt an Ecosystems Approach. The 2009 and 2010 floods, then, are neither extreme nor unusual. The floods for the next few years are likely to be as big, and some even bigger. Older people who have lived in and around the Okavango are familiar with both these wet and dry phases. But Maun and other Delta villages have grown most rapidly during the dry 1990s, and many of us did not ask or forgot to listen to the older people, and we assumed that what we experienced in the past 15 years was either a drying trend, or the total range of the variability in the Delta's flood levels.

As the Delta returns to its wet conditions for a couple of decades, and maintains them for a few of the 5-year District Development Plans, it is likely that the different sectors will come to see such high water levels as “normal” too. What is critical is that Delta residents generally, and District authorities specifically, do not now forget the dry phases, so that we find ourselves stranded when the rivers dry up again for several years, leaving boreholes empty, fields barren and tourism constrained to a narrow range of activities. Strategic Goal 1 of the ODMP seeks “to establish viable institutional arrangements to support integrated resource management in the Okavango Delta”. But what exactly should these viable institutional arrangements look like?

Clearly, to be viable in the long-term, we need institutional arrangements that can respond to the full range of natural variability in the Okavango Delta – both high and low flood seasons, and both wet and dry phases. This means that arrangements need to address different scenarios. They need to be flexible and adaptable. Phrases like “contingency planning”, “scenario planning” and “adaptive management” should not just be buzzwords. They need to be translated into institutional design. We need to have institutions that can function effectively in the middle of high flood phases as well as during dry periods.

In practical terms, here are some of the implications:

Roads and access – low bridges, like that at Toteng which has been flooded, should not simply be repaired, but should be raised so that they are passable during both wet and dry phases of the Okavango hydrological regime. Water supply – boreholes may need to remain in riverbeds, as this is where the water table is highest during dry phases, but they need to be extended so that they are above the 100-year flood level. Water authorities may need to establish two different extraction systems – a surface water one for high flood periods such as the next 5 to 10 years, and a groundwater one for low flood periods such as was experienced during the 1990s. Service provision – police, health and water officers (and others) need to have access to boats to provide alternative means of transport when roads become flooded. Land use – allocations of land grants must be done on the basis of flood maps, and not in response to political pressure. Certain temporary and informal land use authorizations, such as molapo fields, could be returned to village headmen, so that they could oversee a system of shifting location of such fields in response to flood availability. Management plans and zones within the Wildlife Management Areas must continue to be revised regularly, and show that the prevailing flood conditions are informing planning. Slower dynamics, such as scrub encroachment and floodplain extension, must be accommodated and considered in both the tourism and agricultural sectors.

All of the above aspects of management have been reported about in recent issues of the Ngami Times – and in each case, the high floods have been blamed for problems arising. In fact, the floods themselves are not at fault, they are just part of a natural cycle.

If there is a disaster associated with the changes in flood level, it lies not in nature, but in the current viability of the district's institutional arrangements.

At present, the management practices in place only function in dry phases. What is currently missing is a set of alternative responses and the appropriate equipment within each of the institutions responsible for management and service provision in the Okavango Delta. While it is clear that the implementation of the ODMP still has a long way to go – and it is only in its infancy – it is also important to look at what has already been achieved, so that these successes can form the basis of furthering Strategic Goal 1. The mobilization of the District Disaster Committee to prepare people for this year's flood was timely and well co-coordinated. It brought together officers from all sectors that pooled their resources to ensure advance warning was taken to all potentially affected settlements so that they prepare for these changing conditions. It saw a lot of information exchange between different district offices. Since the drawing up of the ODMP, there has been a strong increase in such cross-sectoral collaboration at the district level.

These high levels of inter-departmental cooperation are necessary for management to be flexible and adaptable to a range of environmental conditions. However, beyond that, it is important that both within and between departments, explicit arrangements are in place no matter what the flood levels are. Contingency plans must be defined and shared before and not after every change in flood level, so that access and service provision does not become a crisis needing a ‘damage control' response, but instead remains business as usual. Researchers at the Harry Oppenheimer Okavango Research Centre are more than happy to assist in providing information both to the general public and to service implementers of the ODMP with regard to the Okavango Delta. This year, for example, Prof. Wolski was able to share his forecasts for the 2010 flood at town meetings and through The Ngami Times. We plan to continue making such information available both through our website (links on the left-hand menu of http://www.orc.ub.bw ) and in response to direct requests.

Editorial

Racism, ill-treatment must be condemned

The tourism industry, particularly in the Okavango delta and Chobe areas, has for too long been marred by allegations that industry workers are being ill-treated on the basis of their race.

This is claimed to be happening in the safari camps and lodges where the workers' superiors would be expats (usually Whites). It has been alleged that citizen managers or local managers are paid far less than what their White counterparts earn and it has also been alleged that these managers often come with no experience at all. The industry has consistently denied the alleged incidents, with government officials also claiming to that they have no concrete evidence on the matter.

Some tourists are also said to have left some camps allegedly bitter at the way black employees are treated as compared to their white counterparts. Last week, the same call was made at a Maun Kgotla meeting by residents who claim the government is turning a blind eye to the matter. It is however worth noting that by turning a blind eye to such serious allegations is tantamount to accepting the practice. Political representatives in parliament and council have also over the years raised these concerns and nothing seems to have been done to ascertain the truth. The ministers involved have been going into the camps to hear the grievances of the workers, but when they leave, it is said employees who raised concerns are dismissed immediately and with no action taken by Labour department officials on the matter.

Recently, the MP for Chobe Gibson Nshimwe, raised similar concerns but these were flatly denied by the authorities. It is evident such allegations cannot be ignored forever, lest we create a ticking time bomb which will explode when we least expect and have serious consequences. Nobody needs to be reminded of the xenophobic attacks that happened in South Africa last year. Nothing can be a better cause because of racism, discrimination and ill-treatment of workers.

If those who are behind these claimed acts of racism and ill-treatment are not brought to book, then we are creating a potentially explosive situation. If the perpetrators are let lose, then this would create an impression that there exists a mini-state within the country where the laws of the country are not adhered to.

Last but not least, the industry itself stands to suffer as tourists may realise that racism and ill treatment of employees – imagined or not - are not being addressed. They will simply not come to Botswana. We should remember that in the region, there are some giants in the tourism industry with the best facilities, which have been sleeping and are beginning to wake up. One such example is Zimbabwe, which is waking up from its political malaise and striving to regain its stand in the industry. It may not be all the tour operators who are responsible, but surely there is no smoke without fire?

All those concerned should be seen to be doing something to prove the contrary, if the allegations have no truth. We applaud the Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Kitso Mokaila, for having shown concern and promising residents that the ministry will investigate.

No one's talking but it would appear Maun has been dealt a major blow as an international tourism destination.

As revealed in this column some weeks ago, the government has taken a decision not to enlarge Maun Airport's terminal building - in the planning stage for at least three years – but we hear on the grapevine that direct flights to and from Johannesburg to Maun are also ending, apparently from October. South Africa is apparently cancelling the route agreement allowing the national carrier, Air Botswana, to fly direct from Maun to Johannesburg because, it is believed, of Botswana's non-compliance with the Open Skies policy agreed to by African governments several years ago.

Industry sources tell Shuffle that urgent meetings have been held in Gaborone and Maun to discuss the issues which have caused shock waves through the local tourism and aviation industries. Air Botswana, understandably, cannot comment in the air schedule as this is a government-to-government decision.

According to informed sources, the move is because of the government's reluctance to introduce competition to the national carrier on lucrative routes such as Maun-Johannesburg-Maun. This was spelled out at the Aviation pitso held in Maun two months ago when it was announced that only Air Botswana would have the right to fly between Maun and Johannesburg, administering a slap in the face to South African airlines which had hoped to establish such a route in terms of the Open Skies agreement..

The policy is designed to pave the way for more air services, more competition and to cheapen air fares which would stimulate tourist traffic.

The ramifications are likely to be felt far and wide, say sources – “it will force business people and tourists to travel to Maun via Gaborone, unnecessarily prolonging their flights, because of illogical political decisions taken in Gaborone,” said one well-placed source.

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Did you know ?   Apart from its vulnerability to fire, human hair is almost impossible to destroy. It decays at a very slow rate, so slow that is almost non-disintegrative. It can't be destroyed by cold, change of climate, water, etc., and it is resistant to many kinds of acids and corrosive materials. 3000 Year old Egyptian mummies nearly all have undamaged hair

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Ponder these:

· A classic is a book that everybody is assumed to have read and often think they have.

· There are millions of books in libraries but the one you want to read is always out.

· I gave my young nephew a book for his birthday. He spent the next six months looking for the place to put the batteries in.

· Lost in translation: Instructions on Japanese phone card – “1. Lift up receiver; 2. Insert phone card; 3. Dial number; 4. Say hello.”

Human-elephant conflict far from over

By Basadi Morokotso

The human-elephant conflict, which has been the centre of debate between the people of Ngamiland and the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, is far from over.

This is because there has never been a convincing response from the ministry whenever questions regarding the issue were tabled.

Residents claim they have fought to at least have a raise in compensation but instead the ministry has stuck to the 35% market rate which, according the ministry head, Kitso Mokaila, will not be changed. Mokaila said in Maun this week that government is trying to address the issue, even though there are other factors making it complicated because of lack of cooperation on the part of some farmers who leave their livestock to roam unattended.

Some people have resorted to relying and benefiting from the meagre compensation money which the government is giving out, and do not care any longer whether they lose out on their livestock as they cannot sell to Botswana Meat Commission.

He said this practice has been a big blow on government as people are not offering any helping hand.

Mokaila said also that people need to change their mindset on how they look at things, considering the fact that back in the days there were not as many wild animals as there are today and that the few which were there at the time were not too much of a problem because they were easily controlled.

Another issue of concern at the meeting was that of poor working relations at some safari camps in the Okavango Delta which residents feel urgent attention is needed because people's rights are allegedly being violated.

They said despite this they are expected to show commitment to work, failure of which they either face expulsion or at times are threats that their contracts will be terminated.

This has angered members of the public who said at the kgotla meeting cannot “stop wondering why foreign employers never attend kgotla meetings even though they are always at the forefront of inflicting frustrations on their employees.”

In response, the minister regretted that there are still people in the tourism sector who do not have the interests of their employees at heart.

He said no one is allowed to ill-treat their employees and that whoever does so will be punished according to Botswana labour laws.

He said he is aware that “white tour operators” do not attend meetings, more especially the Tourism Pitso where issues of concern are tabled, and it was therefore no wonder they are never in line with what is expected of them.

“They are only interested in acquiring citizenship and presenting themselves only when it favours them.

“This is very wrong of them and from now on we are going to seriously watch them because now it affects innocent people. There has to be balance, but how do we balance when there are some issues lacking behind?

“I urge all of you to lodge labour relations with the regional labour office for now and we will step in if you feel you are not happy with the results,” he said.

Lastest pictures of the North's watery world!

Man sentenced to do ‘extramural service'

By Molefi Manyepedza

The Maun Customary Court has sentenced a 33 year old Kgosing man to 4 months of extramural labour after being convicted for an offence of common nuisance.

The accused, Otlaadisa Kehemetswe, was facing a single charge of common nuisance contrary to section 176 of penal code of Botswana Law which attracts a year's imprisonment. According to prosecutor Constable Modisa Andris, of the Botswana Police Service, on August 15, at 0100hrs, Otlaadisa played music very loud and when his mother, Kegaisamang warned him not to play music that loud especially at night, he responded “you are talking nonsense. I wonder how I came to be born by a useless person like you. Mother f***! I don't know if you indeed gave birth to me?” Andris said at the time of the incident, the accused person was drunk. In his plea of mitigation, Otlaadisa said: “I am the breadwinner at home and looking after my children”. After passing sentence, Kgosi Ledimo described the accused person as a disrespectful man.

“I was not impressed by Kehemetswe's behavior of undermining the court as he wanted to play with the court's time. The accused was claiming to have pleaded guilty for playing music loudly and misbehaving to his mother, Kegaisamang. “Otlaadisa wanted the court to separate playing music loudly with that of insulting his mother which is completely impossible as his playing music loud at night led to the insults he hurled at his mother,” said Ledimo. When passing sentence, Ledimo told Otlaadisa that he will serve his sentence at Maun Customary Court doing every job that he will be assigned, including cutting down trees.

Botswana scores well in global survey

GABORONE - A Newsweek magazine index of the “World's Best Countries”, which was published this week, has ranked Botswana No.1 in Sub-Saharan Africa, 24 th among middle income countries, and 80th globally.

Among the Sub-Saharan countries, Botswana was closely followed by South Africa (82) and Ghana (86).

The survey, which was carried out for the American news magazine's first ever “Best Countries” special issue, set out to answer the question of which countries provide the best opportunities to live a healthy, safe, prosperous, and upwardly mobile life. In seeking an answer, Newsweek researchers compiled a range of measures across five categories of national well-being-education, health, quality of life, economic competitiveness, and political environment. A breakdown of the results for Botswana underscores areas of relative strength and weakness. Botswana scored highest in the areas of education (73.5%) and political environment (72.6%). The education score was buoyed by the achievement of an average of 11.9 years in school. In terms of political environment, the country scored high in indices measuring respect for basic freedoms and human rights, as well as political stability. The country's metric for political participation, however, was in the middle range, 5 on a scale of 1-10. Botswana scored lowest in the area of health (34.8%). This outcome, which reflected an estimated life expectancy of 49 years, was largely based on UN projections of the continuing impact of HIV/AIDS on public health. In measures of Quality of Life (50.1%), the results for Botswana were mixed with relatively high income disparities and poverty, as measured by those living on two US dollars a day or less, being balanced against relatively good scores for security, social welfare, environmental performance, and, perhaps surprisingly, employment. Botswana's score for “Economic Dynamism” (43.7%) placed the country almost in the middle among the nations surveyed. Areas of relative strength included income and service sector growth, while resource dependency and low innovation metrics were cited as areas of concern.

In terms of “ease of doing business” the study cited Botswana's relatively favourable World Bank ranking of 45 out of 183 countries and 61 day new business start up time.

‘Mother of all festivals' for charity

By Wame Tshimololo

Thuso Rehabilitation Centre will host the mother of all festivals today (Friday and tomorrow in Maun with the purpose of raising funds for disabled children. The two events are organised by Mmabatho Tangani. Today, there will be a charity festival at Kesmo Lodge starting at 8pm until late whereas on Saturday there will be a family fun day at Maun sports complex. Mapetla, Matsieng, Smarh, Stream Jazz, Dj Bunz, Dj Shampino, Dj Sly and Dj Obza of RB2 will be performing at the two festivals. The Saturday event starts at 9 am and activities include drama groups, face painting for kids, raffle, jumping castle and “what's in the box.”

There's a cost of P30 and P20 respectively for the two events. Stalls are rented at P300 each. Drinks and braai will be available. Tickets are available at Akron Tangier and the following numbers can be contacted for more information: 73333303, 72632939 and 71505055.

Soldier's licence suspended for drunken driving

By Gaolebogwe Moipei

A 33 year old soldier, Mpho Segaetsho, had his driver's licence suspended for a year and was fined P3 000 or 18 months imprisonment by Maun principal magistrate, Clifford Foroma, for driving a motor vehicle after he exceeded the prescribed alcohol limit in his blood.

The court heard that on April 2, along Sir Seretse Khama Road, in Maun, the accused drove a motor vehicle with the alcohol content in his breath reading 0.48 m/g, exceeding the prescribed limit of 0.35 m/g.

He pleaded guilty.

In mitigations, Segaetsho asked that his licence should not be cancelled due to the fact that it is part of his work. He said at the time of the alleged offence the owner of the vehicle was not in a condition to drive because he was drunk.

Foroma said he was satisfied that the accused admitted to the essential elements of the offence and found him guilty as charged.

He further said the accused persons reasons were not exceptional enough for the licence not to be suspended. He also considered that the accused person is a first offender and had pleaded guilty, therefore showing remorse.

If a person is convicted for such an offence, he is liable to a fine of not less than P3 000, not exceeding P5 000 or alternatively 18 months imprisonment not exceeding two years and the drivers licence cancelled for a year.

Racism and ill-treatment claims haunt tourism

By Basadi Morokotso

Chief Reporter

Allegations of racism and ill-treatment of employees in the tourism sector, especially in camps and lodges in the Okavango, Delta continues to haunt the industry. Though these allegations have always been denied by authorities and employers, this seems to have sowed seeds of discontent among many who feel they are being ill treated, leading to soured relations between employees and employers because of allegations that no serious action has ever been taken to address the problem. This behaviour is mostly experienced at camps which are run by non-citizens, it is alleged.

They have been accused of swearing at staff and at times going to the extent of physically abusing them. Some cases have gone unreported because employees are at times threatened with job loss.

A few of those who have questioned things have been forced to surrender their jobs while some have been left with no choice but to stay because at the end of the day they have to provide for their families. To make matters worse, no matter how many times the reports are made to those in authority, very little is done to get to the root of the problem. This is because non-citizen managers are said to be good with words and can “sweet talk officials such that it is always hard to link them with some of the accusations leveled against them.”

In a Kgotla meeting in Maun last week after all the claims and complaints were raised by residents, the Minister of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, Kitso Mokaila, was presented with a letter by a visibly disappointed Gregory Molaletsi who said he was recently forced to quit his job “because of ill-treatment.”

The letter read “You have of late submitted to the ‘Midweek Sun' (newspaper) that you have never received any concrete report regarding racial discrimination in the tourism industry.

“Well, it does exist Mr Minister, and it has been there for ages all over this country, and it's harder than tribalism. I do not know how long you have been in this ministry/industry for it's a pity you do not have any solid reports. I suspect the problem is that whatever reports you directly receive never gets published in the media, therefore it's hard for the nation to be aware, especially that we do not know which ones you pay heed to”.

Molaletsi told the packed kgotla that he was employed by a safari company (name known to The Ngami Times) to work as a manager, but did not do so as two senior managers he was to work with were not so welcoming and always laying false accusations on him with the aim of turning co-workers against him.

He asked Mokaila to abolish the so-called “local manager” job title because people mistake it for somebody with lesser powers than white managers.

In his letter he went on to say:” It is clear that racism is happening in this beautiful country of ours. Why should we push it under the carpet?

“Now Minister Mokaila, I hope you will never maintain that there is no racism in the tourism sector because I am sure you do not want a wrench applied by the so-called people of color in some countries to operate in this country. I do not have to have lived overseas to know when racial discrimination is indirectly being applied because actions speak louder than words.”

In response Mokaila directed Molaletsi to the Tourism office in Maun where his letter will be looked into, after which the right procedures will be followed. He however cautioned him against forwarding complaints to the media before making proper consultations with relevant authorities.

In one of the many meetings called by the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Peter Siele and the Commissioner of Labour, Reginah Sigwele, at the camps, staff members were made by their superiors to believe they were free to voice out their concerns even though they never got deeper into detail because they never knew what to expect next. The Ngami Times was reliably informed that just days after the delegation left, those who were at the forefront were shown the door and accused influencing others.

Gate jumping leopard now in cage

By Laura Marchitto Massie

KASANE – People that live near the Plateau area here will now be able to sleep more soundly knowing that a leopard that attacked the dog, Minnie, on August 7 and two other known dog killings was captured this week. The Leopard also appeared to be killing for fun since a dead kitten was found on the wall of the home where Minnie lives.  It appeared to be a trophy for the predator. The Department of Wildlife and National Parks along with vet Clay Wilson had been trying to trap the leopard in order to relocate it since there are many children living in the area. The department was also concerned for the welfare of the animal. When the first trap was set, a hyena was caught and released instead of the leopard but when the second trap was set, the wire was cut that held the bait and the hind leg of an impala was stolen. Wilson then suggested that they set the bait and trap in his yard that is behind a wall since that is where Minnie was known to be attacked and was the second known episode where the animal had attacked in a walled in property.  The leopard may have felt safe behind walled areas. On Saturday, the cage was set up and bait was hung in a tree.  The leopard hit the bait on Sunday night so bait was then put in the cage.  The leopard again hit the bait and was found in the cage on Tuesday morning.  The animal was sedated with a dart gun and was comfortably transported to its new home with plentiful game and water 100km away. According Wilson, the young male was approximately 50kg and in excellent health.   The location was picked since it was far away from human population and there were not many known leopards living in that area. 

Trio in court for house breaking

By Gaolebogwe Moipei

Three Thito ward men - Ontiretse Sereileng (23), Poifo Kutlwano (15) and Mange Tsheko (40) - have appeared before Maun principal magistrate Clifford Foroma on two offences of house breaking and theft. The three accused between July 4 and 6 allegedly broke into a dwelling house at Thito ward and stole kitchen utensils, bedding, entertainment appliances such as television sets and DVD players. All the stolen goods amounted to P9 182.00 and belonging to Sefo Mange. All three pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor, Antonio Luanda, of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, said investigations are still not yet complete and did not oppose the accused persons' bail. The three are to appear again on September 21.

Toteng Bridge now open again

By Molefi Manyepedza

The main bridge on the Maun-Sehitwa road at Toteng has been reopened to traffic after it was closed two months ago because of floodwaters.

The two old bridges on the old Ghanzi gravel road were used as an alternative route after the closure of the main road. Since the gravel road is old it opened to light vehicles only and heavy trucks from either side of the Toteng Bridge were forced to travel via Gaborone. Bus operators had to off-load passengers at one end of the old bridge to reduce the weight and reload passengers who had to walk to the other side.

The Chief Technical Officer at the Maun Roads department, Lenkemetse Majaga, told The Ngami Times in an interview that the closure of the gravel road bridge came after a team of engineers from Gaborone visited the site. He added that when they are through with repairs the old bridge, his department will move to the main bridge where they will construct a wall along guard rails on the inlet side and that they will also construct a 10 mm slab. Toteng Chief's Representative, Kemang Daniel Nkakobang, is still concerned about pollution on the river banks especially at the old bridge. Nkakobang points at fishermen as the main culprits. He said after fishing, they throw fish intestines back into the floodwater which he said are dangerous to other aquatic creatures. There are some fishermen who after catching small fish, leave these on the river bank. “It would be good if they then take this small fish back into the flooding water,” Nkakobang said.

In Rakops, Kgosi Kopano Mabona said there has been no further damage to homes, adding that have received a report of a person who drowned on Saturday.

Kgosi Diane Jacob said the floodwaters have passed Sekgopane and is now in Swiesani fields near Xhumo. Sightings of crocodiles and hippos have also been reported.

Photographer donates to Khwai children

By Basadi Morokotso

KHWAI - Hundreds of children from Khwai settlement were over the weekend presented with gifts in the form of clothing, shoes and toys by Patsy Smith Roberts, a writer, photographer and illustrator who has over the years shown support by sourcing sponsors to donate to the children.

The presentation took place at the Khwai Development Trust Office which was turned into a hive of activity after the news that they were going to benefit from proceeds from their friends overseas.

Speaking at the small event, attended by parents and villagers, Roberts said the presents were a collection from children at Sugar Hill Elementary School in Georgia, United States, who saw the need to offer assistance after she had told them about “their friends in Africa” whom they got to know of from a computer power point presentation she showed them during one of her many visits to the school.

According to Roberts, the children in the US were eager to know more about the Botswana children who are surrounded by nature, how they live and so forth, adding that it was then that they decided they had to do something.

“Believe me, kids in the US are so giving and are always willing to help whenever the need arises. You need to understand however that they only did it out of compassion, not because the children here are poor or either way. To them making friends and giving out is some sort of adventure which they do not want to part with,” Roberts added.

Although it is very easy for her to obtain things in the US, she said bringing them to Botswana is a problem, considering the charges levied.

So far she has made close to 22 trips to Botswana and admits she has fallen in love with children in this part of Africa.

Because of Botswana's beauty and prevailing peace and tranquility, Roberts said Americans love the country and are willing to come in large numbers on tour and to offer assistance here and there.

She said at the event that working with locals was never a difficult thing for her, due to the generous support she and her team got from a local tour operator, Joseph Bayei, of Letsatsi Safari and Lodge, whom she has befriended over the years - “he has been so supportive and has assisted us in various aspects such as ferrying us around and chipping in whenever there are language barriers because he understands people here better and is familiar with most places.” Roberts has written four children's books – “Rory-The Adventurers of a Lion Cub”, “Kabelo-The Adventurers of a Baby Giraffe,” “Willis-The Warthog” and “Nigel-The Adventurers of a Baby Elephant.”

Letters to the Editor

Vultures are respected and honoured

Sir, -In traditional African lore vultures are respected and honoured, having often enjoyed royal protection. Vultures are also known by names such as the Purifiers – the ones that clean the land. They are thus seen as protectors. It is not only sub-Saharan African culture that reveres the vulture. Hindus regard vultures as carriers of the human spirit. In ancient Egypt, they were associated with the Nekhbet, the goddess of fertility and renewal. Amongst Native Americans they are regarded as symbols of purification. As creatures of the air they are symbolic of the mind, thoughts, and intelligence. Your newspaper has carried several articles on the problem of vulture poisoning. It would seem that vultures are the unintended victims of a campaign against predators, many of which are also held in great esteem in the traditional knowledge systems of Africa. To solve a problem it is important to capture peoples' imaginations in providing the incentive to change. What most Africans know, deep down inside, is that all knowledge is interconnected. There are multiple paths by which to approach the same truth.

CLARISSA HUGHES

The Earth Organization - Cultural Chapter

Maun

Times Sport

FIFA unhappy about ‘political' Constituency League

Political interference in Botswana's football could see the Botswana Football Association (BFA) kicked out of the world organising body, FIFA, and all international tournaments under its jurisdiction – such as the World Cup and AFCON .

FIFA has told the BFA to explain the operation of the Constituency League which is being run by the government.

The Ministry of Sports, Youth and Culture is the guiding hand behind the league, first suggested by President Ian Khama.

The football fraternity has expressed concern that the league is interfering with the laws of the game and FIFA rules.

BFA president David Fani told Times Sports this week that the BFA's position on the constituency league is that football cannot be administered by government.

“The world football governing body, FIFA does not tolerate government interference in football affairs. FIFA does not entertain it when football is run by government because it does not want political interference in football”. said Fani.

He confirmed to Times Sports that the BFA had received a letter from FIFA concerning the issue of constituency football - “It's true. FIFA wrote us a letter to explain about this league and we have started talks with the government through Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) and the Ministry of Sports and Culture.

“We have been urged to resolve this issue before the World Football Governing Board committee meet in October,” he said.

The FIFA Statutes and the accompanying regulations governing their implementation form the constitution of football's international governing body. They provide the basic laws for world football, on which countless rules are set for competitions, transfers, doping issues and a host of other concerns. “If we fail to meet the October deadline given to us, the letter states that the Governing Board will be left without choice but to suspend Botswana Football Association from FIFA as a member of the organisation. We hope to solve this issue amicably and work toward football development in our country,” added Fani.

Fani and others in the BFA have made calls for the constituency tournament to be discontinued or to be run under the association's banner. The league is the brainchild of President Khama and was started without the blessing or input of the BFA. In trying to establish how the Office of the President (OP) was running the constituency tournaments, Tuelo Moloko at the OP said Constituency tournaments were run by the department of Sport and Recreation in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

The public relations officer in the ministry, Kristian Mmusi, told Times Sports that their office coordinates the tournament - “The Constituency League is run by ward committees from each region. They are directed by some officers from Members of Parliament constituency offices and the overall coordination is with the District Commissioners. The tournament is initiated by the Office of the President,” said Mmusi. Football officials are concerned because the competition has had a negative impact on the development of football in the country. The tournament is taking up limited resources that can be used to develop the game in a better way.

With the league being run across the country, there have been complains about the fall of football standards in all regions because talented players have relocated to play in the league were they feel they make quick money.

The constituency tournament has lured players from mainstream leagues due to its incentives. Players opted to play in the constituency league which has financial rewards unlike the lower division leagues.

Just like any other regions, the Nhabe regional football association has failed to bail-out clubs from financial woes because of lack of sponsorship.

Nhabe region have Division One and Two, and these teams are expected to feed Maun Terrors and Tigers with players but that is not happening as the players are all entering the constituency league.

Zebras prepare for Togo clash

Botswana senior national soccer team's locally based players who were called to the Zebras squad are now in camp ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations match against Togo in Gaborone on September 4.

National team mentor Stanley Tshosane revealed that all players had reported for camp which started on Sunday. Tshosane added that foreign-based players are expected to join camp next week.

“We are expecting them to arrive in good time to start camp so that the coaches polish their combinations ahead of the big game,” said Tshosane.

With the Zebras' brilliant performances and their quest for a maiden appearance to the AFCON finals, Tshosane said they are looking forward to qualify by ensuring that the preparations for the team were done well in advance.

“As a parent with a child who is going to sit for an examination, we have ensured that enough cover is provided for the team to assist it to prepare and fulfill this fixture,” added Tshosane.

The coach has called into camp all the players that have been with the team, including the South African based professionals but excluding Mogogi Gabonamong who was said to be making his way back to the national team.

Mogogi has been quoted in the media as saying that he still has unfinished business with the Botswana Football Association concerning certain issues that he needs to have resolved.

Tshosane has said he will have to work with the players that have been doing duty for the country as Botswana needs to win the match at all costs to start on a sound footing and maintain their place on top of Group K.

Efforts to stage the Togo match at the National Stadium in Gaborone have failed as the owners have advised that the facility is not ready.

It has also been advised that the Lobatse Stadium is not also ready.

The match will now take place at the University of Botswana Stadium (kick off 3pm). Tickets will cost P60.00 for grand stands and P40.00 for other stands and go on sale on Wednesday.

Referees for the match will come from Rwanda while the Match Commissioner will be from Lesotho.

Marumo joins South African exodus

South African Mvela league side Bay United have made a major signing ahead of their start to the new season in the First Division after signing Botswana national team first choice goalkeeper Modiri Marumo.

Marumo, the first Motswana who was in the books of Egyptian Premier League side Haras El Hodoud last season, was also reported to being courted by Mamelodi Sundowns after they saw him playing for United during a friendly game against Mpumalanga Black Aces recently.

Bay United, coached by David Bright, confirmed that they had signed the Zebra's goalkeeper.

“It is true that one of the big teams in South Africa had put in an offer for him, but unfortunately for them he had already signed with us. “Marumo is a seasoned goalkeeper; he is a national team player and also played in the Premier League in Egypt and will definitely bring a wealth of experience to the club.”

‘Ensure quality' referees told

Nhabe region league referees committee has called for the gradual integration of newly-promoted referees and their more seasoned colleagues to ensure the standards in the region are not compromised.

Dickson Moyambo, who is the chairperson of Nhabe region league referees association, said that the trained referees who conducted the referees course should help the region. He said that this will assist programmes aimed at developing and improving match officials around the country. Moyambo, one of the best referees in the region, admitted that the local referees' body had not fully blended the upcoming referees with their more experienced colleagues when appointing them for matches. There have been complaints from clubs about the declining standards of officiating with some of the newly-promoted match officials clearly being overawed by the tasks of handling matches. Moyambo believes using seasoned referee like Lenyeletse Kgotlafela or Jack Casalis with some newly-promoted officials as a panel could help some of less-experienced colleagues to easily settle down to the rigours of the game. He welcomed the move by the BFA Referees Committee to encourage and lure a host of younger match officials.

Nhabe football has never fully recovered since, two seasons ago, a spate of poor officiating, and that led to teams abusing referees who decided to sit back. That forced teams to find their own referees. It came as no surprise when Botswana failed to fulfill its quota of seven centre referees on the FIFA panel, but with the crop of over 30 new referees who took part in the referee's course, none of them have ever utilised that opportunity to help the region. Having two teams in the National 1 st division league, will mean that the number of referees should also increase. The region has only four seasoned referees 0 Dickson Moyambo, Lazarus Mabina, Jack Casalis and Lenyeletse Kgotlafela. “We have a total number of 12 referees, including new two guys who are in Maun on transfer from Gaborone and Francistown. The other six are from the region. We have been training them and I believe they will be ready by the time of the league kick off,” said Moyambo. The abuse of referees and improper payment is said to be a contributing factor to the referee situation - “we have a lot of referees around Maun, but the way we are treated during our duties is inhuman, also our payments are not done properly. So that will really affect the region, but we need to be focused and cooperate with all stake holders to ensure that both parties are happy”

Cycling endurance a challenge

The Blue Cross, Africa's longest regular ultra-endurance fixture, is a 500km journey for cyclists and runners between the lowest and highest points of Zimbabwe. This is where the Save River leaves the country in the lowveld at 150m above sea level to the summit of Nyangani mountain (2 593m). Athletes take on this challenge in order to raise funds for the Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the event is well organised and catered for while taking in some of the stunning scenery that Africa has to offer. It is expected that cyclists from Maun will compete next year, and James Alexander, a Maun cyclist who participated this year, has thanked sponsors for their assistance. The sponsors were Penstone Fine Wine, Okavango Wilderness Safaris, Mark Rijntjies, Jez and Kyle McIntyre, Abercrombie and Kent Safaris, Elly and Johno, and Canvas Zone.

A total of US$20 000 was raised this year.