🇧🇼BotswanaSouthern Africa
Botswana entertainment promoters dispute minister's 24-hour economy success claim
via Mmegi2 min read
The Botswana Entertainment Promoters Association BEPA, along with allied industry bodies, has strongly refuted the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Tiroeaone Ntsima's, declaration that the Easter Holidays pilot for the 24-hour economy was a success. BEPA states that the minister's assertion lacks credible, verifiable, or independently assessed data and contradicts the realities experienced by the creative and entertainment sectors. The association argues that extending bar operating hours from 6 PM to 6 AM has negatively impacted event-based enterprises, as patrons now prefer bars where entertainment is often free, undermining ticket sales and production investments for structured performances. BEPA also highlighted public safety concerns, citing a Botswana Police Service report indicating a 63% surge in violent crimes during the Easter holidays. The association criticizes the government's narrow understanding of a 24-hour economy, emphasizing that it requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral system including effective law enforcement, not just extended alcohol trading hours. BEPA has called for the immediate release of supporting data, suspension of further rollout, and urgent stakeholder engagements. BEPA and the Botswana Night Clubs and Bar Association have postponed a planned march to engage with the minister.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Mmegi.
Ponatshego Tshiping, affectionately known as MmaTshiping, a prominent figure in the Botswana Democratic Party and local governance, has passed away at the age of 81. She will be laid to rest this Saturday in her home village of Moshupa. MmaTshiping served as a councillor for 30 years, spanning six terms, making her one of the longest-serving local government representatives in the country's history.
Must ReadPresident Duma Boko announced the passing of former President Festus Mogae, who died on May 2026 at 07:30. Mogae served as Botswana's president from 1998 to 2008. President Boko described Mogae as a voice of reason, unity, and progress, highlighting his enduring influence on Botswana's governance and international standing. Under Mogae's leadership, Botswana gained international respect for principled governance, sound economic management, and a commitment to democracy. Boko emphasized that Mogae's legacy was rooted in discipline, integrity, and prudent leadership, which positioned Botswana among Africa’s respected democracies. Even after leaving office, Mogae remained a guiding voice on national and international matters. President Boko stated that Botswana has lost a patriot whose life was devoted to public service and nation-building. Mogae, Botswana’s third president, was globally recognized for his cautious economic management and commitment to democratic governance. President Boko called on Batswana to continue building a country that reflects the ideals Mogae upheld. He also extended condolences to former First Lady Barbara Mogae and her family.
A week after Botswana hosted the World Athletics Relays 2026, which saw the local men’s 4x400m team set a World Relays record of 2:54.47, concerns have emerged regarding the treatment of various stakeholders. The event, the first World Relays held on African soil, has drawn criticism from the transport sector, volunteers, spectators, and local media. The Taxi Association of Botswana, through its chairperson Edison Tlhomelang, accused organizers and the government of sidelining local transport operators, arguing that the anticipated economic benefits did not fully reach them. Volunteers and technical officials have also voiced frustrations on social media and in local publications, citing issues with allowances, accommodation, feeding arrangements, and working conditions. Complaints included confusion over payment structures, with initial promises of $20 per day over four days reportedly changing to P300 per day, and some volunteers claiming incomplete compensation. Accommodation and transport reimbursement issues, as well as changes in feeding arrangements, were also reported. Additionally, some volunteers stated they did not receive the full officiating apparel they expected, only receiving T-shirts and shoe bags instead of windbreakers, trousers, and bags.
Must ReadThe Auditor General has identified billing irregularities totaling at least P105 million at the Water Utilities Corporation WUC, corroborating customer complaints about high and inaccurate water bills. The Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending March 31, 2023, revealed that P105 million in debtor balances were incorrectly recorded in the corporation’s debtors’ book. These errors were primarily due to mistakes in meter readings, including incorrect readings being processed for billing without correction. Consequently, 257 individual customers received bills exceeding P100,000.