🇧🇼BotswanaSouthern Africa
Halfway Toyota Ngami opens, government reaffirms private sector-driven growth in Botswana
via Mmegi3 min read
The new Halfway Toyota Ngami dealership has officially opened, with the government reaffirming its commitment to a private sector-driven economy. Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Caesar Mohwasa, stated that the development signals confidence in Botswana’s economic direction and aligns with the country’s economic transition under NDP 12. He emphasized that such investments are essential for the nation's progress and highlighted Maun's significance as a gateway to iconic tourism destinations, noting that investment in the area strengthens tourism, transport services, and local businesses. Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Pius Mokgware, commended the Halfway Group for adhering to labor standards, including compliance with the minimum wage and employing persons with disabilities.
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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.