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Role of NGOs in Botswana vital - VP

15 Sep 2024

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have played a significant role in breaking cycles of poverty in Botswana and empowering disadvantaged communities, says Vice President Slumber Tsogwane.
 
Speaking during  Shoeless Golf Charity tournament at Phakalane Golf Estate on Friday, Tsogwane said the contribution of NGOs during the height of the HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 pandemics could not be underestimated.
 
He said the two pandemics demonstrated the extent to which partnerships could be of assistance.
 
“It was NGOs of all sorts that carried us on their shoulders,” emphasised Vice President Tsogwane.
 
He said the spirit of charity was the vision that brought Batswana together in the development of the country, adding that the spirit encouraged inclusiveness and ensuring that anyone willing and able could start any business and excel. 
 
The Vice President commended the collaborative work among individuals and organisations to introduce the sport of golf to children who may otherwise not get the opportunity. 
 
He added that by ‘promoting inclusivity and community engagement,’ they were breaking down barriers and building a better future for the next generation. 
 
Tsogwane also challenged the sponsors and stakeholders to adopt a school.
 
The Vice President noted that due to its cost prohibitive requirements, golf had remained an elite sport, but was hopeful that through the Shoeless Golf Charity tournament initiative, equal participation would be ensured and dreams realised.
 
Kabelo Matsogo, representative from the Shoeless Golf Charity tournament said the concept of the tournament was born out of a desire to bridge the gap between the less privileged and the well off school-going children. He said Shoeless was a powerful symbol representing the many children who lacked access to necessities such as shoes.
 
The tournament was graced by professional women golfers, Monica Lieving and Averee Dovsek from the United States of America. 
 
They participated in the tournament because they wanted to raise funds and give opportunities to children as they believed in them.
 
The tournament was supported by Diagnofirm Medical Laboratories, Botswana Development Corporation, Mindset Campaign team, Tatsand Mining Services, Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority, Human Resources Development Council and Botswana Golf Union among others.  Ends

Source : BOPA

Author : Ketshepile More

Location : Gaborone

Event : Golf Charity tournament

Date : 15 Sep 2024