21 Jan 2025

The  peaceful buzz of the Public Relations Office at Police Headquarters is different now.

The recognisable voice of former Assistant Commissioner Dipheko Motube is missing, echoing the vacuum created by his retirement last December. However, profiling him triggered a flood of recollections, showcasing a career characterised by good character rather than status. Mr Motube was simply a cut above the rest.

Mr Motube exemplified the perfect police officer, from his precise discipline at work to his steadfast commitment to family and personable demeanour. The Kopong native’s professionalism has always been solid and consistent. He was a man of simple tastes, yet his actions spoke volumes about his integrity and dedication. His leadership style, far from harsh, inspired those under him to follow his example.

Assistant Commissioner Near Bagali, Senior Superintendent Selinah Omphile, and Superintendent Selebatso Mooketsi stand as a testament to his influence, their success not merely a matter of rank but a reflection of the respect they earned and the values instilled in them.

This reporter recalls a particular incident at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic where Mr Motube professionally handled a sensitive issue that involved police officers in Pandamatenga. As a seasoned communications officer for the men and women in blue, Mr Motube managed to navigate the tricky situation and emphatically protected the integrity of both the officers and the Botswana Police Service.

As a trained journalist, he understood the power of words, using them to connect with the public in a more profound way. His memorable Radio Botswana jingle, “Tlang lotlhe le bana ba bana ba lona”, a call to action for the Botswana Police Day celebrations, resonated well across the nation, drawing huge crowds. This ability to inspire and mobilise, to command attention and loyalty through effective communication, was a testament to his skill.

He was, in fact, an architect of modern police journalism, under the tutelage of another retiree and a giant in the field, Mr Christopher Mbulawa. The two were instrumental in shaping how the Botswana Police Service communicated with the citizens.

When asked what he most valued about his years working within the Police Public Relations Unit, the longtime BPS mouthpiece response speaks volumes. This answer encapsulates the essence of his career, a profound commitment to service, a deep understanding of the importance of public trust, and an unwavering dedication to the principles of professionalism and integrity that defined him through his decorated carreer.

Mr Motube’s public service trajectory began in 1983 where he served as a Tirelo Sechaba participant at the Zwenshambe Customary Court in the North East District. Paired with a police officer, he patrolled on a bicycle, making arrests that, he recalls, were remarkably straightforward and broke no sweat.

“Batswana were humble then, not violent,” he said, describing the relative ease with which they apprehended suspects.

He worked alongside three other Tirelo Sechaba participants: former Daily News editor Daphne Motswakae, former Radio Botswana presenter Kesaobaka Keoreng, and the late Richard Monageng. They were the first batch of Tirelo Sechaba Participants to be deployed in the North East village at the time.

After completing his 12-month national service stint, Mr Motube, a trained secondary school teacher from Molepolole College of Education and a linguist, briefly served as an assistant administration officer at Matshekge Hill School in Bobonong before joining the police service in 1984.

His first posting was in Francistown Central Police Station, where he met the current Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Solomon Mantswe. Following radio production training, the pair were transferred to the police’s radio unit.  Motube presented programmes like “Sepodisi Gompieno” (Police Today) and produced the police newsletter, unknowingly launching his journalistic career.

His distinctive voice made him popular, leading many to believe he worked for Radio Botswana. As the police organisation expanded, a fully-fledged public relations unit was established, marking another milestone in Mr Motube’s career.
The establishment of a dedicated police media unit, according to Mr Motube, was driven by the increasing scrutiny from a more inquisitive media landscape.nThe unit aimed to manage the police service’s public image and address issues effectively.

Mr Motube’s policing career spanned decades, marked by his promotion to sergeant in 1986 and his subsequent rise through the ranks to assistant commissioner. He recalls his initial salary of P286, which he insists was sufficient, depending on one’s spending habits.

During his career, Motube served under all six Batswana police commissioners namely; Mr Simon Hirschfield, Mr Norman Moleboge, Mr Edwin Batshu, Mr Thebeyame Tsimako, Mr Keabetswe Makgophe, and the current first woman commissioner, Ms Dinah Marathe.

He noted that one significant challenge was the rise of citizen journalism on social media, requiring daily responses to correct misinformation. He advocated for more decisive government action against individuals posing as journalists and spreading false information about government departments, particularly targeting the Botswana Police Service, both institutionally and at the individual officer level.

Despite these challenges, Motube highlighted the remarkable growth of the Botswana Police Service. From a much smaller organisation with approximately seven departments, it has expanded to nearly 25 and now boasts over 82 police stations (excluding satellite stations) across the country’s 17 districts, ensuring greater visibility and deterrence of crime.

Technological advancements within the organisation, including forensic and narcotics units, are crucial in combating modern, technologically-driven criminal activity.

Motube, who served with dedication as both a public relations officer and spokesperson, also participated as an operative in “Operation Kgomo Khumo” a vital initiative focused on livestock theft prevention.

Now a cattle farmer, he proudly reflects on his career, leaving a lasting legacy.  Even in retirement, he continues to receive requests for assistance, highlighting the enduring impact of his service. Although his retirement marks the end of an era, his legacy of professionalism, integrity, and quiet leadership will live on to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.  He leaves behind a void that will not be filled easily. ENDS