21 Feb 2025

In response to the devastating flood affecting Batswana across the country, Business Botswana has established a Business Disaster Management Fund aimed at providing assistance to affected businesses.

Mr Neo Nwako, President of Business Botswana, announced that the fund would be managed by an independent board to ensure effective administration. He emphasised the organisation’s collaboration with the National Disaster Management Committee to address the current crisis.

“Our business councils nationwide are working with village development committees and district commissioners. We urge the business community to come together and support our nation during this critical time, ”Mr Nwako said.

He highlighted that account details for contributions would be shared via Btv and other media platforms to facilitate prompt donations. Mr Nwako also called on individuals and businesses to provide in-kind assistance, especially those with machinery like JCBs to help clear debris obstructing water flow, which exacerbated flooding.

“Let’s heed this clarion call to help,” he urged, emphasising the governance and accountability measures in place for the initiative.

Assistant Minister for State President, Ms Maipelo Mophuting, recognised Business Botswana as a vital stakeholder in disaster management and expressed gratitude to security forces for their support during ‘this challenging time.’

Meanwhile, Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa, addressed the nation on Btv, informing the public that relocations around Gaborone Dam were currently in progress. He urged residents in flood-prone areas such as Morwa, Bokaa, Oodi, and Matebeleng to evacuate for their safety.

In his earlier address on Wednesday, Mr Mohwasa reassured citizens that the government remained committed to preserving lives.  To coordinate the response,  Mr Mohwasa said a National Emergency Operations Centre has been convened, chaired by the Minister for State President, to mobilise resources effectively.

The National Technical Coordination Team, which reports to the center, is led by the Police Commissioner and includes the Commander of the Botswana Defence Force, permanent secretaries, and various technical experts, along with representatives from the Botswana Red Cross Society. Minister Mohwasa appealed to all citizens to comply with safety measures designed to protect lives and minimize property damage. ENDS