Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) held a stakeholder engagement session at Shakawe kgotla to engage residents of the Okavango region on the network expansion project that the company has delivered in their area. Through this project, BTC has provided connectivity to schools, kgotlas, health posts and communities in the region.
Speaking at the launch, the BTC Managing Director Mr. Anthony Masunga stated that the project which is delivered in collaboration with Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) was undertaken to upgrade the BTC mobile network to 4G/ LTE, adding that the region was previously extensively covered by 2G. The project covered 45 villages in both the Okavango and Northwest regions. Mr Masunga added that “BTC continually invests in the expansion of its network to offer users and customers the widest coverage, fast speeds and optimally performing network that provides innovative and affordable services”.
Addressing delegates at the kgotla, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communication Knowledge and Technology, Mr Pontsho Pusoetsile highlighted the importance of telecommunication infrastructure and connectivity in our society, adding that BTC is the vehicle through which Botswana will finally achieve prosperity for all in the year 2036. He noted that indeed networks have a significant role as they function as the backbone of today’s interconnected world.
“I am keenly aware of the transformative power that access to reliable and efficient communication will bring to the lives of our fellow citizens residing in the Okavango region” he added. Mr Pusoetsile also highlighted that “being more connected will contribute to more sustainable development in the Okavango region by enabling the implementation of smart solutions”. He cited the below as some of the benefits that connectivity offers to the regions, “from efficient energy management to optimised water usage and waste management, connectivity can support environmentally friendly practices and promote sustainable living in harmony with the region’s unique ecosystem”, he said.
Huawei Technologies Botswana, who are BTC’s technical partners, donated football kits to eight (8) teams based in the Okavango and northwest regions to the total value of P149,000.00. Additionally, the teams based in Okavango region, namely Headwater Sporting Club, Etsha Green stars, Etsha Morning stars and Mbunda. Football Club received cash prizes of five thousand pula each (BWP5,000.00) to assist with the daily operations of the team. The funds will be deposited into each team’s BTC Smega account.
The Account Director at Huawei Technologies Botswana, Mr Lixiang highlighted the importance of rural connectivity by adding that “access to communication and technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity”. He added that while urban areas are advancing in terms of technology and connectivity, we must not forget our remote areas who face challenges accessing essential services and opportunities” he said.
To further celebrate this great milestone with the Okavango community, BTC through its Foundation donated a full computer set to Shakawe kgotla valued at nine thousand pula (BWP9,000.00). The computer will be used in the kgotla office for daily operations when assisting members of the public. Additionally, BTC donated and handed over an eLearning suite to Ngambao Junior Secondary School in Seronga. The donation of the eLearning suite was made possible by the availability of the modernised BTC 4G network.
For more information Kindly contact
Head of Stakeholder Relation: Ms. Lesego Goitsemang
Email: goitsemangl@btc.bw
Cell No: +26775854602