BTC successfully delivers the 3rd Francistown Marathon

Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) successfully hosted and delivered the 3rd Francistown Marathon at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium this weekend. The BTC Francistown Marathon, which is deemed a significant pivotal event in the local sporting calendar, brought together thousands of athlets, enthusiastic participants, spectators and other key stakeholders together in celebration of community spirit and partnerships into the vibrant city of Francistown.

This year’s marathon witnessed the participation of over 3100 runners, who competed across distances such as: 5km, 10km, 21km, 42km and wheel chair athletes. The diverse field of participants showcased the inclusive nature of the event, welcoming individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join in the pursuit of fitness and personal achievement.

Giving the key remarks, the Assistant Minister of Trade and Industry, Honourable Beauty Manake applauded “the efforts of the Government in its commitment to commercialising and professionalising sports through strategic investments, such as the construction of mini stadiums aimed at improving sports infrastructure and developing grassroots talent”. Furthermore, she extended her appreciation to the private sector for “their invaluable contribution to the Government’s efforts in sports development and commercialization”. She emphaised that, “together we can harness the potential of sports to not only create employment opportunities but also to enhance our global standing as a destination for sporting events”.

Delivering his welcome remarks, the Mayor of Francistown, His Worship Godisang Radisigo emphasised the profound impact of the marathon stating, “The BTC Francistown Marathon serves as a rallying point, bringing together people from all walks of life, transcending barriers and fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.” The event has become more than just a race, “it’s a platform for forging friendships, strengthening bonds, and enriching the social fabric of the city” said Radisigo. He also stated that “since its inception, the BTC Francistown Marathon has evolved into a cherished tradition within the Francistown community”.

Giving the overview of the marathon, the BTC Managing Director Mr. Anthony Masunga highlighted BTC’s commitment to community empowerment and social impact. “Our participation in the marathon demonstrates our steadfast commitment to having a positive influence on our communities”, he said. He further stated that “the BTC Francistown Marathon is a manifestation of our dedication to promoting education and a healthier, more active society”. Below is a highlight of the outstanding performances of the winners in each category, whose determination and skill exemplified the spirit of sporting excellence;

The 42.2km seniors race category female was won by Sheila Saina who walked away with P35,000, followed by Abigail Jerop who won P25,000 while Monicah Jekroriro walked away with P15,000 on position 3. The male category was won by Lyno Muchera who pocketed P35,000. On second position was Andrew Kiprop who won P25,000 while Amos K. Kemboi took third position and won P15,000.

The 42.2km masters category female was won by Keamogetse Magodu pocketing P7,500. The second position went to Lorato Oabile with P5,000 and third position was taken by Tebogo William with a prize money of P2,500. On the males’ side, the first position was clinched by Albat Kangor walking away with the prize money of P7,500 and followed by Leonard Koki on second position who scooped P5,000 while position three was clinched by Julius Monyeki, walking away with P2,500.  Gofaone Letshelaphala who participated in the 10km wheelchair race category won P7, 500.00.

The success of the 3rd BTC Francistown Marathon 2024 reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of community unity, athletic prowess and social progress. As the event continues to grow in stature and impact, sponsors and organisers remain committed to fostering a culture of health, wellness and inclusivity for all.

For results, please use the following link for the marathon results:  www.timing.lifecycle.co.bw, select view race results (blue button in top right corner), select advanced results, filter on 2024 and race event name. It is best to also select show all in the bottom right on this page.

Thank you for your continued support.  

For more information kindly contact, 

Head of Stakeholder Relation: Ms. Lesego Goitsemang  

Email address: goitsemangl@btc.bw 

Cell no: +26775854602  

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BTC expands network in the Northwest region and empowers community with an E-Learning suite.

Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) and the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) have joined forces to celebrate the successful expansion of the BTC network in the northwest region. The network expansion project involved upgrading the existing 2G mobile network coverage to the advanced 4G/LTE, significantly improving connectivity in the area.

Speaking at the momentous launch which commenced with a stakeholder engagement session at Matsaudi kgotla, the BTC Managing Director Mr Anthony Masunga expressed his gratitude to BOCRA for their Universal Services Access Fund (USAF) initiative that facilitates partnerships with telecommunications companies to bring connectivity to previously underserved areas. He highlighted that this upgrade from 2G to 4G will enable the community to access a wide range of BTC products and services, including the innovative BTC Smega Mobile Money Service, which empowers the unbanked, underserved and the underbanked.

The BTC Managing Director stated that the company has 63 4G sites in the Ngamiland and Okavango region, adding that in Ngamiland region, BTC has upgraded 19 sites to 4G as part of the USAF Project rollout. “These sites are Tsau, Semboyo, Makakaung, Kareng, Bodibeng, Bothatogo, Komana, Matsaung, Sankoyo, Mababe, Khwai, Matsaudi, Makalamabedi, Shorobe, Legothona, Somela, Xangwa, Xaxa and Habu, therefore making a significant step towards digital inclusion for the entire community.

Mr Masunga emphasised BTC’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of citizens, recognising that every individual’s requirement matters. He reiterated BTC’s dedication to the transformative power of communication and connectivity, and the positive impact it can have on society.

Delivering his remarks, the Chief Executive of Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA), Mr Martin Mokgware stated that his organisation is among others, responsible for regulating the communications sector in Botswana, comprising telecommunications, Internet, Information & Communications Technologies (ICTs), radio communications, broadcasting, postal services, and related matters. He added that BOCRA is also responsible for establishing tariff principles to be applied in the setting of tariffs and other charges including price caps or other price controls, for different classes or categories of services or products.

Mr Mokgware however cautioned parents to be aware of the content that their children consume on their phones and advised them to guide them to avoid committing social ills using the internet. He concluded by advising the youth in Northwest to “use the internet to post your local content and generate income for yourselves”, adding that “services such as e-tourism and using your natural talents can benefit our economy”, he said.

As part of their ongoing efforts to support local communities, BTC, in collaboration with their technical supplier, Huawei Technologies Botswana, has generously donated full soccer kits and equipment worth P149,000.00 to eight football teams in the Okavango and Northwest regions. The beneficiary teams in the Northwest region include Maun Terrors, Ships of the Desert, The Lords of Sporting Football Club, and Wild Dogs Football Club. Each team will also receive a cash prize of P5,000.00, to be paid using BTC Smega.

Furthermore, BTC’s commitment to education is demonstrated through their donation of a full computer set valued at P9,000.00 to Matsaudi kgotla. The company has also presented Matsaudi Primary School with an eLearning suite valued at P90,705.84, ensuring that the school is equipped with cutting-edge teaching and learning technology to enhance the education of its students.

BTC’s network expansion and philanthropic efforts underscore their dedication to empowering communities through technology and connectivity. With a vision for a more connected future, BTC remains steadfast in its mission to bridge the digital divide and uplift the lives of the people it serves.

 

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For more information kindly contact,

Head of Stakeholder Relation: Ms. Lesego Goitsemang

Email address: goitsemangl@btc.bw

Cell no: +26775854602

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BTC Launches And Celebrates Network Expansion With Okavango Community.

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

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