Ministry of Communications and Innovation -Botswana

Botswana's Bikers Rewrite the Narrative Through Compassion

The roar of motorcycle engines was matched by an even louder message of compassion and community spirit as Botswana Bikers Week 2026 officially opened in Gaborone, accompanied by a donation of school shoes and socks to vulnerable learners.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Communications and Innovation, Honourable David Tshere, challenged long-held stereotypes about bikers, describing the biking community as a powerful force for good. He applauded BW Bikerville, sponsors, partners and riders for transforming a shared passion into a platform for meaningful social impact.

"Today, Botswana Bikers Week tells a very different story," said Tshere, noting that bikers are professionals, parents, entrepreneurs and community leaders united by a commitment to give back. He emphasized that while a pair of school shoes may seem small, it restores dignity, confidence and comfort to a child, allowing them to focus on learning and their future.

Also in attendance was Minister of State President, Honourable Moeti Mohwasa, who praised the bikers' unwavering commitment to helping those in need. In a heartfelt reflection, he remarked that bikers embody the Setswana saying, "Ga go na ngwana o ka welang mo isong ba le teng" — no child can fall through the cracks when they are present. Through their generosity, he said, they have demonstrated the true meaning of love, care and botho.

The event also highlighted the role of innovation and connectivity, with free Wi-Fi provided for the more than 1,000 bikers and visitors attending from across Southern Africa, enabling them to share Botswana's story with the world.

MCI 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗦 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗜𝗖𝗚𝗘𝗕 𝗧𝗢 𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗦𝗖𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘, 𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗜𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛𝗡𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗚𝗬

MCI this Thursday took another significant step towards strengthening its position in global science, research and innovation as the Minister of Communications and Innovation, Honourable David Tshere, hosted the Director General of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Dr Lawrence Banks.

The high-level stakeholder engagement meeting brought together Ministers and Permanent Secretaries from partner Ministries in the research, science, technology and innovation space to deliberate on Botswana’s possible accession to the ICGEB, a globally recognised intergovernmental organisation advancing research and innovation in biotechnology and genetic engineering.

In his remarks, Honourable David Tshere described the engagement as an important milestone in Botswana’s pursuit of science, technology and innovation as key enablers of socio-economic transformation.

He expressed gratitude to Dr. Banks for visiting Botswana and acknowledged the recent invitation extended to Botswana to attend the ICGEB Board of Governors meeting in Cape Town as observers, noting that the gesture reflects the organisation’s commitment to strengthening international scientific collaboration.

Honourable Tshere highlighted that the world is rapidly evolving through advances in biotechnology, genetic engineering, artificial intelligence and digital innovation, technologies that are transforming economies, improving healthcare systems, strengthening food security and creating opportunities for sustainable development.

He noted that as Botswana advances the aspirations of Vision 2036 and the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme, it is critical for the country to position itself within global innovation ecosystems that can accelerate national development.

The Minister further emphasised Government’s interest in exploring partnerships with the ICGEB in areas such as research, training, technology transfer and capacity building in biotechnology and related sciences. He underscored the importance of aligning such collaborations with Botswana’s National Research Agenda (2025–2030).

Among the potential benefits discussed during the consultations were expanded access to international research networks and centres of excellence for Botswana’s researchers and students, enhanced biotechnology research and innovation, improved agricultural productivity and food security, stronger responses to public health challenges, and support for industrialisation and the growth of a knowledge-based economy.

Honourable Tshere reiterated that meaningful progress in science and innovation can only be achieved through collaboration between Government, academia, industry, researchers and international partners. He encouraged stakeholders to engage openly and constructively throughout the consultations to ensure that Botswana’s future engagement with the ICGEB aligns with national priorities and the country’s long-term development agenda.

As the Ministry responsible for Communications and Innovation, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for research, innovation and technology development, while strengthening Botswana’s global competitiveness through strategic partnerships, thus the need to make sure that stakeholders are engaged and alignment across the RSTI ecosystem developed.

Ongoing Programme at Botswana Bikers Week main event officiated by Minister of Communications and Innovation Honourable David Tshere this morning at the Three Chiefs Monument in CBD Gaborone.

We are here today, this morning at the III Dikgosi Monument at the CBD with Botswana Bikers Week, supporting science, engineering, technology and the CSR shoe drive.

𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗬 𝗢𝗙 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗙𝗙 𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗠S 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗔 𝗠𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗠𝗔

The Ministry of Communications and Innovation Assistant Minister, Honourable Shawn Ntlhaile, and Permanent Secretary to the Ministry, Mr Cecil Masiga, together with Deputy Permanent Secretaries and staff members, yesterday gathered to celebrate the life of their colleague, Ms Mosamarea Malema.

Colleagues described Ms Malema as a humble, down-to-earth and dedicated professional who carried out her work with excellence and passion. They remembered her for her kindness, commitment and warm spirit, qualities that touched many within the Ministry.

Speaking during the gathering, Honourable Shawn Ntlhaile offered words of comfort and encouragement to staff members, friends and family, reminding them of the greatness and faithfulness of God during difficult times. He urged colleagues to find strength and comfort in the love of God as they mourn the loss of a valued member of the Ministry family.

The Ministry continues to extend its heartfelt condolences to the Malema family, friends and colleagues during this difficult period. Ms Malema will be laid to rest in Molaladau on 30th May 2026.

ICGEB PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO MINISTER COMMUNICATIONS AND INNOVATION

This morning the Director General of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology ( ICGEB) Dr. Lawrence Banks paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Communications and Innovation. Dr Banks met with Honourable Shawn Ntlhaile and Deputy Permanent Secretary for Knowledge Ms. Lesego Thamae, joined by Chief Executive Officer for the Botswana Institute of Technology and Research Institute Dr. Sebusang Sebusang.

Dr. Lawrence Banks is in Botswana for a number of stakeholder engagements across the science, technology, research, innovation and funding landscape to introduce ICGEB to the sectors in Botswana. The Assistant Minister welcomed Dr. Banks to Botswana, and appreciated the work done by ICGEB in the knowledge and innovation space, indicating that the work done by ICGEB is aligned to Botswana's National Research Agenda.

DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY A CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE FOR RESILIENCE, SAFETY, AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The Ministry of Communications and Innovation in conjunction with various stakeholders commemorated World Telecommunications and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2026 under the theme “Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World” in Natale Village.

Speaking at the engagement, the Minister of Communications and Innovation highlighted the significance of the commemoration as it marks a step forward in advancing connectivity where emergency communications, online education, digital payments and real-time information is easily accessed. Hon. David Tshere emphasized the need to build resilient digital ecosystems that are reliable and secure, inclusive to the vulnerable and build strong digital skills that empower people to use technology effectively in challenging situations.

Minister Tshere stated that the Ministry of Communications and Innovation enacted the Cybersecurity Act which provides for secure and cyber resilient systems for the protection of users. "This highlights government’s efforts in promoting online safety and resilience to cyber threats" he added. As the nation celebrates this significant day, Hon. Tshere stressed the need for global cooperation to build robust digital infrastructure, share knowledge and ensure interoperability across borders.

Hon. Tshere further underscored fundamental realities: where resilience is directly linked to connectivity. "In times of crisis, economic challenges, or global distractions, our capacity to adapt and respond effectively is greatly enhanced by reliable and robust communications systems" he emphasized.

“Young people have a pivotal role to play in strengthening digital life lines. You are innovators, creators and leaders of now and future. Your ideas, voices and skills will shape how technology serves humanity in the years ahead.” stated Minister Tshere. Furthermore, he urged young people to use technology to bridge gaps and to empower not to exclude.

For his part, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Innovation Mr. Cecil O. Masiga affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening digital lifelines as he anounced donations and pledges made by various communication sector stakeholders. Mr. Masiga acknowledged the critical role played by the stakeholders as this helps bridge the digital divide and provides accessibility for all. The donations and pledges consist of Sanitary pads, Computers, Printers, Digital school kits and funds to be donated to schools in the area. The Minister and guests were also able to visit stalls set up by the sector and appreciate new technologies and services on offer.

The Minister of Communications and Innovation, Honourable David Tshere will hold a Kgotla meeting from 0930hrs at Natale Kgotla. Residents and nearby communities are encouraged to attend.