The recent severe flooding in Botswana has had a profound impact on the nation, resulting in the loss of seven lives, including three children, and displacing thousands of residents. The capital city, Gaborone, experienced significant disruptions, with heavy rains causing severe traffic congestion and necessitating the closure of several roads. In response to the crisis, President Duma Boko announced the temporary closure of schools and the evacuation of over 1,700 individuals from flood-affected areas. The floods have also caused extensive damage to infrastructure, including the collapse of vital bridges, such as the Fikeng Bridge, which serves as a crucial link between Bikwe and Manyana villages. Additionally, the floods have devastated agricultural lands, leading to crop destruction and posing challenges for farmers. The government has emphasized the need for improved infrastructure planning to better manage both droughts and floods in the future.
In response to the devastating floods, Botswana’s business community has demonstrated remarkable solidarity by providing substantial assistance to affected citizens. Various companies have pledged financial support, essential goods, and services to aid in relief and recovery efforts.
Corporate Contributions:
• Bank of Baroda: Donated P100,000, along with 70 food hampers and 70 blankets.
• Unik Construction Engineering: Contributed P1,000,000 and 13,000 bottles of water.
• Access Bank: Pledged P250,000.
• Crown Manufacturing (Pty) Ltd: Provided 100 food hampers.
• AIP Botswana: Supplied a bowser to deliver 14,000 liters of water to families in Mochudi.
• Bulb World: Donated 100 bulbs and 100 food hampers.
• Jindal Africa: Contributed P100,000.
• Prophalt Botswana: Pledged to conduct Infra-Red pothole repairs valued at P100,000.
• Trans Africa: Provided groceries worth over P100,000.
• ATG Asante Tech Group: Donated 150 blankets, 150 food combos, 100 chairs, 200 pairs of shoes, and 2,700 liters of still water.
• Gaborone University College of Law & Professional Studies (GUC): Offered 100 food hampers, 50 blankets, one cow, two goats, fruits, and vegetables.
• Suits Africa: Donated stationery valued at over P16,000.
• Cherry Splash: Pledged P300,000 towards fuel.
• Galaxy Cash & Carry and Bagaetsho Medical Centre (Jwaneng): Provided P20,500 in food hamper vouchers.
• Business Botswana, Black Oak, and Legae Academy: Donated 51 packets of toilet paper, 23 packets of sanitary pads, and food hampers worth P3,000.
These contributions underscore the business sector’s commitment to supporting communities during crises.
In addition to individual company efforts, Business Botswana has established the Private Sector Disaster Response Fund (PSDRF) to facilitate coordinated relief operations. This fund aims to provide rapid financial assistance during emergencies, ensuring timely support for affected communities.
The PSDRF is managed by an independent board to ensure transparency and effective resource allocation. Business Botswana has called on its members and stakeholders to contribute to the fund, emphasizing the importance of collective action in disaster response.
The combined efforts of these businesses and organizations have significantly alleviated the hardships faced by flood-affected communities. The provision of essential supplies such as food, water, and shelter materials has been crucial in supporting recovery and rebuilding efforts.
The swift and generous response from Botswana’s business community highlights the nation’s resilience and the vital role of corporate social responsibility in times of crisis. These initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to the long-term recovery and well-being of affected populations.
For those interested in contributing to the ongoing relief efforts, Business Botswana has provided details on how to donate to the PSDRF. Further information can be obtained through their official channels.
The collective response from Botswana’s business sector exemplifies the power of community solidarity and the positive impact of corporate engagement in humanitarian initiatives.
