In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities in Botswana, Debswana’s Orapa, Letlhakane, and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM), in partnership with Business Partners, recently donated 276 tables, chairs, and 97 blankets worth BWP 250,000 (USD 20 000) to Motsumi Junior Secondary School in Letlhakane. This contribution is part of the company’s broader effort to support educational development in the Boteti District and align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Debswana Diamond Company, established in 1969, is a joint venture equally owned by the Government of the Republic of Botswana and De Beers Group.

The donation comes on the heels of several impactful initiatives earlier this year. In January, OLDM employees and Business Partners donated 89 mattresses, 300 sanitary towels, and 50 Mbps modems to Makalamabedi Junior Secondary School to aid in the learning process. In March, Debswana’s Security team, along with their partners, provided sanitary and toiletry supplies to 216 students in Xere Village, while also establishing a recreational park for community use. Further support was extended to Toromoja Village, where supplies were donated to 304 students. Additionally, Debswana’s Health Services team contributed a photocopying machine and A4 paper to Mmea Primary School. Orapa Mining Learner Officials also recognized the academic excellence of students at Mosu Primary School by awarding P1,000 prizes to top performers.

Mogakolodi Maoketsa, General Manager at OLDM, shared that the donations are aimed at addressing critical challenges such as shortages of school furniture and bedding, which can hinder students’ learning experiences. These initiatives are part of Debswana’s Employee Volunteerism Program, a platform through which employees contribute time, resources, and skills to uplift local communities.

Mr. Kobamelo Kgoboko, Managing Director of CPP Botswana, emphasized the positive impact of the collaboration, noting that Debswana’s donations would contribute significantly to improving the learning environment, boosting both student morale and academic success. Motsumi Junior Secondary School’s Headteacher, Mr. Godfrey Shabane, expressed deep gratitude to Debswana and its partners, acknowledging the crucial role these contributions would play in improving the school’s facilities and overall learning experience.

Boteti District Council Deputy Chairman, Hon. Pelonomi Thekiso, also expressed her thanks, applauding Debswana’s ongoing commitment to fostering educational growth and supporting community empowerment in the district.

By focusing on the educational needs of communities in the Boteti region, Debswana is not only improving immediate conditions but also contributing to the long-term goal of equitable and inclusive educational development across Botswana.