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Social Studies Notes Bgcse

Principles of Molecular Diagnostics (University of Botswana)

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PAPER 1 SET UP/ LAY OUT

 paper I has two sections and all questions are compulsory
 section A carries 20 marks , this section contains two questions which are further divided into
subcomponents e.g 1 (a) , (b) and 2 a, b,c,d,e etc
 each question in section ( i.e 1 and 2) carries 10 marks
 section B carries 30marks and comprise of three questions.
 Each question in section b, awards 10 marks . each question is further divided into sub questions e.g 3
a,b,c,d 4a,b,c ,d 5a, b etc

TESTING
 testing of paper I is centered around two syllabus assessment objectives :
 knowledge and understanding
 application
 knowledge and understanding covers the following issues:

 definition and description of social studies concepts

 identifies various components of the social and the physical environments and their inter relations
 explains ways that contribute to development of physical, socio-cultural , political environment
 application
- test understanding of students about attitudes and values of people towards cultural diversity , environment
and nationhood
 make inference on possible future trends on impacts associated with socio economic , political
environmental interactions
 promote sustainable environmental projects without hindering socio economic development
 interpretation of data or various data presentation methods e.g charts, graphs , maps, pictures cartoons
etc

SETTING OF QUESTIONS /ASSESSMENT ITEMS

 both sections A and B should have questions that caters for all categories of students i.e. low, mid
walkers and high ability ones
 the first components of each question must be simple in order to cater for F grades or capture elementary
level of understanding of students about concepts and facts. NB as the questions progress they should
increase in level of difficulty to eliminate the mid walkers(C ) and high ability(A) students ( note that
each question should end with a high order question)

 allocation of marks - simple questions are awarded [1] mark. such questions include definitions of
concepts or those with state , identify etc command words
define : government --------------------------------------------------------------------------------[1]

 high order questions are allocated two marks i.e. 1 mark identification (id) and 1 mark
development(1) .includes command words like discuss , explain

 it is worth noting that the describe command word often carries 1 mark for a valid point e.g

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1 (a) describe issues that threaten the family as a social unity [4]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------- [4]

MARKING TIPS
 marking key produced and standardized
 students fail as they identify similar /same points /alternatives as different points or entities e.g change
in climate ( global warming, acid rain, flooding/drought), facilities /infrastructure ( education, health,
services) parental guidance /fap /contraceptives on hiv /aids family measures
 Marking of definitions or names such Somarelang Tikologo is accredited for precision; for a student to
get a mark the answer should be a valid /correct one e.g no spelling mistakes etc
 it should be noted that a point is credited once and normally students have the tendency of answering
high command questions by either repeating their development for points which are identified
differently e.g. - use of contraceptives to prevent pregnancy, use of family planning education to
prevent pregnancy
 paper I is not an easy paper it should be equally given attention as paper II

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MODULE 1

TOPIC: RESEARCH METHODS

Key terms:
Research: It is a systematic and unbiased search for knowledge or information by use of different data collection
and interpretation methods

Quantitative research method

Investigations that emphasize on use of numerical or statistical figures (values) in describing observations,
situations and events.

Merits/strengths
a) helps researcher to get a precise description by use of numbers of the situation under investigation
b) helps the researcher to have clear focus of the study or clarifies what is to be understudied without
distraction because of associated hypothesis
c) allow researcher to have first hand information of investigated issues
d) helps the researcher to acquire scientific skills.
e) Can be repeated many times to verify findings

De-merits/ weaknesses
a) very difficult to compile or tabulate data by use of mathematical ( numerical) figures .for instance its not
very easy for researcher to calculate and present data by use of pie chart
b) hypothesis may not be focused as researcher lacks an insight of deeper societal issues
c) Too much quantification (use of numbers) makes it difficult to explain behavioral issues. To mention but
a few it will be very difficult to explain human behavior using numbers.
d) Expensive equipment may be needed eg calculators and mathematical sets

b) Qualitative research method

Use of non numerical / narrative measures to describe situations (events) being investigated e.g. photography or
even explaining numerical figures by use of words
Merits /strenghths
a) its easy simple and straight forward method to describe or compile data at hand ( preparation and
interpretation of data is easy)
b) It is easy to formulate the hypothesis as the researcher is directly involved with participants
c) The researcher gains deeper understanding of behavioral issues due to increased interaction with
participants
d) Generally cheaper because it needs less equipments than quantitative methods

Demerits/weaknesses
a) It is time consuming as it takes time to prepare appropriate context
b) Hypothesis may lack focus or not be specific ( too generalized statements)

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c) Less accurate because it is prone to researcher bias

d) Not easily repeatable because it deals with people’s opinions and views

Nb. Identification of issues of concern, interest about information which is not documented helps one to come
up with a research topic.

Stages of a research:

1. Topic :
What the research project is all about (purpose of research)
E.g. forms of punishment used in Shashe River School
2. Hypothesis:
A guess or prediction or possible answer to the research topic or topic. Counseling is the most used
form of punishment in Shashe River School
3. Table of contents
Listing and locating of all the book contents that is chapters by page numbers
4. Acknowledgements.
Thanking or token of appreciation to those who made research a success
5. objectives, goals, aims
This is what the researcher wants to find out or investigate. Objectives are specific, derived
from the topic and should be in the form of questions. An example is given below to.
Find out:
1 different forms of punishment used in Shashe River School
2 the most effective form of punishment
3 the least used form of punishment

6. data collection methods

Data can be grouped into two that is primary and secondary data
a) primary data collection method
This is the information which the researcher goes out to the field to collect as first hand information.
The following data collection techniques can be used to collect primary data:

I) QUESTIONNAIRE
Written set of questions which are given to respondents in order to answer for the purpose of
collecting information
Structure of a questionnaire
a) Open ended questions: use of questions that do not limit responses e.g. how do students respondent to
corporal punishment?
b) closed ended questions : questions that limits answers for respondents like true/ False ,
Yes/No, multiple choice
A good questionnaire should entail the following statements
- target or capture the objectives of the topic
- Biodata ( age, sex, occupation, nationality)
- ask few questions / not too long questions
- ask polite, easy opening questions

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-give clear instructions to the respondents eg tick ,circle

Steps taken to use a questionnaire

-Identify respondents
-make a list of questions
-distribute the questionnaire to respondents
-collect questionnaires from respondents
-compile data

Advantages of a questionnaire

-large coverage of respondents within a short period (space vs. time)

- gives first hand information from source
-it is possible to make a follow up for clarification from respondents
- Records are easily kept for future use
- allow privacy and confidentiality between researcher and respondents
- provide respondent enough time to consult with other sources

Disadvantages
- language barrier ( suitable for the literate only)
- loss of questionnaires
- costly e.g. photocopying, mailing

- delayed responses or return of questionnaires

- non verbal behavior not observed
- limit responses or lack of flexibility in questions

II) INTERVIEW

Asking questions verbally / orally to get information.

How to prepare an Oral interview?
- prepare a set of questions
- identify the respondents
- make an appointment/introduce yourself
- ask precise questions
- write or record responses
- compile information

Advantages

-gives first hand information

- Suitable for both literate and illiterate

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- There is privacy and confidentiality between researcher and participant

- Able to observe non verbal behavior
- Clarification of the information is easy
- High response rate

Disadvantages
- Respondents may withhold information
- Time consuming especially individual interviews
- biased towards the interviewer

III) OBSERVATION

Closely observing (watching what is taking place at the place of the event)
Steps taken to use observation method
- identify the area to be observed
- make observation check list
- Physically visit the area
- take field notes as you observe things happening
- compile information

Advantages
- Researcher is able to cover a wider area
- Adjustable/ field can always be changed
- Able to get first hand information
- A re-visit to the field is highly possible
- Direct way of studying phenomena/event
- Non verbal behavior can be observed

Disadvantages
- High travel expenses
- Information may be biased towards the observer
- Easily disrupted by unpredictable events e.g. fights, accidents
- can be disturbed by adverse weather
- Time consuming
- can expose the researcher to danger eg studying the behavior of gangster

iv) EXPERIMENT

Through test, use scientific methods to discover how something reacts under certain conditions

steps taken : - make a check list of materials you need

- collect a sample of what is to be tested
- test samples
- compile data

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Advantages -Gives first hand information

- Valid results / facts are obtained
- Experiment can be re-done to check validity of the results
- results are free from researcher bias
disadvantages
- Lack of knowledge on the use of instruments
- Too expensive as it requires a lot of materials eg specialized equipment
- Desired results may not be achieved
- Time consuming because it needs careful preparation
-some materials may be toxic or corrosive and dangerous therefore needs proper handling
-suitable for trained or literate people only

Secondary data

This is information which has been already documented e.g.

Internet, video, textbooks, journals, magazines, newspapers, TV programmes

I) Documentary study-In these method the researcher studied documented or written materials to collect data
concerning the topic under study.
Advantages
- Difficult concepts are explained
- Readily available authentic information
- allow access to primary data
- saves time as it provides already analysed data
Disadvantages
- Information may be outdated
- Time consuming e.g. having to go through all the materials
- Gives second hand information
- Biased information due to researcher’s misunderstanding or misinterpretation.
- Suitable for literate people only
- Researcher may replicate mistakes made by previous researchers

 It should be noted that the hypothesis should be tested to verify results.

7. Data presentation

Presentation of data in its raw form by use of the following instruments:

 Bar graph
 Pie chart
 Histogram
 Flow chart
 Line graph
 Photograph
 Table

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 Text
 Maps

8. Data analysis/ conclusion

- Careful examination of the data presented
- analyze information
- verify the hypothesis
- Summary of final project

9. Recommendations

-Suggestions on what to do problems arising from project

-Identified by the use of terms like must, should, has, have, ought to, etc

10. Bibliography

A list of sources used in the compilation of the project eg books ,magazines ,pamphlets ,internet etc

General research problems

- Lack of money for the researcher
- Adverse weather
- Lack of transport
- Lack of security

- Lack of cooperation by respondents

Study questions
a) Identify two research methods
b) Explain the following:
i) quantitative research method
ii) qualitative research method
c) Assess the strengths and weaknesses of the questionnaire
d) Explain three different ways of presenting data.

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MODULE 2

TOPIC: ENVIRONMENTAL CONCEPTS AND CONCERNS

Key concepts:
Environment -is the area we live in and all the natural and artificial resources around us. It is worth noting that
the environment that we live in is delicate and fragile, we break it the future that it holds is doomed. That means
all life in it will be destroyed. This topic starts by explaining environmental concepts that may simplify our
understanding of our surroundings.

Land degradation- is loss of land value .It includes soil erosion; loss of soil nutrients and other
environmental mismanagement practices that destroy the soil structure.

Pollution -that is the release of toxic substances into the land, water or the air. One other environmental
issue of global concern is heavy noise from industries. The noise from industries is considered a serious
health hazard.

Other environmental concepts of great concern embrace issues of illegal hunting (poaching), permanent
removal of plants and sustainable resource management. It is these issues of deforestation and poaching that
are threatening the continuity or existence of our resource for future generations.

Main physical environments in Botswana (draw map of Botswana)

Physical environment comprise of the Eastern margin (hard veldt), Swamps, Dry deciduous forests, Semi desert
and desert and the salt pans.

Importance of different types of environments to human life

It is very important to note that the environment has an influence in the way we live .Our destiny in terms of
what we eat, wear or our recreational activities are closely related to what we obtain from the environment.

a) Hardveld (Eastern Margin)

Location: Eastern Botswana
Temperatures: hot summers and cold winters
Rainfall: average rains (350 – 550 mm per year)
Soils: Loam, alluvial especially in flood plains
Drainage: Ephemeral (seasonal) rivers such as Shashe, Motloutse, Senyawe, Notwane, lotsane etc
Vegetation: varies from tree savanna to mophane bush veld
Human Activities: mixed farming, industrialization (mining and manufacturing), extraction of veld products
e.g. phane
Importance
- Abundance of mophane bush veld for extraction of veld products e.g phane
- Source of energy as there is plenty of firewood from mophane bushveld e.t.c
- Fertile loam soil to support both arable and pastoral farming
- Source of proteins as there is abundance of phane/ game
- source of raw materials e.g. minerals to support industries and create employment

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-Manufacturing industries
-Tourism eg domboshaba ruins ,matsieng foot prints

b) Swamps

Location: North western Botswana or the Okavango delta

Temperatures: hot humid summers and cold winters
Rainfall: above average rains (400 - 600 mm per year)
Soils: alluvial especially in flood plains, silt
Drainage: Perennial River that is the Okavango
Vegetation: aquatic grasslands and savanna woodlands
Human Activities: arable farming, tourism, extraction of veld products( e.g. tswii) basket making, fishing.

Importance
- Source of food eg protein from game/fish
- Source of raw materials eg reeds used for basket weaving
- Tourism e.g. Okavango delta for promotion of tourism
-water transport such as use of boats/canoes as there is a permanent surface water
- Extraction of veld products for traditional dishes e.g. tswii

c) Salt pans

Location: Makgadikgadi and Sua Pans

Temperatures: hot summers and cold winters
Rainfall: above average rains (500 mm per year)
Soils: water logged salty soils
Drainage: Ephemeral (seasonal) rivers
Vegetation: scattered grasses around pan edges
Human Activities: mixed farming, industrialization (mining and manufacturing), extraction of veld
products e.g. phane.

Importance

-pastoral farming as there is plenty of grazing areas around pan edges

- Source of proteins from game, livestock and fishing
-suitable area that promote tourism e.g. Sua pans
-Mining of salt eg sua pans

d) Deciduous Forests

Location: Chobe area

Temperatures: hot summers and cold winters
Rainfall: average rains (350 – over 550 mm per year)
Soils: Loam, alluvial especially in flood plains
Drainage: Perineal rivers eg chobe
Human Activities: mixed farming, industrialization (manufacturing),tourism, extraction of veld products

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eg fish,grass, basketry

Importance

- Source of raw material e.g. mukwa tree for timber production, motsikiri as thatch grass
- Source of protein from game, fishing
- Suitable area (natural beauty) that promote tourism

Desert and Semi-Desert

Location: Kgalagadi basin with mainly the desert occupying South West and Western Botswana)
Rainfall: little rainfall i.e. less than 350 mm per year
Soils: Sandy soils
Vegetation: Scrub/shrub savanna in the desert. These are short trees and grasses such as acacia (Mosu)
Under Semi desert the vegetation is savanna grasslands such as Ad Ansonia digitata (Mowana)
Drainage: Little surface water as permanent wells/Oasis
Human Activities: Pastoral farming (cattle ranches), hunting and gathering for the local communities such
as Basarwa. E.g. hunting Gemsbok and collecting veld products like Morama, Mongongo and Tsama
melons. Tourism is also another economic activity e.g. sand-dune, traditional crafts at D’ kar and the famous
Kuru Dance Festival which is held annually. Mining of Diamonds

Importance

- Source of food from game and livestock farming

- Plenty of grass and borehole water to sustain commercial ranch farming
-extraction of veld products e.g. tsama melon
- Tourism as promoted by the beautiful scene such as sand dunes

THE IMPACT OF HUMAN BEINGS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

A. POLLUTION (air, land, water and noise)

1)Air pollution-mainly- due to poisonous gases released from industries such as sulphur dioxide from
Selibe Phikwe copper nickel mine
2)Land Pollution-Such as solid waste like litter in the form of plastics and tins
3)Water Polllution-Such as oil spills and nuclear waste
4)Noise Pollution-Due to heavy sound produced from entertainment ,manufacturing and transport industries

The effects of pollution are varied depending on the type and intensity of the pollution. These are some of
the effects ; global warming, desertification interference with the eco-system, acid rain, death and diseases
to both plants and animals. Destruction of the ozone layer, land degradation (fertilizers may increase the
alkalinity or the acidity of the soil.

B. BUSH OR VELD FIRES

These are mostly caused by smokers, hunters/poachers, lightning, herd boys and tourists. Burning the veldt
has the effect of destroying the fauna and flora. It also leads to soil erosion as it leaves the land bare or

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uncovered and prone to agents of soil erosion.

C. POACHING
This is the illegal killing or stealing of wild animals and plants by criminals for whatever purposes.
The criminals only think of the profit they will make from their loot and not the effects of doing so.
Some of the animals that have been under great threat are Rhinos, Elephants, Whales, Mountain
Gorillas, Orangutans, tigers to mention but a few. Poaching normally lead to a reduction in animal / plant
species (loss of biodiversity)

D. MINING OF SOILS AND MINERALS

Open pits/holes left by construction companies and mines if left unfilled pose a serious danger to animals
And people. Old mines like Monarch in Francis town may collapse and injure people or even die. During
Rainy seasons burrow pits may be filled with water and children may be tempted to swim and drown.
Unattended open pits negatively change the beauty of the landscapes as the land is scarred,
The department of Geological Surveys has been engaged in refilling some of these old mine shafts to
Save people’s lives.

E. USE OF INCORRECT FARMING METHODS

The use of incorrect farming methods such as ploughing along the slope can cause soil erosion, loss of soil
fertility (land degradation) and loss of land beauty
F. DEFORESTATION
Indiscriminate or careless cutting of trees without replacing them for various reasons such as use as fuel wood,
temporary settlements may have serious negative impacts.

Summary

Human activity Impact solutions

Poaching Reduction in plant animal species - anti poaching laws( licensed
- loss of biodiversity/ ecosystem hunting, heavy penalties )
- environmental education
-conservation/ preservation areas e.g.
game reserves
- ecotourism
- game farming
- cites e.g. no trade on endangered
species
Wrong farming methods e.g. - loss of land value ( fertility, structure -Use of agric technical officers/
ploughing across the slope, or soil erosion) support
overstocking - environmental policies e.g. TGLP
- correct farming methods e.g limited
stocking
Burning the veld Loss of land beauty/ change in - Fire breaks
landscape, death , shade, - Environmental education e.g. ‘don’t
burn the veld’
- environmental laws
Pollution Global warming , ozone destruction, - environmental policies e.g. polluter
dirty, environmental health hazard pay policy

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environmental education

Deforestation Loss of land beauty , reduction in - aforestation / reforestation

animal feed/ pasture, change in - alternative sources of energy e.g
climate/interference with the water solar power
circle , desertification , global warming
Mining e.g. minerals , soils change in land scape, death, -refilling of open pits
- environmental education
- environmental laws e.g polluter pay
policy , EIA;

IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

An Environmental Impact Assessment is a study undertaken to find out the degree of damage that an
Economic activity may cause to the environment or the benefits that are likely to be derived from such
A project.

a) To find out both the negative and positive impacts of proposed economic activities on the environment
and the recommend remedial action
b) To make decisions that can sustain the environment by stopping or relocating projects that are
environmentally unfriendly
c) to prevent unnecessary costs in implementation of projects as it discovers problems before
implementation

d) It is educational as it engage projects that has been researched before

e) it instill a sense of ownership on project implementation as it takes aboard the decisions of all
stakeholders such as the local communities ,NGO’S , Private sector etc

HOW THE ENVIRONMENT CAN BE SUSTAINED OR CONSERVED

Only good environmental management practices would ensure continuity in existence of a safe and
productive environment for our future generations.

a) AFFORESTATION
Planting of trees to maintain the ecosystem or natural beauty.

b) ECO-TOURISM
This is when the local communities safe guard the beauty of their local environment by using it for tourism
purposes. This instills a sense of community ownership over such projects to the extent that all people
involved will feel obliged in protecting such natural resources. For example KALEPA (Kazungula, Lesoma
and Pandamantenga), Chobe Enclave, KURU and Sankuyu community development trust to mention but a
few.

c) GAME FARMING

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Individual members are allowed in rearing or taming wildlife. Its normally easier to protect one’s own
property than anybody else’s .It is for this reason that the government of Botswana is issuing licenses for
those interested in venturing into game farming like Ostrich , Guinea fowl farming

d) USE OF CORRECT FARMING METHODS

Use of good farming methods such as paddocking , rotational grazing , ploughing across the slope etc yield
good results when it comes to protecting the soil structure against soil erosion and preventing loss of soil
fertility ( land degradation).

e) USE OF FIRE BREAKS

Environmental protection stakeholders are to construct fire breakers as a way of preventing the spread of
fires which otherwise claim valuable plant / animal life. Veld fires normally destroy the natural resources
that can be beneficial to our future generations.

f) USE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LAWS / LEGISLATURE

The government of Botswana or any governments may partner with other stakeholders in coming up with
laws that control harvesting of veld products like phane , thatch grass , firewood and enforcing anti-
poaching laws , anti –littering laws and public indecency . Such laws may be enforced by use of heavy
punishment to those who carelessly destroy environment.

g) USE OF EFFECTIVE WASTE DISPOSAL METHODS

It is clear that good waste disposal methods like, use of dumping sites, reducing, reusing or recycling of
waste materials may create a clean and healthy environment. In Botswana, we have a water reticulation
plant that purifies water for agricultural use for the greater Gaborone area and the government of Botswana
is always in the lead when it comes to construction and monitoring of dumping sites.

ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS IN PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

a) Government
-afforestation: instituting a national tree planting day to promote the importance of trees to
life
-conservation of natural resources especially flora and fauna in game reserves and national
parks
-environmental cleanup campaigns e.g. litter picking campaigns to keep our surroundings
neat
-environmental education to teach people about the importance of caring for the environment
e.g. school and public education
-environmental laws: forming laws that punish those who destroy the environment e.g. anti
poaching laws, green scorpion

B) NGO’s

(i)Kalahari Conservation Society(KCS)

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- Conduct research on both plants and animals with the aim of improving their
management
- Obtain funds or sponsor flora /fauna related projects e.g . in the past they have funded projects
such as 'Every river has its people' and the Elephant research in the Okavango area.
-Promotes sustainable use of resources by monitoring game reserves and national parks

(ii) Somarelang tikologo

-focuses on waste management e.g. mobilize communities in litter pick up campaigns
-conducts public education on waste management e.g. public essays
-Fund good waste management practices e.g. providing dust bins

(iii) TSHOLE TRUST FUND

-Good oil disposal measures e.g. provide oil tanks for disposal of used oil
-Educating the public on handling and care of used oil e.g. Distribution of leaflets and booklets is
part of public education campaign.
-sponsor environmental friendly projects e.g. availing oil disposal tanks in strategic places

(iv) Thusano lefatsheng

-promote afforestation, management of plants and sustainable harvest of veld products
such as sengaparile, mosukujane etc
-research on indigenous plants and recommend them to the public
-funding of environmental friendly projects

(V )Forestry Association of Botswana (FAB)

-This is an umbrella body for the local NGO’S that deal with plant protection or forest conservation e.g.
Veld products Research in Gabane, and Thusano Lefatsheng as members of FAB.
-Conservation of indigenous plant species is their mandate
-Research and development of local/indigenous plant species is also their priority area.
-They hold workshops and conferences to present papers on their findings. They often donate plants to the
local communities.

C. LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Individual members of the society also play a major part in the management of the environment.
-They create their waste disposal pits ,sweep compounds ,pick litter to create a clean and healthy
environment
- afforestation: plant ornamental plants around homes in order to beautify their homes.
- environmental education on family hygiene
- engage in good farming methods e.g paddocking to fight land degradation( soil erosion, soil infertility
e.t.c)
- game farming , ecotourism as good conservation or preservation measures to sustain plant /animal life.

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SUMMARY ON NGO’S

In answering an evaluation / assessment question a student must be able to pass own judgment on the
achievements or failures of NGO’S. For example:
- NGO’S have succeeded in raising public awareness and behavioral change on the
protection of the environment through their effective environmental education
programmers such as workshops, essay competitions
- Khama Rhino Sanctuary, they have been able to protect the endangered rhino where as
Thusano Lefatsheng did the same with Sengaparile.
- Some of these institutions have been able to fund environmental friendly projects in
partnership with the government like the National tree planting day.
- Organizations such as Kalahari Conservation Society have been at the forefront, when
it comes to consultations with the government in the formulation and implementation of
environmental legislation. Some of the laws that came into effect as a result of
consultation with the government are the use of Environmental impact assessment prior
to any proposed economic activity.
- However it has to be noted that some of these institutions have failed in achieving their
goals because they are not able to reach the majority of the rural population.
- In addition they fail because of lack of adequate funds and shortage of skilled
personnel

Study question
a) Define the following key terms:
i)Environment
ii) Land degradation
iii) Sustainability
b) Discuss five ways in which human beings negatively affect the environment
c) Explain the importance of environmental impact assessment
d) Assess the role of stakeholders in protecting the
environment (NGO’S, Government, and Local Communities.

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MODULE 3
3. POPULATION DYNAMICS
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

1) Population dynamics: is the study of population changes i.e. structure, composition, migration patterns.
2) Population: total number of people living in a given area.
3) Population density: number of people per given area.
4) Fertility Rate: average number of children a female has during her child bearing period.

5) Birth Rate: average number of children born per thousand population in a year.
6) Mortality /death rate: average number of death per 1000 people in a given year.
7) Population De’jure: official counting of citizens who are inside and outside the country during census
period.
8) Population De’facto: official counting people present in the country during the census period.

9) Optimum population: when available resources are equivalent to the existing population.
10) Overpopulation: when existing population is more than the available resources ( e.g. shortage /
pressure of resources will occur under this situation).
11) Underpopulatio: when resources are more than the population.
12) Population explosion: sudden/ alarming increase in population.

13) Migration: Mass movement of people.

14) Emigration: out – going movement of people /population.
15) Immigration: incoming population.
16) Population census: official counting of people in a country at a given point in time.
17) Life expectancy/ span: average number of years an individual is expected to live.
18) Population growth: the rate at which the population is increasing.

FACTORS INFLUENCING FERTILITY RATE

a) SOCIO-CULTURAL FACTORS

i) Social safety nets such as pension schemes and insurance policies eliminate the need to have many children
who are to support parents at old age
ii) Family planning education e.g. spacing / knowledge on use of contraceptives ; females who are able to
space well or use contraceptives appropriately will have few children during their child bearing stage

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iii) Use of contraceptives ; females who are able to use contraceptives have few children as unplanned
pregnancies are curbed
iv) Customs and norms e.g. early marriage ; in the case early marriage the chances are high that an individual
will have many children by the time they reach menopause
v) Improved health facilities ; e.g. clinics that provide better medication at infant stage to prolong life
vi) Some churches do not encourage their members to use artificial birth control methods such as condoms
leading to high fertility rate eg Roman Catholic Church , ZCC

b) ECONOMIC FACTORS

i) Balanced diet ; families that have access to balanced diet will have many children as they will be immune
to diseases
ii) Cost of raising and educating children / economic hardship; underprivileged females have less children
as they are not able to pay for their education expenses.
iii) Poor medical facilities; developing countries usually have poor medical facilities and lack of family
planning method which result in high fertility rate.
.
c) POLITICAL FACTORS

i) Population policies like Botswana’ maternity leave or China’ one child policy are able to regulate birth per
female.
ii) Legalizing abortion to terminate pregnancies results in few children per female.

FACTORS INFLUENCING DEATH RATE AND LIFE EXPECTANCY

i) Improved hygiene: people who leave a health life or exposed to a safe clean environment have less
exposure to disease causing organisms (pathogens).
ii) Balanced diet increase immunity against diseases.
iii) Improved health facilities such as medication or HIV/aids testing to save and prolong life.
iv) Physical fitness : regular exercises keeps the body in shape and healthy

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FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTES TO POPULATION GROWTH

i)Early marriages/ teenage pregnancy; bearing children at an early age leads to positive population growth.
ii)Gender speculation/ sex preference ie the desire for boys as heirs and girls for bride wealth can result in
many children being leading to high population growth.

iii) Children used as labour; in the past parents bore many children so that they can help at the fields by
herding livestock which led to positive population growth.
iv) Children used as security; having many children was insurance since some can become successful and
help towards the welfare of their parents when there are old leading to high population growth.

v) Religious beliefs; Islam and African traditional religions encourage polygamy and Roman Catholics
discourage the use of contraceptives. All these factors leads to high population growth
vi) Large family as a sign/ symbol of virility/prestige/ power of man; men confirmed their virility through
the production of many children leading to high population growth.

vii) Lack of family planning education can lead high child bearing resulting in positive population growth.
viii) Lack of birth control methods eg condoms, loop etc especially in developing countries can lead to
high population growth.

ix) Population policies eg In the 1980’s East Germany encouraged large families by providing low interest
mortgage loans, a year long leave for mothers who bears a second child

EFFECTS OF POPULATION GROWTH ON THE ENVIRONMENT

1 Loss of biodiversity/ animal habitat/ destruction of tropical forests / interference with ecosystem; more
people results in increased cutting of trees for firewood , settlement or industrial purposes
2 Overpopulation; an immediate increase of people will lead to shortage of natural resources like water ,
land as such resources are finite.

3 Pollution/Increased disposal of both solid , gaseous and liquid waste due to increased demands of industrial
products and inadequate waste disposal facilities such as dumping sites
4 Global warming; global temperatures will increase as more carbon dioxide will be released into the
atmosphere. Accumulation of excess carbon dioxide is due to deforestation and burning of fossil fuels

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5 Depletion of the ozone layer ;industry that produce Chloro Floro Carbons products would increase as
people increase

6 Overcrowding/ development of slums: land and housing demand would be higher than supply to the
extent that people will create squatter camps
7 Increased spread of diseases due to poor sanitation and overcrowding
8 Reduction of plant /animal species as there would be increased demand for food supplies /veld products or
by-products.

SOLUTIONS

 Afforestation / reforestation to increase woodlots that can be used as firewood, improve biodiversity e.tc

 Environmental education : inclusion of the topic in the school syllabus or public places e.g. kgotla to
instill a positive behavior towards care our fragile environment

 Environmental laws / legislation : this involves issuance of permits on use of natural resources ,
punishment or fine on those who misuse the environment as a way of ensuring continuity of resources

 Establishment of institutions / monitoring mechanisms such as ministries ,NGO that are responsible for
overseeing utilization of resources.

 Provision of good waste disposal facilities e.g. sewage systems to provide a safe , healthy and clean
environment

 Provision of good development programs such as SHHA , BHC as a solution to alleviate

accommodation /overcrowding problems

 Equitable distribution of national resources by all stakeholders to prevent overuse or depletion

 Speedy and transparent allocation of plots by the land board to prevent squatter camps/slums

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IMPACT OF POPULATION GROWTH ON AVAILABLE RESOURCES

 Shortage of land-when population increases they will be less space to be occupied and people would not
have enough land for settlement ,industrial activity and farming

 Pressure on facilities; when the number of people increases there will be pressure on health and
educational amenities such as schools and hospital

 Pressure on resources; when population increases they will be problems with the supply of food and
clean drinking water

 Less development; the government will spend more money on buying education and health material
such as books and drugs instead of building new infrastructure like roads, clinics and schools

 Lack of employment; some people will go for prostitution, crime and street children due pressure on
bread winners as a result of lack of jobs in the existing industries.

RAPID POPULATION CONTROL MEASURES

i) Free distribution of contraceptives by different stakeholders as a way of preventing unplanned pregnancies.

ii) Family planning education : inclusion of the topic on the school syllabus and public education in kgotla etc
to teach the public about spacing and use of contraceptives in order to curb unplanned pregnancies.

iii) Use of population policies such as Botswana maternity leave so as to encourage small manageable families.
These policies regulate the birth rate as per family

iv) Improve socio-economic services that are aimed at alleviating poverty and eliminate the need to have
many children e.g. creation of more employment opportunities.

v) Recognition of other traditional practices such as anti-pre marital sex practices

vi) Use of parental guidance programs to teach teenagers about dangers of teen pregnancy.

vii) Education and empowerment of women.

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viii) Laws on marriage age; if marriage age is increased then the fertility rate will be reduced eg in China
marriage age for women is 24 years and 26 years for men.
ix) Increased school and hospital fees; when the fees for essential services are increased families will find it fit
to engage in serious family planning to cut the costs on fees .

IMPACTS OF HIV/AIDS ON THE POULATION

a) Social
1 Social stigma as HIV/AIDS population feel that they are always discriminated on the basis of their HIV/aids
status.
2 Loss of life to both the economic active and economic dependent population.

3 High number of orphans and street kids; when parents die they leave behind disadvantaged children which
lead to an increase in the demand for social welfare services to meet their basic needs
4 Increased emotional and social stress to the affected; families with HIV/Aids infected and sick are usually
isolated which leads to psycho-social stress and disintegration of family structures.

5 Demographic changes; the disease impact on the population structure of the country
6 Reduces population; a lot of people engaged in birth control methods such as condoms and abstinence
leading to birth rates.

b) Economic
1. Brain drain/ labour replacement ; the most affected and infected group is that of the working
class leading to loss of trained and skilled human resource resulting in high cost in training
manpower lost.
2. Declining productivity at work ; as the infected spend most of their time away from work
seeking medical attention.

3. Loss of the country’s financial power (overstretched budget); as more money is channeled
towards HIV/AIDS programmes.
4. Increased health bills and .Increased corruption or fraud as all would come in the name of
helping or donating to the sick
5. .Costly health care system; Increased illness and demand for health care services among the
youth, middle aged adults and very young children leads to increase in medical expenses eg
ARV’s

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6. Marginalization of other deadly disease s; some disease such as malaria and cancer are not given
the attention they deserve because priority I s given to HIV/AIDS
7. More health centres / Improved infrastructure; Many hospitals and clinics are built or expanded
to absorb the increasing number of patients.

8. Employment creation; some people will fill in the vacant posts created by people list due to
HIV/AIDS or specialist in HIV/AIDS fields will be hired eg Tebelopele, NACA.
9. Research intensification; a lot of scientific research is conducted looking for medication for
either prevention or cure.

POPULATION CENSUS

It is the complete official counting of people in any given country. In Botswana it is done after every 10 years.

IMPORTANCE OF POPULATION CENSUS

1. Helps the government in understanding the population growth rate and absolute number of additional
people added to the country; this enables the government to come up with different socio- economic
policies that suits the ever changing needs to the people.

2 Allows the country to distribute national resources on equal basis e.g. ARV

3 Allows an effective national budget process; population census provide information which help the
government to carry out developments, that is economic planning and financial budgeting for schools, hospitals,
roads etc.

4 Furnish planners with information to forecast future population trends and developments; In Botswana all
developments programs are documented in the national development plan.

5 It enables the study on population processes and changes as it provides demographic data on age, sex,
ratios and average life expectancy.

SIGNIFICANCE OF POPULATION AND DEVELOPMENT PLANNING

i) Population projections makes budgeting by the government easy as important demographic changes are
easily noted

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ii) Enable the government to allocate funds per given ministry

iii) Allows the government to prioritize developments

iv) For long term planning and equitable distribution of the country’s wealth / national resources.
.
v) It can lead to budget deficit; the Government will be forced to borrow money from World Financial
Institutions such as World Bank to cater for increase in population

MIGRATION
 Migration refers to mass movement of people.
 The concept involves the incoming (immigration) and outgoing (emigration) movements of people.

 People may migrate within the country or across international borders on either temporary or permanent
basis.
 Movement within the country is called internal migration where as the one between countries is termed
international migration,

CAUSES OF POPULATION MIGRATION BETWEEN AND WITHIN COUTRIES

A. Forced migration/ Push factors

a) War / political instabilities : people run away from war zones e.g. Darfur Sudan or political oppression in
Zimbabwe to save their lives
b) Re-development/ relocation of areas : consultations are made to forcibly remove people from areas of
new developments e.g. mining towns, road constructions e.t.c, Somerset to Gerald.

c) Natural disasters eg on local people; flooding in the Okavango delta around sepopa, seronga
d) Unemployment; search for employment as a way of finding income to alleviate poverty.

e) Violation of human rights eg forced labour ; common in countries that abuse children as child labour.
Sudan is known for child trafficking as sex workers
f) Unfavourable climatic conditions eg cold and dry areas

B. Voluntary migration/ Pull factors

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a) Search for better salaries: people may move to areas or countries that offer better salaries e.g. Botswana
nurses to UK
b) Tourism /leisure: some people move from one area for recreational purposes.

c) Tax avoidance: some individuals may opt to move to countries which pay less tax
d) Search for better facilities eg educational and medical facilities
e) Availability of markets; people migrate to areas with good and readily available markets.

IMPORTANCE OF POPULATION POLICY

1. Ensure a balance between resource, infrastructure development and the population so as to keep pace
with available resources.
2. It permit future population projections which are needed for development planning and thus prioritizing
development funds for projects.

3. It regulates birth rates which would lead to an increase or decrease in population which would be used
for budgeting purposes.
4. Relevant legislations will be put in place so as to help in population regulations eg law on marriage age
and the number of children per couple.

5. It enables all stakeholders such as NGO’s , Parastatals and the Government to work towards achieving a
common goal eg population increase or decrease

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INTERNAL MIGRATION TRENDS

Trend is the pattern in which local migration follow. These are Rural – Rural, Rural to Urban, Urban – Rural
and Urban –Urban.

Rural – urban migration pattern

1 Sex; most young men and women move equally to urban areas in search of jobs
2 Destination; people migrate to mining and Industrial towns.
3 Age; only the children and old ( economic dependants ) are left behind when able-bodied men and women
migrate to urban centers
4 Volume; able-bodied male and females move in large numbers

CAUSES OF RURAL URBAN MIGRATION

 Search for job opportunities in urban areas.

 The declining agricultural workforce or agricultural output.
 Shortage of agriculture land that has pushed most economic active Batswana to urban areas.

 Mechanized farming has claimed most of the limited jobs in rural areas (sending areas).
 Climatic change that negatively / adversely affects the agro based economy.
 Better investments opportunities and facilities such schools or other services that are readily offered in
urban areas act as pull factors.

EFFECTS OF POPULATION MIGRATION LOCALY OR INTERNATIONALLY

1 Over population : there will be overwhelming pressure on natural resources such as water as they cannot
cope with the rate of influx of incoming populations
2 Emergence of slums /squatter camps as people outnumber the available land for settlements

3 Increased spread of diseases due to overcrowding and poor sanitation networks

4 Brain drain as the developing states lose their skilled labour to developed countries ( high employment
rates)

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5 Increased cross boarder crime such as child trafficking , money laundering as people take advantage these
free movements
6 Weakening of families ties as people move within and across boundaries
7 Increased waste disposal or pollution as the available waste disposal facilities will be insufficient

INVOLVEMENT OF VARIOUS STAKEHOLDERS INCLUDING THE YOUTH IN ADDRESSING

PROBLEMS ARISING FROM RURAL -URBAN MIGRATION

A) GOVERNMENT

i) Easy access to credit facilities e.g. banks like NDB that offers programmes like ntlhatlose ko
morakeng, CEDA , Young farmers fund which improve rural economic base

ii) government policies that offers subsidized tax on rural oriented companies.
iii) Provision of more facilities and services in rural areas especially social or entertainment
facilities . e.g. stadium like Masunga, Maun, Molepolole
iv) Establishment of a curriculum that emphasize on ‘ hands on job experience( entrepreneurship
skills) e.g. brigades.

v) Established environmental protection laws that promote sustainable use of veld products etc
for income generation to various stakeholders
vi) Decentralization of government services so that people can be serviced by local district
offices
vii) Equity in distribution of resources in both rural and urban centers

b) NGOs

- Provide technical support to various stakeholders on sustainable use of the environment

so that environment continue to be productive
- Act as the environmental watch dog e.g. Tshole trust prevent oil pollution by providing
safe oil disposal methods like tanks

- Economic empowerment to all stakeholders e.g. Emang Basadi encourage women

participation in business
- Strengthening rights for all e.g. Ditshwanelo to allow individuals irregardless of gender
to take part in national decision making processes.

- Engage in a forestation to increase woodlots and soil fertility

- Protection of fauna and flora for income generation.

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c) YOUTH

i) Create self employment by starting youth based projects e.g. agric , manufacturing
ii) Participate in youth empowerment programs or polices like Junior.Achievement Botswana
for gaining good entrepreneurship skills.

iii) Explore their talents in various sporting and cultural activities e.g. football and singing
iv) Engage in various areas that will showcase their job attachment skills.

d) LOCAL COMMUNITIES

- Engage in environmental education e.g. kgotla meetings to prevent land degradation in rural areas
- Afforestation to [prevent land degradation and loss of soil fertility
- practice good agricultural practices to sustain soil productivity
- Make use of various socio-economic policies such as CEDA for their life upliftment.

CAUSES OF CONFLIICTS ON USE OF NATURAL RESOURCES

-Lack of dialogue / consultation: conflicts arise when people feel sidelined on negotiations or decisions on use
natural resources such as water points, land etc As such there will be conflict between communities and service
providers
- Shortage of resources : resources being insufficient compared to available resources may result in the
communities fighting for limited resources.

- Unfair distribution of national or natural resources : corrupt practices, lack of transparency in allocation may
result in other people getting more than what they deserve hence a conflict between community members
- Lack of environmental policies : people may violate existing policies by overusing available resources and in
the event creating a conflict of interest between various stakeholders.

- Lack of environmental education about the importance of resources to people.As such a conflict will exist
between environmental conservationist and those who do not care about the importance of proper care of the
environment.
- Land tenure system or denial of rights over use of common resources: some different land use systems e.g.
freehold may lead to a clash of interest as people may keep some of the resources unused while others need
them.

- Delayed allocation or processing of applications on use on natural resources by relevant authorities e.g. land
board, water affairs .This leads to conflict between authorities and applicants
- Redevelopment or relocation of settlements to open gates for new developments e.g. CKGR issue resulted in
conflict between the government and the Basarwa in CKGR

SOLUTIONS

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- Environmental education on sustainable use natural resources (public and school education)
- Equity in the distribution of resources by relevant authorities
- Speedy allocation / processing of applications on use of natural resources such as water, land, grazing areas.

- Use of dialogue as a way of instilling a sense community ownership in use of essential and scarce resources
- Law enforcement on use of natural resources such heavy penalties on those who misuse the environment
- Establish and secure use of technical service in areas of natural resource use e.g. EIA
- engage in ecotourism projects.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1) Describe five causes of conflicts on use of natural resources.

2) Explain five factors that lead to high population.
3) Describe effects of rural – urban migration on sending areas.
4) Discuss the importance of a population policy.
5) Evaluate the effects of international migration related to the disease have been discussed in the
previous topic.

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THE FAMILY

MODULE 3: KAGISANO IN BOTSWANA

TOPIC: FAMI LY
Key terms:
A family is a group of people living together and related either by blood, marriage, assimilation or adoption.
Socialization: a process in which one learns customs and norms of the society.

IMPORTANCE OF SOCIALISATION AT FAMILY LEVEL

- Socialization maintains order and discipline as it teaches children the acceptable ways of behavior.
- It also gives individuals a sense of identity and belonging within a family.
- Prepares children for adult life-allows a family to be a place where people are able to produce their basic
necessities of life.
- Socialization gives families the responsibility to replace the old and dying members of the society.
 -Preservation of culture through transmission of norms ,values ,traditions and customs from one
fgeneration to another

DIVISION OF LABOUR IN A TRADITIONAL FAMILY SET UP

Allocation of duties is strictly based on gender and age.

1 GENDER
A)Males
 Head of then family(father)
 Looks after livestock
 Ploughing .hunting
 Provider(bread winner)
 Provides shelter
 Discipliner in the family
 Training boys to be responsible adults
 Fencing the field

B)Female
 Cooking ,washing
 Sweeping (cleaning)
 Looks after then field(bird scaring, weeding ,harvesting)

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 Taking care of children

2 Age
a)Elders
 Resolves conflicts
 Prepares for ceremonies and sacrifices ,religious festivals
 Socialize the young generation
 Discipline children
 Attend public functions e.g. kgotla meetings
 Hunting
 Taking care of siblings (grand mother)

B)Children
 Assist to look after animals
 Fencing of field ,kraals and compound
 Pounding
 Cleaning, washing,
 Taking care of sibling
 Hunting small game

DIVISION OF LABOUR IN A MODERN FAMILY

In a modern family performance of duties is based on ability or profession, not age and gender. Modern
families emphasize in giving families equal opportunities about life issues

FACTORS INFLUENCING PERFORMANCE OF DUTIES IN MODERN FAMILY SET UP

- career interests : one may chose to follow his /her ambitions about what he /she want to be in life
-Human rights- gender balance : some of the job opportunities are offered on the basis of gender equity i.e. not
discriminating any sex /gender ,prohibition of child labour
- qualification / ability /profession: most people perform jobs that they have skills in or have been trained for

- global markets: some of our careers are dictated by what is offered by global markets or employers not what
we choose to be
- remuneration or salary packages: the work conditions including the income attached to certain jobs has a large
contribution in shaping our future
- government policies / national needs : government may have a policy that is meant to arrest shortage in
certain departments in the country e.g. scarce skill policy that is oriented towards science courses

THE ROLE OF THE FAMILY IN ADRESSING ISSUES OF HIV/AIDS, SEX EDUCATION,

TEENAGE PREGNANCY AND GENDER IMBALANCE

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a) Gender imbalance
- Nowadays families address gender imbalance by insisting on equal sharing of family duties.
Boys and Girls may cook or wash plates regardless of gender.
- All members of the family young and old alike take part in the family decision making process.
Father or mother may seek opinion of children in certain family decisions.
- Families of today discipline their children fairly and equally : that is basing on nature of offence
unlike in the past where laws favoured boys. For instance in the past there was nothing wrong
with Boys having to come after sunset but girls were not supposed to do so.

GOVERNMENT ROLE
- government of Botswana has now changed its constitution to be gender neutral. The marriage act
on property ownership for married couples gives the two, equal powers on the family property.
- promotion at work is now based on merit not age or gender. - - --
- Ensure both girls and boys have equal life opportunities ie.attend the same schools

b) HIV/AIDS
Family advises( parental guidance ) their children to make use of contraceptives as a way of preventing the
scourge.
-Material support: s by providing food ,medicine to the sick
-Emotional support e.g window of hope,counseling patients in order to accept their status
-Encourage members to test for HIV/AIDS

c) SEX education
- Open discussions about sexual issues are held as a way of guiding their children on good moral values.
- Customs and norms are even strengthened especially discipline issues as a way of making family members
know the disadvantages of bad sexual conduct. Sex education is meant to curb teenage pregnancy at family
level
-Encourage abstinence amongst the youth and encourage use of contraceptives by adults
-Provision of literature to children to read about sexual issues eg Videos magazines ,access to internet
-Provision of contraceptives in the home ;when parents realise children are sexual active

SIGNIFICANCE OF INTERMARRIAGES ACROSS ETHNIC GROUPS IN BOTSWANA AND

INTERNATIONALLY

Intermarriage- It is the marriage that takes place across ethnic groups.

- It improves biological set up of individuals because it gives rise to better genes or immunity against
diseases to offspring.
- It also leads to cultural enrichment as they will be assimilation or adoption of new ways of life.
- Intermarriages promote national unity as friendship is established among different ethnic groups.
- Promote peaceful coexistence e.g. Sir Seretse Khamas marriage brought friendship between Botswana and the
United Kingdom.
- It instills a sense of tolerance as there would be cultural diversity to improve inter ethnic relations.

- Negatives effects include cultural shock as people may be taken by surprise as some of these marriages may

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come as a shock to other people

- Discontinuity in cultural preservation
-

ROLE OF DIFFERENT STTAKEHOLDERS IN PROMOTING FAMILY LIFE RELATIONSHIPS

a) GOVERNMENT
- The government of Botswana has come up with gender neutral laws that protect individual members of the
family against domestic violence and marital laws that give married couples equal rights on property
ownership. These laws are against polygamous status unless one marries through the customary law.
- The social work office offers free guidance and counseling sessions on family related problems.
- The government cares for the underprivileged (destitutes, needy and orphans) by providing them with
material support such as food, shelter clothes and allowance.
- The government of Botswana offers family planning education both in schools and health facilities as a
way of encouraging small manageable families.
- In addition to the above mentioned there is provision of free family planning services such as
contraceptives and free HIV \AIDS testing to encourage positive living.
- There is improvement of infrastructure or health facilities such as provision of Anti retro viral therapy to
HIV / AIDS patients; to prolong life.

b) RELIGIOUS GROUPS
Religious groups include Young Women Christian Association and many others.
-These organizations provide emotional or spiritual therapy / support to the underprivileged, sick,
victims of natural disasters and any other person facing any form of social injustice.
-These organizations pray to comfort such people.
-Offer material support; most of the material support is received during New Year and Christmas festive
seasons.
-They promote good moral ethics and responsibility within families by offering amongst other things
marriage counseling, preaching peace and love and even discouraging social ills like pre-marital sex and
violence

c) NGO’S
- Institutions like Save Our Souls ( SOS), Masitara foundation and many more provide homes for the
homeless and even fund the underprivileged in areas of health.
-Fight against domestic violence- Some of these organization like Ditswanelo , Child line , Metlhaetsile and
many more act as the voice of voiceless against domestic violence and rape . They prevent family based
conflicts by improving and promoting rights for all.
- They even provide employment so that families have income to sustain their lives.
- NGO’S also provide coping mechanisms to the sick. Some of these include Counseling Centre for People
With HIV/Aids (COCEPWA). It fights HIV / AIDS stigmatization

c) COMMUNITIES
- Members of the community provide humanitarian aid to the underprivileged by donating basic necessities
like food.

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- They comfort bereaved families and cooperate in any forms of cooperation that empower families socially
and economically. Such forms of cooperation include motshelo and mafisa.
- Communities maintain law and order by disciplining those who disrupts family peace. These offenders are
normally taken to elders or to the kgotla for a fair hearing.
- Elderly members of the community offer guidance and counseling to troubled family members. Family
problems vary from issues of alcohol and drug abuse, divorce, adultery, domestic violence to other social
problems like inheritance disputes.
- Local communities promote family life by celebrating days like father, mother’s day and the day of the
African child.

d) CULTURAL GROUPS
- KAMANAKAO, Society for Promotion of Ikalanga language Lentswe La Batswapong and RETENG, to
mention but a few are aiming at instilling a sense of cultural identity and belonging within families.
- They make individual family members to be proud as to who they are and where they belong. For instance, the
Domboshaba cultural festival gives the Kalanga community an opportunity to teach othesr about traditional
lifestyle. the lifestyle issues range from dance, food preparation, dress, adulthood matters and norms

e) UNITED NATIONS ORGANISATION

- It is the umbrella world body that outlines all human rights and these rights recognize and value the existence
of family.
- The UNO family day is in a way trying to raise the levels of awareness on the importance of having a violent
free family.
- The UNO even fund poverty alleviation and other social –economic programmes that are intended to improve
living standards of individual members of the family.

CHALLENGES THAT ARE FACING FAMILIES IN BOTSWANA AND INTERNATIONALLY

- Homosexuality is considered immoral and unacceptable in our culture as it make our families lose value.
Other people may not want to have families as they may associate owning families with issues of gay and
lesbianism. This threaten child bearing
-domestic violence: most people do not want to associate with families that are violent

- Sexually transmitted diseases like HIV / AIDS – this leads to orphanage and street children
- Economic hardship / poverty and its associated ills such as prostitution and organized crime are a challenge
as they erode societal morality and family bonds..
- Drug and alcohol abuse threaten families as it triggers domestic violence and ultimately may lead to family
splits or divorce
-Wars and inter ethnic or religious tensions, although not heard of in Botswana, they are a serious threat to
family life especially to countries like Somalia, Iraq.
-Divorce –high divorce rate result in many single parent families because of lack of parental guidance

IMPACT OF CHANGKING FAMILY SYSTEMS IN BOTSWANA AND GLOBALLY

-The change from extended to nuclear family may lead to Orphans; this is because they are no longer
responsibility of relatives and are now taken care of the government
-The change from extended to nuclear family can result in the Emergence of old age homes; old age people are

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now taken care of by government instead of relatives

- Change from extended to nuclear families may result in Street children –Because of lack of parental guidance
no one counsel and take care of children at home so they end up streets to fend for themselves
- The change from extended to nuclear family may lead to Divorce; this is because lack of counseling amongst
couples by family members has led to high rate of divorce
-Movement from extended to nuclear family; couples opt to have small families which are easily manageable
due to high standard of living.
The movement from extended to nuclear families has also led to gender equality. This is because there is no
external influence in households and as a result partners view each other as equals.

Study questions
a) Explain the need for socialization in the family.
b) explain four appropriate ways of addressing gender imbalance in Botswana
c) Discuss the role of the following stakeholders in promoting family life in Botswana
i) Government
ii) Local communities
iii) NGO’S
d) Explain the role of inter - marriages across ethnic groups.

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. GOVERNANCE
KEY TERMS:

 Governance refers to the way in which a country manages its affairs or a system or process whereby
societies rule themselves. Governance takes place at different levels that is at family, community,
national, continental and global.
 Government: institution or body that rules the country / act of being ruled or ruling.
 Constitution: the country set of laws (supreme document where all the procedures of running the
country are stated or derived.

 Constitutional democracy: country set of laws that allow many political parties to contest general
elections (formation of government based on contest of general elections by many political parties).
 National referendum: a process where everyone in the country votes in order to make a decision about
a particular subject e.g. whether to allow 18 year old to vote or not
 Coalition government: is a government which different political parties form joint government.

CHARACTESTICS OF GOOD GORVENANCE

 Accountability: being responsible for your actions in order to satisfy the needs of citizens.
 Transparency: being open on national issues that needs to be known by citizens and holding no secrets
on issues that needs to be known to citizens Rule of law; respect of the constitution by everyone by
ensuring that all offenders are accorded a free and fair trial
 Respect for basic human rights: this may be shown by not denying both citizens and non citizens
their rights
 Involvement of all stakeholders on national issues ie as Media, DCEC, IEC, Opposition parties
 Regular consultation between the Government and the people.
 Peaceful change of Government
 Absence of corrupt practices such as favoritism and nepotism

MAIN FEATURES OF BOTSWANA’s CONSTITUTION

 Declares Botswana as a sovereign state thus it shall rule itself without any external interference.
 States the rights and freedom of people that are protected eg the right to life.
 State that power is separated into three branches that is Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.
 Specifies how and when elections should be held ie after every five years.
 Establish Botswana as a democratic country.

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 State issue of citizenship eg how one becomes a citizen of Botswana.

DESCRIBE THREE BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT IN BOTSWANA

a) Legislature
This is the country’s law making body and it comprises of the Parliament, Attorney General as the ex-officio
member and the House of Chiefs as advisors on traditional matters.

Duties
1 Make laws or amend the constitution.
2 Authorize the country’s budget.
3 Approve or give a go ahead for the country to get foreign aid
4 It oversees the way in which Government policies and programmes are carried out.
5 Advise the Government on customs and traditions through the House of Chiefs

b) Executive
This is the country’s law implementing body. It comprises of civil servants, the cabinet and President as the
ex-officio member who appoints high ranking officers.

Duties
1. Initiate or implement government policies through its ministries.
2. overseer of government development projects.
3. Ensures equitable distribution of national resources.
4. Propose new laws or propose amendment of old laws.
5. Make National Development Plans and National budgets.

c) Judiciary
Organ that interprets the country’s laws and it is made up of Judges and Lawyers.

Duties
1. Institute a free and fair trial to offenders.
2. Uphold the law by prescribing punishment to offenders.
3. Interprets the laws of the country through the Attorney General Chambers.

EVALATE CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS OF THE POWER OF GORVENMENT OF

BOTSWANA

 Government can be sued by civil societies eg Unity Dow case over the citizenship act
 The Government power to change the constitution is limited eg it has to consult people through
referendums and if majority disagrees the Government cannot change the constitution.

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 The president has power beyond all the branches eg signs the bills and can give clemency.
 Judiciary is not that independent because it is under the office of the President.
 President can make decisions that cannot be questioned eg can declare war.

STAGES OF LAW MAKING IN BOTSWANA

1. Members of Parliament’s collect views or issues of concern from the public.

2. Draft paper is made by the ministry concerned and sent to the attorney general for legal scrutiny.
3. Proposed bill is published on the govt gazette and put for 30 days for the public to see it.
4. The bill is read for the 1st time in parliament and not debated on.
5. The bill goes back to the select committee / AG for further polishing / scrutiny..
6. Second reading of the bill in Parliament and debated on
7. The bill is amended by the selected committee / attorney general.
8. The bill is read for the third time in Parliament and members vote for or against the bill reading of the
bill.
9. If voted for the bill becomes an act of Parliament awaiting the President to sign.
10. If the President signs it becomes a law.
11. If the President does not sign the bill, it returns to parliament to undergo the stages again.

ROLES OF STAKEHOLDERS IN PROMOTING GOOD GORVENANCE

a) BOGOSI
 Local leaders such as the dikgosi advise the government on traditional matters in order to prevent
issues of discontent by traditionalists.
 They even settle cases at the kgotla as a way of maintaining law and order (discipline).
 Arbitration is one area that the dikgosi are permitted to act as third party in conflict resolution.
 Dikgosi are seen as symbols of authority or role models to their followers through good leadership
qualities.
 The dikgosi even promote peaceful coexistence and unity as they act as custodians of community
traditions that bring community grass root cohesion.
 The Bogosi institution promote democracy through the kgotla as it is the place where people consult
on community issues.

b) MEDIA
 The mass media educate the nation through information dissemination programmes.
 They also update and unveil the daily activities of the government thereby influencing the
government officials to act responsibly (act as the public eye on monitoring govt activities)
 The media gives the public the opportunity to comment on nationals issues such as 'Maokaneng',
'The Eye’
 The media furnish the public with information relevant for political stability.
 Mass media is influential to the socioe-economic and political wellbeing of the nation especially
matters that promote national unity such as adverts on the importance of voting.

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c) THE OMBUDSMAN
 The office was established in 1995 and it acts as a public protector against mal-administration in
connection with the affairs of the Government..
 The public lodge complaints to his office in the event they have been untreated fairly
 The office has wide powers to investigate issues of corruption and misuse of public property
 It may recommend remedial action which helps to improve accountability on the part of all
stakeholders in managing national resources
 Encourages good relationship between Public Officers and their Supervisees.

d) DIRECTORATE OF CORRUPTION AND ECONOMIC CRIME

 The department operates like the police by stopping crime or corruption in the government, private,
NGO sectors.
 They investigate cases of corruption and crime such as bribery issues.
 They take appropriate action against suspects by recommending prosecution and other appropriate
action.
 They provide appropriate education on issues of corruption and crime.
 Builds confidence on local and foreign investors through its policy of zero tolerance on corruption.

e) INDEPENDENCE ELECTORAL COMMISSION

 This is an independent body that is not connected to any political party.
 It spearheads the electoral process involves educating the public about the importance of voting.
 IEC also monitors the electoral process and then give immediate feedback.
 One other duty is to implement election regulations for the purposes of the smooth running of
elections.
 This is meant to supervise national and bye elections in order to prevent rigging of elections.

f) OPPOSITION PARTIES
 They act as checks and balances of the ruling party thus ensuring good governance.
 Opposition parties share ideas with the government of the day and keep the government focused.
 They compete with the ruling government for power and this encourages hard work on the part of
the government.
 They contest general elections to create a political stable government by offering voters an
alternative government.
 They educate people on political or voter education.
 They prevent political instability because of political democracy.
 Supports the government on matters of national interest
 Conscientize people to choose responsible and committed leaders
 Provides an alternative government

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 Challenge the government to be accountable and transparent eg by demanding reports the

commission of inquiry

g) NON GOVERMENTAL ORGANISATIONS( CIVIL SOCIETY)

 Non-governmental organizations such as the Kgalagadi conservation Society, Emang Basadi,
Ditswanelo and others, create employment which is important for political stability and assist the
government and public with humanitarian and financial aid for poverty alleviation.
 NGO’S advises the goverment or political authority on national issues.
 They harmonize government socio-economic and development projects and they train citizens or
empower them on life sustenance skills eg Thusano Lefatsheng.
 NGO’S such as Survival International organization, Ditswanelo act as the public watch dog on
national issues against violation of human rights and are succeeding in reducing issues of ethnic ill
treatment.
 NGO’S are winning the battle on change of the constitution on issues of the environment; EIA is one
good of example of the constitutional changes or cancellation of section 77, 78 and 79. Some of the
NGO’s are providing coping mechanisms to the nation on issues of crisis like COCEPWA against
HIV/AIDS.

h) CULTURAL GROUPS/CIVIL SOCIETIES

 They promote unity and self identity starting at family level and thereby improving bonds in
those different institutions.
 Cultural groups teaches correct ways of behaviour by promoting their traditional values and
norms.
 Cultural festivals are conducted to revive unity and peaceful coexistence within their groups.

ELECTORAL SYSTEM OF BOTSWANA

Botswana’s electoral system is under the IEC.
a) FIRST PAST THE POST
It is a winner takes it all voting system, which uses the secrete ballot box system at poling stations to
determine the winner. The party that wins the highest number of constituencies or seats becomes the govt of
the day. Unlike the Proportional representative system where no of votes cast for the party relatively equals
the no of seats won or voters elect the party to determine the winner not the political representatives.

STRENGTHS /ADVANTAGES OF FIRST PAST THE POST

 Creates a closer bond between elected and voters.
 Allows anyone to stand for elections / vote e.g. in Botswana 18 years and above.
 Creates a good political environment for free and fair elections which is good for a strong stable
government.
 Allows bye elections to take place as an indicator of political opinion.
 Many parties can stand for elections.

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 Majority rules.
 Produces a clear winner (ie the most favored candidate by electorate).

WEAKNESSES/DISADVANTAGES OF THE FIRST PAST POST

 Lack of presidential elections: president comes from the winning party which means he is imposed on
people.
 Marginalize small parties as party that wins most constituencies becomes the ruling party or favor strong
political parties than weaker ones.
 IEC: lacks autonomy as the president is the one who announces the voting day.
 Non appearance on the voter’s roll means no voting.
 Allow the elected to defect from one party to another without losing their parliament or council seat
(cross flow with party seat).
 Artificial delimitation of constituencies can lead to an imbalance in distribution of resources.
 Only the minority are represented in parliament and no representative for groups i.e. religious , cultural
, underprivileged groups
 Will of the majority not represented
 Makes certain constituencies safe for certain political parties
 Can be represented by people of low caliber
 Bye election are expensive more specially for opposition parties

VOTER APATHY
This is a situation where voters decide not to vote.

The following might be some of the reasons why people decide not to vote.

 Lack of interests in politics: Some people might be interested in sports, religion; such people may
decide not to vote. This will contribute to voter apathy.

 Failure by some political parties when in power to develop areas and take services to the people
also leads to voter apathy. If political parties fail to deliver to the electorate, people might feel that it
makes no difference who they vote for therefore decide not to vote leading to voter apathy.

 In some countries elections are dominated by one political party, for example in Botswana it is the
Botswana Democratic Party and in South Africa it is African National Congress. This might lead to
voter apathy as people decide not to vote because they know it is going to be the same political party
winning.

 In most of the countries particularly in Africa people lack voter education about the importance of
elections. It is such individuals who lack voter education who might decide not to vote because they
do not know how important it is thereby contributing to voter apathy.

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 Another issue that has contributed to voter apathy in Botswana is lack of adequate political
campaigns. Political campaigns are very important because it is through such campaigns that
political parties advertise themselves to the electorate. Therefore without political campaigns people
might not know the political parties in existence and decide not to vote leading to voter apathy.

 Another problem is that some political parties do not avail themselves on national basis. That is,
some parties do not exist in some constituents. This state of affairs gives no alternative to the
electorate therefore might decide not vote.

 It is important that the voting day be convenient to all the citizens. If the day is not convenient to
such groups as the religious e.g. Seventh Day Adventists and workers not being released at work,
many people may fail to go and vote therefore leading to voter apathy.

HOW ELECTIONS ARE CONDUCTED IN BOTSWANA

 Announcement of registration for elections.
 Registration for voting ie 18 years and above.
 Announcement of elections day.
 Election observers present at the polling stations (ie UN representatives political parties
representatives etc).
 Valid Omang on the day of voting.
 On the day of voting polling officer check the voters name in the voters roll.
 Give the voter ballot paper thereafter he /she drops the ballot into the ballot box.
 Ballot boxes are sealed after the voting exercise has been done and taken to counting centres.
 Counting of votes and announcement of results.

.
HOW GOVERNMENT IS FORMED
In Botswana the government is formed by holding elections.
 The president dissolves parliament.
 Announcement of voting day by the IEC.
 Registration and campaigning for power by different political parties.
 Holding of elections and voting through the secret ballot box system.
 After elections the Independent Electoral Commission announces results,
 The candidate with highest number of votes becomes the constituency member of parliament.
 The winning party becomes the ruling party (party with most seats).
 The leader of the winning party becomes the President of the country.
 President of Botswana announces the cabinet and appoint key government officials.
 The opposition party that comes second in general elections becomes the official main
opposition party in parliament and its president becomes the opposition leader in parliament.
 The winning party is mandated to power for five years.

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SOCIAL CONTRACT: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ELECTORATE AND ELECCTED

REPRESENTATIVES

Elected members of parliament as representatives of the government at national level

 They consult with voters before parliament meetings to get ideas. This enables the electorate to
complain to the elected, if the elected fails to deliver according their promises.
 MP is expected to brief the electorate on the feedback from parliament.
 In the event that the voter has a problem with the government he/she is at liberty to tell the member of
parliament to assist.
 The elected is supposed to be always closer to the electorate not only when elections are close,

Elected member of council as representatives of the government at local level

 Councilors conduct meeting with voters at the kgotla and issues discussed are those affecting people at
council wards.
 Such issues are taken to the constituency member of parliament or discussed at council level.
 Immediate feedback is given to the public.
 Voters can lodge complaints to councilors if unhappy with government procedures.

NON DEMOCRATIC FORMS OF GOVERNMENT

The following are the characteristics of non- democratic governments:

Oppressive regimes
 No accountability towards people’ needs as they tolerate corrupt and nepotism practices.
 Prohibits constitutional democracy
 Marginalize people according to ethnicity (Violate human rights by denying people their human rights
to vote.)
 Allows no fair and just trial by arresting and putting people in prison without trial. Military govt, one
party state , monarchy are in most case non democratic forms of government because they are dictatorial
and autocratic in nature
 No transparency

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TYPES OF GOVERNMENT
a) ARISTOCRACY
This is a type of government formed by people of highest social class especially class depending on birth
and wealth.

Characteristics
 Ruled by few individuals (state of oligarchy) that is the rich.
 Corruption, nepotism is common practice.
 Dictatorial and autocratic in nature.
 Protects own interests against the masses by prohibiting democratic elections.
 Violation of human rights.
 Restricted freedom press.

b) REPUBLICAN /MULTIPARTY DEMOCRACY/REPRESENTATIVE

A system of government based that allows people elects their representatives through the ballot box system.

Characteristics
 freedom of speech.
 rule of the law / respect for the constitution regardless of social status.
 every has the right to vote.
 conduct regular free and fair elections.
 freedom of association / assembly.
 observation of human rights.
 rule of the law.
 constitutional democracy.

c) MONARCHY
A state ruled by the royal family such as the queen or king e.g. Swaziland

Characteristics
 power struggle between traditional leaders and political groups.
 Dictatorial and autocratic in nature.
 political parties are not allowed.
 strict control over the media or no press freedom.
 political instability due to denial of certain freedoms like lack of regular free and fair elections.

d) ONE PARTY STATE

Only one party is allowed by the government and the party act as the ruling government.

Characteristics

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 opposition parties are not allowed

 high corruption cases by government officials
 no transparency on government issues
 limited press freedom
 internal party elections and no general elections
 members of the same party contest for party positions
 dictatorial

e) MILITARY GOVERNMENT
Government formed through a military coup (toppling the ruling government from power).

Characteristics
 restricted press or media freedom.
 no freedom of association.
 no national or general elections.
 dictatorial and autocratic in nature.
 no transparency and accountability on national programmes.
 gross human rights violation.
 ban on political parties.
 Rule through a decree such as the curfew law.
 increased corruption or nepotism.

Democracy Aristocracy

Formed by elected representatives Formed by people of highest social class

Allows freedom of speech , association or choice Dictatorial and aristocratic in nature

Minimal corruption , fraud and nepotism High corruption and nepotism

Serves the interests or will of the people Serves interests of the few

Military government . One party state

Restricted press freedom Limited freedom of press
Attain power by use of force Only one party is allowed
No national / general elections Internal elections but no general elections
No opposition parties No opposition parties
High corruption fraud , corruption

Study questions
a) Explain three characteristics of good governance
b) List the stages of law making in Botswana.
c) Discuss four advantages and disadvantages of Botswana’s electoral system

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d) Explain why there is voter apathy in Botswana

e) Discuss the formation of a government in Botswana
f) Evaluate the role of the following stake holders in promoting good governance in Botswana
i) DCEC
iii) Bogosi
iv) Media

CITIZENSHIP
CITIZENSHIP IN BOTSWANA

KEY CONCEPTS:
Citizenship: An act of belonging to a particular country or organization.
Citizen: A person who belongs to a particular country e.t.c
Dual citizenship: Being legally recognized as belonging to two nations (legally owning national documents of
two countries).

WAYS TO ACQUIRE CITIZENSHIP IN BOTSWANA

i) Birth: Being a motswana by virtue of being born in Botswana

ii) Naturalization: Applying to be a Motswana and legally registering as a citizen of Botswana.
iii) Parental descent: Being a Motswana by being born by Batswana parents. At 21 years one has a choice to
choose a nation he or she wish to belong to.

LEVELS OF CITIZENSHIP
 Family ( totem ,surname)
 Community citizenship (language, totem)
 National ( passport , ID, national symbols )
 Regional (SADC)
 Continental ( AU)
 Global / international ( UNO)

CITIZENSHIP AT FAMILY LEVEL

We belong to the family because we share the following attributes:
 totem
 surname

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES AT DIFFERENT LEVELS

a) FAMILY
Duties
 Family members are interdependent: They are able to care of taking care of the sick family members.
 They also provide material support (basic needs) in the form of clothing, shelter, and food. The family
also provides love and security and even
 Providing security and love and even assist each other in socio-economic activities like motshelo,

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molaletsa and mafisa.

RIGHTS:
 Right to privacy and property ownership
 Right to use family surname
 Right to equal recognition/ dignity

b) COMMUNITY
Members of the community duties include:

 Regular attendance of Kgotla meetings to decide on important community issues.

 They also participate in public activities such as Village litter pick-up campaigns.
 Members of the community show love and protect each other by providing material and emotional
support to the underprivileged especially the disabled ,sick ,homeless and orphans .
 Upholding community laws and customs and traditions is another important duty that binds them
together.

IMPORTANCE OF VARIOUS GROUPS IN PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE CITIZENRY AND

PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY OR NATION BUILDING

a) NGO e.g. SOS ,RED CROSS

 Educate the public and increase awareness on issues of good democracy.
 Encourage the government to speed up implementation of policies.
 Train local citizens on various socio-economic and political activities.
 Provide guidance through their voice on governance / advise the government on issues of good
governance.

 Promote transparency and accountability of public institutions

 Invest in this country and thereby create employment to allow active participation on national issues
 Act as an advocate for equality to victims of social injustice e.g. criticize domestic violence, racism etc
 Provide material support to the underprivileged e.g. orphans.

b) YOUTH (use points from NGO)

 Open businesses that create employment for the nation e.g. JAB
 Participate on national decision making processes e.g. Kgotla /political rallies
 Actively participate in community mobilization programmes e.g. PACT
 Actively participate in different sport codes

c) WOMEN
 Call for women participation on national matters including holding top jobs such as government
ministerial post.
 Women sensitize the nation on gender issues.
 They strongly speak as one voice against domestic violence.

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D) ETHNIC MINORITIES
 Calls for equality on all ethnic groups by demanding a change in the constitution. Section 77, 78, 79 of
constitution was abolished as a result of the continued consultation between the government and various
ethnic groups.
 Call for equal representation by traditional leaders at Ntlo ya Dikgosi

 Conduct cultural festivals to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.

 Actively participate on national development programmes like the. drought relief ,
 Promote cultural identity and pride by writing own cultural literature and holding their own cultural
days

WAYS OF FACILITATING PEACE AND HARMONY AMONG ALL CULTURAL GROUPS,

POLITICAL, SPIRITUAL AND ETHNIC GROUPS IN A DEMOCRATIC NATION LIKE BOTSWANA

 Botswana has in the past amended the constitution to accommodate beliefs and values of all political,
religious and cultural groups in Botswana.

 The country has even gone a step further by recognizing rights and responsibilities of such group’s by
not interfering in their cultural festivals.

 Participatory democracy is continually promoted by allowing people to decide nationals on national

issues kgotla and voter’s right regardless of their ethnic affiliation. The concept of National conversion
that is use of national symbols for identity purposes has made all Batswana to be proud of their country
as these symbols are not biased.

 Allocation of resources or implementation of developments is done fairly and no ethnic grouped is

favoured.

 The government of Botswana further Promotes intermarriages through the marriage acts as a way of
promoting tolerance of other people’s cultures.

 All Batswana ethnic groups are allowed equal representation at the Ntlo ya dikgosi. In addition there is
Recognition of existence of institutions such as. Bogosi and various religions.

 Access to education is to all. For instance students of different ethnic groups attend same classes and are
even accommodated in the same hostels.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD CITIZEN

 Uphold the constitution e.g. reporting crime
 Patriotic: Have love and loyalty to one’s country e.g. supporting national teams
 Answering national calls and taking part in public activities e.g. extinguishing veld fires
 Taking part in general elections
 Well informed or being up to date on national issues and always willing o share such information with

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others
 Promote sustainable use of resources
 Tolerance of other people: an individual who is able to appreciate / accept existence of cultural
diversity( variation in lifestyle because of belonging to different ethnic groups)
 Accountability: an individual who has a sense of responsibility in developing his / her nation
 Self reliant: an individual who has independent thinking and socio-economic capabilities
 Botho (respect) : an individual who is respectful to others for the sake peaceful –coexistence

RIGHTS:
Are values of life or virtues that we are born with. We are entitled to these values by nature.
1 Right to life
2 Right to own property and privacy
3 Right to education
4 Right to freedom of association. assembly, movement
5 Right to free and fair trial

Check more of these rights on United Nations declaration charter on human rights

Civil rights are written with the countries’ constitution. In this case the countries makes a selection of rights
that are important to them and make them part of the constitution

DUTIES OF THE STATE

 Duties are responsibilities or obligations one is expected to perform
 Maintain law and order through the constitution
 Provide national security e.g. army.

 Provide basic infrastructure or distribute national resources equally to the citizens. The government is
the service provider in areas of health, education and social safety nets
 Create jobs for its citizen as the state can appoint or not appoint civil servants
 Attract investors to the country to improve people’ life styles
 Provide social safety nets mechanisms/ care for the underprivileged e.g. pension

 Create a political stable environment e.g. constitutional democracy

 Human resource development /training of nationals
 Collect tax from citizens for development

RIGHTS OF THE STATE

1 Right to institute a fair and free justice system or punish offenders
2 Right to extract tax from citizens
3 Right to own or protect national resources ( public property)
4 Right to save life
5 Right to withhold state classified information/ secrecy
6 Right to provide services /development e.g. education ,health etc
7 Right to protect citizens from external and internal threats

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COMPARE AND CONTRAST TRADITIONAL ATTRIBUTES OF CITIZEN SHIP TO MODERN

ATTRIBUTES

TRADITIONAL MODERN
Belonging to ethnic group Belong to the nation Botswana

Age regiments for protection of ethnic groups Security services e.g. army ,police for protection

Identification according to totem and language National documents e.g. passport ,ID for
identification
Land was communal and could not be sold Land varied according to land tenure system e.g.
private / free hold is for sale
Totem as the Tribal symbol National symbols e.g. flag ‘ anthem etc

Exchange of goods through barter trade National currency as medium of exchange

Geographic location associated with certain groups All of Batswana land associated with all Batswana

IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON CITIZEN OF BOTSWANA

We are citizens of the world and we all live in one global village called the planet earth. This means that every
change that takes place on earth will affect Batswana. The effects can either be good or bad.

Globalization has:
i. Promoted advanced technological exchange such as acquisition and use of computers, external
scholarship.
ii. The role of women has changed. Women are now empowered. that is they now hold high posts
in professional jobs.

iii. Women are now roles accorded their rightful place within our society. That is they are assigned
leadership which give them the opportunity to decide high profile issues.
iv. Their attire has changed their dress code has changed they put on trousers.
v. Botswana’s communication and transport systems have changed from the traditional ox –drawn
sledges to complex systems such as engine fueled automobiles

vi. Improve people’s living standards through acquisition of new funds (loans/ grants) that assist
financially e.g Multi-national corporations through their operations in Botswana, as part of the

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globalization process have created more employment opportunities in the country.

This has also in a way created global markets for Batswana product. Globalization has a positive
influence on Botswana’s political system especially our multi party democracy system.

ON THE NEGATIVE SIDE GLOBALIZATION HAS:

 Created more room for organized and sophisticated cross border crime like terrorism, drug trafficking
and money laundering. The perpetrators of such acts take advantage of international agreements on free
movements of goods and people between certain countries.

 A move towards a free market economy creates an unfavorable balance of trade between countries to
the extent that MNC now out compete the locals to monopolize the market.

 The other negative aspects of globalization include an influx of foreigners that eventual leads to
shortage of facilities in the country.

 Creation of MTC’s do not only act ‘fly by night’ investors who leave the country after making huge
profits but has actually create substandard , low wages jobs.

GLOBAL CITIZENRY

WAYS TO ACQUIRE INTERNATIONAL CITIZENRY

We are citizens of this world by virtue of being born in the planet earth. As human beings we are also
considered global citizens because of diplomatic assignments that we conduct in different countries. Some
these missions that accord us international citizenship status are being sent as an ambassador and national
sports assignments.

Membership to international organizations like SADC and UNO gives one the right to be a global citizen.

Other factors include working for multinational corporations or international companies and being offered
political asylum in different countries as refugees. The Dukwi refugee camp gives its non Batswana
occupants the privilege to stay in Botswana as asylum seekers because they are part of the planet earth.

IMPORTANCE OF UNITED NATIONS DECLARATION CHARTER ON HUMAN RIGHTS

 The main aim of the United Nations Organization Declaration Charter on Human Rights
document is to create peace and stability in the world by letting people and countries of the
world know their rights and responsibilities.
 It further encourages people to develop a sense of recognition of responsibility towards others
by not violating other people’s rights.

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 Thus in a way the declaration in a way enables people to realize that for them to build a better
world they have to be interdependent and work collectively.
 It allows people to grow to their full potential that is physically and mentally as it shows the
importance of learning from experiences (information sharing) and moving towards a better
world.

QUALITIES OF A GOOD CITIZEN INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

 Upholding international laws e.g. fighting terrorism
 Investing in other countries to promote trade
 Participating in world activities by answering international calls e.g. world games
 Taking responsibility of one’s own actions

 Being able to fight social outrage

 Have a good sense of how the world work socially, economically and politically
 Having a role to play on world issues like peace keeping missions

 Tolerance: be able to promote peace –coexistence and accept existence of other nations of the world
 Being able to show love by assisting the underprivileged

ROLE OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS IN SUSTAINING HUMAN LIFE, DIGNITY AND

PEACE

A) AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION

1 work to free people who have been arrested for no clear reasons and put to prison without trial
2 offers fighting groups a chance to negotiate peace
3 advocate for people whose political rights have been violated
4 AIO would even recommend sanctions of any sort to countries that violates people rights.

b) SURVIVAL INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION

1 act as an agent for the disadvantaged minority groups
2 advocate for the land rights of Basarwa e.g. CKGR
3 general SI advocate for equal treatment of people
4 it exposes nations that violate human rights of the underprivileged groups

C) INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS

The international Red Cross and Red Crescent organization helps:
 the needy in times of disasters like floods. Normally they assist victims of natural disasters by
providing them with shelter, food and clothing. The Red Cross also offers basic necessities of life as
emergence relief aid to victims of war. Some of the countries that have benefited include victims of the
Darfur crisis in Sudan and Iraq.
 The organization sometimes assists victims of war by being actively involved in the repatriation
process of refugees

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 Occasionally the Red Cross would act beyond its mandate and negotiate peace between fighting
groups.

d) UN PEACE KEEPING MISSIONS

The united nations peace keeping missions is a process that involves sending soldiers or peace negotiators
to countries that are faced political instability. In the case of armed conflicts United Nations peace keeping
force its duty is to
 separate or neutralize fighting groups by creating a demilitarized zone.
 The UNO peace keeping forced are given the power to provide security to citizens of the war torn
areas.
 The presence of the force in such areas is to offer conditions favorable for negotiating peace amongst
fighting groups. A number of African countries have benefited from this process. The countries are
Ivory coast, Mozambique and Namibia

- The force has continued to maintain peace and order in political unstable countries under UN sponsored
general elections. In 1990 they facilitated a smooth transition from South African colonial backed
government to a free independent Namibian government through monitoring the Namibian election
process. the force also showed greater success in providing security during the Democratic Republic of
Congo elections in 2006

E) INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE

The headquarters of this organization are in The Hague, Netherlands. All countries of the world if they so
wish can be members of this organ or refer their cases to this organ.
Its mandate is to sustain peace, dignity and life by:
 Solving international conflicts like boarder disputes, war related crimes such as ethnic cleansing and
other international crimes. The organization has been able solve the Botswana Namibia sedudu issue
through a fair trial. Other cases that are handled by the international court of justice include the
Rwandan Hutu-Tutsi war crimes.
 In a way the international Court of Justice helps countries achieve peace by making them understand
and abide by the international law such as the convention on exchange of prisoners of war , socio and
economic relations between countries
 Prosecute those who commit international crimes e.g genocide

F) SADC
 It promotes regional peace through joint military training, peace keeping missions. There are times when
Botswana Defense force conduct joint military training exercises with its neighboring countries such as
South Africa. To mention but a few, is the Botswana Defence Force’s Operation Matsubutsubu.

 This organization is aiming at improving the socio –economic life style of its people by promoting free
trade and movements of goods within the regional block.
 Through its secretariat or brotherhood concepts it offers political advise to member states at all times,
even in times of political instability such as the early 21st century Zimbabwe political crisis.

 The organization further promotes solidarity and peaceful coexistence among member states by
embarking on similar regional development programmes

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g) EUROPEAN UNION
It is aiming to improve the socio-economic and political links between countries of the world.
It is a European regional block that promotes regional trade through use of a single currency called the Euro.
It has also broadened its scope of operation to politics by establishing a European parliament .This
organization is useful to countries such as Botswana as offers a lucrative market to goods from all over the
world. It is the organization that buys Botswana’s beef

h) AFRICAN UNION
Its headquarters are in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. it has transformed from the organization of African Unity to
African Union. One of its goals is to promote solidarity and unity among African states. the African Union
coordinates socio economic and political interests of African states. Elimination of poverty and other
colonialism ills are the main concerns of this organization

GLOBAL CRISIS
These are issues of concern that are a threat to the entire international community.
Global concerns in this case range from desertification, global warming, desertification, terrorism and
HIV/AIDS.

a) DESERTIFICATION
Means spread of desert:

Effects:
 loss of biodiversity
 loss of animal habitat
 loss of raw materials e.g medicines , wood products
 range land degradation e.g pastures reduced
 land degradation e.g soil erosion , soil infertility etc
 change in climate e.g global warming , floods /drought
 reduction of animal /plant species

b) GLOBAL WARMING
It is a rise in world atmospheric temperatures. The rise is in temperature is caused by increased level of
green house gases such as carbon dioxide.

 Increased deforestation activities and presence of methane gases in atmosphere traps heat from the
ground and as a result leading to high temperatures.

 Changes the climate of the earth. It leads to a harsh climate characterized by high temperatures,
increased floods or drought in some areas of the world.

 High temperatures triggers the melting of ice caps and lead to a rise in sea level. The rise in sea levels
would lead to submergence of coastal settlements and in the process claim both animal and plant life.

 It is also clear that large scale clearance of vegetation would lead to an imbalance in gaseous materials in

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the atmosphere that is more carbon dioxide levels which bring acid rain. the imbalance in gaseous
materials may worsen the problem of depletion of the ozone layer

C) TERRORISM
It is use of violence or state terror, propaganda or killing of people to gain political influence over people.
The idea is to put fear into people so that they support the perpetrator’s course or political demands.

 Loss of life: Terrorists kill people through suicide bombings, plane high jacking, parcel bombs,
poisoning and other unpleasant methods.

 Sometimes there is serious loss of personal property and infrastructures are destroyed by bombs and
heavy artillery terrorisms has in the past.

 A decline in world economies or economic recession as terrorists strike essential services like oil
facilities. Nigeria oil facilities have in the year 2007 experienced increased terrorist’s attacks.

 Reduced the number of tourism activities in the affected. It has also led to an increase in the rate of
international migration as people escape to terrorist free areas.

 In some parts of the world terrorist’s acts has promoted religious tensions and even fueled gross
violation of human rights. People has disappeared without trace, put to prison without trial, kidnapped,
silenced by the power of gun and even sexually abused.

 Terrorism is so serious that it has led to deterioration of international relations between countries. It has
divided the world into two camps; that is the pro-terrorists and anti terrorists’ camps. There is political
hatred fear and mistrust between nations as they accuse each other of such terrorists’ acts

d) HIV /AIDS
It is a disease caused by human immune virus which makes the body defenseless against attacks disease
causing organisms (pathogens).

IMPACTS
I) Economic impacts
 There is increased economic hardship and poverty as a lot of money is spent on the sick. It is very
expensive to care for the HIV/ AIDS patients. Families of the infected has to use their limited budgets in
buying food, clothing and at the same time having to channel the limited funds in seeking medical help
for the sick. HIV/AIDS in a way delays implementation of government projects.

 Government developments projects are delayed as the budget is overstretched. especially when it comes
to buying ARV’S and implementing developments projects such as road construction. It is estimated
that more than sixty thousands people are under the ARV therapy programme. Other expenses include

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taking care of orphans and home based care patient.

 Other associated HIV / AIDS ills are that, there is increased exploitation of the sick by opportunists who
obtain funds intended for HIV / AIDS programmes for personal gains. For instance people would
conduct concerts, run non governmental organization and even claim to be healers of HIV/AIDS then
use funds accrued for their personal use.

II) Social impacts

 The disease has continued to kill a lot of people through out the world. Infact the has reduced the
population growth rate of many countries and further decreased the life span of citizens of developing
countries like Botswana.

 These unprecedented HIV/ aids death cases has resulted in a high number of orphans. Botswana alone
has more than sixty thousands orphans. These are a very big number for a country of 1.7 million people.

 Increased HIV/AIDS cases have put more pressure on social facilities especially social facilities such as
health facilities. The ratio of nurses to a patient is not pleasing. nurses has to attend more patients than
before bearing in mind that nursing is understaffed as nurses are leaving for United King for greener
pastures and there is serious shortage of nurses Botswana.

 Change in family systems e.g orphanages ,grandparents , streets kids homes . Children assume parental
roles, elderly people fend for their grand children.

STUDY QUESTIONS

a) Define the following key terms:

i) citizenship
ii) dual citizenship

b) Discuss 5 ways in which the govt of Botswana is encouraging peace and harmony among ethnic groups in
Botswana

c) Discuss impacts of the following global crisis

i) Desertification
ii) Global warming
iii) HIV/ AIDS

d) Evaluate the role of NGO’ in nation building

e) Describe three rights of the state to its citizens

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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
International relations is the interaction or common understanding between countries or
international organizations for the purpose of creating world peace

DEFINITION PF KEY TERMS/ CONCEPTS

Domestic policy: it’s the ideas, principles, values or rules and regulations as expressed
by the country in running its internal affairs (a way in which a country manages its
internal affairs). In Botswana, our domestic policy is largely influenced by the
philosophy of Kagisano: botho, unity, self reliance, democracy and development.

foreign policy: ideas and principles of a country as portrayed towards the international
community (the way a country portrays its image towards other countries). An outward
projection of the country’s image or the official position of a country towards other
countries / international organisations.

Diplomacy: skillful management / art of managing international issues through

negotiations e.t.c for the purposes of easing international tensions

Sovereignty: self rule (governing) and having own territory as a state. it means being
an independent state and having the mandate to exist as an internationally recognized
country.

Importance of international relations

International relations is important in
 prevention of world conflicts or creation of world peace and stability. Countries of
the world, through either bilateral or multilateral agreements are able to cooperate
in solving issues that threaten world peace. For example SADC’s common approach
to the solution towards the March 29 2008 Zimbabwe election crisis. Another
example is the military intervention by UNO towards the Iraq crisis
 International relations also promotes exchange of technology, skills and knowledge.
For instance Batswana students being sent for further studies in various professions
like Medicine, Engineering, Law and Sports science.

 It also creates a friendly environment, increased cooperation or bond between

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countries to find solutions to their common problems such as trade and investment.
The World Trade Organization(WTO) and Food and Agricultural Organization
(FAO)

 It allows financial assistance through (loans and grants) from the International
Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the African Development Bank.

 It also promotes exchange of culture through sports, for example AFCON Games,
Common Wealth Games, Music and Dance and Fine arts

 To assist in humanitarian aid in times of hardship such as floods and hurricanes. for
example the Mozambiquan floods in 2000,the Tsunami Disaster in Asia and
Somalian famine

Major principles that guides Botswana’s foreign policy

- These are matters that influence Botswana’ position when dealing with international
matters. Botswana’ foreign policy ensures that it does not harm any of the 7 major
principles.

a) National interests
In her dealings with the outside world Botswana believes that she has to satisfy her national interests first
i.e. (democracy, botho etc) before attending to international issues. Botswana cannot feed international
citizens when we are starving within the country

b) Peaceful – coexistence ( Good neighborliness)

Botswana ensures that her ideas and principles portrays a welcoming (friendly) image towards neighbours
e.g. accommodating refugees at Dukwi camp

c) Non alignment
Botswana’s image abroad is reflected by her neutral and fair approach when handling international issues /
conflicts. E.g. neither taking sides with the Eastern nor Western block

d) Respect for the international law

The ideas and principles are set in a way that they will b accommodative of or not violate international
agreements / laws e.g. Botswana abide by the Geneva convention on good treatment of prisoners of war.

e) Non interference
Our foreign policy is such that we don’t interfere in the internal matters of other countries. This is seen in
Botswana’ silent diplomacy on Zimbabwean crisis that even affect our economic through frequent
repatriations.
e) Respect for Human rights
Botswana’ foreign policy reflects that all human beings regardless of origin, race creed etc are entitled to
their basic human values (rights)
f) Territorial Integrity

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Emphasis is on observation and respect of other countries’ international boundaries. Our country is against
invasion of other countries’ territories

Contribution of Botswana towards International Relations

a) Regional
i) SADC
- Actively participate in peace keeping mission’s e.g. BDF in Lesotho, Mozambique
- Promotion of human rights e.g. offering political asylum to refugees at Dukwi and the Francistown
Immigrants Detention Centre
- Fully participating / supporting the liberation struggle of southern African countries (Front Line States
1975 – 1994)
- Actively involved in creating regional security and stability e.g. joint military training sessions
- Actively involved in combating regional cross boarder crime e.g. joint Interpol (SA and Bots)
- Accommodative / supportive of trade agreements
- Allow exchange of technology by admitting foreign students in local institutions etc
- Provide humanitarian aid to disaster victims
-Employment creation; many foreigners are hired in Botswana in various fields.

b) Continental
- Peace keeping missions e.g. BDF in Somalia, Sudan
- Promotion of socio –cultural exchange e.g. AFCON
- Subscribing to AU so as to make the organization to effectively carry out its duties without financial
constraints
-Exchange of technology
- Offers political protection to refugees from other countries e.g. Somalia

c) Globally
- Abide by the rules that protect territorial integrity of other countries
- Peace keeping missions
- Financial subscription to International Organisations eg UN
- Assist natural disaster victim’s e.g. tsunami victims
- Uphold international agreements e.g. CITES

HOW BOTSWANA BENEFITS FROM INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

a) Regional
1 SACU
- enjoy free flow of goods within member states at minimal or no tax charges
- Equal share in the distribution of revenues generated by the organization
- increase social-economic ties between member states

2 SADC
- enjoys free flow or movements of goods within member states

- information sharing / exchange of technology on issues of common interests

- benefit on regional economic empowerment programmes that are meant to alleviate

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poverty
- international protocols or agreements help create stability in the country especially on
issues of crime
- financially benefits eg the SADC Trade Protocol on free movements of goods and
service
b) Globally
1. UNITED KINGDOM
- Education / technology e.g. offers Batswana scholarship for further studies
- offers military training and military hardware to Botswana
- Trade opportunities for Botswana e.g. buys beef from Botswana
- Foreign aid / financial assistance e.g. Harvard institute of research gives AIDS oriented
help
- Cultural exchange e.g. part of common wealth games

2. USA
- offers scholarship to Batswana
- train and equip our army
- trade relations as open investments opportunities to Batswana especially in the diamond
and Manufacturing industry e.g. African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA)
- Humanitarian aid e.g. Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on HIV/AIDS funding
- BOTUSA (Botswana and United States of America) partnership through NGO’s like
Tebelopele.

3. FAR EASTERN COUNTRIES (China, Japan etc)

- Trade relations e.g. auto mobiles / car and electronics industries
- Medical assistance e.g. Chinese medical experts in the ministry of health
- Military assistance e.g. Indian experts
- Japanese assistance with the Kazungula Bridge construction

ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS IN COFLICT RESOLUTIONS

E.g. UNO, SADC EU etc
The main aim of all these organizations is to create a stable peaceful environment that allows improvement of
people’ lives.
Ways that these organizations use to solve world conflicts are as follows:
- Negotiations (dialogue): fighting parties be brought together by a peace facilitator to
talk about peaceful ways of sorting out their problems e.g. UNO sending Masire to
DRC
- Military intervention as way of separating fighting groups e.g. AU in Sudan
- Use of sanctions e.g. UNO economic sanctions against Saddam Iraq regime
- Exposing by publicizing countries that violates human rights e.g. Amnesty
international, SI

- Use of arbitration or international tribunals to prosecute those who committed atrocities

or to offer a truth and reconciliation structure for fighting groups e.g. Charles Taylor of
Liberia prosecuted at the Hague
- Financial support as a way to sponsor and sustain peace talks.

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CHALLENGES FACED BY BOTSWANA IN HER INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

- Failure to pay membership subscriptions /fees by other members of organizations in
which Botswana is a member
- continued hostilities from NGO/ international organs like SI vs. Botswana’ national
interests e.g. relocation of Basarwa at CKGR
- Imbalance in global trade: competition from MNC,s make it difficult for developing
countries like Botswana to have a fair trade deal with MNC’s
- Geographical location:;lack of access to a sea port for easy and cheap transportation of
goods in and outside
- Regional instability especially Zimbabwean crisis that outsource our resources through
frequent repatriation of illegal immigrants .Botswana has to find ways of handling the
issue without harming Zimbabwe
- HIV/AIDS: Botswana has been struck out of a list of poor countries hence it is going to
be difficult to convince the international world to assist financially in HIV /AIDS
programmes
- Fluctuation of world market prices especially on strategic commodities like oil; it is a
challenge to Botswana to find alternatives despite increased international pressure

STUDY QUESTIONS
1. Explain five importance of International relations
2. Describe five major principles that guide Botswana’s foreign policy.
3. Discuss challenges faced by Botswana in international relations
4. Explain the role of SADC in conflict resolution
5. Explain the role played by Botswana on international relations at continental
and international levels

MODULE 5: CULTURE (CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN BOTSWANA

AND WORLD CULTURES)
Key terms:
CULTURE-: is a way of life of a certain group of people. Culture is dynamic it changes with time.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY - refers to coexistence of different cultures. Botswana has different ethnic
groups who live within the same country and are able to tolerate each other.

BASIC ASPECTS OF CULTURE

The basic aspects of culture can be classified into non material and material culture.
A. Material elements of culture: these are visible and tangible elements of culture
B. Non material culture: these are elements of culture that can neither be touched nor seen

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CLASFICATION OF ELEMENTS OF CULTURE INTO MATERIAL AND NON

MATERIAL
- Material elements of culture range from food to dress
It has to be noted that: food that a certain group of people prefer to eat can reveal their identity. For
instance Bakalanga prefer Ndebele or Phane.

- Non material elements of culture include elements like music and dance, technology, religion or
believe and language. Language is important as it is spoken, not only to communicate messages but
also for identity purposes. Technology is all about the skills and knowledge as applied by a particular
group in producing traditional crafts. Music and dance or fine arts include Kalanga Hosanna Dance

CHANGING ATITUDES OF CULTURE TOWARDS THE NON VERBAL ASPECTS OF

CULTURE
Culture is dynamic/for ever changing.
Some of the cultural values and norms that are no longer practiced include the following:

- Children no longer kneeling down when greeting elderly people.

- Children sit on chairs while elders are standing especially in important public
gatherings such as funeral services.
- People wave when greeting instead of shaking hands.
- In the past children would not nod their heads or signal thumbs up to elders but
currently it is common.

CULTURAL CHANGES THAT HAS TAKEN PLACE IN BOTSWANA SINCE INDEPEDENCE

Significant changes have taken place in regard to our traditional culture.
- Dress: Women have since then started putting trousers and very short skirts thus change
from traditional way to the western way of dressing.
- Profession: Women in Botswana are now allowed to pursue any career of their rather
than becoming house wives.
- Gender neutral practices are now common that is (discouraging gender stereo type
practices) as Women are even allowed to hold high leadership roles such as being
ministers, Dikgosi and company directors.
- Family decision making process is now the collective responsibility all members of the
family.
- Education: Formal schools have replaced initiation schools such as bojale and bogwera.
- Language: English has been adopted as the official medium of communication in
schools and government offices.
- Batswana have abandoned most of their indigenous food eating habits to adopt foreign
ones like rice
- Music and Dance: traditional music no longer there except in certain celebrations, music
is enriched with the use of modern instruments
- Technology: e.g. tools - use of highly mechanized tools from simple tools e.g. use of
tractors instead of animals as draught power.

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- Bogadi: bogadi has lost its value, it is now commercialized.

- Religion: emergence of other religions apart from Christianity e.g. Islam and Hinduism
IMPOTANCE OF CULTURE
- Culture maintains law and order through various socialization processes e.g.
disciplining wrong doers
- Promote the spirit of national service or community service as it engages the services of
age regiments / members of the community on various projects e.g. moeng college and
UB constructions
- It helps transform individuals into adulthood by enforcing certain responsibilities that
prepare them to be future parents
- impart traditional marketable skills like hand craft e.g. dikika to promote the spirit of
self reliance
- promote cultural identity and belonging by enforcing customs and norms of particular
group
- instill a sense of pride as they will be continuity in cultural practices of a group

SIGNIFICANCE OF CULTURAL IDENTITY AND PRESERVATION

- Cultural identity reveals who we are and where we belong. For instance we speak
Setswana and identify ourselves as Batswana in Botswana.
- Cultural identity and preservation of culture is one way to prevent conflicts as people
are able identify each other.
- It further improves the spirit of co operation within a cultural group. Already forms of
co operation like motshelo, mafisa and molaletsa have been mentioned in the previous
topics.
- cultural continuity in this case will be expressed through attire; ethnic groups like the
Bazezuru are a shining example in using the dress code as a symbol of pride and
identity

WHY THE NEED FOR CULTURAL TOLERANCE, SPACE, LIBERTY AND APPRECIATIAN IN
BOTSWANA AND INTERNATIONALLY

Cultural preservation, liberty and space:

- Allow individuals to exercise their rights and therefore promote peaceful coexistence in
countries of diverse cultures like Botswana.
- Enhance the process of socialization by teaching the young ones acceptable ways of
behavior so as to make them fit well in the society.
- It is also one way in which a nation’ s history spread as people assimilate and adopt
good cultural traits of other people’s way of life( cultural exchange enrichment).
- Cultural continuity: If people are people are given land to live they will have the
freedom to express their culture. In that way they are able to maintain their culture and
a proud nation. Former president once said “a nation without a culture is lost nation”

WAYS TO PROMOTE CULTURE IN BOTSWANA AND INTERNATIONALLY

- Cultural education should be introduced in schools and public gatherings to teach
people about the importance of their education.

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- Cultural festivals or days such as the Domboshaba and KAMANAKAO cultural

festivals are hosted as an attempt to promote cultural identity and preservation by
celebrating their various socio economic activities.
The UNO cultural day is also celebrated world wide.

- The mass media advertise different cultures to instill a sense of pride. Literature such as
books, magazines, journals document information about different ways of life where as
cultural dress may be used for expressing belonging. It has to be noted that in Botswana
there is no traditional attire that has been declared as the official national attire.
- Museums and archives may be used to store artifacts and records that can instill pride
to our future generations
- Trade in traditional non material and material aspects of culture such as food

GENDER DISPARITIES RESULTING FROM CULTURAL PRACTCES

. Practices that discriminate man are as follows:
- Marriage: men pay bride price before marital harmony.
- Profession: Men are not even allowed to have a say in food preparation, the only thing
men can do is to engage on dangerous and tiresome duties such hunting, digging graves
and being engaged in the battle field.
- Provision of basic necessities to their families while females are to perform light
duties. These light duties vary from cooking, washing to sweeping the compound.
- Existence of separate schools for boys and bojale for girls.

Cultural practices that discriminate women range from marital laws, decision making attire during
bereavement to child bearing matters.
- Marriage: Traditional marital affairs laws prohibit women from engaging in extra
marital affairs. Traditional women marriage counseling discourages women to monitor
the movement of their spouses. Women have to adopt the husband’s surname and join
the husband’s family
- Decision making process / leadership roles: Women are not decision makers instead it is
their male counterparts who are in control .moreover they are not allowed to be the
head of the family even if the husband is late, the uncles are managers in the absence of
the male family owner. Hence, the Setswana saying 'ga di nke di etelelwa ke
manamagadi Pele'.
- Family mishaps / misfortunes: women are associated with all family misfortunes such
as witch craft. The blame for the in ability to bear children is always directed to women
not men.
- Interpersonal relationships women are the ones to greet men every time they meet to
show respect and promote male dominance.
- Bereavement attire: Women are further forced to put on green, black or blue attire as a
way of morning the loss of their spouses and are expected to cover their heads during
funerals.
- Custom and norms: women sit on mats not chairs etc

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SOLUTIONS TO GENDER DISPARITIES

Discriminations that arise from cultural practices can be solved in many ways.
- Cultural education in schools and public gathering can promote gender equality at
young age or conduct gender neutral socialization processes.
- The constitution can be changed so as to be gender neutral. In Botswana the
constitutional changes include the marriage act on property ownership, child
maintenance.
- The role of NGO’S gender neutral institutions like Emang Basadi is important as they
empower people on gender related issues and business or life opportunities. Allow
children access to a gender neutral education. Both male and female students should go
to the same schools unlike the traditional bogwera and bojale where there is gender
based education.
- Profession: Life long opportunities should be availed to all regardless of gender e.g.
high positions at work be based on qualification; women in politics are even given
quota in both parliament and council. IN Botswana are a given a 30 % slot in
parliament.
- Availability of medical programmes that can ascertain issues of infertility on couples
rather than couples having to put the blame on females.
- Discourage societal stereotypes such as Abolishing bride price as it gives men the
impression that they own women or Parents or couples are allowed similar child related
benefits that include maternity leave, travel leave concession and in some countries
even child custody.

IMPACT OF CULTURE IN PROMOTING THE PRINCIPLES OF:

a) Democracy
- Interethnic marriages across ethnic groups allow freedom of choice when it comes to choosing a
partner.
- Community leadership positions and Bogosi are to large extent influenced by the concept of
democracy as shown by Proverbs like a “Kgosi is a Kgosi through the consent of his people”.
The kgotla is also a good example of participatory democracy. In fact it is a place where everyone is
allowed to have a say in the running of the community.
b) Self reliance
- It emphasize on socialization processes which deal with transfer of knowledge or skills related to
self reliance. Those socialization processes include initiation schools, production of baskets and
traditional mortars (dikika) enhance development of peoples’ lives.
- The concept also focuses on motivational mottos such as Ipelegeng spirit where public works are
carried by age regiments and members of the community to promote unity or cooperation.
- There are even Tswana proverbs like ‘letsema le thata ka mong wa lone or mokoduwa go tsosiwa
yo o itsosang’. This is meant discourage the dependence syndrome on Batswana. Local
communities have even built themselves institutions such as Moeng College as a way of
achieving economic independence. The influenced is further seen in tswana traditional forms of
cooperation such as motshelo, mafisa, molaletsa and boipelego

c) Botho
- Respect and discipline: Respect in the sense that both elders and young have to respect each
other in order to maintain peace and harmony in the society. Respect is demonstrated through

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socialization processes e.g. children kneel down or bend their knees when giving something to
elderly people.
- Botho can also be extended to issues of discipline. In Setswana one may be counseled by elders
or be given a few strokes as a way of correcting one’s unbecoming behavior.
- Interpersonal relationship: Greetings are also a way of establishing good interpersonal
relationship within the society and ultimately promoting the principle of Botho. Proverbs such as
‘susu elelela suswana ……..’ is testimony to the influence of culture on botho.
d) Development
- Emphasize on hard work and improvement of our living standards. E.g.
mixed farming has been part of their culture since time immemorial. They
even engaged age regiments in community projects like construction of roads,
bridges as a way of up liftment of their living standards.
- Community donations have been part and parcel of batswana when it comes
to collective responsibility. Examples in this case would include the building
of Moeng College by Bangwato and Motho le Motho kgomo construction of
the University of Botswana by Batswana and the current Botswana football
association programs ‘A ga kgwele ka kgomo’

e) Unity
- Comforting each other during bereavement by Tswana communities
especially the night vigil, digging of graves and cooking demonstrate unity on
the party of Batswana. This is one way of saying setshwarwa ke ntsa ga se
thata.
- Decision making process: Unity is also clearly demonstrated in kgotla
activities. It is at the kgotla where members of the same area or community
meet to discuss issues that may divide them.
- Conflicts and issues of discipline are solved at the kgotla to cement the
existing cultural bonds hence the saying Kagisano or ntwa kgolo ke ya
molomo.

c. Assess impact of globalization on the tswana cultures (the impact of globalisation on local and
international cultures)

LANGUAGE:- English ,French, Portuguese and perhaps Chinese have become global languages used
internationally and this has affected the growth of local languages like Setswana, Ikalanga, Herero and others to
mention but a few. Issues of global trade and politics have thus compelled Batswana to adopt these global
languages as a medium of communication.
TECHNOLOGY: - Globalization has affected the local technology in many respects, for example the use of
pottery to store water and milk has been replaced by the use of metal goods. Fire-making skill has been replaced
by the match stick to light fire. The use of the internet for communication at lightning speed has become part of
our technology.
FOOD: - We have abandoned our traditional dishes of Bogobe ja lerotse or thopi/nnopi, morogo wa dinawa,
madila, mtswatswa in preference of Western and Asian dishes like rice, spaghetti, macaroni and spices of all
sorts.

CUSTOMS AND NORMS-As Batswana we used to have diretlo (totems) but today we no longer have them.

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We do not value them anymore. We also paid attention to such things as meila but these are seldom obeyed
today owing to the erosion of local culture by global trends.

DRES-Traditionally Batswana wore ‘tshiga’ and animal skins to cover their bodies but with international trade,
they came in contact with the German print ‘leteisi’ which they embraced and it became synonymous with
Tswana traditional dress.

LEADERSHIP ROLES-Leadership has shifted from being a male domain and women have increasingly
become part of the leadership fold. More women are into leadership positions since the launching of Beijing
platform in 1995 in China. Through this platform the world was making an appeal to take women into
consideration as far as decision making was concerned.
SOCIAL-ILLS; I ) e.g. Increase in crime, xenophobia (neg)
ii) Created a bond /cooperation between countries to fight social ills. (Pos)

SPREAD OF DISEASES; I) e.g. HIV/AIDS, swine flu (neg)

ii) This has helped to facilitate research e.g. safe male circumcision.9pos)

RECOGNITION OF HUMAN RIGHTS; e.g. some locals started to lobby for human rights as it is done
internationally i.e. marriage act ,citizenship act.

SOCIAL WELFARE PROGRAMS; i) e.g. tandabala, ipelegeng. (Pos)

ii) This has led to laziness (neg)

DISCUSS THE ROLE OF MASS MEDIA IN INFLUE NCING CULTURE

1) Helps to develop a sense of pride in ones culture

2) Custodian of culture e.g. Television and radio programmes on culture
3) Helps disseminate culture/ promotes culture
4) It can teach us about other aspects of culture
5) Helps to preserve culture e.g. tapes recorded used are stored and will be seen by future generations

Study questions
1. Define culture
2. Describe four basic aspects of culture
3. Discuss ways of promoting traditional culture
4. Evaluate the importance of culture
5. Discuss the role of Mass media in influencing culture

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MODULE 6

TOPIC: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN BOTSWANA

Use of the country’s resources (human and natural) in improving people’s lives
Or
The process of improving production and distribution of the country’s resources /wealth for the betterment of

people’s lives

ECONOMIC SECTORS
Any Governmentt/private sector service (activity) that generate revenue, employment and aim improving

people’ living standards.

Examples of economic sectors:

- Agricultural sector
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Education
- Trade and communication

Factors that contribute to economic development

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- Availability of capital /finance to buy machinery or pay human resource may speed up the pace
of development
- Availability of natural resources can develop a country if fully utilized
- Technology: advanced technology e.g. computer age increase efficiency in production thereby
speeding up economic development
- Availability of both skilled and unskilled human resource: an efficient labour force allows a
country to fully exploit its natural resources and improve output (performance) of each economic
sector
- Availability of land: land is the power base on which an economic activity should take place e.g.
lack of land brings developments to a standstill
- Improved transport and communication networks: promote quick access to the market /
facilitate efficiency in economic sector production
- Government policies: good policies attract foreign investors and also do not sideline local
investors e.g. tax rebates, PMS to promote a productive work environment, import substitution
policies to promote the local production base.
- Political stability: a peaceful environment promote economic production as there are no physical
destruction to property of investors

CONTRIBUTION OF ECONOMIC SECTORS TO THE ECONOMY OF BOTSWANA

- Generate Government revenue / foreign exchange through profit gains and tax e.g. agric sell beef
to E.U market
- Create employment e.g. BCL alone has more than 5000 employees
- Improves human resource / work force through specials training like (mining engineers or equip
individuals with life sustenance skills)
- Pride: good performance by economic sectors brings pride to the country e.g. Botswana is
famous because of the good performance by the Diamond mining sector
- Attract more investors and tourists e.g. the tourism sector
- Improves the country’s infrastructure or service delivery as money generated build roads, sports
facilities, improve welfare of Batswana
- Lead to acquisition of advanced technology that meet global standards
- Improve the standard of living of people –some economic sectors have improved the lives of
disadvantaged people eg building them houses
- Provision of services ;sectors provide services such as health and educational facilities such as
schools ,clinics and their surrounding as well as entertainment service eg sports stadiums
- Industrial multiplier effect ;when a certain industry is set up in an area it leads to others that
depends on it or those that depends on to be also set up nearby eg. when an abattoir is setup in
an area shoe making companies will be set up since the get their material from the abattoir
Conduct a case study of any of the economic sectors that you know (tourism, mining e.t.c)

-Address the following questions

- Challenges faced by the selected sector

- Contribution of the chosen sector to the economy of Botswana
- Examine possible solutions to problems faced by each economic sector

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CHALLENGES FACED BY EACH ECONOMIC SECTOR

- Ever-changing technology: time and again we have to cope / keep pace with global technological
standards hence this affect the output per each sector
- Brain drain: Botswana’ economic sectors are losing a lot of their skilled labour force to the more
developed world as they pay better salaries
- Globalization: serious competition for world markets from multi-national corporations in trade
e.t.c threatens the existence of Botswana’ sectors. For them to survive they have to be in line
with global technological standards
- Frequent fluctuation of world market prices especially in the mining sector
- Frequent outbreaks of livestock diseases that affect the Beef industry e.g. Foot and mouth
- Demand and supply: level of output or production at minimal production cost to the satisfaction
of all Batswana is a challenge as the products/ service will not satisfy every Motswana’s needs
- Frequent droughts leading to decreased water supply to all sectors
- Economic empowerment policies by the Government: issues of privatization and localization of
specialized skills / posts vs. private sector interests
- Political integration: accommodating political views that allows investment growth
- HIV/AIDS which kills a lot of the employees of the country’s economic sectors
- Corruption; it compromises the quality of goods produced and services provided since
unqualified personnel will be given top managerial posts in industries .The services or goods will
not be competitive in the world market and the sector will collapse.

Possible solutions to problems faced by each economic sector

- Global Competitiveness in order to meet /keep pace with global standards (challenges) in service
delivery / production goods
- Create a favorable investment climate: i.e. avail financial institutions (banks), have low tax
charges, tariffs etc
- Improve infrastructure: Establishment of better transport and communication networks e.g. Trans
Kgalagadi road
- Consultation: there should be sufficient dialogue between employer and employee so as to
improve work relations
- Quality standards: set quality standards on work ethics such as having vision /mission, avoiding
nepotism
- Bilateral/multilateral agreements between countries /organizations in areas of trade, information
exchange, socio-cultural e.t.c
-

HOW CORRUPTIONS UNDERMINES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

- Demoralizes workforce/ human resource; no motivation/ reward to the hardworking employees,
as rewards would be given to the not so hard working ones
- Scare away potential investors and limits employment opportunities
- Collapse of economic sectors : as funds to run sectors are misused
- Production of substandard goods/ projects; as right procedures to test quality standards are not
followed

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- Tarnishes the image of the nation /country

- Government or other stakeholder projects are halted; as nepotism give post to the incompetent
workers who don’t have the technical knowhow.
- During the tendering process corrupt practices may award tenders to the not so deserving
- Corruption practices delays completion of projects/ increase the time spent in carrying out
projects; as there is embezzlement of funds
- Widens the gap between the rich and poor ;those who have no access to that money to enrich
themselves will remain forever poor.

WAYS OF SUSTAINING ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

Diversification: having alternative sources of production rather than relying on one or just a few commodities.
Botswana relies more on Diamond sales
- must instill a corrupt free culture to prevent economic collapse
- Bilateral trade agreement; Networking / liaising with other people to get ideas about different
businesses/investments either than one is engaged in.
- Encourage foreign investors to invest in other sectors like agriculture and manufacturing
,Batswana could be encouraged to also invest into the tourism industry by building more hotels
- Upgrade training on entrepreneurship skills and even acquire latest updates on technological
changes
- Good customer care attitude: improve our work ethics so as to maintain our clients
- Promote the local entrepreneurs through the buy Botswana campaign
- Broaden the market for survival of existing sectors

MULTI –NATIONAL CORPORATIONS (advantages and disadvantages of globalization)

INTERNATIONALLY owned companies

i) Advantages
- Promote competitive trade: help local owned company to meet global competitiveness standards
- Create a lot of employment to the locals
- Speed up the economic development of a country there by improving peoples living standards
- Tax gained from MTC is used to develop the country
- Strengthen local companies through financial assistance e.g. Barclays
- Provide a platform to solve world economic problems as MTC operate in different countries

ii) Disadvantages
- Inhibit growth of local /citizen owned industries as small local companies are swallowed by the unfair competition
posed by the much advanced MTC ‘s
- Top posts are occupied by expatriates while the locals fill the low paying posts (exploit the locals as the MTC are
profit oriented)
- MTC tend to monopolize world markets (local markets inclusive)
- Act as ‘fly by night’ industries who may leave the country after making huge profits
- Associated with large scale retrenchments or loss of jobs
- Slow down the country’s citizen economic empowerment programmes as they protect their interests

ROLES OF STAKE HOLDERS IN PROMOTING ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

a) Government

- Introduction of financial institutions /easy access to credit through CEDA, NDB etc

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- Avail incentives such as tax subsidies for companies

- Amendment of the legislature to protect local companies from foreign dominance
- Education; educate the locals in schools e.t.c about importance of diversification
- Promote sustainable use of the environment in areas of extraction of veld products, mining, agriculture etc
- Advertisement to foreign investors; e.g through BEDIA ,the government should take a lead in advertising economic
diversification.
- Creation of various specialists departments like IFS, Piggery,
- Infrastructure (serviced land); if there are tarred roads ,electricity ,and running water, investors will setup
factories because of reduced expenses since the land is already serviced.
- Stable political climate; where ever there is peace and stability different investors will desire to invest and set up
industries in such a country.

b) Private sector

- Investing in different businesses by establishing companies

- Train the locals with relevant skills
- Exchange or share information about economic diversification with other stakeholders through forums, seminars
- Acquire the latest technology that would promote growth of individual group /investments

c) Youth
- They create their own business /companies in areas of agric, tourism, transport etc (Exposure on hands on
experiences)
- : Actively participate in youth empowerment programmes like Young Farmers fund, JAB
- Liaise or network with other potential investors within and outside the country
Self employment (Create their own jobs)
- : create their own entertainment music groups

d) NGO
- Environmental education: disseminate relevant information to all stakeholders to promote sustainable resource
utilization
- Harmonize all stakeholder efforts in protecting the environment e.g. KCS protect both soil, fauna
- Encourage women empowerment and participation in business e.g. BYWCA, Emang Basadi
- Train the local communities on ways to handle their businesses

GLOBAL ECONOMIC FORCES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN BOTSWANA

i) Fluctuation of market prices/ world unprecedented economic recessions; affects mainly Botswana ‘mineral prices and there by
leading to less profits.
Effects are:
 Reduction in Botswana’ foreign reserves
 Increased inflation / prices on market products e.g. food, clothing
 Constant adjustments on prices of essential products e.g. petroleum products
 Constant adjustments to the national budget /budget deficit
 Retrenchments by the private sector

ii) World financial institutions (IMF, World Bank)

Advantages to Botswana
 Provides funds (loans/grants) that speed the process of development
 Promote infrastructure development e.g. building of roads
 Promote poverty alleviation programmes
 Promote human resource training as the loans may be used to establish schools
 Provided temporary relief to Botswana’ economic hardship/ problems

Disadvantages /negatives

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 Provide loans that charge high interests which make it difficult to repay the loans (perpetual debts as Botswana is up to this
day still paying some of the loans obtained 25 years back)
 Terms of repayments are in most cases not flexible especially the time frame and interest rates
 Has in the past led to budget deficit and probably loss of jobs in the private sector

iii) World trade patterns: e.g. free trade /movement of goods etc
Benefits to Botswana:
 Enables easy access to foreign goods and services by Batswana
 Enables Batswana to get access to the latest technology that promote economic development
 Gives access to foreign exchange through international trade e.g. SACU, WTO
 Create more investment opportunities and employment for both Batswana and foreigners by attracting multi –national
corporations like BM Garments that may speed up Economic diversification

Disadvantages:
 High influx of substandard goods e.g. Chinese community clothing and electronics businesses
 Development of few locally owned companies as they are out competed by the multi- national corporations
 Creation of low wages posts for locals in the MTC
 Create room for cross boarder crime / terrorism e.g. recent scam for Asian community trafficking into Botswana
 Provide room for cross boarder money laundering and a lot of foreign currency in Botswana has been lost in the process

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MODULE 6

EDUCATION IN BOTSWANA

DEFINITION OF KEY CONCEPTS

Education: Learning or getting skills either through socialization, informal or formal education. Learning
may take place in the classroom, home, bogwera and Bojale and hands on experience or on the job
experience.

Types of Education
i) Informal / traditional education
-This type of education takes place at home or in the bush through initiation schools.
-Learning is through socialization processes and it involves learning the norms and values of the
society.
- Teaches about traditional marketable skills such as craft, agriculture and
Community services like building roads, hunting, looking for lost people and defending the
community

ii) Formal education

-It is the teaching and learning process that takes place in the classroom.
- There is strict adherence to prescribed syllabus and is officially recognized by the Government.
--Formal education emphasizes on acquisition of life sustenance skills.
- Effective teaching- learning takes place in the presence of a trained instructor or teacher and has
regular attendance by students who might be on uniform.
-Teaching - learning materials e.g. books are provided by the school.
iii) Non formal Education
-Normally caters for people such as adults in the rural areas since there are far away some educational
institutions
-Learners are taught as a group in churches, Kgotla shelters and adult education centers by adult educators
-They can also study through correspondence, in-service training apprenticeship and even radio and television
programmes.

Formal education is subdivided into two i.e. (Academic Education and Vocational Education)

a) Academic Education
It offers knowledge and skills relevant for the white collar jobs (office work). Academic Education can be

further be classified into three groups i.e. (Primary, Secondary and Tertiary)

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 Primary Education
It provides fundamental courses or a break through on life sustenance skills. In Botswana primary
education is standard 1 –7 and it’s universally accessed
 Secondary Education
It offers lower secondary level that is form 1-3 and upper secondary level form 4-5.
Almost all primary completers are admitted to lower secondary stage (form 1-3)
Only those with good passes are admitted to form4-5.
NB. Introduction of the Double Shift Pilot Project will give greater access to form 4-5 levels

 Tertiary Education
It is a higher stage of teaching –learning process that may involve specialization in area of training
Offered at Colleges, UB, Boston Campus etc
Qualification after completion is proved by different awards e.g. degree, diploma, and certificate

b) Vocational training
it offers specialized training in practical skills at institutions such as Brigades, VTC

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS for both tertiary and vocational depend on course needs e.g. JC Leavers for
Brigades

IMPORTANCE OF TRADITIONAL EDUCATION

-Socialisation:It helps to maintain law and order by creating a morally upright society. Children
under goes socialization processes which include teachings on respect and use of non violent means
to solve problems
- Preparation for adult life: It teaches young [people about challenges of adult life and how they must
deal with them so that they become successful in life or grooms them into responsible future adults
who will be able to face life positively.
- Teaches productivity: Promote the spirit of self reliance as it imparts traditional marketable skills
like craft and agriculture.
- It instill a sense of community or national service : graduates of bogwera and bojale has to engage
in building roads, searching for missing people and other communal services.
-Preservation of culture: it ensures that culture is not lost by any generation in that parents and the
society make it a point to teach their children culture therefore continuity of culture through different
generations is ensured.

DIFFERENCES OF TRADITIONAL EDUCATION AND MODERN EDUCATION

Modern Traditional
-Use of Stationary e.g books as teaching learning material -No use of stationary
-Acquisition of life sustenance skills e.g world of work -Acquisition of Traditional marketable skills e.g hand craft
-Use of Classroom/ in-door learning Outdoor learning
-Use of Attire e.g. uniform -No uniform ( traditional attire)
-Promotes Gender equality Hinder gender equality e.g. bojale and bogwera
-closely supervised, tested and Quality standards are Not documented
realized as the syllabus is documented.
Certification after graduation Graduation in terms of mophato
Promotes both local and international culture Promotes only local culture

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SIMILARITIES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL EDUCATION AND MODERN EDUCATION

- Both teach skills needed in every day live e.g. tool making and farming
- Both teach practical and moral skills e.g. Guidance and Counseling
- Both take place through stages
- Both prepare children for adult life.
- Both are accompanied by rewards e.g. graduation
- Both are taught by qualified teachers in their specific fields

Purpose of Education
 Creates awareness e.g. rights and responsibilities
 Help prevent diseases e.g. diarrhea
 Help prevent degradation of the environment e..g. through environmental education
 Help in developing human resources e.g. people can take part in social, economic and political activities.
 Improves the living standard of people
 Provides people with behavioral ethics and morals i.e. they can fit well in the society.

Role of education in promoting
a. healthy society
 Promote self awareness i.e. provides information on healthy living.
 Disseminate information that is necessary for our day to day life style i.e. infusion health issues into the
curriculum.
 Education changes our attitudes and behaviour: by moulding people and teaching them the right
attitudes towards life.
 Critical thinking: equip individuals with a critical mind, it actually changes the way we think about
health issues as we discover different perceptions regarding health issues.
 Train nurses/ doctors who care for the sick.
 Train social workers who care for the disadvantaged
 People are able to read information about drug dosage and expiry dates of goods.

NB: a healthy society is the one which possess the following qualities
- Good moral ethics / up righteousness
- Able to act responsibly
- Cultural identity (a lost nation have no identity)
- Have sound economic base
- Just loving and caring

How to sustain a healthy society

- teach us about a healthy diet (balanced diet) for a healthy living
- Easy access to information appropriate for improving our living standards / diversification
- Availability of resources: this calls for equitable distribution of resources so as to benefit all
- Citizen empowerment on all socio-economic and political issues (involves training of human
resource)
b. Consumer Awareness:
Refers to having knowledge about services and products that we get from the market e.g. food, clothing,

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counseling etc. in fact there are procedures/ channels to be followed if service or product obtained from market
is substandard or not satisfactory. Hence it is important for all individuals to familiarize themselves with
Consumer rights and obligations/choices

 Consumer rights
- Right to fair deal
- Right to quality product
- Right to register dissatisfaction / complain

 What to do when consumer rights are violated

- Seek redress in a formal way (formal communication channels in lodging a complaint)
- Alert the concerned business
- Lodge complaint to department of consumer affairs

The role of education in promoting consumer education/ awareness

 Disseminates information to consumers
 Enlightens individuals about their consumer rights and obligations e.g. what to do in the event one buy
an expired product
Consumer obligations and choices
- Right to boycott goods and services that are substandard
- It’s one’ choice to read and understand the small print about the product e.g. expiry date
- Consumers has right to seek clarity about contract of the selected product
c. voter education
- voter education disseminates information about voting procedures
- enlightens people about voter’ rights.
- helps voters make informed decisions when choosing representatives

EDUCATION AND HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

This refers to training and improvement in workers’ socio-economic welfare such as better wages,
accommodation, and safety. The idea is to have a productive workforce

DISCUSS THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN PROMOTE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

- Disseminates relevant information about economic development. Investors exchange relevant information
about how to start or improve business.
- Changes attitudes and behavior of the workforce to increase productivity at work. - - The workforce is trained
on a number of issues such as performance management system.
- It further Instill a sense of tolerance and appreciation at the workplace, Thus in a way speeding up the pace
Of developmental it imparts specials by training by individuals on customer care attitude.
-Raises awareness about issues that are detrimental or hinder economic development e.g. Rapid population
growth, lack of safety at work.

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-Facilitate research which is a pre-requisite for deciding on policies which can contribute to economic
development e.g. market research.
- It is an instrument of social change; it removes cultural barriers that are an obstacle to economic development.
E.g. gender inequality
- It is an engine for modernization; it is where technology which facilitates economic development is acquired.
- promotes foreign direct investment due to a wide pull of skilled labour force.

CHALLLENGES OF SELF-EMPLOYMENT FACING A DEVELOPING NATION LIKE BOTSWANA

i) Lack of research or information on viable business projects; Establishment of similar industries

or duplication of industries that lead to serious competition and eventual collapse e.g. Car wash,
Airtime for cell phones.
ii) Multi National Corporations that give stiff competition to the informal sector
iii) Lack of land / premises to start a business
iv) High service provision charges by service providers e.g. water, electricity bills, land rentals
v) Lack of finance to start one’ own business
vi) Most people lack marketing skills /entrepreneur ship skills
vii) Access to legal advice or representation in handling business issues is taxing

STRATEGIES OF JOB CREATION FOR THE YOUTH

- Easy access to credit facilities e.g. Young Farmers’ Fund
- Early exit packages to employees so as to open opportunities for the youth
- Exposure to hands on experiences e.g. job attachment /apprenticeship
- Attend vocational schools e.g. VTC
- Educate the youth through JAB
- Youth get involved in areas where they can show case their talent e.g. music industry, art

HOW THE DISABLED SHOULD BE CATERED FOR IN BOTSWANA’S EDUCATION SYSTEM

- Create an enabling teaching – learning environment in schools e.g. paved ways to accommodate movement
of wheel chairs, toilets OR facilities are inadequate and majority of the schools do not cater for the disabled.
There are only such schools in the country and children from regions without these schools have to travels
long distances.
- Include the disabled in the curriculum design of both academic and vocational syllabus so as to capture their
educational needs
- Promote behavioral change: by removing discriminatory barriers/ treat everyone as equals regardless of
their disabilities
- Training of teachers on special education- this has been done and it has helped to enable teachers to interact
well with the disabled learners in schools OR teachers trained on special education are not enough so the
candidates are left without teachers.

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- Availing modified scripts to the disabled learners , for example Braille for those that are blind and enlarged
scripts for those with sight problems OR these modified scripts are only used during external examinations
only, during the course of the tenure in schools they are not provided.
- Apprenticeship; availing on the job training for them to be competent in various trades.
- The disabled should also have some sports facilities for them in schools e.g. basketball courts.

STRATEGIES OFEMPOWERING THE YOUTH, DISABLED AND DISADVANTAGED MEMBERS OF

THE COMMUNITY;

a) Youth;
-financial assistance e.g. youth grants /loans
-on the job training
-workshop
-provision of recreational facilities
-talk shows
-youth parliament
- Access to education
-youth policies

b) Disabled;
- promoting their rights
-sensitizing the general public about their needs and potential. This will reduce discrimination and help
integrate them into the general public.
-People such as members of families of the disabled, care givers, educators and other professionals should
be trained to have skills to develop and rehabilitate them.
-Offering them programmes of study and special training and then using them as service providers since
they are more likely to be sensitive to the needs of their compatriots.
-Buildings have to be designed in such a way that they are accessible to them e.g. ramps for wheel chairs,
furniture and equipment that suit them.
-They should be given credit with low interest rates in order for them to venture into self employment.

Contribution of the disabled (disadvantaged)/youth to the country’s economic

development
- Provide training opportunities for all people regardless of status
- Giving them positions of responsibility at work
- Forming self help community programmes
- The old people having wealth of experience can use it to contribute to community projects.
- Paying tax
- The grandparents can help take care of orphans and the handicapped when their parents are at work.

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EVALUATE THE ROLE OF DIFFERENT STAKEHOLDERS IN PROMOTING HUMAN RESOURCE

DEVELOPMENT;

A) Government;
-Education; making education accessible to all Batswana e.g. ten years basic education FOR ALL CHILDREN
-Training workers through workshops or in-service training in order to improve the productivity of workers
without them taking study leave
-expansion of institutions to train more people e.g. BIAC
- understudy programmes; job shadowing of some foreigners who are employed to do certain jobs so that when
their contracts expires those Batswana who are working with them take over in order to facilitate localization of
jobs.
-Building new schools; government should build more schools so that Batswana can attend them and later go to
some institutions in order to learn how to do certain jobs.
-provision of health facilities; the government should ensure that there is a healthy working class by providing
adequate healthy facilities which have modern equipments and trained health personnel.
-training of personnel; this should be done having considered and researched on the need of certain skills in the
job market .this means that the government should not train a lot of people to do to do certain jobs and ignore
training of other human resource needs.
- Upgrading officials; if there is need to upgrade some officials it has to be done to increase their productivity at
work.e.g. When an official has a diploma in a certain job he/she should be sponsored to upgrade himself/herself
by doing a degree and ultimately a masters and even a doctorate.
- External placement of students; if institutions that are available in the country do not offer courses which the
students want to enroll in. this can also be done if places in local institutions are all filled for a particular year.

Study questions

1. Evaluate the role of various stakeholders in promoting Human resource development (Govt, NGO’s)
2. Define economic Development
3. Identify four economic sectors in Botswana
4. Explain three ways of sustaining economic diversification
5. Explain five challenges of self employment in a developing country like Botswana
6. Explain how the disabled should be catered for in Botswana’s education system.
7. Analyze how the youth can contribute to economic development in Botswana.
8. Suggest strategies for job creation in a developing country like Botswana

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MODULE 3: KAGISANO IN BOTSWANA

TOPIC: NATION BUILDING

Draw a southern African map pg 150 Tlou, Campbell

SETTLEMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF PEOPLE AROUND 1820

DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

Nation; people belonging to a certain country [citizens of a particular state who share common features e.g.
territory, language]
Patriotism; love for one’s country
Nationalism; a strong feeling or attachment towards a particular nation /country or group
Sovereignty; self ruling and having own territory; independent countries make their own decisions about their
nation’s affairs.
Multi ethnicity; nation or state comprising of many ethnic groups
Nation building: process of unifying many ethnic groups either through force, persuasion or trickery.
NB; Botswana uses persuasion i.e. constitutionally democracy as a way of nation building
Protectorate: being protected from external enemies by a more powerful country. Hence there is minimal
interference in the internal affairs of the colony/ local people

REASONS FOR NATION BUILDING

 Promote national unity as it encourages tolerance among people of different interests; be it religious,
ethnic groups or races .
 Promote peaceful co existence or prevent wars
 Promote national conversion such as use of national symbols to transform the various ethnic groups or
races into one people or nation.
 Maintain law and order through different socialization processes that exists within our different ethnic
groups
 Provide a sense of common destiny and direction such as the realization of our five national principles
like democracy and even the ‘4D’ concept for President Ian Khama

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 Speed up the pace of development

 Forges mutual trust by stopping hatred among people
 Encourage good governance by instilling national pride and discouraging political instability

ORIGINS OF BATSWANA
1) Khoisan: believed to originate from East and Southern Africa. These are groups of people whose
language are dominated by a click sound and were pushed into present day Botswana by the Bantu iron
working communities. Khoisan are Stone Age communities.
2) European origins; e.g. English who came to Botswana as colonizers, hunter-traders, Christians, various
professionals [teachers, doctors]
3) Asian origins; e.g. Indians who come as traders.
5) Bantu speaking groups: this is the most dominant group in Botswana. They speak related languages e.g.
their word for person is Motho in Setswana, Umuntu in Ndebele and nthu in Kalanga.
Bantu groups originated from Cameroon - Nigeria region, and Bantu forest in West Africa. (Draw diagram
about Bantu origins)

REASONS FOR MIGRATION INTO EAST, CENRAL AND SOUTHERN AFRICA

The Bantu are believed to have originated in places around Nigeria and Cameroon. They then migrated to
other parts of the continent. The following are possible reasons behind the Bantu migration.
Population explosion – Mixed farming as an economic activity ensured that the Bantu had a stable source
of food. This situation led to population growth and overcrowding which led to shortage of land. Land was
needed for settlement, arable farming and pastoral farming. Some groups might have migrated elsewhere in
search of unoccupied land.
Knowledge of iron working- The Bantu were metal workers who made and used metal tools for
agricultural, hunting and defense purposes. This meant that they were dependent on iron ore and when iron
ore got finished they moved to where they could find it. This encouraged migrations.
Disputes- Political disputes such as succession disputes might have led to some political contestants from
the royal families to lead their followers to where they could rule without any form of political antagonism.
Such disputes might have been frequent and were probably the main reason for the migrations.
Diseases- Both human and animal diseases such as Malaria and Nagana might have forced the Bantu out of
their area of origins and also search for disease free areas. Such diseases were probably common in
mosquito and tsetse infested areas.
Natural disasters- Natural disasters such as floods and occasionally droughts might have played a very
important role in the Bantu migrations. Some groups probably migrated in search of better areas.
Some migrated probably as a result of Trans-Sahara Slave Trade. Some probably migrate because they were
accused of sorcery and witchcraft hence they were traded to slave traders.

MFECANE/DIFACANE WARS
The Nguni word ‘Mfecane’ is usually translated as the ‘crushing’. The equivalent word in Sotho Tswana is
‘Difacane’ and it is usually translated as ‘scattering’. Mfecane/Difaqane was a series of terrible wars that started

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among the northern Nguni peoples of south eastern Africa during the early nineteenth century. This violent
period took place between 1810 and 1830. During the 1820s and 1830s armies and refugees from this wars
spread warfare and destruction over large areas of Southern, Central and even Eastern Africa.

The Mfecane/Difaqane started with the Ngwane-Ndwandwe war fought over ownership of the rich agricultural
valley of the Pongola River. The Ndwandwe won and Sobhuza 1 fled northwards into the hills of present day
Swaziland. Then Zwide clashed with Dingiswayo and the latter was defeated in an ambush. With the fall of
Dingiswayo the Mthethwa army fell apart. However the fallen kingdom was quickly reorganized by Shaka the
chief of the Zulu chiefdom.

He built it into a formidable Zulu kingdom. In 1818 Shaka clashed and defeated Zwide. With this victory Shaka
was left in command of a vast region from the Pongola in the north to the Tugela in the south.

THE CAUSES OF MFECANE/DIFAQANE

It is not known exactly what caused Mfecane/Difaqane. It is highly probable that number of factors combined
and caused these terrible wars.

The Madlatule drought Around 1802 disaster struck. The period of high rainfall stopped and for about ten
years there was prolonged drought. Crops failed and there was no pasture. This resulted in widespread famine
that came to be known as the Madlatule famine from the saying ‘makadle athule’ ‘let him eat and be quiet. It is
believed that this famine contributed to the outbreak of the Mfecane as kingdoms started raiding one another for
grain and cattle.

Over Population Conducive factors like good rains, fertile soils, good pasture and healthy environment might
have led to increase in populations for both people and animals. Maize, originally a SouthAmerican crop was
introduced in the region by the Portuguese from Delagoa Bay. This made cultivation to be widespread and
therefore ensured surplus food supply which accelerated population growth along the Eastern corridor. This
population growth led to over population which caused competition between chiefdoms for grazing and fertile
lands. This in turn led to fighting and conquest in the Nguniland

Trade The desire among these rival kingdoms to control trade routes to Delagoa Bay to trade with the
Portuguese became a source of conflict. In addition, the desire to control the hunting grounds in order to obtain
hides and ivory for the Delagoa Bay trade caused conflict making war unavoidable. This was because the
kingdom that controlled the trade route, like Dingiswayo did, was able to enrich itself with blankets, beads, iron
tools and others.

Age regiment The bitter competition for fertile land caused political developments when clans united into
tribes, tribes into chiefdoms, and powerful leaders formed kingdoms. This political development resulted in the
emergence of the ‘Big Three’, that is the Ngwane kingdom under Sobhuza 1, the Mthethwa kingdom under
Dingiswayo and the Ndwandwe kingdom under Zwide. Later Shaka’s Zulu kingdom emerged. All these
kingdoms raised formidable armies through the age regiment system. The possession of these armies
encouraged these kingdoms to go to war for fertile land.

EFFECTS OF MFECANE ON THE LAND OF BATSWANA

Positive effects

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-Emergence of powerful Tswana kingdoms ; weaker kingdoms were incorporated into stronger kingdoms for
protection e.g. Bangwato incorporated Bakaa.

-The introduction of guns The Dikgosi recognized that in the future their merafe must be large and armed
with guns. According to Tlou and Campbell, the Dikgosi noticed the importance of guns when the Bakololo
were driven away when a few Griqua traders fired their guns into the village. They also appreciated the use of
guns in hunting for ivory and skins, to trade for more guns and for cattle. It is against this background that the
Dikgosi armed themselves with guns from the Griqua, Barolong and white traders.
-New military tactics; the use of mountain tops for defense Some of the Tswana communities used
mountain tops to organize defensive for survival. Such military strategies assisted the Batswana to build larger
political units that lasted to date e.g. Molepolole, Kanye, Shoshong e.t.c.
-Marked the beginning of process of nation building; Alliance were formed Alliances were formed
between Tswana kingdoms like Bangwaketse, Bakwena, Bangwato, Bakgatla, or Batawana, Wayei, Basubiya
against external enemies like Bakololo of Sebetwane. This increased a sense of togetherness which was very
important for nation building.

- The kgamelo system; The Dikgosi used different methods to strengthen control and build their nations. The
Dikgosi like Khama III and Kgari used Kgamelo system. The use of Kgamelo system created much greater
unity in the morafe which was very important for nation building.
-Intermarriages across ethnic groups; Intermarriages between different ethnic groups occurred. This
strengthened the kingdom. Tlou and Campbell has it that in about 1853, Letsholathebe after persuading the
Batawana who had remained on the Chobe River, brought with them some Bakololo and Balozi families into
which they had married thus strengthening the morafe. Also such marriages between royal families were
important in cementing ethnic relations for nation building.

Negative effects
-Mass loss of life ; Many people were killed during the wars trying to defend their kingdoms. This reduced
the populations of the Batswana greatly. Some people killed were chiefs. This left people with no leadership
for sometime.
-Young able-bodied Batswana women and men were captured as a result Batswana kingdoms were deprived
of labour for the development of their kingdoms.
-Loss of property; Batswana were dispossessed of their livestock and grain thereby leading to starvation e.g
Ndebele defeated the Kalanga between Zambezi and Motloutse River and then demanded tribute in the form
of grain and cattle. This impoverished the Bakalanga.

-Forced migration and displacement; Incorporation of the defeated Batswana resulted in detribalization.
The policy of assimilation as adopted by leaders like Khama III had the effect of destroying tribal identity of
the defeated peoples.
-Loss of cultural identity; The Bakaa lost their cultural identity after being assimilated by the Bangwato.
-Stoppage of initiation schools; Initiation ceremonies were abolished due to constant fighting. It was
reasoned that the kingdoms might be attacked while young men and women are still at initiation school.

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These young men and women were pressed into Mephato on long term basis to provide security for the
kingdom.

-Loss of power by the Dikgosi e.g. Bakaa incorporation into Bangwato tribe

ROLE OF MULTI ETHNICITY IN NATION BUILDING IN BOTSWANA

Multi ethnicity: refers to nation comprising of many ethnic groups. In Botswana focus is more on issues
that bring Batswana together than on those that divide them.
i. Multi ethnicity instills a sense of peaceful co- existence as different ethnic groups are able to tolerate
each other as one Botswana nation
ii. Social harmony/unity: different ethnic groups are able to appreciate, tolerate each other and work
together towards achieving self reliance, democracy, Botho e.t.c.
iii. National conversion; we are bonded by common identity/national identity in the form of national
symbols [in being all Batswana irrespective of cultural diversity], like language, flag, currency not
ethnicity like totem.
iv. Maintenance of law and order in Botswana; different socialization process among these diverse
cultures / ethnic groups creates an upright moral nation e.g. disciplining wrong doers at ethnic level
translates to national level.
v. Forges cultural identity/belongingness; identify ourselves as one because we share common features
e.g. territory, e.t.c. [People are able to learn other people’s culture]
IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE NATIONAL PHILOSOPHY ‘KAGISANO’ IS A WAY OF
SAYING MULTI ETHNICITY IS ‘GOOD FOR DIVIDED WE FALL, UNITED WE STAND’

MULTI ETHNICITY AT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL

 Its main aim is to prevent wars [promote peaceful co- existence]. Organizations such as UN and
SADC encourage recognition of human rights which is central to sustenance of human life

 All the socio economic or political assistance from international organizations brings
unity/tolerance to nations of the world. [Countries may send peacekeeping forces or financial aid
to other countries as a way of promoting solidarity to the citizens of the world. “One planet, one
people/nation is what to be realized by multi ethnicity at international level’.
BSA Company
British South Africa Company was formed by CJ Rhodes in 1889.It was a royal chartered company
i.e. it had special powers to own its police force, make land agreements (Concessions) in British
controlled areas /territories

Reasons for formation of BSA COMPANY

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The British South Africa Company was formed mainly for the operation of mining business in
Southern and Central Africa. For example the company operated and ran the Kimberly diamond
mines in South Africa.

The company was also interested in building and expanding British influence/empire from Cape to
Cairo. The British government favoured colonization through the use of a company because it was
cheap and easy. The British government did not want to spend a lot of money on poor territories like
Bechuanaland because it will be too expensive for them

The company was also going to be used to govern African countries on behave of the British
Government. Administration of some of the African countries was going to be too expensive thus the
British government the administration by the company for example the Cape Colony and Southern
Rhodesia.

Reasons why the company was a threat to the land of Batswana

The company wanted the British to hand over Bechuanaland protectorate to the BSAC rule (i.e. in
1895 that is 10 yrs after the declaration of 1885 protection). There were plans to annex / join the land
of Batswana to either the Cape or Southern Rhodesia once it was brought under BSAC rule

The BSAC was a threat as Batswana feared that they would lose their land and independence
(sovereignty) to the BSAC / CJ Rhodes rule. To Batswana land was owned on communal basis
therefore was not a saleable commodity but it was a sign of power. This meant that if Bechuanaland
was annexed to the Cape or Southern Rhodesia the Batswana dikgosi would lose land and even
power to the company rule.
Tswana Christian leaders like Khama III, feared that the company would introduce liquor into their
land
Batswana Dikgosi did not want to experience BSAC’s harsh /cruel rule as experienced by the
Amandebele and the Shona of Southern Rhodesia. Batswana instead preferred to continue to enjoy
their autonomy as allowed by the British indirect rule system.
Reasons why the BSAC wanted to incorporate the land of Batswana

The British South Africa Company wanted to obtain cheap labour from Bechuanaland. Cheap
laborers were needed as miners and farm assistants. This would allow the company to make profits
from the mines and farms.
Cecil John Rhodes wanted extra land to settle European settlers who will take part in Agriculture
especially ranching.
He also wanted land to build a railway line that would link the Cape to Southern Rhodesia; hence
Bechuanaland protectorate was strategically positioned to this effect

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Bechuanaland protectorate was strategically positioned for Rhodes’s future plans of attacking the
Boers of Transvaal. The protectorate would be used as a base for invading the Boers of Transvaal.
Why the idea of incorporation failed

Role of the Dikgosi against the idea of hand over to the BSAC rule
- Batswana dikgosi acted in unity in refusing BSAC rule .In late June and July the Batswana Dikgosi like
Linchwe, Bathoen, Sebele and Khama wrote petitions to the then colonial secretary, Joseph Chamberlain,
strongly criticizing the planned move. They requested that their country should not be given to the BSACo.
- Visiting Britain to protest: In 1895 three Batswana Dikgosi i.e. Khama III, Bathoen and Sebele went to
England to go and protest the idea of incorporation into the BSAC rule (not to ask for protection) While in
Britain, the Dikgosi made the following requests:
. that the protectorate should remain under the direct authority of the queen’s government in London,
and thus not be transferred to the BSACo.
. that their status as rulers should be preserved
. that their lands should not be sold
.that drinking liquor should be prohibited in their areas.
- Addressing the British public for support: The three Dikgosi also campaigned / held rallies as a way of
seeking the support of British public against the idea of BSAC incorporation. The Dikgosi, won the support
of British citizens/ nationals including the Temperance Movement i.e. a movement against liquor.
The support by the British nationals was enough to scare the British Prime Minister by then Joseph
Chamberlain not to hand the land of Batswana to the BSAC rule. Chamberlain feared his party would lose
elections if he acted against the will of British people
- Seeking the support of missionaries of missionaries as secretaries or advisors e.g. Rev Willoughby
- Writing in newspapers to expose evils of the BSACo. e.g. ill-treatment of people in Southern Rhodesia
- Refusal to sign treaties and concessions

Role of missionaries in fighting BSAC proposed take over

- Missionaries like Reverend Willoughby organized the Dikgosi England trip and even accompanied them to
England.
- Missionaries like John Mackenzie, Willoughby who were vocal against liquor
- Acted as Dikgosi advisors especially on political issues that resisted the idea of incorporation.
- Missionaries did not only empower Batswana through missionary education but they also acted as liaising
officers (connected Dikgosi to the outside world) .
- Missionaries also wrote articles in newsletters that expressed Dikgosi feelings against the idea of
incorporation to the outside world
The Jameson Raid 1895
The attack on the Boers of Transvaal by Jameson/ BSAC made Britain to change her mind and not to hand the
land of Batswana to BSAC rule. C Rhodes had attacked the Boers using Bechuanaland protectorate without the

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knowledge of Britain, thus German blamed Britain for allowing Rhodes to attack the Boers using the land of
Batswana
NB. the idea of incorporation failed but Rhodes managed to build a railway line passing through the
land of Batswana in 1899.

British protection in 1885

Events / processes leading to protection
- FEAR OF RE-OCCURANCE OF MFECANE WARS: The Mfecane wars had caused a lot of havoc among
the Batswana societies. The refugees from these wars had spread the warfare throughout Southern Africa
and beyond. Therefore there was fear of the possible future re-occurrence of Mfecane wars so Batswana
needed some kind of life insurance in the form of British protection
- CONTINUED THREAT BY THE BOERS: The Boers also continued to threaten the land of the Batswana.
There was general fear even among the whites who resided in Botswana that the Boers might expand into
the land of the Batswana. This fear was particularly confirmed after the defeat of Mzilikazi in 1837 when
the Boers claimed that all Batswana land was to be theirs. The establishment of the two Boer republics of
Goshen and Stella land in1850s to 1863 made the Boer expansion to be more real and feared. So it was
thought that the British could protect the lands of Batswana from Boer expansion.

- THE 1852 SAND RIVER CONVENTION: In which the British agreed not sell guns to Africans
(Batswana included) made Batswana unsafe and exposed to external threats. Therefore Batswana needed a
powerful group that could protect them.

- THE GERMAN OCCUPATION OF SOUTH WEST AFRICA: made Batswana unsafe, as they feared the
German would expand into their land. It was also feared that the German expansion into Botswana would
interfere with the British interest like the road to north

- PROTECTION OF BRITISH INTEREST: British Missionaries and traders who worked among the
Batswana also wanted protection so that the Boers would not interfere with their missionary work. Most
Boers hated LMS missionaries because they taught Africans such skills as reading and writing. The
missionaries also opposed slavery and maintained that people were equal before God. The British protection
was also needed to ensure the safety of the British citizens living among the Batswana. These included the
hunters, traders, and even the missionaries themselves.
The declaration of Protectorate in 1885
In 1885 General Charles Warren declared protectorate over the land of Batswana. Protection came in two phases
/parts:

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ii) Phase / stage I covered all areas under British Bechuanaland including Goshen and Stella land up to
the tropic of Capricorn. Mainly because the British wanted to remove the Boers of Goshen and Stella
land
iii) Phase /stage II: Came in the early 1890,s as a way of preventing the possible German expansion into
the land of Batswana

Reasons why Batswana needed British protection

Batswana wanted to preserve /protect their, power, freedom of speech, settlements, livestock, lives etc
- Wanted protection against continued Boer threats on the land of Batswana. The threats were:
 Continued Boer attacks on Barolong, Bangwaketse, Bakwena as proven by the Battles of Dimawe and
Kolobeng in 1852
 Continued Boer interests on Bangwato land because of discovery of Tati Gold Fields
 Creation of 2 Boer states of Goshen and Stellaland which was seen as move towards the Boer take over
Batswanaland
- The occupation of SW Africa (Namibia) by the Germans put fear into Batswana. They thought from there the
Germans would expand into their land
- Batswana did not want history to repeat itself by suffering the same painful experiences of Mfecane wars
(inter ethnic wars of Southern Africa)

Why Britain at first refused to give Batswana protection

Economic history indicates that it was very expensive to govern and run oversea empires. The
British’s foreign policy therefore by then was bent on spending less money in running her overseas
territories like Botswana.
Bechuanaland by then had no economic benefits. The people living in Bechuanaland were very poor
therefore could not provide market for European made goods. The country was seen as a desert that
could not provide profitable raw materials needed in British industries.
The British had adopted the policy of less interference in African affairs/cultures therefore protection
would violate this principle
There was no need to give protection as there were plans to incorporate the land of Batswana either
to the Southern Rhodesia or Union of South Africa

Why Britain later changed her mind and gave Batswana protection
The British citizens living in Botswana were no longer safe as proved by death of Christopher Bethel who
was killed by the Boers. People like Mackenzie then used this murder to justify the necessity for the British
to take over the area before it was grabbed by the Boers.
The Boers and the Germans continued to disturb British interests particularly hunter-trader activities,
missionary work and most importantly the road to the north. It was then believed that this interference could
be curbed through protection

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Increased rivalry between Boers and Britain in southern Africa: protection was a move to drive off the Boers
of Stella land and Goshen

The meaning of protection:

a) To Batswana: being protected by the British against external enemies like the Boers, Germans and
no internal interference
b) To the British: protecting British interests like road to the north, hunter-traders e.g. not Batswana

Response of Batswana Dikgosi towards the declaration of protection

When Charles Warren announced British had decided to protect Batswana. Batswana Dikgosi like Sebele
received the message with mixed feelings. Protection had come when they no longer needed it. ALL Batswana
Dikgosi except Khama III were doubtful, didn’t like the idea of protection. They accepted only because they
feared the British might use force to impose protection on them. When they final accepted they laid down
conditions that Britain must not interfere with their internal affairs

Why the dikgosi were not happy about the Protection

- They were not consulted and their views taken aboard before the declaration by Charles Warren
- Some dikgosi like Sebele, Bathoen were highly suspicious and strongly questioned the sincerity /
honesty of granting protection over Bechuanaland. They felt it was interference with their
independence and powers
- Some Dikgosi did not understand the whole meaning of protection e.g. ‘what is protection’ Bakwena
leader asked
- Batswana were left with many unanswered questions as protection came when the Amandebele,
Boers, Germans were no longer a threat
-
In Botswana indirect rule system (system of ruling Batswana through their Dikgosi was used by the British.
Tswana land was divided into tribal reserves / African areas, crown lands /blocks European areas, state land.
This division of Tswana land proved to be a thorny issue to minority groups e.g. Bakgatla ba-ga Mmanaana,
Babirwa of Malema Bakalanga as they found themselves having no recognized land /Dikgosi e.t.c
Up to this day colonial legacy still exist. In fact indirect rule was a divide and rule strategy used by the British
to rule Batswana in a weakened state

Bechuanaland on the road to independence

1934 proclamations
The 1934 proclamations were introduced by the then resident commissioner Charles Rey. He felt that the
Dikgosi were too powerful to be controlled by the colonial administration. Evidence which showed that the
Dikgosi were too powerful included the following:

 Phineas Mctonish incident of the 1933 in which Tshekedi Khama sentenced McIntosh to flogging

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 The 1933 Pim report which recommended that the powers of the Dikgosi be reduced through the
introduction of the NAP and NTP

1934 Native Administration Proclamation

- It reduced the powers of the Dikgosi and completely undermined the kgotla as a political, social-
judiciary institution
- The Dikgosi were forced to obey the Resident Commissioner
- The Resident commissioner now had powers to suspend, banish and appoint Dikgosi (this was
against the saying ‘ a Kgosi is born a Kgosi’
- Introduced Tribal council which was to assist dikgosi in ruling (a Kgosi had to rule with the approval
of the colonial administration)
- The colonial administration gave Dikgosi permission in deciding important community issues e.g.
seek permission in collecting tax

1934 Native Tribunal Proclamations

- Reduced both the powers of the Kgosi and kgotla
- New law courts (tribunals) were established which didn’t allow merafe to participate during trial.
- Dikgosi were not allowed to try cases involving Europeans, serious cases like murder, treason
- Magistrates were introduced to preside on cases handled in tribunals / modern
- Dikgosi were forced to keep record of the cases they tried at the kgotla
- The Dikgosi belonged to the customary courts only
- Case appeals could be made to the Resident Commissioner
-

ROLES OF COUCILS IN PREPARING BATSWANA FOR INDEPENDENCE

ADVISORY COUNCILS
All advisory councils did not have any meaningful powers i.e. their main role was to advice the colonial
Government and not to make laws

African Advisory council

The African Advisory Council was formed in 1920. The Council comprised of educated people like Kgosi
Isang Pilane who wanted to take part in the governing of their own country. Unfortunately the council had
no meaningful powers except allowing active participation in speaking for the interest of Batswana with one
voice/pressing for development
i) It was a strong council, which unified Batswana together, promoted the spirit of nationalism that is
having a collective effort for what is best for the nation. It became a forum for criticizing the colonial
Government
ii) It sensitized the colonial Government that it had to rule them democratically
iii) It was a good platform for political education, which gave Batswana confidence to fight for
independence.
iv) Advocated for economic developments e.g. establishment of the 1940 Lobatse Abattoir
v) It refined Batswana nationalists who later changed the status quo (from colonial rule to
independence, advisory council to political parties)
vi) The advisory council opposed the incorporation into the union of South Africa in 1910. Also
opposed the discriminatory laws in the protectorate

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Joint Advisory Council

Together with their friends in the European council, the Batswana encouraged the government to form a Joint
Advisory Council. This was done in 1950. This Joint council comprised of equal number of both Europeans and
the Africans. This was against the backdrop that the Africans were the majority in the country. The Joint
Advisory council was seen as a body that promoted racial harmony between Africans and Europeans in the
Protectorate through equal representation.

i. The Joint council offered a better place where the Africans’ view point could be heard by the
colonial Govt. The Africans used this body to demand more say in the running of the Protectorate
affairs.
ii. It improved trust between the two groups (African and Europeans) towards a common goal i.e.
request for independence.
iii. The two groups worked together towards the creation of non-racial society
iv. The JAC members were to later become the members of LEGCO and thereby training them as
future leaders
v. It influenced all major decisions which affected all Batswana

The Legislative Council

Bechuanaland was one of the last British colonies to establish a Legislative council. The colonial
masters resisted the establishment of a LEGCO because they were satisfied with the Advisory
councils formed earlier. On the other hand Africans agitated for the formation of LEGCO. It was
seen as a closer step towards independence. Through LEGCO Batswana could take part in making
laws that governed them. This would also ensure racial harmony.

There was also the general feeling among the Africans that a LEGCO would prevent the
incorporation of Bechuanaland in to South Africa. So in light of this, influential leaders like
Tshekedi, Seretse, L M A Kgasa and Bathoen 11 pressed for the formation of a LEGCO until it was
formed in 1960. This replaced the African Advisory council, European Advisory council and the
Joint Advisory council. The main functions of the LGCO were as follows:

i. Made laws that prepared the country for self–rule/ independence

ii. Served as a forum for discussion of socio –economic political development and the future of
Bechuanaland
iii. Formed the basis of organized nationalism (not limited to reforms within the colonial
arrangement but to total independence)
iv. Formed the basis for formation of political parties e.g. BDP, BNF etc which led the country to
independence.

Role of missionaries in preserving the land of Batswana

Missionaries like James Reid, Robert Moffat, D Livingstone e.g. taught Batswana how to read and
write through mission education so as to make them aware of the events happening in and around
them (knowledge is power). This prepared the Batswana to be literate so as to understand

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concessions least they sign away land of the Batswana like King Lobengula did among the
Amandebele.

The missionaries also acted as advisors to the Dikgosi. Some missionaries like John Mackenzie
advised the Dikgosi to seek protection from Britain for the Boers were disturbing their missionary
work
Missionaries were actively involved in the process of request for British protection. In 1878
Mackenzie started to press the British government to the Batswana from the encroachment of the
Transvaal Boers but failed. In 1882 he went to England where with the assistance of the LMS he
toured the country to solicit for support for the protection of the land of the Batswana. The
missionaries also acted as translators, information disseminators and journalists to communicate to
the outside world
Missionaries spread the gospel which also led to a moral upright and law abiding nation. This helped
Batswana to be responsible citizens and thus ensured safety of the society.
Missionaries also acted as different professionals in the society. Missionaries like David Livingston
as medical doctors, teacher, thereby improving the socio-economic lives of Batswana

Role of Batswana Dikgosi in preserving the land of Batswana

i.Batswana formed alliances to defend themselves against external enemies like Boers and
Ndebele. At the battle of Dimawe the Bakwena were assisted by the Bangwaketse, Bakgatla
and others against the Boers.
ii. The Batswana Dikgosi acquired guns from European Hunter-Traders for defense purposes
especially against the Boers. By 1852 the Batswana had acquired so many guns that the
Bangwaketse and the Bakwena came to be recognized as some of the most powerful groups
in Botswana.
iii. The Dikgosi also introduced new military strategies e.g. settling on top of hills. This,
combined with the possession of guns, strengthened their kingdoms as a result they were
joined by weaker kingdoms.
iv. The Dikgosi allowed establishment of mission schools for the purposes of being up to date with world
issues. Besides, mission stations became centers for learning and also havens for the
underprivileged and the abused people in the society.
v. The Dikgosi requested for British protection against external threats like the Amandebele,
Boers, and the Germans. The British protection was very important in that it provided
security for the land of the Batswana. It can be argued that without such protection
aggressive groups like the Boers would have taken the land of the Batswana to establish their
farms. The three Dikgosi who went to England in 1895 to protest against the idea of
incorporation into BSAC rule played a very important role in preserving the land of the
Batswana. Their protest in England saved the land of the Batswana from colonization by
Rhodes.
vi. They sued the British government for introducing proclamation e.g. Bathoen II and Tshekedi
Khama

Contribution of colonialism to Early Nationalist Movements

Colonialism: is an act of ruling or control by a foreign power: politically, economically and socially.
Nationalism is a strong feeling or attachment to a particular group

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i. Colonialism brought together Africans from different groups to form political organizations or parties for
more organized resistance and struggles for independence. Some of the groups included “Sons of the
Soil / Bechuanaland” in South Africa.
ii. Colonialism resulted in patriotism, a driving force in urging Batswana to demand active participation
and representation in the governing of the protectorate
iii. Lack of development in the protectorate led to formation of civil associations such as the Bechuanaland
teachers association whose aim was to oppose the colonial government.
iv. The emergence of educated people such as Simon Ratshosa who spearheaded the need for a national
council to govern the country
v. The 1836 Kopong conference was a mini political gathering, which demonstrated Botswana dikgosi’s
unity against the colonial government. This increased a sense of patriotism among Batswana in general.
vi. Migrant labour system which exposed Batswana like Mpho Motsamai, P.G Matante to African politics
thereby leading to formation of political parties in Botswana
vii. Participation in the World War II widened the scope and horizon of some Batswana hence used those
experiences to demand independence.
viii. Missionary or colonial education gave rise to educated/ intellectuals, Motsete, Matante, Seretse Khama,
Simon Ratshosa who gathered and further conscientised Batswana on the need to struggle for their
freedom and independence.

NB: The native proclamations of 1934, the idea of incorporation into the union of South Africa 1910 and the
transfer plan of the protectorate to the BSAC rule or order in council 1890/91 were some of the British colonial
changes disliked by Batswana. Batswana felt that these changes were harshly imposed on them and were
discriminative, oppressive and depriving them of their land resources, rights and freedom. As a counter active
response the different Batswana ethnic groups found themselves having to fight/oppose one common enemy,
which is British, colonial government

CONTRIBUTION OF NATIONALISM TO NATION BUILDING

i. Promote patriotism: love and pride in all citizens for their nation
Nationalism is an ideology and movement that promotes the interests of a particular nation especially
with the aim of gaining and maintaining the nation'.

Nationalism and patriotism similarities

There are still obvious areas of overlap: we define patriotism as “love for or devotion to one's country”
and nationalism in part as “loyalty and devotion to a nation.” But the definition of nationalism also
includes “exalting one nation above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture
and ...
ii. Provides ground for uniting people of different ethnic groups
iii. Provides sense of belonging to the nation.

What were the effects of nationalism?

Explore the effects of nationalism
positive outcomes—promotes a sense of identity, unites people, promotes pride. negative outcomes—leads to
conflict with others, infringes on rights of others, creates xenophobia—the fear that someone will take them
over.

What are the characteristics of nationalism?

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There is distinctiveness in a nation that separates it from other nation as language, religion, race and national
character. Defined Territory. There is defined territory large or small. Common Interest: Existence of same
common interest shared by all is also one of the most important features of nationalism.

iv. Instill a common goal by all members of the nation

What Are the Cons of Nationalism?
It often leads to separation and loneliness. Nationalism's superiority often causes a country to not only be
independent from the rest of the world, but also separated from the rest of the world. ...
It can lead to socioeconomic cliques. ...
It can lead to war.
v. Sensitize people of their right s and freedoms

vi. Driving force for political education to citizens e.g. respect for national symbols.

what is an example of political?

The definition of political is something that relates to government, politics or how an organization is run.
An example of political is the political party called the "Green Party."

whow is teaching political?

Teaching is political in the sense that power and privilege – through decisions about funding,
curriculum, class size, testing, tracking, and other matters of policy and practice – exacerbate rather than
ease social class and race inequalities.

What is political in simple words?

Politics is the way that people living in groups make decisions. ... The study of politics in universities is
called political science, political studies, or public administration. In everyday life, the term "politics"
refers to the way that countries are governed, and to the ways that governments make rules and laws.

what is the synonym of political?

governmental, government, local government, ministerial, parliamentary, party political, diplomatic,
legislative, policy-making, constitutional, public, civic, state, administrative, bureaucratic. 2'he certainly
wasn't a political animal' activist, active, militant, factional, partisan, party, party political. halcyon.

National symbols intend to unite people by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the
national people, values, goals, or history.These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations
of patriotism or aspiring nationalism (such as independence, autonomy or separation movements) and
are designed to be inclusive and representative of all the people of the national community.

Nationalism as a political tool

Nationalism is an ideology and movement that promotes the interests of a particular nation (as in a
group of people) especially with the aim of gaining and maintaining the nation's sovereignty (self-
governance) over its homeland. ... It also encourages pride in national achievements, and is closely
linked to patriotism.

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Most African states lost their independence with the arrival of colonialism. In most cases Africans were treated
unequally by the colonizers. They were subjugated to a position of second class citizenry. More often than not
economic, political and even social development never took place in the colonized territories. This increased the
desire to take political control from the colonizers and be independent. It is this nationalism that made people
aware of their rights, freedoms, and justice hence motivated them to struggle for democracy, justice and even
liberation. Nationalism also politically educates the citizens of a nation making them respect the country’s
symbol, national flag, and safe guard national security. Nationalism encourages a sense of collective or mutual
trust and oneness, tolerance and thereby forming favorable grounds for uniting people of different ethnicity and
religions. This unity in diversity brings stability and social harmony, to a nation.

Through nationalism the nation generates a common goal, purpose and destiny for all members of the nation,
for example some Batswana defending Basarwa through the survival international. Nationalism is able to guide,
direct the citizen’s energies, attention and efforts towards what brings them together rather than splitting them
e.g. defending their country against enemies e.g. the Boers, Second World War. [It helps shape the attitudes and
behaviour of people]

SUMMARY
 Nationalism is the driving force in building nations, integrity and development
 The determination by citizens for the social, economic and political development and the nation survival
is centered on nationalism.

IMPORTANCE OF NATION BUILDING
i. Unites people of Botswana despite their different ethnicity
What is the concept of nation building?
Nation-building may be defined as the process through which the boundaries of the modern state and those of
the national community become congruent. ... Thus, nation-building has been theorized as a structural process
intertwined with industrialization, urbanization, social mobilization, etc.Jul 26, 2017

what is the concept of nation building?

Nation-building is constructing or structuring a national identity using the power of the state.
Nation-building aims at the unification of the people within the state so that it remains politically stable and
viable in the long run. ... Nation-building is the process through which these majorities are constructed."

ii. Promotes peaceful coexistence within the nation

What are the advantages of nation building?

It has other advantages as well; it allows the available resources to be allocated efficiently, stimulates
competition, supports innovation and promotes the growth of the economy. But more than entrepreneurship
dedicated to the economic advancement, we need social entrepreneurship in India.Mar 12, 2018
What are the 4 characteristics of a nation?
A. Four essential features: Population, Territory, Sovereignty, and Government.

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iii. Promote tolerance for one another

What is tolerance and peaceful coexistence?

Tolerance is generally defined as “the ability or willingness to tolerate something, in particular the
existence of opinions or behaviour that one does not necessarily agree with.” It is not synonymous with
acceptance or support. ... Hence, tolerance is the first crucial ingredient in peaceful coexistence.

What are benefits of tolerance?

Being able to accept one another's differences can have positive effect on one's well being. Being
tolerant removes one's self-imposed barriers and allows one to think more broadly and enjoy greater
inner peace. Tolerance leads to less stress and greater happiness in the overall community.Mar 6, 2016
why is tolerance important in society?
Tolerance is an important concept that helps people to live together peacefully. ... Tolerance also means
that you don't put your opinions above those of others, even when you are sure that you are right.
Tolerant people show strength in that they can deal with different opinions and perspectives.Sep 26,
2016
What is tolerance and examples?
noun. Tolerance is being patient, understanding and accepting of anything different. An example of
tolerance is Muslims, Christians and Athiests being friend

what is tolerance and its importance?

Tolerance is needed in all spheres of life, and on every level and on every stage, because it plays a vital
role to establish peace and love, from the smallest unit up to the highest unit of society. Tolerance does
not mean that only one person or party shows tolerance and the others do not.Dec 25, 2010

Why is religious tolerance important in society?

Religious tolerance is a necessity for individuals within a society to get along, especially when a variety
of cultures and people with different religious beliefs live in one community or nation. When religious
tolerance is practiced, unity and consistency exist in a society that respects religious freedom.

What is tolerance and peace?

Tolerance means that human beings are naturally different in their appearance, posture, speech,
behaviour and values, and that they have the right to live in peace and to preserve their individuality. It
also means that the views of one person must not be forced upon other people.

what are benefits of tolerance?

Being able to accept one another's differences can have positive effect on one's well being. Being
tolerant removes one's self-imposed barriers and allows one to think more broadly and enjoy greater
inner peace. Tolerance leads to less stress and greater happiness in the overall community.Mar 6, 2016

iv. Promotes development of the country.

why is community development important in nation building?

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The United Nations defines community development as "a process where community members come together
to take collective action and profer solutions to common problems. ... Its key purpose is to build communities
based on justice, equality and mutual respect.

why is economic development important to nation building?

Economic development is a process of targeted activities and programs that work to improve the economic
wellbeing and quality of life of a community by building local wealth, diversifying the economy, creating and
retaining jobs, and building the local tax base.Mar 21, 2016
v. Help people to have love and pride for their country in that they will not do anything to destroy it.

w do you promote nation building?

As a proud South African you can :
respect the national flag.
respect and learn the national anthem.
respect your neighbours and.
members of your community.
help build your community up and not break it down.
give of yourself to your community, rather than expecting others to give to you all the time.

CONTRIBUTION OF BOTSWANA’S NATIONAL PRINCIPLE IN NATION BUILDING

BOTHO

 Through respect there will be reduced conflict thus bringing people together
 All the positive attitudes, traditions, values/norms will be observed by individuals and in a way this
builds a nation. By vision 2016 Botswana would be a democratic, compassionate, just, moral, ethical,
tolerant and caring nation in the global community.
 Socialization; promote the principle of a morally upright nation [maintenance of law and order]
 Promotes love and peaceful coexistence

DEMOCRACY
 It ensures participation of people in the governance of the country at different levels e.g. councilors,
Members of Parliament
 Allows multi partism, free and fair elections that enable people to elect the government and
representatives of their choice
 Allows consultation, transparency and accountability by all citizens on national issues.
 Allows and guarantees freedom of movement, association, speech and choice.
 Places people on the same level (equality)

DEVELOPMENT
 Mobilization or availing all the country’s resources and distributing them to people on an equal basis to
improve national lifestyle.

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 Ensures training of a skilled dedicated workforce and management teams for effective service delivery
to all citizens
 Promote development, investment policies or strategies best suited for the country’s economic
development

SELF RELIANCE
 Promote socio economic and political independence of individuals by allowing them to produce their
basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter to reduce poverty.
 Individuals being self sufficient reduces social ills like crime, prostitution and promote peace in the
country.
 Emphasizes on economic diversification for sustainable growth/citizen economic empowerment
 Develops people’s pride
 Promotes patriotism
 Increase production of goods and services that makes everyone to have enough
UNITY
 Eliminates all forms of discrimination based on ethnicity, language, religion, race, gender etc.
 Promotes stability and peace thus unity
 Fosters for cooperation and oneness thus peace
 Promotes equality, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups in the country.

CHALLENGES FACING THE PROCESS OF NATION BUILDING IN BOTSWANA

i. Unequal distribution of resources- this implies that resources are controlled by few people and that
developments are concentrated in certain region as opposed to others. This has the potential to cause
conflict and tear the nation apart thereby destroying the process of nation building.
ii. Unrecognizing [marginalization] of other ethnic groups: the government is faced with a big task of
making sure that issues of ethnicity are eliminated so as to minimize ethnic tensions.
iii. Nepotism/favoritism/corruption-it is common practice that certain individuals are hired not according
to qualifications but based on friendship and family ties or through other unlawful practices. If
unattended it may destroy the process of nation building.
iv. High illiteracy rates-Botswana has low literacy levels so it’s a challenge to bridge the gap between the
literate and illiterate
v. HIV/Aids-a lot of Batswana are dying because of HIV/AIDS and this is draining out the government’s
funds
vi. Continued threats from international organizations. SI continues to tarnish Botswana s international
image on allegations of the CKGR issue.
vii. Weak opposition political parties- Botswana s political democracy will not improve so long as
opposition parties continue to lack coordination [splitting of opposition parties]
viii. Gender issues

IMPORTANCE OF NATIONAL SYMBOLS IN NATION BUILDING

i. National anthem
- Strive for unity and peace
- Instill a sense of patriotism and identity
- Encourage the nation to work together to preserve the nation heritage
- Convey important message about the nation e.g. culture and vision of the nation
ii. Coat of arms

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- Instill a sense of identity/ patriotism, love and pride

- The motto “PULA” instill a sense of unity
- Three cog wheels represent development in the country
- Zebra is our national animal and it represent the abundance of wildlife in our country.
- Sorghum head and cattle head represent farming
iii. National Flag
- Consist of three different colours: black for black people, white for white people , blue for natural
resources in the country.
- Instill a sense of identity/ patriotism/ love/ pride
- The two colours (black and white) represent racial harmony in the country.
iv. National Identity Card (Omang)
- Identify an individual by stating which part of the country he/she is from
- Indicate the age of the individual
v. Passport
- It’s a document that facilitates the movement of people outside their country.
vi. National currency
- Provides a sense of independence

ROLES OF VARIOUS STAKEHOLDERS IN NATION BUILDING

GOVERNMENT
 Makes laws that maintain peace and order and prohibits acts that destabilize the country e.g. crime,
discrimination of any kind e.t.c.
 Provide a free and fair justice system to offenders as a way of allowing freedom of speech.
 Implement sustainable development programmes that equally distribute resources to the citizens in order
to reduce poverty
 Encourage cultural preservation and practices through cultural societies such as SPIL, Pitso ya
Batswana, Reteng, Kamanakao e.t.c

POLITICAL PARTIES
 Act as checks and balances to the government of the day thus ensuring competition and good
governance
 Prevents political instability, as the parties will be facilitators of political democracy.
 Shares ideas with the government of the day there by keeping the government in the right direction
 Facilitates political/voter education through campaign adverts
RELIGION
 Emphasizes on good moral ethics about life issues e.g. discourage practices like discrimination of
any kind [gender, race, religion, ethnicity]
 Cement the bond between groups of the same religion
 Instill the spirit of religious appreciation or tolerance

WOMEN

 Upbringing or socialization of children so as to make them responsible citizens

 Nation building brings women to the forefront of handling national issues through gender awareness
programmes e.g. women find themselves as political leaders.

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 Participate in the socio economic uplifting of the country in their different professions.

BOGOSI
 Enforces the customary law by punishing the offenders in the kgotla or advising people on
personal basis.
 They preserve the nation’s customs and traditions through different socio economic political
functions e.g. letsema.
 Act as role models to the local communities
 Resolves conflicts (promote peace)
 Kgotla institution promotes encourages the spirit of consultation, democracy, accountability and
transparency.
 Encourages the spirit of oneness (tolerance)
 Preservation of land
 Promotes national principles
NGO
 NGO’s such as Emang Basadi has succeeded in lobbying government to change policies which discriminate
against women e.g. marriage act.
 Exaggerate issues e.g. survival international on the removal of Basarwa from the CKGR.
 Put national issues on international agenda e.g. Hunan rights abuse
 Managed to educate people on human rights e.g. Ditshwanelo
 Give financial support e.g. KCS
 Created conflicts between parents and their children e.g. Childline Botswana
 Help children not to be abused by elders
 Managed to address issues of stigmatization
 Manage to promote justice for all e.g. Ditshwanelo and REDCROSS
 Succeeded in addressing issues of ill-treatment of ethnic groups by government e.g. SPIL and Kamanakao.
 Most of them are base in urban areas hence not reaching the rural population
 Equip people with life skills e.g. YWCA and Bana ba metsi

GLOBAL CHALLENGES FACING NATION BUILDING

ii. Global warming

iii. Terrorism
iv. Ozone depletion
v. Shortage of natural resources
vi. Global markets
vii. Dictatorial/undemocratic governance that marginalize their citizens
viii. Continued military corps

NEGATIVE USES OF NATIONALISM IN AFRICA/GLOBAL

i. Apartheid policy in South Africa before 1994. The Boer minority government discriminated the
Africans, Indians e.t.c on the basis of colour, race in order to consolidate their power
ii. Adolf Hitler’s extreme right wing NAZI regime exterminated almost all the Jews in Germany
during the Second World War as a way of protecting the Aryan race, Rwanda and Burundi ethnic
conflicts-nationalism was used as a weapon of ethnic cleansing between the Tutsis and the Hutus
iii. Can be used to fuel conflicts e.g. religious nationalism resulted in terrorist attacks in USA

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iv. Can be used to discriminate other groups e.g. in Sudan Muslims used it to dominate Christians
and this resulted in civil war

Study questions
a) describe the origions of their ethnic groups and how they became part of
the nation of Botswana?
b) Analyse how the Mfecane conflicts affected the lives of Batswana
c) Explain the importance of nation building
d) Examine challenges faced by Botswana in nation building.
e) Explain how Botswana’s national principles contribute to nation building

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