04 Feb 2018

Young people have been urged to use social media for things that will benefit them, grow the economy and build the nation.

Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA), corporate communications deputy director, Mr Aaron Nyelesi expressed concern during a consultative meeting with consumers that some youths abuse social media.

The purpose of the meeting was to interact with consumers to solicit ideas, appreciate their concerns and find out if they were happy with communication services.

While social media should be used as a communication tool to connect people and share positive information, Mr Nyelesi said it was disturbing that young people communicated negative things through it.

He said some transmitted messages which could destroy the nation.

Social media is a series of websites and applications designed to allow people to share content quickly, efficiently and in real-time. 

Mr Nyelesi explained that some people like politicians used social media for their campaigns while others used it to market their businesses.

He advised young people to appreciate the importance of social media adding that they should refrain from communicating things that they would regret for the rest of their lives.

On other issues, the deputy director advised the public to be alert and ensure the gargets they buy outside the country were type approved.

He stressed that they should liaise with BOCRA to ensure all the models were type approved.

BOCRA, he said is mandated to type approve communications equipment that may be connected, used or operated to provide broadcasting or telecommunications services in Botswana. 

Consumers were also sensitised about the procedure to lodge a complaint.

Mr Nyelesi said they should first start with the service provider and BOCRA should be the last resort.

He said BOCRA’s  intention was not to destroy the relationship between the consumers and service providers hence they encourage people to follow the right procedure with their service providers.

“You should give your service providers opportunity to respond because it is on their interest to maintain the partnership. If not satisfied then you could engage us,” he added.

Consumers were also advised to register their simcards.

Mr Nyelesi noted that the aim of simcard registration was not to interfere in people’s communication but stated that it was the responsibility of BOCRA to protect consumers’ numbers. 

He explained the role of BOCRA as the regulator of Botswana communication sector and responsible for processing applications for and issue licences, permits, permission, concessions and authorities for regulated sectors being telecommunications, Internet, radio communication, broadcasting and postal. ENDS