15 May 2020

The families of Stephen and Margaret Lansdown and Cornel and Leana Ries, who are partners running Thamalakane River Lodge, have donated 1 000 units of hands-free infrared thermometers and 1 000 Bibles worth P1.4 million to be used in school in a quest to combat the spread of Coronavirus.

The two families will also cover the P500 000 distribution costs.

Receiving the donation in Gaborone on May 15, Minister of Basic Education, Mr Fidelis Molao appreciated the gesture on behalf of said government, saying it was a critical component to fighting COVID-19.

Mr Molao said the thermometers came at the right time when government was preparing for opening of schools after an extended holiday, owing to COVID-19 protocols.

He said the ministry had been unable to source the equipment because the prices had sky-rocketed since the pandemic.

Mr Molao said all the 996 schools countrywide would benefit from the donation, adding that some extras would be sourced by government to augment the supply.

 He said his ministry had made headways in preparing schools for resumption.

Assistant Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Dumizweni Mthimkhulu said since the clarion call by President to the COVID -19 Relief Fund, a number of donations continued to pour from Batswana, business community and individuals from all walks of life.

He said it was gratifying to see Batswana businesses coming forth to assist government in the fight against COVID-19, adding that government appreciated the response.

When handing over the donation, Mr  Ries said his organisation found it fit to heed the President’s call by purchasing the specialised thermometers for schools.

He said they intended to distribute the thermometers to schools with the assistance of Ministry of Basic Education before the opening of schools. ENDS