06 Oct 2020

 Genius Group of Companies has donated COVID-19 equipment worth P10 000 to the Department of Broadcasting Services (DBS).

Speaking during the handing over on Monday, the Genius Group Business Manager, Mr Philisani Amos said the donation was to support the efforts of all those involved in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Amos said the 100 face shields, 20 boxes of surgical masks and three infrared thermometers were to be used by all DBS reporters country wide.

He said the donation formed part of Genius Group commitment in supporting government efforts in the fight against COVID-19, adding that the initiative, formed part of their obligation and corporate social responsibility.

He indicated that they chose to donate to DBS, especially that its workers were front liners in the COVID-19 fight, adding that their job was risky.

Mr Amos further stated that the face shields would go a long way in assisting deaf viewers to read lips of presenters.
Furthermore, he indicated that face shields protected the entire face including eyes, which along with the nose and mouth, could be gateways for the coronavirus and other germs.

DBS Director, Ms Keitirele Matlhape expressed gratitude to Genius Group of Companies for the donations, saying when most people think of front liners in the fight against COVID-19; they imagined the health workers only, adding that reporters were in the same category.

She highlighted that reporters were always exposed to the risk of contracting the virus, while doing their work especially during interviews.

Ms Matlhape therefore appreciated the gesture, saying they would be distributed  among the Botswana Television and Radio Botswana presenters. ENDS