31 May 2021

Preserving and telling the history of telecommunications and its impact on Batswana is crucial.

A media release from Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) says the company is developing an innovative ICT timeless structure dedicated to telling and showcasing the history of telecommunications and its contribution to national development.   

BTC managing director, Mr Anthony Masunga said it was prudent for BTC, which is the leading telecommunications company in Botswana, to develop an innovative ICT timeless structure dedicated to preserving and telling the history of telecommunications and how it has impacted Batswana.

Through the museum, he said one would be able to witness the evolution of communication displayed in one place through a collection of antique telephones and telephone memorabilia.

“A museum will educate Batswana on the history of communications and give them a greater appreciation and understanding of the changing local telecommunications industry landscape spearheaded by BTC,” said Mr Masunga.  

He also said over the years BTC has supported a number of local projects in the form of donations and sponsorships ranging from sport to the arts and skills development through their corporate social investment wing.

For his part, acting director of Botswana National Museum and Monuments, Mr Stephen Mogotsi praised the importance of an ICT museum in Botswana. He said it would be in line with the national transformation agenda since a museum played a crucial role in preserving and documenting the local culture thus ensuring transmission and preservation of heritage for society and future generations.

As espoused in national vision 2036 and 4IR, Mr Mogotsi said demand to use technology in enhancing the daily business operations has the potential to play an important role in fostering the promotion of the arts and cultural heritage activities in Botswana.    

 Mr Mogotsi further explained that the methods and tools could also create employment opportunities for practitioners, especially the youth to provide a participatory environment by enabling visitors to engage in learning and experiencing onsite and online exhibitions and other media.

Mr Reginald Bakwena, director of Thapong Visual Centre, shared the same sentiments. “An ICT museum is a good initiative by BTC, and it is the right time to have an ICT museum which will also help to promote the creative industry.”

He noted that BTC had partnered with Thapong Centre to sponsor the annual phonebook cover competition and has also sponsored performing artists through the poetry sessions. ENDS