25 Jun 2023

Conversion of mineral policy documents to braille is as a significant milestone development for the blind and partially sighted citizens, says the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Mr Lefoko Moagi. 

Handing over the braille documents to the Botswana Association for the Blind and Partially Sighted (BABPS) in Gaborone on Thursday, Mr Moagi said the documents would offer recipients the information they needed to contribute to the country’s growth and also continue receiving benefits from various self-sufficiency programmes that government offered.

“We support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially one that focuses on reducing inequality. The braille documents will enable the recipients to actively engage in the mineral sector of the economy in a variety of ways depending on their skills and interests,” he said. 

He isaid the braille versions covered the guideline policies for the rooftop solar, Intergraded Resources Plan for Electricity (IRPE), biofuel as well as the minerals policy. 

“Opportunities are identified from timely, high-quality information and in a form that does not discriminate against any demographic group. With this, it is imperative for the ministry to spend wisely and promptly on the braille conversion of these policies,” he said. 

The minister expressed hope that recipients would speak up and provide input on the policies through the braille documents. 

For his part, BABPS chairperson, Mr David Ranto, stated that it was crucial for various stakeholders to develop policies that would constantly assist in removing obstacles that could prevent the blind and partially sighted people from fully utilising various programmes that could improve their lives. Mr Ranto however expressed concern about the stigma that continued to accompany those who were blind or partially sighted. ENDS