18 May 2025

Orange Botswana has unveiled a new Digital Centre in Lehututu in an  effort to democratise digital education and foster innovation across Botswana.

Speaking at the event, Ms Nene Maiga, chief executive officer of Orange Botswana, said it was important to provide equitable access to digital tools and education. 

“There is a pressing need to democratise digital education and unlock a world of possibility through the transformative power of technology for people in rural areas,” she stated.

Ms Maiga explained that the centre was a commitment to the Solidarity FabLabs initiative, a global movement driven by the Orange Foundation to bridge the digital divide. The centre aims to bring technology, training, and opportunity directly to communities that previously had limited access, she said. With a grant of P320 000, Orange Botswana partnered with Humana People to People to establish the facility. 

“This partnership reflects our belief that no matter where a young person is born, be it Hukuntsi or Gaborone, they deserve the same opportunities. We are here to tell the youth of Lehututu: You matter. Your dreams matter. And we are committed to supporting those dreams, ” Ms Maiga said.

The CEO envisions a Botswana where innovation flourishes beyond urban centers, emerging from every village and settlement. 

“Imagine a young person learning to code at this centre and later becoming a tech entrepreneur, or a small business owner mastering digital marketing to expand their reach. Teachers accessing digital resources to enhance learning—that is the future we are working toward, ” said Ms Maiga.

The Humana Digital Career Centre is designed as a free, inclusive space where young people and adults can access digital tools and structured courses in coding, design, and digital entrepreneurship. The centre offers a safe environment for discovery, creativity, and skill development, tailored to the unique needs of the Lehututu community. Ms Maiga highlighted that the partnership with Humana People to People was rooted in shared values and a commitment to community-led development. 

“This isn’t a one-size-fits-all model, it’s localised and aimed at long-term sustainability. It’s a place where ideas are born, nurtured, and where learners are encouraged to innovate fearlessly,” she explained.

Therefore, she said the the centre symbolised more than technology, it embodies creativity, entrepreneurship, and empowerment. 

“It is a springboard for economic participation, enabling young people to establish micro-businesses or introduce innovative solutions to local challenges,” she said. 

The centre’s ultimate goal is to empower individuals, families, and communities in the Kgalagadi region to express themselves and drive transformational change. Humana People to People Botswana, a non-profit organisation established in 2000, will oversee operations. Its director, Mr Moses Zulu, expressed pride in the launch. 

“This Digital Centre in Matsheng marks a step forward for our partnership with Orange Foundation and for the community. We believe that genuine change starts with empowering the people. Our role is to equip them with the tools and knowledge to overcome social and economic barriers and realize their dreams,” she said.

Mr Zulu shared that, through this initiative, the Orange Foundation has provided funding for the procurement of equipment and operational support for the Center, which includes, 3D Printing Machines, Laser Cutting Machines, Engraving Machines, four Laptops, Mug Printing Machine, Flat Press Machines, Television and Sublimation Printer.  

As the centre opens its doors, it promises to be a beacon of hope and innovation in the region, fostering a brighter, more inclusive digital future for Botswana’s rural communities. The launch was part of the company’s broader initiative to leverage technology as a catalyst for community development. ENDS