One of Botswana’s leading mobile telecommunications network service provider, Mascom held its 6th edition of the annual Batanani Walk at the weekend in Francistown and this year’s event was focused on digital safety awareness. The charity walk was held under the theme “Step Up for Digital Safety”.
The initiative is part of Mascom’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes. The walk which comprised of 5km, 10km and 15km categories attracted hordes of participants from the second city and the neighbouring villages. The Chief Walker and Guest Speaker at the event was the First Lady Neo Masisi.
Sharing a brief overview of the event, Mascom Chief Executive Officer Dzene Makhwade-Seboni said since its inception in 2019, the Mascom Batanani Walk has donated proceeds from the walk towards addressing numerous issues such as sensitising the nation on issues of Gender Based Violence (GBV), mental health, drug abuse and protection of children amongst others.
“Every year when there is need to assist, we do so to have a positive impact on the lives of Batswana. The walk is more than a physical activity or gathering. It is a demonstration of our collective strength and a determination to walk for change,” she said.
Seboni emphasised that the Mascom Batanani Walk objectives are to address social issues that are currently be-devilling the country. She added that as Mascom, they have deliberately invested their time and effort not only in superior technology and offering affordable service, but also playing an important role in driving a meaningful impact in the society.
“We have realized that technology continues to be a catalyst for positive change and so does digital safety. It is on this basis of our firm commitment that this year for the Batanani Walk, we emphasize and shine a spotlight on the importance of online safety. We are standing up for digital safety,” added Seboni.
She showered accolades on the First Lady Neo Masisi for being an advocate for change on social issues that are currently tormenting the nation particularly Gender Based Violence and Child Protection. Seboni however said the use of technology is critical in the development of children and to the advancement of the lives of Batswana. She said that although technology is important there are risks pertaining to online safety
“Ensuring safe use of technology is very important. Mascom recognises the growing importance of technology and equipping everyone especially our youth with the skills to navigate the internet safely,” she explained.
For her part, the First Lady Neo Masisi commended Mascom for its annual Batanani Walk saying that it continues to leave a positive impact in the community. She said this year’s event is very important as it seeks to sensitize the nation on digital safety, wellness and community spirit through the power of physical activity.
“Digital safety is more relevant than ever as we navigate an increasing digital world. The campaign is aligned towards the Cyber Security Strategy of Botswana which prioritizes digital safety as one of its key strategic goals,” she said.
The funds raised at this year’ event will help support Cybersmart Botswana to intensify its nationwide campaign and awareness on digital safety particularly in secondary schools.
Cybersmart Botswana is a public education programme that began in Botswana in 2020 to promote digital literacy through public awareness initiatives on cyber security and digital economy development. The objective of the programme is to promote responsible, safe and meaningful use of digital technologies, mainly the internet. Mascom partnered with the organization at the event for the first time to spread its campaign on digital safety.
Among other important issues, the First Lady said the internet is an incredible resource offering numerous opportunities for learning and networking. She however said it presents significant risks especially for the young people who may not always recognize the dangers.
“This risks range from cyber scams, cyber bulling, inappropriate content and online gender based violence,” she warned.
