David Tshere Tours Orange Botswana’s Digital Hub and Data Centre

Botswana’s Minister of Communications and Innovation, David Tshere, has visited Orange Botswana’s data centre and digital training hub, where discussions focused on the country’s digital transformation and possible areas of cooperation. The visit brought ministry officials together with Orange Botswana executives to look at the company’s infrastructure and programmes aimed at building digital skills, supporting entrepreneurs and expanding inclusion. Acting Chief Executive Officer Gobe Mbayi welcomed the delegation at the data centre. Manager Tshepo Mongalo described its role in supporting connectivity, continuity for businesses and services used by the public and private sectors. At the Orange Digital Centre, Director of People and Social Impact Modiri Nlanda presented Orange Foundation initiatives. According to the information shared during the visit, the programmes reached more than 9,400 people through 70 activities this year, with women making up 57 per cent of participants. Centre manager Obakeng Kokwe outlined the Coding School, the FabLab for prototyping and fabrication, and Orange Fab, which supports early-stage startups. The centre provides free training and assistance to young people, entrepreneurs and underserved communities. Tshere also heard about the Orange Summer Challenge and Orange Social Venture Prize, and spoke with programme beneficiaries about their experiences. A digital embroidery project developed by trainees in partnership with Tlokweng Brigade was also presented. Tshere said the ministry could help support the centre through partnerships, pointing to the National Research and Innovation Council and Botswana’s technology clusters as potential avenues for cooperation. Mbayi said collaboration could extend the work of the digital ecosystem, from schools to startups. Nlanda said the foundation intended to continue investing in digital inclusion and welcomed cooperation with government to broaden the programmes’ reach.