Botswana’s leading digital service provider, Mascom, hosted the seventh edition of the annual Batanani Charity Walk in Francistown on Saturday. This year’s event focused on raising awareness about breast cancer, reaffirming Mascom’s continued commitment to initiatives that make a positive impact in the lives of Batswana.
Speaking after the successful walk, Mascom Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dzene Makhwade-Seboni reiterated that the event has always been more than just a fitness activity. From its inception, it has aimed to lend both a helping hand and a corporate voice to issues that affect the everyday lives of Batswana. Since 2019, the walk has directed its proceeds toward creating awareness and driving action on key societal challenges.
Proceeds from previous walks have funded the refurbishment of the psychiatric ward at Jubilee Mental Hospital, in response to the growing mental health needs in the country.
“We’ve also lent a hand to the Francistown Centre for the Deaf Education, donating ICT equipment, industrial laundry and kitchen appliances, and utensils,” said Makhwade-Seboni.
She added that the Mascom Batanani initiative has also contributed to the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and drug and substance abuse.
The CEO expressed pride in leading a company that acknowledges the pressing health challenges many Batswana face; particularly the difficulty in accessing timely cancer screening services.
“Our purpose ‘Powering connections that inspire change’ guides everything we do,” she said.
“While we continue to deliver cutting-edge technology and relevant solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers, we are equally committed to using our platform and resources to drive meaningful social impact.”
Minister of Environment and Tourism and Francistown Member of Parliament, Wynter Mmolotsi, applauded Mascom for its ongoing efforts in addressing social issues through innovative solutions.
He made a heartfelt appeal to Batswana to embrace the message carried by the men, women, and children who braved the early morning chill to walk distances of 2, 5, 10, and 15 km. Mmolotsi emphasized the importance of continuing the conversation beyond the walk itself.
“Breast cancer is a silent killer, but its early detection is simple and can greatly change the outcome for those affected,” he said.
The Minister also commended Mascom for bringing together a powerful cohort of female CEOs from various companies and parastatals.
“Who would have thought a group of female CEOs could come together to generate such strong support and exert influence? This is outstanding,” Mmolotsi remarked.
To amplify the event’s impact, Mascom partnered with a group of seasoned female corporate leaders as Chief Walkers. The 2025 Circle of CEOs included Lily Rakorong, (CEO–HATAB), Joy Buno, (MD–Liberty Life Botswana), Keitumetse Setlang, (CEO–Botswana Tourism Organisation) and Botswana House Corporation Acting CEO Pascaline Sefawe.
