Betway Botswana has made its most important pay-out to date, donating P2.5 million for the construction of a modern Gender-Based Violence (GBV) shelter in Francistown.
The centre, to be built at a yet-to-be identified site, will serve as a safe space, offering support, accommodation and counseling to vulnerable individuals, including GBV survivors.
Handing over the big cheque at Marang Hotel on Tuesday, Betway Cares Country Manager, Michelle France Mabiletsa, said this marks the first crucial step in creating a Botswana where everyone, especially women and children, can live free from fear and violence.
“At Betway Cares, we understand that we are more than just a foundation for Betway, we are an integral part of the communities we serve. We believe that every survivor deserves more than just a momentary escape. They deserve a true foundation upon which to build a completely new life,” said Mabiletsa, describing the pending shelter as a sanctuary where shattered lives will be rebuilt.
Botswana Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Support Centre (BGBVC) Board Chairperson, Khumoetsile Mapitse said the demand for their services far outweighs their current resources.
“Survivors continue to come forward, yet funding, staffing, and infrastructure often lag behind the urgent need,” admitted Mapitse, expressing his heartfelt thanks to Betway for their gesture.
“Your support ensures that hope becomes a lived reality for those in their darkest hour. Let us remember that the fight against Gender-Based Violence requires long-term commitment. Shelters must be maintained, counseling must be continuous, and prevention efforts must be sustained. We therefore call on all stakeholders, government, private sector, civil society, and the community at large, to remain steadfast in this journey with us,” he closed.
The non-profit organisation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Lorato Moalusi expressed confidence that this was the start of a new chapter in the fight against GBV.
She revealed BGBVC have worked tirelessly over the years, providing counseling, psychosocial support, medical and legal referrals and empowerment programs to survivors.
“Yet we have also faced the painful reality of limited safe spaces where survivors can heal and rebuild their lives. With this sponsorship, that gap will begin to close. I also wish to share that we are currently engaging with local authorities in the district to identify and secure a suitable site for the construction of this shelter.
Once land has been secured, we are committed to commencing construction without delay, so that survivors can benefit from this facility as soon as possible,” promised Moalusi.
