The Betway Cares Foundation proudly donated P2.5 million to the Botswana Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Support Centre (BGBVPSC). This partnership represents more than just philanthropy; it underscores the belief that every survivor deserves safety, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
Speaking at the cheque handover event, Boitumelo Kebaetse, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Betway Cares, expressed herself during the event, “This is more than a cheque handover; it marks a pivotal moment in our shared commitment to creating a Botswana where everyone, especially women, men, and children, can live in dignity, free from fear and violence.”
This generous donation will fund the construction of a new safe shelter, a sanctuary of protection, healing, and empowerment. Survivors will find more than just physical walls; they will discover pathways to independence through counseling, legal aid, and skills development.
Deputy Mayor Uyapo Nyeku beautifully articulated this vision, stating, “The shelter we are gathered to support will be more than bricks and mortar; it will be a sanctuary of healing and restoration for survivors who desperately need a chance to rebuild their lives.”
His remarks served as a powerful reminder that the fight against gender-based violence transcends sectors, highlighting the need for unified action across public, private, and civil society spheres; it is a shared responsibility of humanity. Dr. Khumoetsile Mapitse, Board Chairperson of the BGBVPSC, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We continue because behind every statistic is a human life.”
One of the most poignant moments came from Mme Lorato Moalusi, CEO of the BGBVPSC, who emphasized, “This is more than financial support; it is a clear message that survivors of violence are not alone.” She pledged that every pula would go directly toward restoring safety and dignity, adding, “We accept this support with deep humility but also with great responsibility.”
Betway Cares reaffirmed its belief that investing in the protection of survivors is, fundamentally, an investment in the future potential of individuals and communities. The fight against gender-based violence cannot be won by one organization or one donation; it requires a collaborative effort from businesses, government, communities, and individuals, all standing together to say, “Enough is enough.”
Betway Cares emphasizes that its vision goes beyond simply constructing physical shelters. The foundation aims to create systems rooted in compassion and long-term support. These systems will empower survivors to rebuild their lives, foster unity within communities, and help break the cycle of violence once and for all. This effort is geared towards paving the way for a safer, more inclusive Botswana.