BOAGO RAMAPHANE
First National Bank Botswana (FNBB) Chief Executive Officer Steven Bogatsu handed over a cheque of P1 million to the President of Botswana, Ian Khama, on behalf of Bankers Association of Botswana to be paid to Matsha accident victims and their families.
Following the fatal truck accident in which Matsha Senior Secondary School Rural Area Dwellers Programme (RADP) students who were being transported to their various villages from Kang last year, the Bankers Association of Botswana established a relief fund and opened a bank account with Stanbic Bank where pledges were made into the account to assist families and victims of the accident.
When handing the cheque to the President at the official opening of the 14th National Business Conference in Francistown yesterday (Monday), Bogatsu said as the banking industry, they felt compelled to respond by establishing a relief fund for victims. “Banks acknowledged this greater call and pledges were made. Over and above we extend our gratitude to all of Batswana who also donated towards this account,” he said. He explained that even though they were handing over the P1 million they understand very well that there is still more to be done considering the extent of suffering by victims and their families, hence they continue receiving pledges and donations into the account.
When accepting the cheque, President Khama expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Bankers Association and Batswana who continue to offer help. “If there is one thing I’m very proud of and have witnessed, it’s realization during my term in office, of the fulfillment of ‘a compassionate, just and caring nation’ pillar,” he said. He commended Batswana at large for the generous contributions that were also made through his office.
Nine Matsha students lost their lives after the truck they were travelling in overturned near Dutlwe village in the Kweneng District in November last year. The eighth student died in December in South Africa where he was referred to for medical attention. Another survivor later died following time under intensive care.