Volume 65 December 2026-January 2026 : Readers Diary
Editors note
Author : Sereki Mpitse
The increasing number of missing persons is a worrying trend, with 87 incidents reported as of January this year compared to 160 in the same period last year. These reports have come from various police stations, including Sowa, Gerald, Pitshane Molopo, Sojwe, Bokspits, Mogoditshane, Rakops, Palapye, Semolale, and Shakawe.
One notable case is that of Godfrey Mavela, who left his mother’s home without a word over a year ago. Most missing persons reported are teenagers who leave to visit friends without informing their parents or guardians. Tragically, some of these missing individuals are found deceased, having drowned or taken their own lives, while the majority return home in good health. This issue extends beyond the missing individuals; it profoundly affects the families left to grieve.
The question remains: Is the government doing enough to address this crisis? According to Mr Moeti Mohwasa, Minister for State President, government plans to review policies and procedures regarding missing persons to align better with international best practices. He emphasised that the review aims to identify shortcomings and implement necessary improvements in locating missing persons, which may involve legislative changes, police training, and enhanced inter-agency coordination.
On a lighter note, we celebrate Ruth Thomas, who was crowned Miss Botswana during a night filled with glitz, glamour, and ceremony. Receiving the crown fulfilled a childhood dream, marking a moment she feels was destined, as she has persevered through faith throughout her life. Weeks before the event, a video surfaced on social media of Ruth attending a church service in Randburg, South Africa, where she expressed her determination: “I am currently competing for Miss Botswana, and I want the crown.” The pastor’s response encourages her belief in her success: “You have already framed a picture of you with the crown, and every day you pray that this is how they will celebrate you.” ENDS