Volume 65 Issue 22-March-April 2025 : Feature
The man behind the viral flood picture
Author : Kutlwano
A scary and unpredictable afternoon unfolded in Gaborone as heavy rains transformed the city into a waterlogged labyrinth. With traffic congestion halting movement across the bustling capital, residents faced unexpected challenges as storms battered the area.
Amidst this chaos, one individual was determined to capture the essence of the day. Phenyo Ramatu, a 35-year-old photographer hailing from Ramotswa, ventured into the elements in search of compelling images that narrate the story of Gaborone’s struggle against the relentless weather. Accompanied by Teko Letsholo, the pair braved the downpour with a singular mission: to document the city’s plight.
While Letsholo held an umbrella over both themselves and the camera, it served an essential purpose, protecting their equipment from the drenching rain. Soaked but undeterred, they navigated through flooded streets just outside the Mass Media Complex for nearly twenty minutes, committed to uncovering newsworthy moments that illustrated the impacts of the severe weather.
In the midst of their photography trek, the sound of rushing waters and cries echoed from behind the Mass Media Complex along Segoditshane River road. This cacophony captured Ramatu’s attention.
“We ran, really hard, but our legs were heavy because everything, our clothes and shoes was soaked with water,” Ramatu recounted.
Upon arrival, they saw a man precariously perched atop his capsized white vehicle, visibly terrified. “I must admit, I was scared too,” Ramatu shared. “But I kept taking pictures. While others suggested I assist the man, my focus remained on capturing the moment.”
Wena monna o tsaya dinepe motho a tloga a tsewa ke metsi. Re thuse rra.
Struggling with an ethical dilemma, Ramatu ultimately chose to document the scene rather than join the rescue efforts. “I have no regrets about taking that picture instead of helping. Fortunately, other people helped rescue the man,” Ramatu explains.
The compelling image that emerged from the chaos soon reached millions through social media, vividly communicating the severity of the Gaborone flash floods to the world. “This is the picture that I believe told the story of Gaborone flash floods,” he says.
Dedicated to his craft, Ramatu expressed gratitude to his photography unit, crediting teamwork for their success. “Kudos to the team,” he said.
Despite graduating in Graphic Design from Limkokwing University, Ramatu’s passion for photography began in childhood, where he would take photos for sale using his sister’s semi-pro camera. Even after earning his degree, he found temporary work as a photographer with the Department of Wildlife and aspires to secure a permanent position where he can hone his skills. His supervisor, Mr Yobe Shonga, praised Ramatu as a hardworking and reliable talent, always ready to take on assignments, even at unconventional hours. “He is diligent and approachable,” Shonga adds.
Ramatu exemplifies the spirit of resilience and dedication. His pursuit of capturing reality reminds us that even in the midst of adversity, remarkable stories are waiting to be told. ENDS