Heavy floods batter Gaborone
Pini Bothoko | Friday February 21, 2025 13:06
The persistent rains have led to severe flooding, displacing residents and forcing the government to close schools temporarily. Some businesses were also forced to shut down as water levels continue to rise. The city came to a standstill on Wednesday afternoon as a number of major roads were closed down causing serious congestion on the road with homes, cars swept away by heavy floods. Several locations in the city have been hardest hit, with roads turning into rivers and homes left uninhabitable.
Residents were stranded at their work places and homes waiting for emergency assistance as the water volume had overwhelmed the city’s drainage systems, leading to a widespread flooding. It was depressing to witness motorists stranded in heavy traffic as they struggled to navigate waterlogged streets. It took many hours to reach their usual 10 minutes drive home as traffic was at a standstill with no other ways of navigating in between the city streets. The Botswana Meteorological Services had long warned of persistent rains but residents could not contain its outcome. Emergency response teams were dispatched to rescue people, control traffic but it looks like the rain will not stop anytime soon. On Wednesday evening, the floods forced government to close all public schools with immediate effect and adjusted public servants working hours from their usual 7:30am-4:30am to 9am-15:30pm. The government has promised that it would continue to assess the extent of the damage and provide further updates on relief efforts.
Addressing the nation on social media, Wednesday night, President Duma Boko urged everyone to stay vigilant, heed safety advisories, and avoid flood-prone areas for their protection. “Fellow citizens, it is with a heavy heart that I address you during this challenging time, as our beloved city of Gaborone and surrounding areas face the devastating impact of heavy rains and flooding. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, especially those who have suffered loss and all who are enduring hardship. To our brave emergency workers and volunteers, thank you for your dedication and selflessness. Your efforts are a beacon of hope,” he said. Doing an update on floods, Minister for State President, Moeti Mohwasa, also pleaded with residents to exercise caution assuring them that the government is on the look out to address and respond to any crisis. Mohwasa said while the country welcomes the much needed rains, they have been heavier than expected leaving behind a lot of destructions admitting to have been briefed about the heavy rains prior to this week’s floods. “The country has received a considerable high amount of rainfall over the past couple of days, which has resulted in flooding in some areas. The most affected areas include Gantsi, Central, Kweneng, Kgatleng and South East Districts. Rainfall of 15mm or more have fallen in various parts of the country and still expected for the next three days, which might result in prolonged flooding. The rainfall is expected to continue even though at lower rates until the end of next week,” he said. Mohwasa assured Batswana that while naturally the nation will suffer loss of property due to such a natural disaster, top priority for the government is to preserve people’s lives. He further revealed to have convened the national emergency operation centre to ensure that they mobilise and coordinate the necessary manpower and other resources required to intervene in the situation.
“Below this centre there is the National Technical Coordination Team chaired by the Commissioner of Police to aid responses on the group. We will ensure that Batswana stay informed but we cannot emphasise the need for all of us to comply strictly with safety regulations as provided by various response agencies including the police, BDF, Disaster Management Office, amongst others, aimed at preserving lives,” Mohwasa said. For his part, the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, assured the nation that the government is on standby accessing the situation and respond as emergencies resurface. “Today has been disheartening, seeing and witnessing damage caused by the floods in Gaborone and surrounding villages. Together, we face this challenge with unwavering unity and resilience. Let us help one another, support neighbours, and remain hopeful, knowing that we are all in this together. Our courage, compassion, and solidarity will carry us through,” Motshegwa said. He also assured the residents that the Gaborone Disaster Management Team is on the ground assessing the situation stating that people who have been displaced from homes will be moved to safer places and assisted with food.
Former president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, also posted on social media expressing to be deeply saddened by the devastating floods that had displaced families, destroyed homes, and disrupted lives. “My heart goes out to everyone affected. In this difficult time, let us come together in the spirit of botho offering support, kindness, and strength to those in need. I want to express my gratitude to the brave men and women in emergency services, the Botswana Police Service (BPS), the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), disaster relief teams, and volunteers who are working tirelessly to keep us safe. Your dedication and sacrifice do not go unnoticed,” he said. Masisi pleaded with residents to exercise caution and put their safety and that of their loved ones first advising them to follow emergency guidance, checks their neighbours, and help where they can. “Botswana has faced challenges before, and each time, we have come through stronger, this time will be no different. Stay safe, stay strong, and know that you are not alone,” he said.