KBL’s ‘Cheers to Bars’ celebrates community, culture, connection
correspondent | Wednesday August 27, 2025 12:08
The campaign kicked off with a Cheers to Bars tour in Gaborone, led by KBL senior management alongside Deputy Mayor of Gaborone, Mankie Sekete, Liquor Board Authority chairperson , Jacob Sesinyi and members of the media.
The tour made stops at some of the city’s iconic establishments that included Yarona Bar, Cool Pub 3 and Ress Bar, highlighting stories of resilience, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
At Yarona Bar, the team met veteran bar owner Margaret Mangole, who is described as the pioneer for the industry. Mangole opened one of the first licensed bars in the area back in 1987, and her journey has since inspired a generation of entrepreneurs.
Sharing her story, she underscored the importance of compliance and responsibility in sustaining the liquor industry.
The tour then proceeded to Cool Pub 3 in Gaborone’s Block 3, owned by Gakeletso Molaoledi.
Molaoledi, who runs the Cool Pub franchise, is known for her innovative business model and strong commitment to community support.
Through her outlets, she funds social initiatives such as wheelchair-bound community members’ welfare and local youth sporting tournaments.
The final stop was Ress Bar, hosted by Balipatsi Bogatsu, affectionately known as Mma Leabaneng. She opened her first liquor business at just 18 years old and has since expanded to several outlets.
Bogatsu is also active in property development and community support, including donating water tanks to Tlokweng Teacher Training College and building homes for vulnerable families.
Deputy Mayor Sekete praised the initiative, saying, “the success of the bars we have visited and their positive contributions to our communities cannot be denied. I am proud to see such thriving establishments in this city, and I commend the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of their owners.”
For his part Sesinyi, who is Liquor Board chairperson, highlighted the importance of balancing regulation with recognition of the sector’s economic contribution, stressing that compliance and community engagement are crucial for sustainability.
Through Cheers to Bars, KBL reaffirmed its long term partnership with local businesses, paying tribute to establishments that not only serve beverages but also create jobs, drive entrepreneurship, and support community development.