Pitse Ya Naga couple works with ex-convicts
Dumisani Ncube | Tuesday July 14, 2015 14:19
The couple, made up of Tiro Mothusi and Boikhutso Chawe has engaged the Botswana Institute of Rehabilitation and Reintegration of first offenders (BIRRO) to host a boot camp, where they will work closely with ex-convicts and volunteers on different programmes such as evangelism, lifestyle, family values, computer literacy and drug abuse.
Mothusi said they want to change perceptions that members of the public have about ex-convicts.
“The public has a negative perception towards ex-convicts, this platform will be a opportunity for reconciliation and to give ex convicts a second chance, ” he said.
Mothusi also said there is no proper forum to address this, but the boot camp that will be held in the Thamaga and Kumakwane areas in August 2015, will go a long way towards making difference.
He also said that they have also selected the particular areas based on gathered statistics, which show that there is a high rate of delinquency and juveniles there.
The boot camp will be held in different places in these areas, interested volunteers are also invited to join the boot camp.
Police force and prison guards will also be present at the boot camp.
“We invited them with the hope that they would help eliminate tension during the camp, and bridge the gap between members of the force and the ex convicts.
We want peace to prevail, and encourage a sense of unity among both parties,” he said. The Pitse Ya Naga couple is not new to charity, and playing a role in community social responsibility.
The two have previously partnered with BIRRO and Moabi Trust in raising funds for a patient who had a kidney failure.
They have also offered Seikgotlho Sebele, the widow of football legend Nicholas ‘Lele’ Sebele, with financial assistance and emotional support since her husband’s death. Before Sebele’s death, the couple used to visit and spend time with him after he had suffered a stroke.
The couple, crowned Mr and Miss Independence in September 2014, is confident that they will defend their title this year, and pleaded with members of the public to support them. Mr and Miss Independence Botswana will be held later this year on a date to be announced.