F/town vendor evictions sour Chema Chema’s entry

Friday, February 09, 2024 | 1050 Views |

Up and out: A truck moving vendors’ property after the recent demolitions in Francistown PIC: LESEDI MKHUTSHWA

FRANCISTOWN: The establishment of the P200 million ‘Chema Chema Fund’ for the informal sector, has drawn criticism and skepticism as some local traders feel that the government is trying to save face for the upcoming elections.

Traders here spoke to Mmegi and highlighted the paradox of Chema Chema being launched shortly after the demolition of the Francistown Central Business District (CBD) market place and the eviction of some informal traders.

The demolition sparked controversy among the public, considering it was the result of a legal battle that the Francistown City Council (FCC) doggedly pursued until it secured a favourable ruling in December.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

GU to hold memorial service for Dlamini

staff writer | 18 h ago

BERA temporarily shuts down non-compliant filling stations

correspondent | 18 h ago

Credit growth slows on tighter economy

Mbongeni Mguni | 1d ago

Batswana, Zimbabweans tensions worry Mogoditshane police

Pini Bothoko | 2d ago

Letshego refocuses its African dream

Mbongeni Mguni | 12 Jun 2026

Expanding Africa’s trade frontiers

Lewanika Timothy | 12 Jun 2026

BITC capacitates better exports for Chinese market

kutlo moagi | 12 Jun 2026

Moagi-linked card allegedly exposes P4.7 m scandal

Larona Makhaiza | 2d ago

Our digital safety is in our hands

That sounds like good news. But the report also warns that this may simply be because our digital economy is still young, not because we are safe. As more people shop, bank and pay online, criminals will follow.We Batswana do not need a report to tell us that danger is real. Many of us have heard of or fallen victim to KYC scams. A caller impersonates your bank or mobile money provider. They say they need to “verify” your account. They ask...

The Monitor Editor | 16 June 2026

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.