Venson-Moitoi: The intrepid Mmegi editor

Venson
Venson

As Mmegi readies itself to celebrate its 40th anniversary sometime in late August this year, Mmegi’s Correspondent LESANG MASWABI traces some of the surviving pioneers who were at the helm of an infant newspaper brand called Mmegi Wa Dikgang from the very beginning, starting with Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi

That institution would evolve into a reputable title called Mmegi, The Reporter towards the late 80s and today’s media giant of the 21st century just called Mmegi with a slogan, 'News we need to know daily' Venson-Moitoi became the newspaper’s first woman editor in 1971-73, immediately after completing her form-five (5) at Swaneng High/Secondary School in Serowe in 1970 at a young age of just 20 years. “I first went for a journalism course at the Africa Literature Centre that was run by the Mindolo Ecumenical Centre in Kitwe in early 1971, which was followed by an attachment at Zambia Daily newspaper in Lusaka later the same year”, says Venson-Moitoi.

She vividly recalls being arrested by the Ian Smith’s Rhodesian Police on her way back to Botswana then. Asked about their staff contingent then, Venson-Moitoi says she recalls working with a staff of five – herself, a typist called Kentahetse Mokalake, two printers Super Pilane, an American volunteer-teacher by the name of Turner and the late Patrick van Rensburg as the manager.


Editor's Comment
Women unite for progress

It underscores the indispensable role women play in our society, particularly in building strong households and nurturing families. The recognition of women as the bedrock of our communities is not just a sentiment; it's a call to action for all women to stand together and support each other in their endeavours.The society's aim to instil essential principles and knowledge for national development is crucial. By providing a platform for...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up