The President of the Republic of Botswana and Chairperson of SADC, H.E. Lt. General Seretse Khama Ian Khama has, through the SADC National Contact Point (NCP), Dr. Taufila Nyamadzabo accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner of the Botswana Police, Victor Bruno Paledi comprehensively responded to concerns raised to the Chairperson by SADC Secretariat staff during his visit to the Secretariat on 19th October, 2015.
Addressing Secretariat staff on 30th October, 2015, the NCP Botswana, Dr. Nyamadzabo said he was directed by SADC Chairperson to deliver responses on issues brought to him by Secretariat staff as were submitted to him by the Secretariat Management and report back to the Chairperson on 2nd November, 2015. He and Deputy Commissioner Paledi addressed concerns raised by Secretariat staff, such as facilitation of movement of persons; security related challenges; staff proposal to work half days on Fridays; and the security allowance.
SADC Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax thanked Dr. Nyamadzabo and Acting Commissioner of Police and other Officials from the Government of Botswana for adequately addressing concerns raised by staff. Dr. Tax also commended the Government of Botswana for the prompt response to issues raised by Staff during the visit of the Chairperson of SADC on 19 October 2015, adding that this “demonstrated the commitment of the Government of Botswana” to SADC business, including welfare of employees at the Secretariat.
The meeting between Botswana Government officials and Secretariat staff dispels misconceptions peddled in the local media recently that the Management of SADC hindered Secretariat staff from submitting their concern to the Chairperson of SADC. The Executive Secretary urged staff members at the Secretariat to recognise their obligations as Diplomats of enhancing relations with the Government and promotion of positive image of SADC.
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From Left to Right: Deputy Commissioner of the Botswana Police, Victor Bruno Paledi ; SADC National Contact Point Dr. Taufila Nyamadzabo & SADC Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax
