In an unprecedented show of dedication, judges of the Botswana High Court have voluntarily donated 20 leave days each to help fund the development of a new High Court Division in Mahalapye. The initiative, announced by Chief Justice Ketlogetswe at a Judicial Conference in Palapye, will generate an estimated 2.1 million Pula to support the project. The new division is expected to be operational by November 2025.
The collective action underscores a deep-seated commitment among the judiciary to improve access to justice for citizens in the central region of Botswana. Instead of relying solely on government funding for the project, the judges’ sacrifice will help expedite the construction and outfitting of the new court. This move is seen as a powerful statement about the importance of judicial service and community development.
Chief Justice Ketlogetswe praised the generosity of the judges, highlighting their willingness to give up personal time for the greater good. The new Mahalapye division is expected to significantly reduce the case backlog in existing courts and make legal services more accessible to residents who currently have to travel long distances to Gaborone or Francistown for their legal matters.
The successful implementation of this project will not only create a new legal hub but also set a precedent for public service and self-reliance within government institutions. The new court will be a testament to the proactive spirit of Botswana’s judiciary, serving as a beacon of progress and efficiency.
