Internet Cafes Pivotal in Bridging Botswana's Digital Divide
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In the heart of Francistown, Botswana, a group of internet cafes are providing vital digital services to the community, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. These establishments, such as Unique Solutions and Monageng's Cafe, have become essential hubs for those who cannot afford expensive internet packages at home.
Tshepo Kelentse, the founder of Unique Solutions, expanded his business in 2021 with another location and aims to open two more within the next three years to meet the increasing demand. Kelentse, known for his willingness to help customers, often says "Duty calls!" when assisting them, particularly during peak times.
One such customer is Kefilwe, a 25-year-old unemployed marketing graduate. Despite owning a smartphone, Kefilwe can only afford a mobile data package from Orange that allows access to Facebook, TikTok, X, and WhatsApp for 60 pulas ($4.40) per month. Accessing the Chema-Chema website through the internet cafe remains Kefilwe's most affordable option due to financial constraints. Tshepo assists Kefilwe, and many others like him, with navigating online platforms pro bono.
Golebetswe, another internet cafe owner, plans to introduce a subscription service to attract recurring customers. He believes access to funding for his expansion plans, including the subscription service, would greatly help. Golebetswe also encourages businesses to utilize local internet cafes instead of traveling into town for services.
Monageng, the founder of his eponymous cafe, launched his business in 2017 with the goal of offering internet services in low-income townships. His cafe has seen an increase in foot traffic over the seven years it has been in business, attributed to the lack of affordable internet packages for low-income customers. Monageng promotes his business through word-of-mouth marketing, social media promotion, and listing on Google Maps.
In the next five years, Monageng plans to open more branches, acquire larger printers and laminating machines, and expand his product offerings. He aims to attract more enterprise and government clients to boost his business operations.
Golebetswe believes both the private and public sectors should support internet cafes to ensure continued internet access in low-income neighborhoods. He is interested in applying for Chema-Chema, a government funding programme aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs, totaling 500 million pulas ($37 million).
The name of the internet café founder who settled in 2021 in Monarch township, Francistown, with the goal of opening two more internet cafés within the next three years is not publicly available. However, the impact of these businesses on the community is undeniable, providing a vital service to those who cannot afford expensive internet packages at home.
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