Restoring hope: Bona Life stands with GBV victims

Staff Writer | Wednesday April 23, 2025 14:29

This significant contribution will bolster the centre’s critical operations like providing safe transportation for victims in crisis, and easing administrative burdens to ensure survivors receive timely, life-changing support.

As Botswana grapples with a troubling rise in GBV cases, Bona Life’s donation arrives as a beacon of hope, addressing urgent needs whilst reinforcing the company’s mission to serve and uplift communities.

The initiative is more than a financial gesture – it is a heartfelt commitment to restoring dignity, protecting lives, and fostering a safer, more resilient nation.

The donation targets two key areas of the GBV Centre’s operations: transportation and administration. For survivors of gender-based violence, access to safe and reliable transport can be a matter of life and death.

Bona Life’s contribution ensures that victims can reach critical services – such as counselling, medical care, and safe shelters – without delay. By alleviating transport barriers, the company is helping to bridge a critical gap in emergency response.

Additionally, the donation will streamline the centre’s day-to-day administrative functions, allowing staff to focus on delivering essential services.

From providing trauma counselling to facilitating reintegration into society, the centre’s professionals will be better equipped to support survivors on their journey to healing.

“This donation isn't just about resources; it’s about standing shoulder-to-shoulder with survivors and the tireless advocates at the GBV Centre,” Bona Life CEO, Phatsimo Keakabetse said.

“We believe that every life saved today is a step toward a brighter, safer tomorrow for Botswana.”

Bona Life Insurance, which was founded in 2013 and the country’s first indigenous, citizen-owned life insurance company, has over the year’s built its reputation as a proudly Motswana brand, owned by Batswana and dedicated to serving the unique needs of its people.

As the country’s first broad-based life insurance provider it offer a wide range of tailored solutions. These include Funeral Cover, Pensions, Employee Benefits, and Annuities – that resonate with Botswana’s cultural values, religious beliefs, and economic realities. From formal employees to informal sector workers, Bona Life’s client-centric approach ensures accessibility and relevance for all.

“Our purpose has always been to serve. This donation reflects our unwavering commitment to addressing the real challenges facing our communities, particularly the scourge of gender-based violence that affects men, women, and children alike,' Bona Life’s chief finance officer, Christopher Ntabu, added.

Bona Life’s contribution comes at a pivotal moment, as national efforts to combat gender-based violence intensify. By partnering with the GBV Centre, the company isn't only addressing immediate needs but also laying the foundation for long-term change.

This initiative aligns with Bona Life’s broader vision of creating social impact through financial wellness, empowering individuals and communities to thrive despite adversity.

The donation also serves as a rallying cry for other corporate citizens, government bodies, and civil society to join forces in the fight against GBV.

“Ending gender-based violence requires unity and action,” Ntabu said. “We are proud to lead by example and invite others to join us in building a Botswana where every individual can live free from fear.”

Beyond the donation, Bona Life remains committed to forging sustainable partnerships with organisations dedicated to human dignity and safety. By integrating social responsibility into its core operations, the company is helping to weave a national fabric rooted in empathy, resilience, and hope.

As Botswana’s first indigenous life insurance provider, Bona Life continues to innovate, offering solutions that are practical, culturally relevant, and globally competitive.

From supporting underprivileged communities to addressing pressing social issues, the company is proving that business can be a force for good.