American philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates have partnered with Botswana's ministry of youth, sport and culture to provide free internet access through national libraries.

The service, to be rolled out through the National library Services department, is available in libraries across 13 towns and villages including the capital Gaborone.

The areas include Ghanzi, Thamaga, Lobatse, Kanye, Moshupa, Gaborone, Shoshong, Mochudi, Mahalapye, Palapye, Selibe Phikwe, Molalatau, Ramokgonami.

Dubbed Sesigo, Botswana's e-public libraries signifies government's efforts to enable public access to computers and internet by all citizens.

The four-year programme aims to bridge the digital divide through free public internet and free training on how to get started with computers.

After four years Sesigo will be transitioned to become part of the service line of Botswana National Services department.

Meanwhile users have offered testimonials lauding the project as a game changer.

"I use the computers at the library to type my homework and to research on any topic which I need more information. The internet has made this easier for me as it has a lot of resources of information," said Joshua Kashiwa a student in Palapye.

"I had never used a computer in my life, through the library I learnt to use it, open a facebook account and e-mail account. I can now keep in touch with my friends, and type my work," said Osego Seokomelo, a library patron in Palapye.

Motlagomang Morwe library cleaner in Lobatse said: "I learnt to skype and manage to connect with my niece in the United States of America, I can see them on the computer and they can also see me."