Proudly Motswana

Using her personal experiences as a young Motswana of Greek and Argentinian origin, journalism trainee MELINDA ALVAREZ, explores the changing concept of Botswana nationality

When I meet people, they usually think that I'm from South Africa. The reaction I get when I tell people that I'm a Motswana born and bred in Botswana tends to be of shocked surprise and disbelief occasionally followed by a tentative interrogation, especially when they learn that my mother and her siblings were also born in Botswana.

 This is something I have grown accustomed to and I often enjoy these conversations. The most interesting topics that have come up have been what it is that makes a true Motswana, the modern perception of nationality and its relevance. Yet, as a matter of fact, Botswana is the only home I have ever known and I can't imagine myself living anywhere else.
 I was born in Francistown. When I was two-years-old, we moved to a beautiful area of bush in Notwane where I spent my childhood in harmony with a variety of wildlife. Those were the good old days when one hundred Pula was considered a lot of money, as much as one thousand Pula is today.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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