Segokgo, Mophuting allegedly trade places
Innocent Selatlhwa | Monday November 17, 2025 06:00
Mophuting had spent two years in the U.S following a curious deployment by the then President Mokgweetsi Masisi.
Despite impeccable sources confirming the development, authorities remain tight lipped.
Having received dozens of gifts including money from the Botswana Defence Force and its officers as a way of showing gratitude for the great leader he was referred to as, President Duma has since decided to put cherry on top by allegedly appointing Segokgo to one of the most lucrative ambassadorial positions.
In a media statement announcing his departure, BDF’s Directorate of Protocol and Public Affairs, Lieutenant Colonel Fana Maswabi, hailed Lt Gen Segokgo’s “outstanding leadership and strategic vision,” crediting him for enhancing the operational readiness and capabilities of the BDF.
“The BDF extends its heartfelt gratitude for his dedicated service to the Republic of Botswana. Throughout his tenure, the opportunities he created have significantly enhanced the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Force,” said Maswabi.
He said Segokgo’s visionary leadership fostered innovation and success across numerous BDF strategic initiatives. Before assuming command, Segokgo held several key strategic positions, including Deputy Commander, Air Arm Commander, Director of Air Operations, and Flight Commander.
Regionally, he served as chairperson of the SADC Defence Sub-Committee, where he was instrumental in addressing complex security challenges across Southern Africa. On the national front, he has chaired the steering committee for the national security strategy and served as deputy chairperson of the National Coordinating Committee on Financial Intelligence.
“His extensive experience, strategic acumen and unwavering commitment to excellence make him an invaluable leader in shaping Botswana’s security policy landscape,” Maswabi added.
The BDF expressed profound appreciation for Segokgo’s years of service, describing him as a visionary leader whose example will continue to inspire generations of soldiers.
“As we move forward, his example will serve as a beacon guiding the BDF towards greater accomplishments. The entire BDF community wishes him a retirement filled with well-deserved relaxation, robust health, and success in all future endeavours,” Maswabi said.
To mark the appreciation for his service, a series of events were held by the BDF to bid Segokgo farewell.
Segokgo was the sixth Botswana Defence Force (BDF) commander who took over from retired Lt General Gaolathe Galebotswe. Other retired army commanders include Tebogo Masire, Matshwenyego Fisher, Ian Khama, and the pioneering late Mompati Merafhe.
He is the only Commander of the Defence Force (CDF) to have served under three Presidents, having been appointed in 2016 by former President Ian Khama, continued through Mokgweetsi Masisi’s administration, and completing his tenure under current President Advocate Duma Boko.
Just recently, President Boko appointed new ambassadors to foreign mission including Justice Zein Kebonang who has been appointed Ambassodor to the European Union and the Kingdom of Belgium, Dr Lekoko Kenosi to China, Professor Boga Manatshe to Japan, Professor Thuto Mahlanza to Australia, Phillip Khwae to Namibia and Kutlo Chelenyane who has been appointed Consul General of Botswana in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Contacted for a comment on the development, Permanent Secretary to the President Emmah Peloetletse said she was not aware of the development.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Phenyo Butale said it was not true that Segokgo would be going to the U.S.