MmaTshiping: A giant has fallen
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Friday May 8, 2026 19:38
At the age of 81, her passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in local governance, one defined by resilience, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to public service. She will be laid to rest this Saturday in her home village of Moshupa, where family, friends, colleagues, and admirers are expected to gather in large numbers to honour her life and legacy.
Notably, MmaTshiping’s political journey was nothing short of remarkable. Having served as a councillor for an impressive 30 years (spanning six terms), she holds the distinction of being one of the longest-serving local government representatives in the country's history.
In an interview with Mmegi in the year 2023, Tshiping had said when talking about her political journey: “ I have served for a long time in the party central committee, and I am still a member of the party disciplinary committee. Politics defined my success in life, and I managed to achieve a lot through it, having been a councillor since 1994 to date'. At the time, she was a nominated councillor in Moshupa. “I have contested for elections, both Bulela Ditswe and general elections, and I won.”
“I was born a hard worker, and I knew what I wanted when joining politics. Becoming an active politician is not as easy as many may think, as it requires support, focus and dedication. If one loses a step, then she is gone.”
She said as a woman, she never got derailed by what some people said or got tempted to fall in love with male politicians, especially when you are eyeing elections or any political office.
She had said that she once lost the Bulela Ditswe primaries in 2003, was nominated in 2004, and was not discouraged from continuing to work for the party. 'I love politics and advocating for people, especially my constituents in Moshupa. “If there is something that I enjoy the most is the campaigns. I don’t mind going to Boteti or Serowe to do that for my party,” Tshiping had said.
With her love for the party, she said the three Presidents she served under and party members also supported her in continuing to serve the party until today.
Despite her age, Tshiping said she is still active in the party and believes she will campaign for those contesting the 2024 General Election. She said politics has opened so many doors for her, and her humility has helped a lot. She, however, pleaded with women to stop despising themselves, as they are capable just like their male counterparts.
Her area Member of Parliament, Karabo Gare, said Mma Tshiping was a trailblazer. “Her works speak volumes; it wasn’t by accident that she served in the BDP central commitee and a councillor for a long time. I did not look at Mma Tshiping as a regular democrat or a regular politician, she was a mother who relentlessly taught us the true meaning of service,' Gare said in an interview on Tuesday this week. He said the deceased was a true leader and had taught them what leadership is, not just about power, but service to those who represent the party.
The BDP executive secretary, Ame Makoba, said Tshiping's tenure was not merely about longevity, but rather it was characterised by consistent performance, a tireless work ethic, and a passion for uplifting her community. Throughout her decades in office, he said remained a constant and reliable presence, navigating the evolving political landscape with grace and determination.
Moreover, her service spanned three presidential administrations: Festus Mogae, Ian Khama, and Mokgweetsi Masisi.
This alone speaks volumes about her adaptability and relevance in Botswana’s political sphere. While leadership at the top changed over the years, MmaTshiping remained steadfast on the ground, continuing to serve her constituents with the same energy and dedication that first propelled her into public office. However, the chairperson of the BDP Women’s League, Veronica Lesole, said in an interview that MmaTshiping will be missed dearly in the BDP.
“There is no doubt, she was a hard worker and served in different party structures. She was a straight talker. No one will change her when she believes in something. She respected her area MPs and party presidents.”
Furthermore, MmaTshiping played a significant role within the BDP’s internal structures. She served in the party’s Central Committee, as well as in various lower structures, where she worked tirelessly to strengthen the party from the ground up. Whether addressing community concerns, attending meetings, or mobilising support for party initiatives, MmaTshiping approached every task with seriousness and purpose. Her leadership style was rooted in service rather than status, a quality that endeared her to many.
As preparations for her burial continue, tributes have begun pouring in from across the political spectrum. Many have acknowledged not only her years of service but also the impact she had on shaping local governance in Botswana. For younger politicians, particularly women, her life serves as a powerful reminder that dedication, resilience, and hard work can carve a lasting legacy.
Ultimately, MmaTshiping’s passing is more than just the loss of a veteran politician; it is the loss of a symbol of perseverance and commitment.