Khama appeals for Botho
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Friday October 2, 2015 14:06
When launching the roving torch during independence celebrations held at the National Stadium on Wednesday, Khama pleaded with Batswana to continue on being guided by spirit of Botho and to embrace the spirit of togetherness.
“We cannot do anything or move the country forward if we are divided. The spirit of Botho should always be there amongst us as Batswana. We are where we are because of it. Let’s work hard for our country at all times and I urge the youth also to work hard,” Khama said.
The President also launched the ‘Botswana 50’ roving torch that will travel around the country for a year. The Independence Day were characterised by the narration of the country’s 49 year journey to where it is today. The event was also a launch of the countdown to Botswana’s golden jubilee celebrations.
The events began in the morning with arrival of dignitaries, which included president Ian Khama, head of foreign missions, cabinet ministers, Speaker of Parliament, and Commander of the Botswana Defence Force, Commissioners of Police and Prisons.
President Khama inspected the BDF parade before bestowing honours and awards to a number of citizens who were recognised for their dedicated service to the country.
Some of the notable recipients were former Minister of Health, Gaotlhaetse Matlhabaphiri, High Court of Appeal president Justice Ian Kirby, Kgosi Mmirwa Malema, Botswana Congress Party (BCP) activist James Olesitse veteran radio personality Justice Gaolekwe and Wilderness Safaris amongst others.
At the East Stand popularly known as Panda, the students from various schools presented various montages that told the progress made by Botswana in various sectors including, agriculture, mining and tourism.
Various government departments together with the BDF, the Police, and Prisons paraded some of their services during the float procession.
In the afternoon Zebras failed to keep up the pride celebrations by losing 2 – 3 against the Ethiopian national team.