2024: The year Khama came home, went to the Kgotla

After almost three years in exile, Khama returned to a country eager to see him, particularly in his home village of Serowe. One of his first orders of business is likely to continue a tradition he has long enjoyed: presenting gifts to children on Christmas.

However, his return is not only significant because of this personal gesture. It marks a historic moment in Botswana’s tribal and political history. Khama’s comeback also involves his assumption of the role of Bagammangwato Kgosikgolo (tribal chief), ending nearly a century of regency over the tribe’s chieftaincy. Khama’s departure from Botswana in 2021 was triggered by tensions with the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) over the handling of his weapons. He had been in a standoff with the government regarding how his firearms should be handed over to the authorities.