07 Apr 2024

Kgosi Bokamoso Radipitse of Tonota says the tragedy of the members of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) will not easily be forgotten, and will be remembered by many for decades to come.

Speaking at the nationwide memorial service of the 45 ZCC members who perished at the Mamatlakala Bridge in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, on the Easter holidays eve, Kgosi Radipitse said such a tragic loss of life is not easily erased from the memories of those who knew and loved the victims.

Tonota residents, along with other communities across Botswana, came together to commemorate the lives lost in a fatal road traffic accident.

Kgosi Radipitse called on the community to draw strength from one another in the face of this tragedy, and to hold on to the memories of those who died, adding that the tragic event has deeply affected the nation.

The service was a time to reflect on the lives that were cut short, and to remember the loved ones who were taken from this world too soon.

He also said the loss of 45 lives in one accident is a heavy blow to a country like Botswana, where the population is relatively small.

He noted that the impact of such a loss would be felt throughout the country, as many families and communities would be affected.

He emphasised the need for the nation to come together in support of those who are grieving. Despite the magnitude of the loss, Kgosi Radipitse encouraged the community not to lose hope.

He emphasised that the deceased were people of faith, and should be remembered with celebration and gratitude for their lives.

He urged the mourners to take comfort in their faith, and to remember the departed with love and compassion.

Kgosi Radipitse said the loss of 45 lives in a single accident is a devastating blow to the country.

“The country’s population of just over two million makes the loss of so many lives a significant tragedy, with a major impact on many families and communities,” he said.

The traditional leader noted that the grief felt by the country is compounded by the fact that the country continues to lose many lives through road crashes.

Pastor Obusitse Sekwena of St. John Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Tonota, preached that knowledge and faith are both powerful forces, and that the two should go hand in hand.

He explained that knowledge provides a foundation for understanding and enlightenment, but that faith is essential for finding strength and hope in the face of adversity.

He urged Batswana to cultivate both knowledge and faith, and to use them to guide their lives. ENDS