14 May 2024

Resident of Kanye and its periphery have been urged to partake in Sir Seretse Khama marathon, slated for Serowe from June 28th -29th.

The first day of the event would start with Presidential lecture, ending with cultural festival where different tribes would showcase their cultural activities followed by the marathon on the second day.

Speaking during activation of the marathon on May 11 in Kanye, Deputy District Commissioner, Norman Patlakwe said it was vital for Batswana to attend the event in large numbers, to honour and celebrate the founding president of Botswana.

He said it was befitting to celebrate Sir Seretse Khama since he played a pivotal role in transforming Botswana into what it is today.

Kanye deputy district commissioner said at independence, Botswana was the third poorest country in the world as they were very few Batswana who were educated and the country had only a total of twelve kilometres of tarred road.

With his visionary leadership, he said the country managed to attract investors and eventually to developed infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, roads and many others.

He further said Sir Seretse Khama played an important role in the formation of SADC as well as in liberation of countries such as Zimbabwe.

Patlakwe said Batswana should attend the event in Serowe to also learn more about different cultures, adding that Sir Seretse Khama once said ‘a nation without a past is like a lost nation’.

For his part, the marathon’s National Coordinator, Botshelo Nthaga said Batswana should attend the event in large numbers as it was meant to honour and celebrate the founding president of Botswana.

He said Sir Seretse Khama was being honoured for his immense contribution to development of the country, such as for his efforts in ensuring that Botswana was a united, peaceful and progressive nation.

“Our founding President was recently awarded by SADC, we therefore as a united nation also have to go to Serowe in large numbers to honour him in our own way,” he added.

Nthaga said the event also promoted the fight against non-communicable diseases, hence killing two birds with one stone.

He further highlighted that winners of the marathon would be awarded by President Dr Masisi on 1st of July at the National Assembly. Ends.bopa.sef.12.05.24