01 Oct 2024

As the pomp and ceremony that accompanied the main 58th Anniversary of independence celebrations at the National Stadium on Monday enthralled the public, the nation was urged to not only reflect on past achievement, but shape a prosperous destiny.

In his Independence Day message to the nation, President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi said the meaning of Botswana Day was not only in the attainment of statehood and sovereignty, as well as the milestones realised by an independent republic, but a cause to seek a bright future for the nation.

“Fifty eight years ago, September 30 1966, Botswana emerged from the shadows of being a British protectorate where she had limited governmental power and economic prospects. As a people, we stepped into the light of self-determination and sovereignty.

Notwithstanding this beautiful story of our past, our independence celebration is also a critical moment of reflection to take stock of the journey we have travelled as a people, and reflect on our future as we move forward with nation building,” Dr Masisi said.

Noting that Botswana had risen to become a beacon of hope, political and economic stability on the African continent, President Masisi rallied the nation towards the future, noting that government had paved the way by introducing policies, projects and programmes highlighting the quest for sustainable development, inclusive growth and prosperity for all.

Held under the theme: Mindset Change; Transforming Minds, Shaping Botswana’s Destiny, this year’s independence celebration was held at a point when the country is working on practical steps towards achieving the aims of the National Vision 2036 of attaining high income status.

Independence day marked exactly a month before the October 30 general elections that will usher in the country’s 13th Parliament and government that would drive the 12th National Development Plan (NDP 12) set to commence next year and guide the country towards the realisation of the United Nations (UN) Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as the National Vision 2036.

At the National Stadium, those in attendance including President Masisi, First Lady Neo Masisi, cabinet ministers and various other dignitaries, were treated to the traditional Independence Day fare of military parade, aeroplane flypast and parachute landing, calisthenics, as well as cultural dance and music performances. Ends