02 Oct 2024

Scores of Selebi Phikwe residents, among them the town leadership, thronged the Botshabelo kgotla to join the nation in the celebrations of the country’s 58 years of independence.

Clad in blue, black and white regalia, the residents did not only enjoy the festivities of the day but also took the opportunity to reflect on where they were coming from, where they were now and the way forward.

“Let us take this time to celebrate the great milestones we have achieved as a nation,” said Kgosi Ishmael Legwaila of Botshabelo.

He said the unity, freedom and peace enjoyed was because of the foundation laid down by the forefathers of this nation through sacrifices and hard work, making Botswana a shining example of democracy and politically stable country.

Kgosi Legwaila also emphasised on the protection of the rich culture of Batswana, saying the country’s journey of growth was made possible by cultural values that Batswana applied in everything they do.

Kgosi Legwaila also appealed to Selebi Phikwe community to participate in the coming general elections by exercising their voting rights to vote for the party of their choice.

He said if Batswana wanted to continue enjoying peace and tranquility they must respect each other and ensure that they did not violate anybody’s right to vote.

For his part, a community elder, Mr Molathegi Kegope, urged Batswana to continue praying for peace, prosperity as well as their leaders.

He said Botswana was able to rise from the least developed country status to a middle-income economy because of the guidance that the nation sought from God through prayers.

“Do not cease to pray, only God’s power can bring peace,” he said.

A representative from the 1966 group, Ms Kabowa Keloisitswe, informed the community about the importance of wearing Botswana colours on Independence Day.

She informed the community about what the colours of the flag symbolised and why it should be held high with pride.

Ms Keloisitswe further explained that Batswana were one people in spite of their race or colour, urging all to avoid anything that would incite racial divisions within the community.

“Wear Botswana national colours with pride,” she urged the audience. ENDS.