The words of American Army General Douglas MacArthur, ‘An old soldier never dies, he just fades away’, resonate deeply as Botswana bade farewell to Kenneth Nkhwa, a celebrated war veteran and influential politician. Mr Nkhwa was laid to rest in his home village of Gulubane on Saturday, with dignitaries and cabinet ministers in attendance. 

Mr Nkhwa, the last surviving member of Botswana’s inaugural Parliament of 1965, passed away on December 9 due to a heart attack following a prolonged illness. His death marks the closure of a significant chapter in the country’s history. 

Reflecting on her father’s life, daughter Taboka Nkhwa recalled his indomitable spirit, even in the face of illness.

“He never gave up, just like a soldier on the battlefield,” she stated, underscoring the resilience that defined his character and his lifelong commitment to his country.

In messages of condolences, President Advocate Duma Boko and former President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi extended heartfelt condolences to Nkhwa’s family. President Boko praised him as an accomplished political leader and true statesman, whose ideals and achievements earned him profound respect.

“He was a force of nature forged in the fires of World War II and the turbulent early years of Botswana’s independence,” said President Boko. 

“Rising from the small village of Gulubane, he became a champion for human rights and justice, witnessing firsthand the transition from British colonial rule to a fledgling republic."

Mr Nkhwa played a pivotal role in shaping Botswana’s early democracy, embodying the struggle for self-determination. His legacy extends beyond parliamentary records; it is woven into the very fabric of the nation’s identity and progress.

Dr Masisi remarked on the broader impact of Nkhwa’s life, stating, “He did not only serve his family, relatives, and friends but dedicated a significant part of his life to the service of our nation.  As one of the founding fathers of Botswana’s democracy, Mr Nkhwa was an exemplary leader who tirelessly advocated for the rights of his people, particularly in the North East region," Dr Masisi said.

Botswana People’s Party leader, Mr Motlatsi Molapisi remembered Mr Nkhwa as a leader who always prioritised the interests of his constituents.

“He was one of the first politicians to fight for land rights in the North East District. It is fitting that he passed just as Tati Company returned land taken during the colonial era,” Mr Molapisi said.

Justice John Mosojane, a retired judge and family friend, emphasised Mr Nkhwa’s contributions as a politician and his unwavering demand for justice and human rights.

“He fought against the violation of human rights, which he deemed an insult to the Kalanga people,” he stated.

Born in December 1927 in Gulubane, Mr Nkhwa completed his primary education at what is now Nyangabwe Primary School before attending Tiger Kloof Secondary in Vryburg, South Africa. He enlisted in the British Colonial Forces during World War II and rose to the rank of Corporal, an experience that fueled his passion for justice and equality.

Mr Nkhwa’s political career began amidst the struggles of apartheid and the injustices faced by his people in the Bechuanaland Protectorate.

He joined the Pan African Congress, advocating for land rights and equitable wealth distribution. In 1965, he emerged victorious in Botswana’s first elections as the Member of Parliament for the North East Constituency, serving until 1989.

He played a key role in many significant legislative efforts, including the establishment of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF). His contributions earned him several national awards, including the Presidential Order of Meritorious Service in 1980 from Sir Ketumile Masire and the Presidential Order of Honour in 2002 from Dr Festus Mogae.

Mr Nkhwa is remembered not only for his political achievements but also for his deep commitment to his family and community. 

Survived by his wife, Grace Nkhwa, he leaves behind children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who honour his legacy of service and dedication. The Francistown Interchange Road is named in his honor, ensuring that his contributions to Botswana will be remembered for generations to come. ENDS