23 Apr 2025

President Advocate Duma Boko  has recognised exemplary service and achievements of over 500 deserving current and former Botswana Defence Force (BDF) members during the 48^th Award of Medals Parade ceremony, held at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks (SSKB) yesterday. 

President Boko who is also Commander in Chief of BDF was joined by the BDF Commander Lt. Gen. Placid Segokgo to present the Duty Code Order (DCO) Medal, the Pearl Jubilee Medal (PJM), and the Foreign Service Medal (FSM) to senior officers who demonstrated outstanding commitment to their duties. 

DCO medal recognises dedication and professionalism of administration and technical staff members within the BDF. 

PJM bestowed upon BDF members who dedicated 30 years of exemplary service to the force; commemorates their long-term commitment to the defence of Botswana. 

Meanwhile, the FSM honours contributions of BDF personnel who served abroad, either on operational deployments or during foreign assignments, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability in diverse environments. 

During the ceremony Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa responsible for defence, along with Deputy Commander, BDF, Major General Joseph Seelo, awarded the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) and FSM to Commissioned Officers and Warrant Officers for their distinguished service and contributions to foreign missions. 

Minister for International Relations, Mr Phenyo Butale accompanied by Director General Support Services Maj. Gen. Molefi Seikano, conferred the Pearl Jubilee Medals upon non-commissioned officers, honouring their longstanding dedication and service to the BDF. Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Mr Nelson Ramaotwana, accompanied by Commander, Ground Forces Command Maj Gen Simon Barwabatsile, awarded Long Service Order (LSO) Medals to BDF members in the “Other Ranks” category who displayed commendable conduct for a minimum of 15 years of service. Assistant Minister for State President Ms Maipelo Mophuting, assisted by Commander, Defence Logistic Command Brigadier Thomas Masunga, bestowed the FSM upon Non-Commissioned Officers; recognising their commitment and contributions to foreign missions. 

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, Security and Justice Dr Unity Dow, along with Brigadier Benjamin Masunga, honoured officers with LSO medal for their significant service to the BDF. In an interview, Major Bangu Kaisara, a recipient of FSM shared that as a psychosocial support professional, she was part of the Mozambique peacekeeping mission from October 2023 to June 2024. “The well-being of the soldiers was my primary focus,” Major Kaisara explained. 

“I am glad that my efforts contributed to their mental stability during our mission. It’s an honour to be recognised for my service, and I take pride in having served my country and brought peace to another,” she said. Meanwhile, Colonel Mosikare Maphane, a recipient of the DCO award, expressed gratitude for the recognition he received. “This award is a testament to my dedication, diligence, and selfless service. 

My family’s unwavering support has been invaluable.  They deserve equal credit for creating an environment that enabled me to focus on my duties and excel in my service,” he said. ENDS