21 Sep 2014

President Lt. Ian Khama Seretse Khama has promised residents of  Oodi a bountiful Christmas this year in an effort to revive an old tradition of giving which was formerly practiced by Lady Ruth Khama to the residents on an annual basis.

Speaking during an evening event in which the President hosted the elderly and the less fortunate in Oodi, President Khama said he will include the residents to be amongst recipients of his annual Christmas donations.  

Earlier, Kgosi Rapula Rantabe of Oodi village had remarked that the President’s frequent visits to the village are not a coincidence since his late mother used to visit them during Christmas and handed out Christmas gifts demonstrating appreciation to the community since they were neighbours.

President Khama reiterated that he uses the time he spends with the elderly to remind Batswana that they should take care of the elderly as it is cultural and common practice to do so. He urged Batswana to pride themselves with Botho as it is what makes them unique.

He added that God has engraved this cultural value deep in their hearts and therefore setting them apart from other nations hence it is important to cherish their identity.

President Khama further said he recognizes the role that the elderly have played in the development of this country and he is thankful. Henceforth, he said government will continue to improve programs aimed at caring for the elderly.

President Khama donated fifty blankets, lamps that use solar energy and bibles.  He explained that he donates bibles to encourage people to be closer to God.

For his part Kgosi Rantabe requested government to replace the current pit latrine toilets at Oodi Primary school and replace them with water system toilets. He also told the president that his village has expanded therefore they need traffic lights at the Mmamashia cross junction as well as street lights in the village to curb crime.

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Mr Peter Siele praised President Khama  for finding time to spend  with the elderly.  He said by doing so the President is acting in line with the United Nations regulations of taking care of the elderly.

The President and his entourage which included some cabinet Ministers later hosted a soup kitchen to the elderly and the less fortunate. ENDS