10 Nov 2014

The British High Commissioner to Botswana Mr Nick Pyle says the second Sunday of November has been set aside for all to remember those who gave their lives to the peace and freedoms that the world so often take for-granted.

Speaking at the World War II veterans’ Remembrance Day, Mr Pyle said on this day people across the world pause to reflect on the sacrifices made by selfless men and women.

He said this national service of remembrance was originally conceived as a commemoration to all those who suffered and died in the conflict of the service of their countries and noted that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I.

Mr Pyle said as the world reflects today on the sacrifices made by many, the world needs to remember its responsibility to educate its future generation of the sacrifices made by the forefathers.

He noted that part of that education should be national service of remembrance adding that it is vital that the world of today learns from the mistakes of the past, as well as learn to live together as brothers or parish together as fools.

Major General Odirile Mashinyana said our forefathers knew that what happened thousands of miles away affected the rest of the world; thus Botswana has recognized that the world is a global village as testified by her contribution to both world wars and subsequent conflicts.

“It is for this reason that we have to appreciate the efforts of the British High Commission to have started this event so that we do not forget the tragedies of war and make sure that peace is promoted around the world through events like this one,” he said.

To the veterans, he said their contribution and participation led to the end of the war hence the world celebrates their participation as it brought the war to a total halt.

The army chief said the world would always draw inspirations to their selfless contribution to the cause of peace and recognise their sacrifices and those of the fallen heroes.

Member of Parliament for Gaborone Central Mr Phenyo Butale said World War veterans have to be protected as they provide guidance to the whole community and the world at large.

Mr Butale said more platforms of this nature have to be provided and engaged with veterans to find solutions to challenges we have today.

“If we make use of the wisdom and experiences they have, not only in the battle field but their lived experiences as our elders then will we be a better country; hence build a better world for everyone.” ENDS