27 Jul 2015

The Vice President, Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi, has conveyed his condolences to the families of miners who died after the collapse of one of the shafts at the BCL Mine.

Mr Masisi regretted this tragedy when he was speaking at the pre-Selebi Phikwe National Marathon dinner in Selebi Phikwe on Friday (July 24).

He said the accident that claimed the three lives was unfortunate. He said the accident did not only affect the families of the deceased persons, but also the BCL Mine management and the rest of the employees.

He implored the BCL management and families of the victims to be strong during this challenging time.

The Vice President stated that President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama had also sent condolences on behalf of the nation to the affected families.

Regarding the marathon, Mr Masisi commended the local organising committee for mobilising resources for the marathon to take place. He also pledged to assist the committee by mobilising more guests to play a role in next year’s event.

He pledged to raise P100 000 for preparation of the 2016 marathon. He also thanked the ambassador of the United States for his presence, adding that Botswana’s relationship with America started long ago even before the country attained independent in 1966.

He also stated that Selebi Phikwe and Voice of America, a broadcasting network, which had been here for decades, was an inherent part of Selebi Phikwe.

Ambassador Earl Miller of US sent his condolences to the victims of  the mine incident. Regarding the Selebi Phikwe marathon, he stated that sport played an important role in people’s health and lives.

He also noted that the President of the United States, Mr Barack Obama, said sport fostered a competitive drive to help people to stay healthy.

Mr Miller said sport also taught valuable life skills, such as teamwork leadership, problem solving, self-esteem and value of hard work.

Meanwhile, the mayor of Selebi Phikwe, Mr Amogelang Mojuta thanked Mr Masisi and Ambassador Miller for attending the marathon.

He explained that the local organising committee experienced challenges, however, they managed to make sure the event took place. He also thanked BCL Mine for being the back bone of the event when times were hard with no sponsors and low finance to assist with preparations of the marathon.

The chairman of Selebi Phikwe marathon organising committee, Mr Kennedy Dudzayi, explained that the marathon was initiated in 1985. He said the sport helped to market and brand the town. Ends