29 Dec 2015

President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama has wished Batswana safe and pleasant festive season.

In his Christmas and New Year message, he said, “for most of us, this is a day of faith shared with friends and family as we once more celebrate God’s greatest gift to humankind, His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ”.

In keeping with the saviour’s teachings, he said, it was important to be cognisant of the need to show goodwill to one another.

“In this respect, let me once more take this opportunity to thank all of those who extended a hand of support to the less privileged among us in this season of love and giving, let us recommit ourselves to such gestures,” he said.

President Khama said the nation should pray for greater peace and prosperity in the coming year as well as more rain during this festive season, adding that he was aware of the suffering that some people had endured over the past year due to various natural and man-made tragedies. 

Of special concern, he said, was the upsurge in lethal instances of terrorism on the continent and beyond, which were a reminder of the need for all to remain vigilant against those who might wish to disturb tranquility.

President Khama said, along with others in the region and around the world, they were also mindful of the challenges they now faced in dealing with the effects of climate change that defied simple or immediate solutions.

He said in this respect, it was anticipated that the provision of water would remain a challenge in the coming year, hence this would call for more robust conservation strategies on the nation. 

He said as many took break from their routines to find comfort and draw strength in the company of family and friends, they must always remember and give thanks to those who would remain on duty for their benefit by securing safety and sustenance.

During this season, he said people should also be mindful that there were a few who might  try to take advantage of the absence of others to engage in crimes, adding that it was of paramount importance to keep a watch out for their neighbours, as well as themselves, while supporting the police service in its enhanced efforts.

“While enjoying the holidays, let us further look out for our own best interests as well as the well-being of others by avoiding all forms of risky behaviour. This includes refraining from substance abuse and the overindulgence of alcohol, while exercising extra caution when driving,” he said.

President Khama further urged the nation to also find time to reflect upon successes and failures over the past months so as to draw lessons for building a brighter future in the coming year.

As we prepare to enter our 50th year, 2016 as a nation, he said it was important for the nation to further appreciate the fact that realising a better Botswana was not something that could be bestowed upon some, but everyone should accept their individual responsibility for the well-being of themselves and fellow citizens.

“As I said in my State of the Nation address last month, we only have one country. We can only achieve our full potential if we put the national interest above our individual interest. This will require us in the coming year to become more productive by working together in reaching our common goal,”he said 

President Khama further said over the past 49 years the nation had to overcome many challenges, but with renewed faith in each other, Batswana shall, as well as the Lord who makes all things possible, continue to build on the proud legacy of fore bearers during the coming year. Ends