04 Apr 2016

Multitudes among them the Permanent Secretary to the President, Mr Carter Morupisi on Sunday April 3 bid adieu to Mr Ernest Segokotlo of Moshupa.

The former Botswana Television (Btv) technical superintendent perished in a road accident on March 25 near Sejelo Police Station in Kanye.

Many speakers described him as a kind, loving and selfless man whose life impacted positively on those around him.

The director of the Department of Broadcasting Services, Mr Lesole Obonye described Mr Segokotlo as a deft engineer who humbly executed his responsibilities.  

He said the deceased was without a match in the area of live broadcasts.

Although they both joined Radio Botswana at about the same age and rank,  Mr Lesole said  the late engineer remained humble and willingly took directions from him until his untimely death. 

He described his death as a loss to family, friends and the nation at large.

A former colleague and friend of 31 years, Mr Mogatusi Kwapa, highlighted that the late engineer was a results oriented hardworker who discharged his duties creditably. 

He said Mr Segokotlo was also a passionate livestock farmer.

His uncle, Mr Abram Mosekiemang described Mr Segokotlo as a tower of strength for his family. He said life would never be the same without him.

Marea Marea, as he was affectionately called in football circle, was also described as a man of firsts. 

He was among the first crop of engineers who pioneered Btv engineering operations in 1999.

He was also a founding player of Kgabosetso Southern Callies Football Club (KSCFC) of Moshupa and Uniao Flamingo Desportos respectively.

Desportos owner, Mr Sexton Kowa in his eulogy said Marea Marea was an extraordinarily talented footballer at the prime of his youth which earned him names such as ‘Computer in motion,’ adding he was a precious gift and blessing.

A representative of KSCFC Mr Kealeboga Kesenye and former teammate also reiterated that Marea Marea was an exceptionally gifted player. 

He confirmed that the deceased was a founding player of KSCFC breaking away from Mathaithai Football Club in 1978.

After hanging his soccer boots, he said the deceased stood behind the team as manager and sponsor.

Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church elder, Mr Ephraim Maboane stressed that blessed were those who carried to the grave. 

He said the Christ Mr Segokotlo carried inside of him would make him triumph over death.

Pastor Adrian Mpofu equated death to a business driven by the devil,but warned that a time would come when the enemy would get liquidated by Christ.

Meanwhile, Kgosi Oscar Mosielele of Moshupa said the late technocrat’s life had touched many and advised the family to keep his spirit alive.

He also advised Moshupa residents to observe time during funeral services to avoid keeping mourners far too long.

Mr Segokotlo started his engineering journey through a Pre-Entry Science Course (PESC) at the University of Botswana, and studied in countries such as Canada, South Africa, Swaziland and Germany among others. 

He leaves behind his wife, two children, both parents and three siblings.

Vice President Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi could not attend the funeral due to other official commitments, but sent a message of condolence. Ends