24 Apr 2016

President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama and his vice, Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi, were among dignitaries who graced the 39th Botswana Defence Force (BDF) mess night at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks in Mogoditshane.

The BDF Commander, Lt Gen. Gaolathe Galebotswe, said the army was committed to safe guarding people’s lives and territory of the country in partnership with other law enforcement agencies.

However, he said the BDF was disturbed by rising incidents of terrorism that had taken centre stage around the world.

He therefore said countries should unite and fight this development that had forced some civilians to flee to other countries especially in Europe.

Gen. Galebotswe nevertheless noted that the influx of migrants to Europe was exacerbated by economic recession, which had hit most countries. However, he noted, migrants at times faced the problem of xenophobia.

He, however, appealed to governments to collaboratively and actively fight the painful problem posed by terrorism as it had the potential to affect all countries and disturb human live and peace.

He said bombing of cities and major places in Europe should come to an end as countries should unite and counteract this disturbing act.

On other things, Lt Gen. Galebotswe challenged countries to form a strong partnership in the fight against poaching of wild animals especially rhinos and the African elephants, which provided a lucrative market in the far east.

He decried the declining numbers of rhinos in the region but did not hesitate to state that Botswana would try by all means to protect its wildlife.

He nevertheless implored SADC region to work closely to combat this problem, noting that some countries in the region were used as conduit to smuggler out the trophy.

Meanwhile, the general said the BDF and the government would continue to improve the living and working conditions of the service men and women as they were doing a national assignment that could not be over emphasised. He therefore pleaded with his staff to remain resolute and patient as conditions of service continue to be improved.

On other issues Gen. Galebotswe said since the BDF did not celebrate this year’s BDF Day because of the ongoing renovations at the National Stadium in Gaborone, it will do so next year when it celebrates its 40th anniversary, which will be an event not to miss as there would be much fun and enjoyment not to be missed. ENDS