13 Sep 2016

India has contributed to Botswana's development, the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Mr Edwin Batshu has sad.

“We have enjoyed a lot of support from the Indian teachers who were kind enough to come all the way to Botswana and assist us in the delivery of education, particularly in Science and Mathematics subjects,” he said.

Delivering a statement at the two nations’ joint independence anniversaries celebration organised by Indian community on Sunday (September 11), Mr Batshu said the two nations’ relationship “goes back to the time Botswana got independence and has ranged from bilateral treaties in defence, education, health and trade”.

He congratulated the Indian community for displaying their love and respect to the country by celebrating their independence with Batswana, through an event that began with a walk and a motorbike parade.

“It is enough indication that you are part of this nation, to the extent that when the call was made by President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama to unite in remembering the path we have come as a country, you appreciated your role and came to the party. We appreciate that very much,” he added.

The joint independence celebration that marked Botswana's 50 years of independence and India’s 70 years of independence was commemorated through music and dance performances by Batswana and Indian artists.

Botswana's 50 years of independence and India’s 70 years of independence, Mr Batshu said were land mark events whose celebrations should reflect on the two nations’ prosperity.

For his part, Indian High Commissioner, Dr Ketan Shukla expressed gratitude for being in Botswana as during 50 years celebration of Botswana's independence.

“Botswana is like a diamond in Africa, because it is one of the few countries with a stable and dynamic democracy in Africa,” he said.

Dr Shukla said he had only been in Botswana for only six months and was impressed by the country’s infrastructure, such as roads, railway, telecommunications, schools and hospitals, as well as Batswana's friendliness and hardworking spirit.

He said the Indian community was lucky to be in Botswana, adding that Botswana and India shared cordial and strong diplomatic relations.

In his remarks, India Association of Botswana president, Mr Rajat Dhuria, said Botswana was blessed by an abundance of natural resources.

“By natural resources I mean the wonderful and warm people of Botswana who have welcomed us with open arms. I'm sure this small token of love from Batswana, the Indians have also given it to them,” he said.

In his vote of thanks, Indian Community of Botswana member, Mr Rajamani Baskar, said they spent about a month to make the event possible and it was highly supported by various religious and cultural Indian Associations. 

Meanwhile, Indian Community of Botswana donated P5 000 to six charity organisations.  Two others received P10 000 and three refrigerators. ENDS