22 Sep 2016

The assistant district commissioner, Mr Ramogaupi Gaborekwe has urged the communities to sing the National Anthem properly when they celebrate the golden jubilee.

He expressed a concern that some people did not know the song and stated that the chorus should always be repeated. 

He said Batswana should be proud of the song, which promotes unity.

 He made the remarks during the independence celebrations organised by Maun State Prison for inmates saying he was pleased that the attendants including the inmates sang the song properly.

Mr Gaborekwe also praised Maun inmates for playing an active role in community activities adding that they recently donated chalk boards to a satellite school in Nxaraga.

The assistant district commissioner urged inmates not to lose hope.

Rather, he encouraged them to improve their lives despite being in prison. 

Mr Gaborekwe urged them to take seriously the teachings and preachings brought by different churches and individuals which were aimed at transforming their lives.

“You have been convicted for your different offences and you are very lucky that you are learning different things through the rehabilitation programme and I urge you to apply the skills you acquire to earn a living when you complete your terms,” he said. 

He said they should leave a legacy in the prison and become responsible citizens who would continue to contribute meaningfully to the development of their villages.

The officer in charge, senior superintendent Tomeletso Mogogoma said they organised the independence celebrations because they wanted the inmates to join the rest of the nation in celebrating the golden jubilee.

He said they wanted them to feel united, proud and appreciate where the country comes from and what it has done for them and the entire nation. 

In addition, he said they wanted the inmates to appreciate the good governance, peace that reigns in the country. 

He noted that the event was also meant to appreciate the efforts made by stakeholders in the rehabilitation programme and the welfare of the inmates. 

Meanwhile, different speakers took turns to motivate the inmates and amongst them was Bishop Thabang Mpolaise of Gate of Heaven Network Ministries who urged inmates to trust in God noting that with him, anything is possible. He said they should not be shaken or judge themselves by their mistakes and assured them that they would pray that some be released before independence. 

The rehabilitation officer, superintendent Mooketsi Radira said there were prisoners were capable of producing quality products. 

Recently, he said some completed a course in dress making from Maun Technical College. Ends