29 Sep 2016

Multitudes have thronged the National Stadium, among them President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama as they set the tone for tomorrow’s golden jubilee celebration. Also in attendance is visiting presidents of Mozambique Mr Filipe Nyufi, King Mswati III of Swaziland and King Letsie III of Lesotho.  Namibia’s vice president Dr Nickey Iyambo, Cuba’s vice president Mr Salvador Valdes Mesa, Former president of Namibia Mr Hefikepunye Pohamba, former president of Nigeria Gen. Dr Yakubu Gowon and US assistant secretary of state for African Affairs Ms Linda Thomas-Greenfield as well as UK’s Prince Andrew are also attending the independence eve celebrations.

Botswana’s second and third presidents sir Ketumile Masire and Dr Festus Mogae respectively as well as Cabinet Ministers and senior government officials are also in attendance.

Proposing welcome remarks a while ago, the Minister for Youth, Sport and Culture Mr Thapelo Olopeng, whose ministry was tasked with coordination of the celebrations, hailed the nation for being geared up for the celebrations, adding that the moment provided the nation with an opportunity to demonstrate unity.

“ The highlight of the preparations has been the travelling of the roving torch which traversed the length and breadth of the nation, uniting us as a nation,” he said.

Mr Olopeng urged the nation to continue with the celebrations into the end of the year: “ The national flags will continue to be hoisted the way they are until the end of the year.” 

Botswana gained independence from Britain in 1966. At the time the country was counted among the poorest in the world. With an economy boosted by diamonds and beef sale, the country has progressed to a middle income one.

The highlight of tonight’s event will be fire works, signaling the beginning of celebrations.ENDS