01 Oct 2016

A retired matron, Ms Egna Monyena has urged youth to take up government programmes to uplift their lives.

Speaking during celebration of Botswana’s 50 years of independence, Ms Monyena appealed to the youth to shun the spirit of expecting handouts, but tap in government programmes to enrich themselves.

She said many leaders were products of various government programmes to which young people could emulate.

In utilising government programmes, the retired nurse called for transparency and openness, arguing that corruption could lead the country into austerity.

She said celebrating Botswana’s half century of independence should be an opportunity for Batswana to introspect whilst with a hindsight simultaneously appreciating the strides made to graduate from poverty.

Whilst lauding the country for development, Ms Monyena hailed the past leaders as ‘heroes of humanity not veterans of war’. She said those born pre-independence could appreciate and attest to the successes that the country achieved.

She said unlike pre-independence, Botswana has developed her infrastructure to international levels. She argued that the ubiquity of schools and hospitals were a clear testament that the country has made great strides.

“Before independence this country was considered raw by our neighbours,” said Ms Monyena who hailed the then leaders for staying true to the dream.
In his welcome remarks, Bangwato regent Kgosi Sediegeng Kgamane challenged Batswana to maintain peace even beyond the next 50 years of independence.  He appealed to various church leaders to spread the word of peace across the country.

For peace to reign eternally, Kgosi Sediegeng advised that Batswana bury the hatchet and forget their trespasses against each other. He said the same spirit of celebrations should spinoff to more coming years.

For his part, Serowe Administration Authority deputy chairman, Mr Atamelang Thaga appealed to the youth to desist from drinking and driving as such actions could spoil the celebrations.  He too called for the celebrations to continue unabated.

Prior to Botswana’s big day, various artist and revelers alike thronged the softball pitch to mark a precursor and set the tone for massive celebrations.ENDS