08 Dec 2016

Government is aware of efforts made by some public officers to make Botswana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations a re-sounding success on September 30.

The Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Mr Shaw Kgathi said this at the BOT50 certificates handover ceremony.

Accounting officers from departments in his ministry received certificates on behalf of officers under their portfolios.

He said President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama had decided that public officers who participated in the BOT50 preparations and activities should be rewarded.

“It is not possible for me to handover the certificates to each and every officer who participated in the celebrations preparations as these number in hundreds. You will be expected to hand these to deserving officers directly at a time convenient to yourselves but sooner rather than later,” he said.  

He said he was fully aware that many public officers worked long hours and even dedicated personal time over weekends to ensure that preparatory plans for the Golden Jubilee were executed with precision and due diligence, a commendable act which could only explain the level of patriotism displayed.

“Employee recognition is a fundamental cornerstone to increasing employee productivity. The Government recognises this key element and whilst we set bar very high for good work and dedication on the part of the civil service.

We know that recognition is important and essential ingredient of Botho, especially to those that go beyond the call of duty,” he said.

Mr Kgathi further said, his Ministry was a key player in the BOT50 celebrations as they supported the roving torch and several activities all over the country.

“We can say without fear or contradiction from any quarter that we were a significant player worthy recognition. To the members of the disciplined forces, I want to thank you for the colour and the superb drill presentation on the 30th September 2016,” he said.

Mr Kgathi conveyed to the President’s gratitude and appreciation on the manner in which they rendered to the people of Botswana. ENDS