14 Dec 2016

The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development says he is humbled by the sacrifices made by the BOT50 secretariat.

 Members denied themselves family time, rest and pleasures to successfully complete the national assignment of hosting  celebrations of the country’s 50 years of independence.

Speaking at an appreciation dinner for the BOT50 secretariat and its board, Minister Thapelo Olopeng said the secretariat’s hard work produced excellent results.

“I can gladly proclaim that we have indeed fought the good fight; we finished the race and kept the faith,” he said, adding that when his ministry was commissioned to head the BOT50 celebrations by President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama, prospects of successful and memorable celebrations looked gloom.

He noted how pessimists cast aspersions at their assignment declaring it a national error even before they started.

“I was greatly inspired by your audacity to smile in the face of unfair criticism and refusal to be discouraged by what our detractors prophesied. You soldiered on because you had great faith that you will make history,” said Mr Olopeng.

He further said he wanted to extend a thank you to the team’s families for allowing them to execute this mammoth task and had they not released them to perform the national duty, success would not have been achieved.

He indicated that as a demonstration of the team’s hard work, sacrifice and commitment, President Khama had delegated him to present the team with certificates he personally signed and sealed as his token of appreciation for the job well done.

“Treasure these certificates because they do not come easy. Not everyone will have an opportunity to hang them on their walls and I therefore encourage you to continue with this spirit of volunteerism,” he said.

Minister Olopeng further indicated that the certificates would be accompanied by a P1 000 voucher.

“I would also like to give the whole team a cow for them to slaughter and celebrate their exploits as a thank you from me,” he said.

For his part, national organising committee chairperson, Mr Boyce Sebetela applauded his team for a job well done.

“I want to specifically single out two people who were constantly attacked by the media, Mr Solly Reikeletseng and Mr Jacob Sesinyi, to say that I hold you in high regard.

Even faced by such negative and unfair criticism, you were always ready to work and give your all for the cause,” he said. ENDS