01 May 2017

South African High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Mduduzi Lembede has urged fellow South Africans to reflect on the socio-economic gains that the country managed to attain since independence.

Speaking during the occasion to mark South Africa’s 23rd Freedom Day celebration at Gaborone International Conference Centre recently, Mr Lembede said since the democratic dispensation in 1994, though the path to achieve socio-economic development was difficult, it was important to reflect back on the achievements made.

He noted that South Africa was also committed to follow constitutional obligations, adding that it was worthy to celebrate this hard-earned freedom, which was achieved through struggle, which resulted in the loss of lives both in South Africa and neighbouring countries, especially front line states, Botswana included.  

In the meantime, he paid tribute to freedom stalwarts such as Oliver Tambo, who could be turning 100 years now, and the first black South Africa President, Mr Nelson Mandela for their selfless and tireless efforts in the struggle against apartheid and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all through liberal South Africa.

To ensure that this come to reality, the country made progressive constitutional enactment in the form of Bill of Rights which ensured and enshrined the right to life, freedom of association and liberty among others.

On a positive note, he said the relationship between Botswana and South Africa would continue to grow from strength to strength, adding that Botswana was a strategic and important economic partner to South Africa, something which he said was supported by 36 bilateral agreements and memorandum of understanding between the two nations.

Mr Lembede noted that the two countries did not only share historic and cultural backgrounds, but also shared a border line of 1 840km with 16 border posts. In addition, he said the two countries were dependent on one another and constantly engaged on a wide range of ssues such as trade, mining, banking and other economic activities.

Speaking at the same occasion, Acting Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation, Mr Moiseraele Goya commended South Africa for the socio-economic transformation that the country has achieved thus far. He said the remarkable achievements the country made have been inspired by the country’s strong belief and commitment to universal principles of democracy, equality and justice for all.

Mr Goya further noted that South Africa’s continued active participation in shaping world affairs, particularly in contributing to peace and security on the African continent, was testimony to her abiding faith in the advancement of these fundamental shared values for the common good of humanity.

Mr Goya added that, “our firm commitment in advancing the regional cooperation and integration agenda, as well as the continental and global sustainable development agenda inspires us to continue to work together for the prosperity of our peoples”.ENDS