23 Jul 2017

Outgoing South African High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Mduduzi Lembede says his four-year stay as an envoy has moved the country and its people closer to his heart. 

Speaking at a farewell event hosted by Avani Gaborone Hotel management on July 20, Mr Lembede said he has enjoyed his stay in the country, as he was able to interact with many people of different backgrounds, especially business people from both Botswana and South Africa.

He said he played a leading role in facilitating meetings and strengthening business ties between South Africans and Batswana business entrepreneurs.

Mr Lembede also explained the role of a high commissioner and different titles distinguishing diplomatic missions.

He said he would be going home in preparation for his retirement from the diplomatic service at the end of the year. He added that he would never forget his experience in the country and its welcoming people.

The diplomat said he had done his part and should pave the way for a new broom, adding that that through his committed and dedicated staff, he was able to engage on issues of bilateral, trilateral and multilateral concern.       

Speaking at the event, the chief executive officer of Choppies Stores, Mr Ramachandran Ottapathu said their chain stores were able to penetrate the South African market through Mr Lembede’s assistance, and said he deserved to be applauded.

The same sentiments were also shared by the president of Business Botswana, Mr Lokwalo Mosienyane who said Batswana now understand the dynamics of doing business with South Africans due to Mr Lembede.

Mr Mosienyane said the two countries should have strong business ties, adding that he was once impressed by the envoy during the South African Business Forum when he cautioned bureaucrats to leave business to business people.

Avani Gaborone Hotel chief executive officer, Mr Martin De Klerk said Mr Lembede was a pillar in their business, noting that they were both South African citizens who shared a deep sense of friendships. 

Other speakers included representatives from Distell Botswana and Liberty Life, who also showered the outgoing envoy with praises for his good work and selflessness. ENDS