27 Sep 2017

Even before the blue, black and white paint dries on street poles or banners symbolising Botswana’s 50th anniversary, the nation will once more don the national colours and add another 12 months to half a century of independence.

The celebratory mood of BOT50 still lingers on, and on Saturday Batswana are expected to cram into the National Stadium to reflect on yet another milestone since 1966.

In an interview, Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development spokesperson, Kristian Mmusi said this year’s celebrations would embrace a catchy slogan of BOT50+1 because the euphoria of BOT50 still lives on.

He said like this year’s theme: ‘United and Proud, it articulates that Batswana were a united nation, and that there was a lot to celebrate with regards to the peace and tranquility that continues to prevail in the country.

He said there was no particular way that the nation was expected to celebrate owing to the fact that the country just celebrated a major milestone last year.

He advised that Batswana should follow the usual celebrations of gathering at the kgotla to hear President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama’s independence message.

“We don’t expect Batswana to engage in anything hectic other than to celebrate the same way we used to do. Revive that communal spirit of congregating at the kgotla at local level,” he said.

Mmusi also said each district or village may celebrate in their own style considering the achievements thus far as some settlements had been upgraded from settlement to village status.

He also noted that some may celebrate the heroes and heroines that have continued to make the country proud, and fly the Botswana flag internationally.

Meanwhile, a series of events to celebrate the milestone started on September 23 with a carnival and a combined church service in Gaborone on September 24.

Prior to that, other activities were a forum for the youth in the arts industry where they showcased their talent at Old Naledi, Bontleng and Gaborone West. It is expected that on Friday, there will  be a honours and awards ceremony by President Khama in Gaborone.

The independence eve celebrations will be graced by foreign guests among them Zambian president, Dr Edgar Lungu. Vice President Mokgweetsi Masisi, cabinet minister, MPs, members of the diplomatic corps and the public are also expected to attend the even.

Activities will include cultural performances, band display by Botswana Prisons Service, Botswana Defence Force and fireworks. Independence day activities will include parade marches by Botswana Police Service and Botswana Prisons Service, inspecting the parade by President Khama, tug of war, obstacles, cultural performances, float procession and athletics.

In the afternoon, Botswana will take on Ethiopia in a football match. ENDS