22 Oct 2017

Cuba ambassador to Botswana, Patricia Guerra says culture plays an important role in the bilateral relations of Botswana and Cuba.

Speaking at the Cuban cultural day hosted by Sefalana Hyper in Francistown on October 21, Guerra said the two countries had enjoyed diplomatic relations for the past 40 years.

She said events such as cultural day brought people of the two countries together since they had a lot in common such as their history, dance rhythm and even the way they greeted one another.

Guerra said the event helped her know areas in Botswana where Cuban nationals resided, stating that she had been in the country for only 10 months.

Francistown mayor, Sylvia Muzila said Cubans in Francistown, who were mostly health professionals, were living peacefully with the locals.

She said the 40th diplomatic relations of the two countries coincided with the 120th anniversary of the city’s existence and the event would help unite the two nations going forward.

Muzila commended the Cubans involved in organisations such as the Lions Club and implored those still lagging behind to engage in other charity organisations.

Sefalana Hyper Non Foods manager, Elijah Vinte said the day was aimed at showcasing Cuba and Botswana cultures and afford nationals of the two countries opportunity to showcase their food, games, music and dance.

He said the two countries had a similar background as they had both been protectorates.

Sefalana Hyper general manager, Thatayaone Nkwe said the importance of culture could not be over emphasised, hence the need for every nation to preserve it.

He echoed the sentiments as Vinte that the two countries had  a lot in common even though while Botswana got her independence peacefully, Cuba had to go through a revolution in 1959.

He noted that Cuba and Botswana were multi- racial nations. ENDS