28 Jan 2018

President Lt Gen.Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama has promised Batawana a close and smooth working relationship beyond his presidency.

He said he would have more time to discuss a working strategy with Batawana royals to strengthen their relations.

President Khama made the remarks when delivering his farewell message at a well-attended Batawana main kgotla meeting, stating that Batawana and Bangwato were closely related, hence the need to strengthen their working relations.

“I have dedicated my life to serve the nation and I have demonstrated that by the time I started working at the law enforcement agencies such as police and Botswana Defence Force and later in politics,” he added.

Further, he noted that he intended to invite Batawana paramount chief who is also the current MP for Maun West, to Gcwhihaba National Monument so that he appreciates the caves.

Government spearheaded tourism projects at Gcwihaba Caves to enhance and grow tourism in the area. 

President Khama explained that at one point, he was accused of keeping, against people’s will,  the keys to the caves because he wanted to pursue his interests, but clarified that initially there was one known cave, but now there were seven.

He admitted that he had the keys to one of the caves because it was dark and infested with snakes. As such they decided to lock it to protect visitors. 

He explained that he had no intention of owning the caves as some people alleged.

President Khama said people who believed that he wanted to own the caves lacked knowledge as the caves were identified by him and realised that the place could offer a lot to the tourism sector. 

In addition, he said his several visits to the site was to exploit the potential of the natural resources within the concession area.

On other issues, President Khama said some people labelled him a dictator and that he would not step down when his time expired, but stated that, “I have embarrassed them as I followed the constitution.”

As for speakers, they could not stop showering President Khama with accolades for serving the nation wholeheartedly with love and respect. They said he was a hard worker as he made a big difference in the lives of many through introduction of initiatives.

Community representative, Mr John Wellio said President Khama differed with former presidents as he traversed the entire country to appreciate the concerns and living standards of the communities. He said even though he took over the presidency during difficult times, he prioritised his projects and ensured all lived happily.

Maun West MP, Mr Tawana Moremi appreciated that President Khama respected the constitution.

He also thanked him for a job well done in exploiting the potential of the natural resources within the district, citing the caves at Tsodilo Hills and Gcwhihaba National Monument. He believed that as he retires from office, they would have plenty of time to work together going forward.

Maun East MP, Mr Kostantino Markus said President Khama had done a lot for Batswana, citing the introduction of good initiatives which aimed to restore dignity.

He said he also contributed to the development of sport in the country and made the country known internationally. He described President Khama as the champion of the nation and wished him a good stay. Ends