01 Oct 2019

The President, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, has reminded Batswana to reflect on the journey they traversed as a nation from humble beginnings to a country renowned for remarkable economic and social development. 

Addressing the 53rd independence cocktail party in Gaborone, President Masisi said  the country celebrated achievements it had made collectively as a nation as well as successes of individuals.

He said the country was also grateful for the contribution made by friends and partners in the international community.

“We have had our challenges in the past and we face even bigger ones in this day and age, but we have proven our mettle and resilience,” President Masisi said.

 He therefore pleaded with the nation to reflect on what it did right, adding that the independence day celebrations should be a time of gratitude and thanksgiving for the five decades of peace, stability and unity.

Botswana gained independence from Britain  53 years ago, when the Union Jack was lowered and replaced by the country’s blue-black and white tricolor.

Thus birth of a new nation that soon became a postcolonial beacon of peace, good leadership and democracy for countries emerging from the tyranny of colonialism.    

This year, Botswana’s Independence Day ceremonies stuck to a template that was followed for decades.

The ceremony kicked started by festivities at the National Stadium and ceremoniously shutdown with a glitz and glamour event at the state house, where President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi hosted an independence cocktail. ends