01 May 2020

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi says it is disheartening that May Day is commemorated on a solemn moment in the history of the country and indeed the world, as millions of people around the world have been infected by COVID-19, while billions of lives have been adversely affected by this pandemic.

Addressing the nation through the national televion and radio on May 1, Dr Masisi said as the day marked the commemoration of the 2020 International Labour Day, where the achievements of workers are honoured and celebrated around the world, traditionally, the commemoration was marked by celebrations locally and globally.

However, such has not been possible this year because of the outbreak of COVID-19.

The President however assured the nation that he was committed to the welfare of workers in the country as evidenced by the robust measures that had been put in place to cushion workers and companies during the on-going lockdown.

“This strategy will ensure that workers do not lose their jobs and companies do not collapse during this crisis. Similarly, government is working on an Economic Stimulus Package that will be implemented post COVID-19,” he said. 

In addition, he noted that improving the working conditions of workers was not an end in itself, but rather, it was a process that required the concerted efforts of all strategic stakeholders.

He expressed his profound gratitude to all workers across Botswana for the significant contribution that they continued to make towards the socio-economic development of the country, including their commitment and dedication to work, which he said truly demonstrated clear patriotism towards the country. Ends