21 Jul 2020

First Lady, Ms Neo Masisi recently received 1 000 blankets and some protective equipment from the Chinese government through the Organisation of African First Ladies (OAFLAD).

When receiving the donation in Gaborone, Ms Masisi expressed gratitude to the First Lady of China and the Chinese government for the generous donation.

She said the consignment symbolised the cordial relations that existed between Botswana and China.

The first lady further applauded AOFLAD for reaching out to China to seek assistance for the protection of mothers, children and young people in Africa.

AOFLAD’s mission is to contribute to the health and well-being of children, youth and women through advocacy, resource mobilisation and strategic partnerships.

“Today’s donations are results of sisterly relations and perseverance of AOFLAD, hence Botswana and 52 other African countries have received the medical supplies,” she said.

Ms Masisi said COVID-19 had taught the world the greatest lesson on the importance of friendships, both locally and internationally.

She said COVID-19 could be defeated if people worked in solidarity at national, regional and international level, urging all to play a part to help in the fight against the pandemic.

When handing over the donation, the Chinese Ambassador to Botswana, Dr Zhao Yanbo said China was the first to provide assistance to Botswana to fight the pandemic. To date, seven batches of medical supplies have been donated by central and local government as well as the Jack Ma Foundation.ENDS