11 Feb 2021

Former Specially elected member of Ntlo ya Dikgosi, Kgosi Oarabile Kalabeng, was cremated in Mahalapye on Wednesday.

He died on February 6 after falling ill in October 2020. Kgosi Kalabeng was born in March 1941 in Kanye.

Mr Tshepo Kalabeng, confirmed that his uncle was cremated as per his wish.

He stated that Kgosi Kalabeng was well known for believing in truth, honesty and love, adding that he was fond of children.

He said children in the extended family looked up to him as a father figure.

And Kgosi Kalabeng loved Setswana culture and cleanness.

“We learnt a lot from him” Mr Tshepo Kalabeng added.

Speaking during a memorial service in Gaborone on Tuesday, the current Ntlo ya Dikgosi chairperson, Kgosi Puso described Kgosi Kalabeng as a firm and focused person.

“If he was against a certain issue, he did not beat around the bush, but let everyone know his stand,” he added.

Kgosi Puso thanked Kgosi Kalabeng for his contribution to development of Botswana.

After completing his tertiary studies in Lesotho, Kgosi Kalabeng worked in the justice system department before moving to the then Ministry of Local Government and Lands as district commissioner.

He was later transferred on promotion to ministry of trade and industry at registrar of companies as assistant manager.

Upon retirement from public service, he partnered with Mr Benjamin Makobole and ventured into business, running K&M Business Services until his demise.

He was also one of the founders of Association of Business Consultants Botswana.

During his tenure at Ntlo ya Dikgosi, he served as chairperson for Ntlo ya Dikgosi in 2004.

He was a member of Gaborone United Football Club of which he was also a member of council of elders.  ENDS