02 Oct 2013

The Mayor of Francistown, James Kgalajwe has said Batswana should appreciate and celebrate Independence Day in song and dance, while showcasing their diverse cultures because it was on this day that Botswana gained freedom which is being enjoyed to date.

He urged Batswana to always attend the national independence day celebrations in large numbers instead of treating the day as just another ordinary day.

Welcoming residents at the Independence Day celebrations at the old Francistown stadium, Cllr Kgalajwe further made a plea to the people to volunteer their services in preparing for the celebrations, instead of relying on the leadership of the city saying that people should take ownership of this day.

He pointed out that such a celebration calls for the nation to come together and share responsibilities in order to have a well organised day.

Cllr Kgalajwe also stressed that people should do away with always seeking a reward for service to the nation because by  doing so, they will dampen the spirit of volunteerism and affect the spirit of togetherness.

“We are what we are today because of this day so appreciate and honour it,” stressed Cllr Kgalajwe. In addition, he urged the people to make it a point to showcase their diverse cultures during the celebrations as way of reviving their original culture. He expressed concern that many people are losing their roots and instead adopting other cultures.

“It is important to preserve our individual cultures despite the intrusion of other cultures, which come as development comes into our lives,” he said. He further implored the District Commissioner’s office as the coordinator of the organising committee to do a better job at next year’s preparations.

He stressed the importance of mobilising people early so they are prepared to come to the national celebrations so the event is not attended by children alone without their parents.

Meanwhile, besides the low turn of people at the celebrations, invited groups such as Masganda group and Makombela hosanna traditional group, which scooped position two at the President’s day competitions entertained guests. ENDS