23 May 2021

The President, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi and First Lady, Ms Neo Masisi on Thursday visited the Mantries family in Khakhea, to convey their condolences following the death of Kgosi Joseph Mantries who succumbed to COVID-19 on April 25. 

President Masisi described Kgosi Mantries as a strong community leader who put others first and executed his role with diligence.

He said the nation lost a hard working leader who had positively impacted many lives and left an indelible mark in the chieftaincy. 

Dr Masisi urged the nation to work in unison and protect themselves against the disease that is claiming lives at an alarming rate. 

He said the current situation called for all to retrospect and sufficiently prepare for the debilitating effects of COVID-19.

The President appreciated the family for the support they afforded Kgosi Mantries, saying he was able to deliver because he had their support and each related with him in a special way. 

A family representative, Mr Sereiwa Sehanhele told BOPA that the deceased was the third kgosi in Khakhea and was elected in 2011. 

He said he served the community with humility and fairness and executed his role diligently. 

April 25, the day Kgosi Mantries died, was his birthday and the day on which his father was buried last year.

Mr Sehanhele said Kgosi Mantries was a focused leader who was interested in youth empowerment initiatives.

He said he was grateful for the President and First Lady’s visit, a gesture he said must be applauded. 

Kgosi Mantries died at Sir Ketumile Masire Hospital in Gaborone and was buried in Khakhea on May 1. Ends