24 Mar 2022

The appointment of Major General Gaudence Milanzi of Tanzania and Mr Mohamad Nizan Bin Mohamad of Malaysia as High Commissioners to Botswana is a strategic move that will strengthen existing relations between Botswana and the two countries. 

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi said this when receiving letters of credence from the two ambassadors in Gaborone on Friday. He said the appointment of Maj. Gen Milanzi was of great value to the SADC region because of his credentials from his countyry’s military where he was assistant head of the army and having also served in SADC.

“Your knowledge of the region, as well as wisdom, will be of help to SADC security issues, particularly as the region is struggling with challenges of security in neighbouring Mozambique. The region will be appreciative of your diplomatic skills,” he said. 

Dr Masisi also acknowledged the role played by Tanzania when Botswana introduced female military recruits, saying Tanzania helped in the training, logistics and inclusion of women in the army, and even hosted the initial training.

The President also expressed gratitude for Tanzania’s support to Botswana on the country’s quest to host the Kimberly Process Secretariat, Tanzania’s support would encourage other SADC countries to do likewise in the spirit of the bloc. 

“Once we adopt a common position and support a fellow SADC country it becomes your mission more than theirs to solidify that and garner success,” Dr Masisi said. 

He noted that Botswana would continue to explore opportunities for possible cooperation. For his part Maj. Gen Milanzi vowed to continue strengthening the enduring historic friendship and bond between the two countries. 

He also highlighted the contribution of Botswana during the liberation struggle. 

“It is not a small one and it is very much recognised. We know how Botswana suffered during the liberation struggle by providing a safe passage for freedom fighters,” he said. 

He stated that during his tour of duty he would continue to work in the bilateral framework of SADC. In addition, he would focus on making follow-up on the cooperation agreements by the two countries including the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) as well as the State visit to Botswana by President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, he said. BOPA