14 Aug 2022

Botswana Democratic Party member and former public servant, Mr William Moatlhaping was laid to rest in Moshupa on Saturday.

Multitudes congregated at Mokakana Ward in Moshupa to pay their last respects to Mr Moatlhaping who died August 5, aged 80.

Speaking during the funeral service, area Member of Parliament and Minister of Entrepreneurship, Mr Karabo Gare said it was fitting to celebrate Mr Moatlhaping’s life, considering his contribution to the development of Botswana.

He said it took him little time to understand Mr Moatlhaping’s character as he was open and hardworking.

“We thank God for having given us 80 years with Mr Moatlhaping, may his soul rest in peace,” said Mr Gare.

Kgosi Kgabosetso Mosielele of Moshupa said speakers who described Mr Moatlhaping as hardworking and loving were spot on.  “Let us put our faith in God, to console us. Our father is resting,” stated Kgosi Mosielele.

He said it was important to share the good that others had done while they were still alive rather than when they were deceased.

Mr Moatlhaping’s nephews’ representative, Member of Parliament for Thamaga/ Kumakwane, Mr Palelo Motaosane said the entire country and not just the family had lost in Mr Moatlhaping’s passing.

He said the deceased was loving and always available to offer advice.

 “He taught us the importance of loyalty, love and hard work,” said Mr Motaosane.

Mr Mataosane said it was because of the love he received from his family that the deceased  lived long.

He also said he learnt the ropes of farming from Mr Moatlhaping and it was through his guidance that he   was counted among farmers.

Children’s representative, Ms Gorata Sefawe said her father was loving, humble and encouraged them to give to the less privileged.

We have to lead responsible lives because that is what he taught us and we will pass his teachings to our children,” stated Ms Sefawe.

A friend, Mr MacDonald Tsalaile said him and the deceased grew up more as brothers than friends. “Our parents used to tell us to continue our friendship even after getting married. We did everything together,” he said.

Mr Tsalaile remembered that when they got employment in Gaborone, they bought bicycles and would ride to Moshupa every weekend. “By then when you owned a bicycle, you were respected in the community. Cars were very few,” said Mr Tsalaile.

He said as time went by, Mr Moatlhaping informed him that he wanted to get married but advised him against it, his reasons being that he had to wait for his cattle to multiply.

“He did not take my advice because when he believed in something no one could change his mind,” Mr Tsalaile remembered and said Mr Moatlhaping encouraged him to follow suite later on.

According to a family representative, Ms Anastacia Moatlhaping, Mr Moatlhaping’s health condition deteriorated drastically after the death of his younger brother, two weeks ago.

She explained that he was attended to at Mmaseetsele clinic and later referred to Kanye Seventh Day Adventist Hospital, where he died a day after being hospitalised. ENDS