13 Oct 2022

Countess of Wessex and Forfar, Sophie, has been praised for supporting Botswana’s endeavour to improve the eye health of school-going children through Pono Yame programme.

At a reception dinner held in her honour in Gaborone on Tuesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Lemogang Kwape said the programme focused on conducting nationwide eye screening for pupils, availing them affordable glasses and necessary treatment.

Dr Kwape appreciated the Countess of Wessex for her recent visit to the DRC on a campaign against sexual violence during conflict. 

After Botswana, she will proceed to Malawi.

Dr Kwape applauded the Countess of Wessex for touching the lives of many through her charity work.

“I commend you for being consistent in your commitment to support people with disabilities, eradication of avoidable blindness, especially among children in developing countries and in assisting victims of sexual violence during conflicts,” he said.

On other issues, them minister conveyed condolences to the people of the United Kingdom on the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II. 

Dr Kwape said the Queen’s passing was not a loss only to the United Kingdom but to Botswana and the Commonwealth states.

He furthermore, extended congratulatory wishes to King Charles III on his ascension to the throne.

Dr Kwape noted that since independence and the establishment of diplomatic relations, Botswana and UK continued to enjoy strong bonds of friendship and cooperation aimed at promoting the two countries’ common interest for mutual benefit.

“Your country’s guidance in the implementation of our strategic and long-standing cooperation in various areas including human resource development, defence, health, agriculture and tourism have contributed to our attainment of upper-middle-income status and upliftment of the living standard of our people,” Dr Kwape said.

Additionally, Dr Kwape expressed appreciation and satisfaction at the Royal Crown, saying it continued to be a beacon of hope in matters of development, charity and goodwill in Botswana.

The Countess of Wessex, who is on an Africa tour that includes Botswana, had an opportunity to visit Molefe Primary School in Kopong to learn more about the Pono Yame school eye health programme.  

She also paid a courtesy call to President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, where they engaged on health and educational issues.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex together with her husband Edward, The Earl of Wessex support a range of charities and organisations, including the arts, sport and non-formal education. 

They are passionate about organisations and causes which provide opportunities to young people. 

The Earl and Countess of Wessex established their foundation The Wessex Youth Trust in 1999 to support initiatives and charities that help children and young people.  BOPA