18 Sep 2023

The UCCSA’s annual heritage walk is a way of keeping the church’s history in Botswana alive, former Judge Mphaphi Phumaphi, said Saturday. 

Judge Phumaphi who was the Chief Walker said the UCCSA’s played an immense role in propagating Christianity in the then Bechuanaland.

 The church also ensured Botswana was protected from Boer annexation by encouraging Dikgosi to seek protection from Britain, he said. 

“The UCCSA, formerly the London Missionary Society is part of the many reasons Botswana was given autonomy on a silver platter. The decision taken by the church to celebrate its rich heritage in Botswana is welcome,” he said. 

Judge Phumaphi gave the church P10 000. 

Reverend Thembinkosi Ngwenya said the idea to hold a heritage walk was mooted and implemented in 2021. 

“We have also resolved to hold the annual heritage walk under the same theme: ‘“Our Heritage, Our Pride, Our Inspiration’,” he said. Reverend Ngwenya added that as a church with a rich history, the UCCSA had surrendered most of its heritage sites to the government of Botswana. 

The influence of the Church in shaping modern day Botswana and how its history is intertwined with that of the nation can also be seen in the use the same colours by the state and the church, he said.

 A member of the church Ms Lesego Legwaila listed among others, Moeding and Maun colleges, as well as the famous Livingstone Kolobeng as some of the church’s heritage. 

She said the walk was also a way to raise funds for the church and network with stakeholders. 

Ms Masego Molale, a farmer, pledged P5000, Ms Florence Manyena of Tabitha Pre and Primary School pledged P2000; Mr Lesego Samuel of Botswana Life pledged P2000 in his capacity; Botswana Teachers Union (BTU) pledged P2 500 through Ms Morongwa Tseme while Kalemo Game Farm owner, Brigadier General Mbakiso Mukokomani pledged P1000 and free use of the facility’s conference by the church to hold a single meeting. 

Principal manager at the Francistown Record Centre, Ms Kabelo Gabalebatse pledged to assist the church do proper record keeping and called on churches across the country to deposit pertinent information with her office for future use and research by posterity. ENDS