14 Aug 2024

The Albert Milton Foundation continues to positively impact communities and shape the fabric of the society. Speaking during the AM620 cycling challenge dinner send off, Her Excellency First Lady Neo Masisi said the establishment of the foundation was a significant milestone toward community development and nation building. Such milestones, she said, were in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the country's Vision 2036. “The AM Foundation initiatives have touched the lives of many through their contributions in the health and education sectors as well as individual development,” she said. Ms Masisi commended the AM Foundation for finding the need to cycle for a purpose since the cycling challenge was ideal for illuminating the path for those in need and providing the resources necessary for sustainable development. “The cycling challenge carries with it a huge positive impact on society and I can personally relate with the cycling for a purpose idea, because back in 2020, I decided to send a crucial message on Gender Based Violence using a bicycle,” Ms Masisi said. She said the AM620 cycling challenge promoted an incredible spirit as it represented more than just the endurance and resilience but rather it was a testament of the unwavering commitment brought about by both cyclists and sponsors to bring positive change in the lives of the less privileged Batswana. “Their enduring commitment to philanthropy has left an indelible mark on countless lives, and their dedication to giving back has not gone unnoticed,” she added. Ms Masisi noted that the challenge further affirmed the foundation’s commitment to service and foster a sense of unity and purpose in enabling communities to thrive and individuals to reach their fullest potential. “The AM Foundation and its board of trustees has put great effort in the planning of the challenge thus it is no surprise that the team has been able to be consistent with their standards since the challenge inception and credit to Ms Albertinah Milton for remaining resolute in believing in the power of giving back over the years,” she said. The First Lady said Ms Milton’s relentless efforts were fast becoming an example to be followed in the cycling community with regard to the cycling contribution to sport tourism. Additionally, AM Foundation trustee, Ms Milton explained that the establishment of the foundation marked a significant milestone in a journey towards nation building and community development adding that it also spoke to her late husband’s values and their shared dream of structured, impactful giving. She said the foundation raised P2.4 million in 2020 for charity through the Albert Milton cycling challenge, followed by another successful P1.8 million raised in 2022. This year, a total of 23 riders from Botswana, South Africa and the United Kingdom have embarked on a 620km endurance ride from Gaborone to Ghanzi, which starting from August 14 to 16 for charity purposes and in honour of the late Debswana managing director, Mr Albert Milton who died in 2019. ENDS