27 Jul 2025

 Sir Ketumile Masire was renowned not only as a transformative leader but also as a devoted family man who imbued his children with the values of scholarship, service, and community responsibility.

As the nation celebrated his centenary birthday posthumously on July 23, his eldest daughter, Ms Gaone Masire reflected fondly on the exemplary parenting style of her father and Mother, who were commonly referred to as RraGaone and MmaGaone Lady Olebile Masire.

In an interview, Ms Masire shared insights into her parents’ philosophy of parenting, which emphasised integrity and good reputation.

The parents’ commitment was mirrored in the nurturing environment provided for her and her five siblings, guiding them toward meaningful contributions to society while honouring Tswana cultural values and their father’s dedication to nation-building.

Ms Masire highlighted that their upbringing was significantly rooted in traditional customs. Sir Ketumile and Lady Olebile taught their children the importance of  their native language, Setswana, and instilled respect for community elders. 

Family ceremonies and milestones were celebrated in their ancestral home in Kanye, reinforcing their connection to their roots.

Ms Masire noted that these values helped foster a profound understanding of tradition and family ties. Sir Ketumile often involved his children in work at the cattle post during school breaks, teaching them where their sustenance came from. 

This hands-on approach instilled discipline and a robust work ethic in the children as they were taught accountability for their actions. 

This enabled them to grow into individuals guided by the values of  excellence, respect, responsibility, and integrity.

Sir Ketumile’s commitment to volunteerism was palpable. Ms Masire recounted how he, even while serving as vice president, dedicated weekends to teaching  Capital Continuation Classes at Thornhill Primary School, demonstrating his dedication to uplift the community. 

This spirit of service rubbed off on his children, adding to the family ethos.

Ms Masire and her siblings did charity work, some of which organised by their mother, in various communities.

The notion, ‘behind every successful man, is a woman’, holds true for Sir Ketumile and Lady Olebile’s union according to Ms Masire. Her mother played leading role in her father’s achievements.

 Lady Olebile was not just the traditional first lady, she was a partner who greatly influenced Sir Ketumile’s leadership, personally and publicly. 

Her legacy, though often overshadowed by her husband’s political accomplishments, is evidenced in her philanthropic contributions and the nurturing environment she fostered at home.

Born in Mafikeng, South Africa, in 1932, Lady Olebile, was a teacher whose passion for education and community service impacted her family. 

Ms Masire described her mother as a perfectionist, skilled in sewing and baking and cherished cooking for visitors, the values she passed on to her children. ENDS