04 Nov 2025

 As the outgoing Botswana Defence Force (BDF) commander bids farewell to an illustrious 42-year military career, he is remembered for serving with honour, integrity and selfless devotion.

Having joined the BDF in 1983, Lt Gen. Placid Segokgo retires from BDF on November 6, and has already handed over a sword of authority to incoming Commander General Mpho Mophuting.

In a farewell dinner hosted in his honour in Gaborone on Monday, President Advocate Duma Boko, who is also Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, applauded the retiring commander for his devotion and patriotism in serving the country.

“We are here to pay tribute to the man who his 42 years of selfless service in defense of his country, has left an enduring legacy that is steadfastly guiding our sovereignty and the protection of our freedoms,” he said.

President Boko said for more than four decades, Lt Gen. Segokgo carried out immense responsibilities of commanding courage, humility and discipline.

He added that his distinguished leadership, nine of which was spent as the commander, he guided the BDF through both times of peace and challenges.

The President also said the sacrifices he made in leading the army, both personal and professional, could not be taken for granted.

Furthermore, he highlighted that they had witnessed a historic moment, a peaceful political transition of power, and an unprecedented handover since independence in 1966, and during that period the BDF demonstrated its steadfast apolitical character, serving the constitution and never any person or political party.

“General, your stewardship of the BDF of the SADC Mission in Mozambique remains a defining moment of his illustrious military career and define Botswana as a pro-active member of the international community.”

President Boko said the outgoing commander’s leadership was tested when he had to account to the families who lost their loved in the line of service for their country.

In addition, he said the BDF provided their services during the COVID-19 pandemic where they provided logistical support in delivering medical items to where they were needed.

For his part, the incoming BDF Commander, General Mpho Mophuting also praised his predecessor for leading the institution with honour and integrity.

As Lt Gen Segokgo’s military journey came to an end, General Mophuting said his was an era led with discipline and character

He advised him to rest, put himself first, worry about nothing, smile a lot and enjoy his life.

He said he started a new chapter where rank and position did not matter and urged him to enjoy life bearing in mind that old age came with its own issues, which he would overcome.

In his farewell speech, outgoing Commander Lt Gen. Segokgo appreciated BDF for honouring him with a farewell dinner that reflected the warmth and mutual respect, saying he had been humbled by their thoughtfulness and generosity.

He said he was thankful for having been given the opportunity to lead, adding that the support from government had been immense during the whole of his tenure.

Lt Gen. Segokgo added that as he stepped into a new life he was filled with nostalgia, emotions and excitement.

He said he celebrated a journey he shared with others and was also grateful for the support he enjoyed from regional partners, stakeholders, support staff and family.

He thanked his family for allowing him to be away from them but believed that as he has now handed the baton to another commander, he would have time to spend with them and enjoy each other’s company. ENDS