04 May 2026

Mr State Ambassador International, Obakeng Rajonase, has received a warm welcome on Saturday.

The welcome ceremony held at Gantshonyana Ward was alive with songs, ululation, dancing, cheers and pure joy as the inspiring young native of Molepolole was celebrated.

His journey to prestige started at Bonewamang Primary School where he finished in the top five of the Mr Culture contest.

Despite his top five finish, the 11-year-old, Standard Five pupil focused on pursuing his dream and was eventually crowned Little Mr Botswana Primary School in July 30, 2025 in Gaborone.

He represented the country at the Mr and Miss State Ambassador International Pageant 2025, in Klerksdorp, South Africa, where he emerged as a darling of the pageant.

Other than walking away with the most prestigious crown of Mr State Ambassador International, Obakeng was decorated with many other accolades that he grabbed during the competition.

He captivated his presence at the competition, wowed judges and audience alike with his poise and talent. Also awardedto him was the Social Media, Best Ramp and Best Formal Dressed awards.

Additionally, he received the Mr Personality award and Golden Heart title.

Kweneng District Council chairperson, Ontefetse Rankhibidu praised Obakeng for being a shining example and representing Bakwena positively.

He said it was fulfilling that this time around, Kweneng was associated with a positive story.

Rankhibidu pointed out that as children grow, there comes a point when they experience hormonal changes during their teenage years, a point where proper guidance and discipline was most appropriate.

He stressed that it was critical for parents to provide consistent guidance, support while fostering self-discipline at an early age.

Rankhibidu stated that as part of his strategic roadmap for 2025-2030, one of its pillars was ‘Safer Kweneng’, concentrated on the needs of Bakwena as well as improved livelihoods.

“The youth should participate in transforming Kweneng into a safer place,” he said noting that the region currently placed at the top in terms of crime.

Additionally, he said plans were underway for a boot camp designed to restore hope and values while developing self-discipline in children from an early age.

Speaking in an interview on behalf of the founder and director of Little Mister and Miss Botswana Primary and Secondary Schools, Tuelo Dikolobe said the pageant served as a platform for young boys and girls to build their confidence, establish stage presence, showcase their public speaking skills, nurture talent and take part in meaningful community service projects.

“As part of these efforts, the organisation has already donated sanitary towels to learners at Matsheng Junior Secondary School in Sojwe,” he said.

Kgosi Letsile Rajonase of Gantshonyana Ward, Obakeng’s father, said despite financial hurdles, the family committed to supporting his son’s dream.

“As his parents, we stayed committed, involved and believing in Obakeng’s dream. Obakeng’s success will prove to other children that a purposeful life is within reach,” he said. ends