17 Aug 2026

The completion of a six-month basic military training course by 299 non-commissioned officers of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) is a result of discipline, endurance, sacrifice and a willingness of young Batswana to render service to country above comfort.

Officiating at the officers’ pass-out parade last week, Minister for State President, Defence and Security Mr Moeti Mohwasa commended the graduates for their resilience and patriotism.

“It is an obligation to uphold the honour of the uniform, to protect our people and remain faithful to the values upon which the defence force has been built most importantly its reputation,” he said as he encouraged them to carry the spirit of patriotism as they entered a new chapter of their stay in the army.

The minister stated that it was essential for the BDF to respect its history, prepare for the future and preserve what worked while reforming what was unviable and respond to the changing security environment.

He said government, through NDP12, placed governance, peace and security among critical enablers of national transformation.

Furthermore, he pointed out that government had identified the strengthening of border security through technology, upgraded aviation infrastructure and stronger strategic partnerships as priorities for national security.

Mr Mohwasa stressed that government appreciated the efforts of the BDF leadership to strengthening the welfare of personnel, modernising military capabilities and improving institutional effectiveness.

He called on soldiers to resist alcohol and drug abuse, gender-based violence and financial imprudence but rather become models of change and discipline in the society.

The best overall awardee, Private Onkutule Kelesaletse expressed his joy and pride over the opportunity of becoming a soldier.

He stated that becoming a soldier was a dream come true for him as he grew up in his home village of Paje witnessing soldiers at the BDF camp on parade, marching and displaying morale and discipline, which sparked in him a desire to join the military.

However, he stated that military training was a challenge, physically and mentally but that he had remained resolute through the guidance of the course instructors.

Private Kelesaletse stated that having been raised in a family with mostly men, he had relied on the values of hard work, discipline and determination that he possessed hence he emerged the finest of all the 299.

For her part, the best in physical training and endurance, Private Mosamarea Moilwa, said she was thrilled to have received the award, which she said she had worked hard to achieve.

Private Moilwa attributed her excellence to her course instructors who believed in her even on days that she wanted to give up.

The 299 non-commissioned, constituting Intake 84 of 2026, officers comprised 91 females and 208 males. ENDS