01 Oct 2026

A colourful carnival procession took centre stage in Gaborone on Wednesday, as Botswana marked its 60th anniversary of independence.

The procession set off from various points in the capital, led by the Botswana Defence Force, Botswana Police Service and Botswana Prisons Service, before converging at the Main Mall for the main programme.

Pantsula dancers, ‘MaRock’ parade, contemporary dancers, karate exponents, girl guides, Balekane Ba Botswana, members of the scout movement, other clubs as well as traditional dancers formed part of the colourful displays, turning the heart of the capital into a celebration of Botswana’s culture and heritage.

President Advocate Duma Boko and his Mozambique counterpart, President Daniel Chapo, joined the crowds at the Main Mall, where various lifestyle groups staged displays along Khama Crescent.

The festivities took a more spontaneous turn when President Boko and President Chapo joined the Mafitlhakgosi Traditional Dance Group in song and dance.

Mr Chapo won the attention of the crowd as he stepped onto the dance floor and joined the performers, moving in rhythm with the group and displaying enthusiasm as he followed the choreography.

At one point, one of the young dancers took Mr Chapo by the hand, raised his arms and guided him through the routine, drawing cheers from the crowd.

President Boko also interacted warmly with the young performers as the two leaders celebrated alongside Batswana and visitors.

Traditional song and dance remain an important expression of Botswana’s cultural identity and have increasingly become a cultural attraction for visitors and international dignitaries.

The two Presidents later toured a craft market at Main Mall, which showcased Botswana’s cultural heritage through locally made crafts by Batswana artisans.

Meanwhile, in his Independence Day message, President Boko said the country needed more employment, more Botswana-made goods and services in local and international markets, as well as a stronger base of public revenue.

“We must build that economy through modern agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, energy, digital enterprise and the creative industries,” he said.

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations therefore brought together Botswana’s cultural heritage, national pride and aspirations for a more productive economy as the country marked six decades of independence. ENDS