01 Nov 2026

A colourful display of music, theatre and traditional performances brought excitement to the 2026 Botswana-China Friendship Night, as artists from the two countries shared the stage in celebration of their friendship.

Chinese performers Yan Shuping and Chai Baoyu entertained guests with a theatrical act titled Zhu Bajie Carries His Bride, featuring a lively stage presentation that captivated the audience.

The evening also featured a traditional Chinese Kuaiban tongue-twister performance by Tao Siyou and Shang Xingcheng, showcasing the country’s rhythmic spoken-word art.

Botswana’s legendary guitarist George Swabi added a local touch to the celebrations with his popular song Bagammangwato Ba Ga Mabiletsa, entertaining guests with his distinctive musical style.

Beyond the entertainment, the evening marked a special moment as former President, the late Dr Festus Gontebanye Mogae, was posthumously honoured with the inaugural Botswana-China Diamond Friendship Award.

The award, recognising contributions to strengthening friendship between the two countries, was received on his behalf by former First Lady, Mrs Barbara Mogae.

Speaking at the event, President Duma Boko said his recent state visit to China had generated significant international interest in Botswana, with millions of online searches about the country.

He called on Botswana to learn from China’s development experience and use the strengthened relationship to create opportunities in trade, investment, technology transfer and skills development.

Chinese Ambassador to Botswana, Mr Fan Yong, said China was ready to deepen cooperation with Botswana in digital economy, agriculture, livestock, healthcare and education.

Meanwhile, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Botswana-China Friendship Association, Mr Miles Nan, said the President’s state visit had opened new opportunities, with a Chinese business delegation having already visited Botswana and expected to return next month.

He urged Botswana to accelerate business processes to attract more international investors.

The friendship night provided a platform for cultural exchange while highlighting opportunities for stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation between Botswana and China.