10 Nov 2026

Fashion became an expression of national pride, optimism and personal identity as dignitaries, Members of Parliament and invited guests gathered for the State of the Nation Address (SONA) during the Third Session of the 13th Parliament on Monday.  

While attention was firmly focused on President Advocate Duma Boko’s address and the country’s development priorities, the arrivals also provided a colourful display of fashion, with guests using their attire to communicate patriotism, dignity and hope for a brighter future. 

From elegant dresses in a rainbow of colours to carefully selected suits in shades of blue, grey and black, the gathering brought together diverse fashion tastes, with a noticeable appreciation for earth tones and African-inspired designs. 

For some, however, dressing for the national gathering went beyond appearance, providing an opportunity to make a statement about Botswana and its aspirations. 

Dineo Saleshando, who has become something of a familiar fashion attraction at SONA gatherings, once again drew attention with her choice of clothing, this time drawing inspiration from the country’s national colours. Although she did not consider herself a fashion icon, Saleshando said she enjoyed looking good and deliberately chose a theme for the gathering each year. 

“I do love looking good and every year I choose a theme. This year, basically, I am just inspired by my own country. It is a State of the Nation Address, why not try the blue and show the world that our blue is quite nice?” she said. 

Saleshando, who wore a creation from Essentric Style Loft, said her choice was an expression of appreciation for Botswana. For Thato Selemogwe, her floral dress represented excellence, a quality she believes should define Botswana’s identity. “The look is inspired by excellence. Botswana should be known for excellence. 

If you look at the diamond studs in my dress, I want to believe that they represent my country and what we are known for,” she said. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Pushie Manyeneng, opted for earth tones, which she said reflected her pride in being Motswana. 

Her choice of colours also reflected her anticipation of the President’s address and the positive frame of mind in which she approached the parliamentary gathering. “I am looking forward to what is going to be said by the President. Even my clothing shows. I just wanted to brighten up, even my mind. I am wearing earth colours to show that I am a proud Motswana,” she said. Gaborone Mayor, Oarabile Motlaleng, brought an international flavour to his fashion choice, drawing ideas from his wife and designers in different countries. 

He said he independently selected the different elements to communicate the diversity and inclusivity associated with his role as Mayor of the capital city, which hosts people of different nationalities. Meanwhile, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, viewed his clothing as an extension of his responsibility and respect for the people he represents. He said public representatives should maintain a dignified appearance, particularly during important national events. “As a Member of Parliament and as a representative of the people, I have to look the part and respect the people I represent, and that has to show even in my outfit. I should look dignified. I respect this day and have to look the part,” he said.

For Ramotswa MP, Boniface Mabeo, the gathering called for a straightforward approach to dressing, as he simply selected one of his existing suits. Describing himself as an ordinary man with limited interest in fashion, Mabeo said his focus remained on the business of the day. 

“I took one of the suits I have. I am just a normal guy. I do not know much about fashion,” he said, adding that he viewed the event as business as usual. One of the most colourful fashion statements came from Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Lesego Chombo, whose attire carried a message of hope and renewal, particularly for young people. Chombo said her colourful ensemble symbolised the hope for a new dawn and reflected the aspirations of young Batswana and their expectations for the country’s future. “My outfit is inspired by the hope for a new dawn. That is why it is this colourful and that is also the choice of colour in it. It reflects what a lot of young people are looking forward to in the SONA and what they hope will come out of it,” she said. ENDS