On Tuesday, July 1, the nation will pause and reflect on the life and legacy of Sir Seretse Khama. Born Seretse Goitsebeng Maphiri Khama on July 1, 1921 in Serowe, Sir Seretse is revered for his service as the founding president and one of the chief architects of modern Botswana. Having been the Prime Minister of Bechuanaland Protectorate in the transitional period between March 1965 election and Independence Day, September 1966, and thereafter until his passing in 1980, he led the country in navigating a path toward democracy. Captured through the lense of yesteryears photogaphers, here are some of Sir Seretse’s moments that have now become iconic representation of history.
COMPILED BY: Felicity Male
Caption: LEFT - Sir Seretse Khama being presented with a refugee report by Dr Slatter in 1970. In 1978, Sir Seretse received the United Nations Nansen Refugee Award for his outstanding humanitarian work. He was recognised for offering refuge and support to people fleeing apartheid and political turmoil in Southern Africa, particularly from South Africa and Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe).
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
Caption: Sir Seretse Khama officially opening the Zambia Chancery in Gaborone in 1972.
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
Caption: TOP - President Sir Seretse Khama bidding farewell to heads of Botswana missions who were assigned to represent Botswana in different countries in 1971.
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
Caption: RIGHT - Sir Seretse Khama (left), University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland (UBLS) vice chancellor, Dr Cyril Rogers (centre) and First Lady Ruth at the opening of UBLS extension in 1971. Sir Seretse appealed for Africans to break-away from the shackles of mental oppression, and become masters of their destiny by writing their own history.
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
Caption: BELOW - Bakgatla leadership and tribesmen welcoming Sir Seretse Khama during his visit to Mochudi in 1972. He told Bakgatla that he wanted to place the welfare of all Batswana above personal or tribal gain and to set a tone for human rights amongst others.
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
Caption: On Tuesday, July 1, the nation will pause and reflect on the life and legacy of Sir Seretse Khama. Born Seretse Goitsebeng Maphiri Khama on July 1, 1921 in Serowe, Sir Seretse is revered for his service as the founding president and one of the chief architects of modern Botswana.
Location: Gaborone
Photographer: BOPA
Event: Rememberance
