Africa-Press – Botswana. To the world, the late Sir Seretse Khama was the first president of Botswana, but to Batswana he was everything that a nation could ask for.
He submitted himself to building a nation devoid of class and discrimination.
It is for this reason that he continues to be celebrated. And Botswana is globally known as an inclusive society that respects the rule of law and with equal opportunities for all because of the foundation laid by its founding president. To this day, Batswana remember Sir Seretse Khama as a unifier, hence being well known across the country, even by those who came after his passing.
This came to the fore when Minister for State President, Mr Kabo Morwaeng launched the inaugural Sir Seretse Khama Commemoration Marathon in Serowe on Saturday.
The marathon has been scheduled for June 29-30 on the eve of Sir Seretse Khama’s July 1 birth date, which government has set aside as a public holiday.
“This event will go down in the history books as a mark of honour and respect that Batswana have to his Excellency the late Sir Seretse Khama, who is the founding father of this Republic and who is remembered not only as a tribesman to Bangwato, but as a statesman, a nation builder, a republican and democrat who believed in and promoted national unity and equality,” said Minister Morwaeng.
He said Sir Seretse Khama had a heart for the people and good governance and was a true patriot who was always ready to serve.
Sir Seretse Khama belonged to all Batswana and therefore deserved recognition and respect befitting his status as father of the nation, added the minister.
For this marathon, he said government had joint forces with Kgosi Serogola Seretse of Serowe to pay homage to a man who dedicated his life and efforts to advance Botswana and its people.
“I appreciate the efforts of the office of Kgosi Seretse for coming up with such a noble idea which not only celebrates a life well lived for the people, but goes a long way in promoting the economic and cultural outlook of this historic village,” said Mr Morwaeng.
He said the event would not only promote sport tourism, but would also promote cultural tourism and public private partnerships.
The event, he said, would also benefit the local economy through the hospitality and informal sectors.
He also said it blended well with national priorities, more especially the President’s Mindset Change Agenda.
The event is also in line with the objectives of prevention of non-communicable diseases through sport activities such as this one, Mr Morwaeng said.
“Let us take this opportunity to reflect intimately on all the teachings we learnt and had been taught. It is equally important to sustain this for his ideal vision of a United and Proud Botswana. This should be our culture of remembrance. Kana o rile, tshaba e senang ngwao…,” said Mr Morwaeng.
In his remarks, Kgosi Serogola Seretse said the event sought to honour the legacy of the late Sir Seretse Khama.
He emphasised the importance of preserving culture and instilling it in the youth.
The launch was preceded by a 5km walk. International runners are expected to grace this year’s edition, which Minister Morwaeng promised to be a part of. Categories will include five, 10 and 21km races. Registration can be done through office of Deputy Chief of GaMmangwato.
dailynews
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
