Africa-Press – Botswana. African Group of Ambassadors to Botswana on Saturday joined in the festivities of the Africa Day celebrations in Gaborone.
The group celebrated the day in style, none failing to look the part in African attire that was complemented by a colourful display of culture, food, song and dance, in celebration of the continent’s diversity.
The event was characterised by African communities sampling the vibrancy and diversity of African cultures, which highlighted the growing links and relations between African countries.
Ranging from musical performances from various countries such as Angola, Mozambique and Nigeria, to food displays, the event proved to be a showcase of African cultures, particularly from countries with missions in Botswana.
The festivities also showcased contribution Africans in Botswana continued to make towards the African heritage.
Countries went all out with the display of delicacies ranging from jollof rice from Nigeria, the wors and chilli bites biltong from Namibia, South Africa with its spicy chakalaka and various meaty dishes such as tripe to Algeria’s sweet desserts made from dates.
In his speech, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Lemogang Kwape said there was hope that Africa’s future was set to be bright, especially with Africa’s population being the youngest in the world.
Dr Kwape said the African Union had adopted a vision of an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa driven by its own citizens, as enshrined in the Agenda 2063.
“This is a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the continent over the next 50 years. I can confidently say that it is being implemented with constant engagement and consultation with the youth,” he said.
He said a youthful population called for supportive policies and programmes focused on inclusive youth development; comprehensive policies that support youth development in all areas encompassing health care, employment and political participation, among others.
The theme for this year’s commemoration was Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century, which Dr Kwape said went beyond 2024 as it emphasised the importance of equipping the youth with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate and excel in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“Education is the cornerstone of every development. We must ensure that every young African has access to quality education that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
This includes not only traditional academic subjects, but also critical thinking, digital literacy, and vocational training,” Dr Kwape said.
Giving her remarks, Dean of African Group of Ambassadors to Botswana, Dr Beatriz Morais said education was the cornerstone for Africa’s growth and development, serving as a critical engine for socio-economic transformation and innovation.
“By investing in education, fit for the 21st century, African countries will be equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate and thrive in an increasingly complex and digital world,” said Dr Morais.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Major General Mpho Mophuting said educating the youth was essential and reiterated that the theme resonated well with the efforts that Botswana and Africa were making in shaping the youth to become relevant for a more complex future.
He said Africa should recognise the importance of investing in knowledgeable youth, saying such would also contribute to a future knowledgeable workforce, which was critical for driving innovation and development today and for the future.
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