Africa-Press – Botswana. Dr Micus Chimbombi’s period as Minister of Lands and Agriculture may have been short, but his mark will stay for eternity.
His appointment at the ministry was not by chance, it was informed by the knowledge that his passion for agriculture ran deep and he was well learned in the field.
President Advocate Duma Boko acknowledged Dr Chimbombi’s contribution to the country in a heartfelt tribute during a memorial service to honour the latter’s legacy in Gaborone on Wednesday.
The President eulogised Dr Chimbombi as calm and composed even in the face of adversity, describing him further as a humble, experienced and spiritually mature leader who exemplified servant leadership in public office and party politics.
“He was never quick to anger, even when circumstances were irritating. That level of restraint is rare and speaks volumes about his spiritual maturity,” said President Boko.
He revealed that his first personal interaction with the late was during the formulation of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) manifesto.
However, President Boko said he had known of Dr Chimbombi through his daughter, before finally meeting him in person. “When I finally met him, I encountered a man of remarkable humility and deep experience,” he said.
President Boko explained that Dr Chimbombi’s embodiment of servant leadership, earned him the Botswana National Front (BNF) presidency, allowing himself (President Boko) time to focus his energy on leading the UDC. He said Dr Chimbombi accepted the responsibility with grace, selflessness and a profound sense of duty.
The President somberly recalled the difficult period when Dr Chimbombi’s health began to decline, stating that he had personally encouraged him to seek medical help from different doctors. “Together with his family, we tried all we could to help him regain his health,” he said and expressed special appreciation for Dr Chimbombi’s wife, commending her for the unwavering support she provided her husband during what he described as a tough and often overwhelming political journey.
“She stood by him through thick and thin. That loyalty and endurance deserve our deepest respect,” said President Boko.
He called on members of the BNF and the broader political community to honour Dr Chimbombi’s legacy, not only through ceremonies but also through their conduct.
Having given his life in service to this country and the movement, he said that the best tribute was to discard petty squabbles and treat each other with respect and dignity.
Botswana owes a debt of gratitude to Dr Chimbombi’s family, for sharing him with the nation and allowing him to serve with such dedication and humility, President Boko said and described Dr Chimbombi’s life as a lesson in ethical leadership and a quiet call for the nation to rise above self-interest and walk the higher path of public service.
Vice President, Mr Ndaba Gaolathe also paid tribute to the late Dr Chimbombi, stressing on his enduring legacy of humility, resilience, and service.
He said Dr Chimbombi’s life demonstrated the power of silence and mercy in leadership, showing that true strength lay in divine favour rather than public validation. Mr Gaolathe praised his unwavering dedication to guiding the nation toward unity and prosperity, inspiring others to contribute meaningfully.
Dr Chimbombi’s legacy continues to motivate Botswana to build an inclusive, resilient, and prosperous future rooted in humility, service, and collective effort, Mr Gaolathe said.
Assistant Minister for State President, Ms Maipelo Mophuting had in her welcome remarks, described the passing of Dr Chimbombi as a profound loss to his family, constituents, and all who served with him in Cabinet, Parliament and the BNF.
She said that he joined forces with President Boko under the UDC, bringing wisdom, experience, and unwavering resolve to serve.
Ms Mophuting praised his dedication as Kgalagadi South MP and minister, describing him as a custodian of principle and a voice of reason, embodying the founding values of justice and equity.
“His life reminds us that leadership is a calling of the heart, and his legacy will inspire generations to come,” she concluded.
Dr Chimbombi passed on July 26 and will be laid to rest in his home village of Makopong on Sunday.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
