Africa-Press – Botswana. Multitudes thronged Bokaa in Kgatleg District to bid farewell to former Radio Botswana broadcaster, Mr Geoffrey Motshidisi, who died last week.
Mr Motshidisi became a household name with popular appeal across the country when he joined Radio Botswana as a broadcaster in the late 70s.
Mgqashiyo music that he used to play on radio earned him a huge fan base and he kept listeners captivated whenever he was on the airwaves.
Messages of sympathy and condolences from across the country and abroad have been extended to his family since his death, including a memorial service by former colleagues, relatives, friends this week.
A message of condolences from President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi said the late Mr Motshidisi left a distinct mark in broadcasting and other events where he effortlessly produced memorable radio programmes that endeared him to many followers.
“Even though Mma-Motshidisi and the family have suffered an irreparable loss, we pray that you will take solace from the fact that the affection you shared with your husband and father radiated across the length and breadth of Botswana. On behalf of my family, the government of Botswana and people of Botswana, allow me therefore, to convey my deepest condolences with the unquestionable belief that God’s faithfulness will see you through this darkest hour,” read the message from President Masisi.
Speakers at the funeral including former colleagues, Mr Mogomotsi Kaboeamodimo, Ms Keitirele Mathapi and Mr Patrick Masimolole described Mr Motshidisi as an icon whose legacy would live on even after his departure.
All speakers concurred that ‘nothing will ever kill a radio star like Motshidisi’ for his good deeds will follow him.
The trio spoke about Mr Motshidisi’s big heart that accommodated the young and the old, his laughter and charisma that echoed in Radio Botswana studios and Mass Media Complex corridors.
“We will remember the love he extended to the media fraternity and Batswana at large. His charisma and humour will forever be entrenched in our hearts,” they said.
His daughter, Ms Nnete Motshidisi said their father was very present in their lives and that the family enjoyed the immeasurable love from him.
She said their father taught them gospel music and putting God first in everything they did.
“We have lost our dear father, but God will be our refuge,” she said.
Mr Motshidisi was also described as a sports fanatic who was part of the Super League Legends social club. Patron of the club, Mr Phillip Makgalemele also described him as someone who loved life.
He said Mr Motshididisi had great plans to grow the club that was founded to benefit former super league players.
Other speakers, including avid followers of the Mo Khichining programme, took turns to describe the humility and the loving kindness that characterised Mr Motshidisi and set him apart from other people.
Mr Motshidisi was the eighth and last born child of the late Mr Motshididsi Khunotswane and Ms Nnete Khunotswane- nee Malebang in Serowe.
He studied in Moscow, Russia and Nairobi, Kenya, where he acquired his basic broadcasting skills and diploma in broadcasting respectively.
Other studies included advanced administration in broadcasting at the University of Botswana and advanced professional training in television studio production in Germany.
He pioneered some of Radio Botswana’s programmes such as Taking Parliament to the People, Phutha Dichaba, Mafetlhefetlhe and O Sethakga Jang Rakotoleakgwetlha.
In 2018, he received Presidential Certificate of Honour from President Masisi for his distinguished service to the Republic of Botswana.
He was also a member of International Pentecostal Church (IPHC).
He leaves behind three children and wife, Ms Justinah Motshidisi.
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