Africa-Press – Botswana. Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there’s a trail of beautiful memories.”
Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse in his post quoted Ronald Reagan in reflection of the indelible mark that the deceased Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr Micus Chimbombi had left in society.
He described Dr Chimbombi as “a revolutionary spirit, a unique figure, a true legend, a gentle soul with so much sincerity.”
Mr Keorapetse’s voice of grief is not a solitary echo as the whole nation has been blanketed in pain by the Kgalagadi South legislator’s passing, with tributes and messages of condolences pouring in from all over, reflecting the profound impact Dr Chimbombi had on many.
Political leaders, religious organisations, and individual citizens have shared their sorrow and remembered his contributions.
The Botswana Democratic Party president Mr Mpho Balopi extended condolences, stating, “I join all Batswana across the country who mourn the passing on of Dr Micus Chimbombi. Botswana is a unique society of inter-woven citizens whereby a loss to any one family or organisation is felt by many beyond the deceased’s immediate contacts.”
Mr Balopi paid homage to the achievements the deceased had attained in his life, and conveyed his sympathies to his family, his constituents as well as to the Botswana National Front (BNF) and the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
The United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) issued a death notice, remembering Dr Chimbombi as not only a servant of the nation but also “a humble and steadfast member of the Body of Christ.”
They highlighted his walk with God, which they said was marked by faith, discipline, and quiet strength, and his commitment to justice, stewardship and service.
The Women’s League of the Alliance for Progressives (AP) also joined the nation in mourning, recognising Dr Chimbombi as “a distinguished public servant, a respected veterinary professional, and a seasoned administrator who served his country for nearly three decades with dedication and humility.”
Further tributes poured in from political comrades.
Mr Mooketsi Rakose, deputy council chairperson of Tsabong District Council, offered a heartfelt tribute.
“Dr Chimbombi was a great leader, an epitome of great statesmanship guided by principle! He was an honest man, he led by example and emphasised clean politics.”
Mr Rakose described Dr Chimbombi as a good orator and singer, a master farmer and a cultural enthusiast who cherished his identity as a Herero man.
He said in reverence of his Herero culture, the deceased would, as occasion would have it, put on his hat and use a walking stick, in true reflection of the dress sense of his tribesmen.
The agricultural community in Kgalagadi has also expressed deep sorrow at his passing.
Mr Leo Tumaeletse, chairman of the Molopo Small Stock Marketing Cooperative described Dr Chimbombi as a humble, approachable and patient individual who interacted with everyone regardless of their status.
Mr Tumaeletse decried the loss to the farming community, emphasising Dr Chimbombi’s experience and passion for agriculture.
He added that they had many expectations from him, particularly regarding the development of farming initiatives and the much-anticipated operation of the multi-species abattoir, which had yet to commence.
Social media users also shared their personal memories and reflections. Veteran journalist Mr Kabo Garechaba, reflecting on Dr Chimbombi’s life, praised his profound impact.
“When the new UDC government came into power, some questioned whether it had enough experience to govern,” he wrote.
“I disagreed, because I knew among them was a seasoned technocrat whose service to the Republic had been nothing short of remarkable. Dr Chimbombi was not just experienced – he was deeply reflective, thoughtful, and determined. His return to government offered hope for a better, more responsive public service shaped by hard lessons and time spent outside the system.”
Mr Garechaba further recounted Dr Chimbombi’s decision to re-enter public life after a period of frustration with the very system he had served.
“Instead of retreating into silence or fading into retirement in the Makopong sands or the wide open spaces of the Kgalagadi, Dr Chimbombi chose to fight for something better. He joined forces with the then opposition leader, Advocate Duma Boko, and the Botswana National Front under the UDC umbrella – seeking alternative ideas, new strategies, and a better path for the nation.”
For Garechaba, Dr Chimbombi represented the “complete politician in the new government; a blend of grassroots knowledge, technical expertise and deep public service experience. His story gave us hope: that even when the odds seem stacked against you, persistence, principle, and passion can lead to an even stronger return.”
Dr Chimbombi (1960 – 2025), a BNF vice president since 2022, will be remembered for his dedication to public service, his political contributions, and his unwavering faith. His passing on the afternoon of July 26 after a long illness, threw the nation into deep mourning at the loss of a true patriot and leader.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
