Africa-Press – Botswana. President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has described the late Ms Ellen Vanqa as a pillar of strength, a loving motherly person and disciplinarian.
President Masisi also said Ms Vanqa contributed immensely to the development of the country during its formative stage. Born August 4, 1936, Ms Vanqa died October 26, 2023 after a long illness.
President Masisi visited the deceased’s residence at Gaborone North. Dr Masisi, a former science student of the late Ms Vanqa and also close family friend as he closely grew up with two of her sons, expressed his deepest condolences and appreciation of her service to the nation.
The deceased was a teacher for many years in different schools in the country. Together with her late husband, Professor Temba Vanqa, a former lecturer at the University of Botswana, they left their native country, South Africa, Eastern Cape, as a young couple and settled in Botswana where they became permanent residents and served the nation. At one point, the family was engaged in pastoral farming. Therefore, President Masisi cherished their service to the country.
“They gave their all to the country and truly must be celebrated. I appreciate their service; they have taught many people who are successful today. Your parents more than anything else gave their all to the country and we must do our all so that wherever they are they must never regret ever coming to this country,” he said. Updating on the deceased’s illnesses, her son Mr Loyiso Vanqa, said his mother had been unwell since 2020 following the passing on of her spouse. Ms Vanqa died at Princess Marina Hospital where she was admitted. The family spokesperson, Ms Priscilla Noah thanked President Masisi for his message of condolences.
Ms Noah said Dr Masisi regarded the Vanqas as his parents more so that they both taught him at secondary school and university. Ms Noah described Batswana as a friendly nation, urging them to continue with the warmth and hospitable reception.
Ms Vanqa was buried on Friday at Phomolong cemetery in Gaborone.
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