President Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi has honoured 48 individuals for their outstanding contributions to Botswana’s national development during the Botswana Honours and Awards 2024 ceremony on September 29.
The awards recognized individuals across four main categories: Naledi Ya Botswana (NYB), the Presidential Order of Honour (PH)
, the Presidential Order of Meritorious Service (PMS), and the Presidential Certificate of Honour (PCH).
The prestigious Naledi Ya Botswana award, celebrating exemplary service, was presented to notable figures such as the Minister of Minerals and Energy, Mr. Lefoko Moagi, for his crucial role in securing a 10-year sales agreement for Debswana’s rough diamond production and a 25-year extension of Debswana licences.
Among those celebrated for their negotiating contributions were the 2011 Botswana team members in the De Beers discussions, including Mr. Eric Molale, Dr. Athalia Lesiba-Molokomme, and the late Ms. Linah Mohohlo.
Their work was further built upon by the current negotiating team members, such as Ms. Emmah Peloetletse and Advocate Abraham Keetshabe, who were also honoured with the Naledi Ya Botswana.
Recognizing efficient and devoted service to the country, the Presidential Order of Honour was awarded to Ms. Peggy Serame, Botswana’s first female Minister of Finance, and Professor Paul Klotman, President of the Baylor College of Medicine, who established Botswana’s first pediatric HIV clinic.
Other honorees included reigning Miss World Africa, Lesego Chombo, awarded the Presidential Order of Meritorious Service for her philanthropic efforts, and posthumous recognitions for individuals such as Mr. John Leo Kgaboesele, a key figure in Botswana’s history for offering sanctuary during apartheid.
The late Prophet Jacob Mokgweetsi Mokaleng Motswasele was acknowledged for his spiritual contributions, and Ms. Keneilwe Mpuang received the Presidential Certificate of Honour for her impactful 36-year teaching career.
