President Duma Boko urged Botswanans to embrace unity and cooperation to promote peace and harmony, both at home and across the African continent, in a stirring national address marking the country’s 59th Independence Day.
The speech, broadcast live on Botswana Television, called on citizens to be patriotic, reflective, and forward-looking as the nation celebrated its enduring legacy of independence.
Speaking from the capital, Boko emphasized that unity is the cornerstone of peace, tranquility, and development for Africa. “We are stronger when we are united and working in unison,” he declared, highlighting the power of collective action. He pointed to the recent success of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), the coalition he leads, as a testament to the strength of unity.
The UDC, comprising the Botswana National Front, the Botswana People’s Party, and the Alliance for Progressives, secured a historic victory in the National Assembly election, ending the decades-long rule of the Botswana Democratic Party, which had governed since independence on September 30, 1966.
Boko’s address also underscored the importance of cultural inclusivity. On the eve of Independence Day, he launched four news bulletins in indigenous languages on state-owned broadcasting platforms, a move aimed at promoting Botswana’s rich linguistic diversity. The initiative reflects his commitment to acknowledging and celebrating all cultures within the nation, fostering a sense of belonging for every citizen.
As Botswana commemorates nearly six decades of independence, Boko’s message resonated with calls for patriotism and collective progress. His leadership, rooted in coalition-building and inclusivity, signals a vision for a united and forward-looking nation, ready to tackle the challenges of the future while honoring its cultural heritage.
