The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has extended warm congratulations to the Government and people of Botswana as the nation marks its 59th Independence Day.
He described the occasion as a significant moment that reflects Botswana’s sovereignty, national pride, and the enduring aspirations of its citizens. Youssouf further underscored Botswana’s engagement with the African Union’s objectives of peace, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.
The African Union commended Botswana for what it called a pivotal role in advancing continental and regional goals. As a committed member of key African institutions, Botswana has consistently supported the Union’s collective vision for “The Africa We Want,” as outlined in Agenda 2063.
“On this day, the AUC Chairperson reaffirms the Union’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its partnership with Botswana. We remain dedicated to supporting your nation’s journey towards greater heights of political stability, democratic consolidation, and sustainable socio-economic development.”
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf
President Boko Delivers First Independence Day Address
Botswana gained independence from the United Kingdom on September 30, 1966. Across the country, citizens are taking part in outdoor festivities such as parades and family gatherings, with decorations prominently featuring the blue, white, and black colors of the Botswana flag.
Central to the day’s observance is the speech being delivered by President Duma Boko, who recently took office and is addressing the nation in his first Independence Day message. His speech emphasized Botswana’s ongoing journey of peace, democratic governance, and socio-economic development. President Boko is highlighting commitments to strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and rooting out corruption, thereby ensuring a government that serves the citizens with integrity.
“Let us continue to succeed many times beyond the low standards that others have expected of us, let us continue to develop our talents and abilities and speak so loudly that the whole world will fail to ignore our voice.”
President Duma Boko
He also stressed Botswana’s role in regional and continental affairs, reaffirming the country’s active participation in African unity and sustainable development initiatives.
The president’s remarks include a tribute to the nation’s resilient spirit and a call for renewed dedication to shared values, including multilateral partnerships to face global challenges together. Botswana’s leadership is poised to continue contributing to Africa’s collective vision for growth and stability, particularly in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Meanwhile, President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko congratulated President of Botswana Duma Boko on the national holiday.
“The people of Botswana, committed to an independent model of state development for more than half a century, have made remarkable progress in securing economic growth and the stability of the political system.”
President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko
The Belarusian leader emphasised that Belarus views Botswana as a good partner in Southern Africa and attaches great importance to strengthening relations of friendship and co-operation.“We have considerable potential to expand mutual trade and deepen bilateral ties in all areas,” Aleksandr Lukashenko is confident.
The President of Belarus noted the increasing contacts among the ministries and businessmen of Belarus and Botswana in 2025.
“I hope we will launch joint projects in industrial modernisation, food security, agricultural mechanisation and other fundamentally important to both states projects in the near future. I invite you to pay an official visit to the Republic of Belarus at your convenience.”
President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko
Aleksandr Lukashenko wished Duma Boko health, personal happiness and success, and peace and harmony to the people of friendly Botswana.
As such, the atmosphere across Botswana is one of celebration and hopeful anticipation for the future, as the citizens commemorate their nation’s achievements and look forward to continued progress under President Boko’s leadership. The day is a reminder of Botswana’s proud history and the enduring aspirations of its people toward a prosperous and united future.
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