PRESIDENT KHAMA’S MESSAGE FOR THE 2014 PRESIDENT’S DAY AWARDS Earlier this afternoon H.E. the President, Lt. General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, was joined by His Honour the Vice President, Dr. Ponatshego Kedikilwe, the acting Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, the Honourable Vincent Seretse and other dignitaries for the 7th Annual President’s Day Competition’s Award Ceremony, which was held at the Gaborone International Convention Centre and broadcast on BTV. Below is the text His Excellency’s message for the occasion: I am happy to be here today on the occasion of the 7th President’s Day Competitions Awards Ceremony, where the best performers in the various categories of arts will receive their prizes. It is also an occasion to recognize Botswana’s talented artists and celebrate the creativity of our people. My Government remains committed to not only preserving and promoting the cultural diversity of our country, but also improving people’s livelihoods through such programmes. Clearly the President’s Day Competitions have provided a stage upon which local artists in all categories can launch their careers. The prize money for the winners provides the much needed income for participants. In addition, artists benefit immensely from media coverage which markets them and their products and thus improves their profiles. The public on the other hand, enjoys entertainment and information on the various cultural practices of Botswana. The success of the programme arises from the strategic partnership of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture with relevant stakeholders among them other ministries, the private sector and arts associations. The Department of Broadcasting Services through its television and radio broadcasts has been particularly critical in ensuring that the programme reaches Batswana across the country. I therefore wish to encourage stakeholders to continue to play their roles and improve the arts in our country. Just recently, Botswana hosted the Gaborone 2014 African Youth Games and we delivered a very successful event on and off the field of play. Our athletes did very well as they exceeded their targeted 30 medals tally, while local artists delivered a spectacular performance during the official opening ceremony. As we continue the countdown towards Botswana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2016, let us endeavour to use the arts to unite the country in celebration. I therefore urge all artists to do their best to showcase who we are as Batswana. We must embrace the theme of Botswana Pele – putting the interests of our country first and doing everything we can to portray it in a positive light. Bagaetsho, please join me in congratulating this year’s competition winners! Pula!
Posted on: Tue, 22 Jul 2014 14:59:43 +0000
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