Embassy of Angola in Botswana Hosts Southern Africa Liberation Day Commemoration in Gaborone
The Embassy of the Republic of Angola in Botswana played host to a momentous event as it commemorated the Southern Africa Liberation Day on March 28th, 2024, at its premises in Gaborone, Botswana.
The annual event, observed on the 23rd of March each year, marks a significant milestone in the history of Southern Africa, honoring the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the region.
Endorsed by the 38th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Southern Africa Liberation Day holds a special place in the hearts of those who understand the struggles endured and the victories achieved for regional integration and development.
Her Excellency Dr. Beatriz de Morais, the Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to Botswana and Representative to SADC, took center stage as she welcomed distinguished guests including SADC Ambassadors and High Commissioners, government officials, and representatives from the SADC Secretariat.
In her address, H.E. Dr. Morais emphasized the importance of commemorating the day and echoed the sentiments expressed by His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of Angola and Chairperson of SADC, underscoring the pivotal role of education and collective determination in ensuring sustainable peace for Southern Africa.
Highlighting the call to safeguard the hard-earned freedom of the region, Ambassador Morais urged vigilance in protecting fundamental freedoms, peace, and security.
She emphasized the need for unity in overcoming challenges faced by the region, echoing the sentiments of H.E. João Lourenço, Chairperson of SADC.
H.E. Henry Batiraishe Mukonoweshuro, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe to Botswana and Representative to SADC, speaking as the Incoming Chairperson of the Committee of SADC Ambassadors and High Commissioners, urged member states to intensify efforts towards economic integration.
He stressed the importance of translating the benefits of liberation into sustainable development for the entire SADC region and beyond.
Professor Kula Ishmael Theletsane, Director of the Organ on Politics Defence and Security Affairs at the SADC Secretariat, represented the SADC Executive Secretary at the event.
Prof. Theletsane acknowledged the remarkable progress made in peace, security, and political integration, attributing it to the sacrifices made by liberation heroes.
He called for renewed efforts to address contemporary challenges such as poverty and social inequality, urging Member States to embrace the spirit of Ubuntu.
The Southern Africa Liberation Day holds historical significance, commemorating the defeat of Apartheid forces on March 23, 1988, at the battle of Cuito Cuanavale in Angola. This decisive victory played a crucial role in the liberation of Namibia, South Africa, and the entire Southern African region.
