21/05/2026
Dumelang Betsho, Dumelang Dithakadu, ke le dumedisa lotlhe ka P**a!
Today, I had the distinct honour of receiving a courtesy call from His Excellency Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Botswana, Yusuke Shindo.
During our engagement, His Excellency shared that since his arrival in Botswana a year ago, he has undertaken several courtesy visits across the country as part of strengthening relations and deepening his understanding of Botswana and her people. He further expressed that he had long looked forward to meeting “the very famous Kgosi Puso Gaborone of Batlokwa,” words which I received with great humility and appreciation.
On behalf of Morafe wa Batlokwa, I warmly welcomed His Excellency to Tlokweng and shared with him the rich historical significance of our land and people. I explained how the City of Gaborone derives its name from Kgosi Gaborone of Batlokwa, in recognition of his historic contribution of land towards the establishment of the capital city of Botswana. This remains a source of pride not only for Batlokwa, but for the nation as a whole.
His Excellency reflected on the similarities he has observed between the people of Botswana and the people of Japan since assuming his diplomatic duties in our country. He spoke highly of the strong cultural values shared by both nations, particularly the deep respect for culture, family, humility, discipline and community. He further stated that this courtesy call would greatly assist him in understanding the institution of Bogosi and the important role of traditional leadership within Botswana society.
In response, I shared my own memorable experience of visiting Japan in March 2011 alongside the former Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Margaret Nasha. During that visit, I experienced exceptional warmth, hospitality, respect and kindness from the people of Japan; values which strongly reminded me of the character and spirit of Batswana back home. It was therefore pleasing for both of us to reflect on the enduring friendship between Botswana and Japan, particularly as our two nations commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.
I further conveyed my appreciation for the longstanding friendship and mutual partnership that has existed between Botswana and Japan over the decades. I acknowledged the significant support that Japan continues to extend to Botswana through institutions such as Japan International Cooperation Agency, whose contribution towards development, technology, education, infrastructure, skills transfer and community empowerment has positively impacted many lives across our country.
As our discussions progressed, His Excellency expressed a keen interest in understanding the role of Bogosi and traditional leadership in Botswana. I explained that Dikgosi are custodians of culture and tradition, entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the welfare, harmony and prosperity of their communities. I further highlighted the important role Bogosi continues to play in uniting government and communities, preserving customary law through Dikgotla and customary courts, and ensuring that the voices of ordinary people are heard and represented.
I also shared with His Excellency the meaning of the Setswana concept “Mmabatho,” describing how a Kgosi is regarded as a mother to the people; one who protects, nurtures, guides and brings unity and harmony within the community. His Excellency noted with great interest that this bears similarities to the symbolic and unifying role played by the Emperor in Japan.
His Excellency further enquired about the challenges commonly raised by communities during Kgotla meetings. In my response, I explained that the concerns raised by communities often differ depending on geographical location, economic realities and cultural dynamics. Here in Tlokweng, our people continue to express concern over the shortage of land, high levels of youth unemployment, economic hardships resulting from the decline in diamond revenues, and various social challenges affecting families and communities.
In light of these challenges, His Excellency shared that Japan remains committed to exploring areas of cooperation that may assist Botswana in addressing some of these issues. He highlighted ongoing efforts towards expanding opportunities in cultural exchange, skills development, education, training programmes and employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
When discussing opportunities for economic diversification and sustainable community livelihoods, I emphasized the importance of cultural tourism, skills development initiatives, partnerships with community trusts and investment opportunities that can empower local communities and stimulate economic growth.
His Excellency further expressed his admiration for Botswana’s rich cultural heritage, noting his enjoyment of traditional products and customs such as morula fruit, morula jam, traditional dance and traditional basket weaving. He stated that he sees tremendous potential for such cultural products to become opportunities for export and cultural exchange between Botswana and Japan.
Overall, our meeting was fruitful, insightful and encouraging. It reaffirmed the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation between Botswana and Japan for the mutual benefit of our people, particularly in the areas of culture, education, economic empowerment and development.
As we continue to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries, we look forward with optimism to future partnerships, greater people-to-people exchanges and the series of commemorative events that will be hosted by the Embassy of Japan in Botswana, in honour of this important milestone.
Ke a leboga.
P**a!
