On December 10th, 2024, Botswana commemorated International Human Rights Day with a powerful address from President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko. His speech marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s ongoing fight for justice and human dignity, highlighting the significant strides made in protecting the rights of the marginalized, particularly in relation to land and wildlife conservation issues.
“We have fought for many years for your rights and freedom,” President Boko began, addressing those who had long been affected by human rights violations. He reflected on the history of the struggle, particularly the unlawful removal of indigenous groups from their ancestral wildlife areas, which he decried as a violation of fundamental human rights.
Boko’s words resonated deeply with those present, as he referenced the legal battles fought alongside activists such as Pitse Gaoberekwe, a prominent figure in the fight for the rights of indigenous communities. Gaoberekwe had represented the case of Roy Sesana and others, challenging the government’s forced eviction of the indigenous people from their land. “I know Pitse Gaoberekwe very well,” Boko said, honoring the legacy of those who have fought for justice and the recognition of human rights.
A Legacy of Justice and Memorialization
In his address, Boko stressed that this was not a moment to boast but one to celebrate the victory of human rights activists who had relentlessly pursued justice. The president’s words were a reminder that where there is a right, there is also a mechanism for correction when that right is violated. “We do not deserve to boast, but we come to celebrate, to be proud, and to declare that we have fought for human rights,” he said, acknowledging the collective efforts to uphold human dignity.
He further emphasized the importance of building memorials to honor those who had laid down their lives for the cause. Referring to the grave of Mr. Pitse Gaoberekwe, Boko expressed the hope that it could be turned into a memorial—a symbol of resilience and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights. “I wish it could be built, to serve as a memorial and an example,” said Boko, “so that on this day, we close the chapter on the struggle and violation of human rights, and begin a new system that will restore human rights.”
A New Era of Restoration and Progress
Looking ahead, President Boko declared that Botswana was entering a new era, one that would prioritize the restoration and protection of human rights. “On this day, we close, we remove the struggle and violation of human rights,” he proclaimed, emphasizing that the fight for human rights was far from over. “We begin a new system and process that will restore human rights, which is the light and path that shows us where we are headed.”
Boko’s words served as a call to action for all citizens, urging them to continue the work of building a society founded on justice, equality, and respect for human rights. As Botswana joins the global community in recognizing International Human Rights Day, the message is clear: the nation is committed to ensuring that every citizen’s rights are protected, and any infringement will be met with decisive action.
This declaration marks a renewed commitment to advancing human rights in Botswana, ensuring that the struggles of the past are not forgotten but serve as a foundation for a future built on dignity and equality for all.
