https://en.sputniknews.africa/20230717/what-is-presidents-day-in-botswana-1060591779.html
What is President's Day in Botswana?
What is President's Day in Botswana?
Sputnik Africa
Botswana celebrates President's Day – one of its most significant national holidays –every third Monday in July. The African country is one of the few nations... 17.07.2023, Sputnik Africa
2023-07-17T15:31+0200
2023-07-17T15:31+0200
2024-04-25T10:22+0200
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Botswana's President's Day holds much importance in the nation, serving as an occasion to honor and celebrate the leadership and achievements of the country's presidents. It is also an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the nation's progress and aspirations for the future.The Holiday's HistoryBechuanaland (previous name of Botswana) gained self-government in 1965 after 80 years as a British protectorate, and on September 30, 1966, it became the independent Republic of Botswana. General elections were conducted in the same year as the constitutional change was started. Seretse Khama was chosen as the country's first president. In the past, he led the fight for independence. Being re-elected, Seretse Kharma served as president until his passing in 1980. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi now leads the country and is the fifth president in the country's history.Since its establishment in 1966, President's Day in Botswana has traditionally been celebrated on Monday and Tuesday during the third week of July. However, in 2006, the Public Holiday Amendment was introduced, designating the holiday to be observed solely on the third Monday of July. Despite this modification, many public and private institutions, including the Botswana Stock Exchange, continue to observe a two-day holiday during this time of year.How is President's Day Celebrated?The commemoration of President's Day in Botswana encompasses a wide array of events and activities. A notable highlight is the public speech delivered by the president of Botswana, accompanied by other government officials. Additionally, it is a day off for the general population, resulting in the closure of non-essential government offices, businesses, and banks.On this day, even the national postal service is closed for two days due to the holiday.What is more, flag-raising ceremonies and other events are held throughout the nation, symbolizing unity and national pride. On social media platforms, the hashtag #PresidentsDayBotswana is utilized to raise awareness and promote the significance of this holiday.One of the notable features of President's Day is the military parade, which takes place alongside vibrant festivals held across the country. These festivities showcase the rich diversity of Botswana through music, fashion, sports, and traditional dances. Embracing the country's culture and traditions is an integral part of commemorating national holidays. Botswana boasts a vibrant arts scene, encompassing traditional and contemporary music, dance, and visual arts. Visitors are encouraged to explore and appreciate the finest works of local artists, which serve as a testament to the country's creative prowess.The celebrations provide an opportunity for citizens to reconnect with their cultural heritage, as many individuals return to their hometowns to participate in traditional ceremonies, witness inspiring speeches, and engage in cultural performances that reflect their unique backgrounds.
https://en.sputniknews.africa/20230709/south-sudan-worlds-youngest-country-celebrates-12th-independence-day-1060435333.html
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southern africa, botswana, national holiday, holidays, president, britain, british colonialism, history
southern africa, botswana, national holiday, holidays, president, britain, british colonialism, history
What is President's Day in Botswana?
15:31 17.07.2023 (Updated: 10:22 25.04.2024) Botswana celebrates President's Day – one of its most significant national holidays –every third Monday in July. The African country is one of the few nations in the world that designates a national holiday in honor of the head of state, alongside Equatorial Guinea and the US.
Botswana's President's Day holds much importance in the nation, serving as an occasion to honor and celebrate the leadership and achievements of the country's presidents. It is also an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the nation's progress and aspirations for the future.
Bechuanaland (previous name of Botswana) gained self-government in 1965 after 80 years as a British protectorate, and on September 30, 1966, it became the independent Republic of Botswana.
General elections were conducted in the same year as the constitutional change was started. Seretse Khama was chosen as the country's first president. In the past, he led the fight for independence.
Being re-elected, Seretse Kharma served as president until his passing in 1980. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi now leads the country and is the fifth president in the country's history.
Since its establishment in 1966, President's Day in Botswana has traditionally been celebrated on Monday and Tuesday during the third week of July.
However, in 2006, the Public Holiday Amendment was introduced, designating the holiday to be observed solely on the third Monday of July.
Despite this modification, many public and private institutions, including the Botswana Stock Exchange, continue to observe a two-day holiday during this time of year.
How is President's Day Celebrated?
The commemoration of President's Day in Botswana encompasses a wide array of events and activities. A notable highlight is the public speech delivered by the president of Botswana, accompanied by other government officials.
Additionally, it is a day off for the general population, resulting in the closure of non-essential government offices, businesses, and banks.
On this day, even the national postal service is closed for two days due to the holiday.
What is more, flag-raising ceremonies and other events are held throughout the nation, symbolizing unity and national pride. On social media platforms, the hashtag #PresidentsDayBotswana is utilized to raise awareness and promote the significance of this holiday.
One of the notable features of President's Day is the military parade, which takes place alongside vibrant
festivals held across the country.
These festivities showcase the rich diversity of Botswana through music, fashion, sports, and traditional dances.
Embracing the country's culture and traditions is an integral part of commemorating national holidays. Botswana boasts a vibrant arts scene, encompassing traditional and contemporary music, dance, and visual arts. Visitors are encouraged to explore and appreciate the finest works of local artists, which serve as a testament to the country's creative prowess.
The celebrations provide an opportunity for citizens to reconnect with their cultural heritage, as many individuals return to their hometowns to participate in traditional ceremonies, witness inspiring speeches, and engage in cultural performances that reflect their unique backgrounds.
