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The Herald, 25 July, 1980
GABORONE. — President Kaunda yesterday paid a glowing tribute to Sir Seretse Khama, whom he said was a key figure among the Frontline States that successfully piloted the liberation struggle in Southern Africa.
The Zambian leader said Sir Seretse had taught the people of the sub-region that the blind fears of race were hollow as it was possible to create a non-racial society.
At a moving memorial service here for the late president, who died 12 days ago, Dr Kaunda, wearing a dark safari suit and waving his now famous handkerchief, told more than 20 000 Batswana:
“Our brother departs from us leaving behind the people of Angola, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe free. He was a key figure of the Frontline States which have successfully piloted, on behalf of the Organisation of African Unity, the liberation struggle in Southern Africa.
“We owe much to the service of this man. The Frontline States will miss Seretse most painfully over the unresolved problem of Namibia and apartheid in South Africa.”
Dr Kaunda said that immediately after Zimbabwe’s independence, Sir Seretse had set in motion the new drive for close economic cooperation of all the free states. His death robbed the region and the world of a great leader.
As the huge crowd of mourners listened in silence, Dr Kaunda said: “Often we, the ordinary folk, take for granted the great but seemingly small things which rare men like Seretse go out of their way to do to help us move forward, to help us understand and appreciate better our own fears and situations.
“Here in Southern Africa the biggest embarrassment we all suffer across the length and breadth of our society are the torments of the blind fears of race. Some of us are frightened to the innermost marrow of our bones by the colour of the skin of the person we see.
“Our brother Seretse Khama demonstrated by thought, word and action every moment of his life that our fears of race and colour towards another are hollow.”
The memorial service, held at the national stadium, was attended by five heads of state – Malawi’s Kamuzu Banda, Mozambique’s Samora Machel, Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere, Dr Kaunda and Zimbabwe’s President Banana and about 30 representatives of Government. Flags of those nations represented flew at half -mast.
The world leaders later laid wreaths on the dais where the closed, ornate coffin of Sir Seretse was lying. President Banana laid the wreath on behalf of the Zimbabwe Government.
Earlier, Botswana’s new President, Dr Quett Masire, praised his predecessor, saying he was a great leader.
As world representatives began arriving at the stadium, Botswana’s national anthem, Lefatshe Larona (Botswana our Country) was played by the Botswana Defence Forces band. There was a 21-gun salute.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- Through his heartfelt tribute, President Kaunda celebrated President Khama’s contributions to regional development, peacebuilding, and advocacy for human rights, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations across the continent.
- Dr Kaunda’s eulogy for Khama was important due to the deep respect and admiration he held for Khama, as well as the significant role both leaders played in the liberation struggles of Southern Africa.
- The eulogy highlighted the strong bond and collaboration between the two Southern African leaders in advocating for freedom, independence, and equality across the region. It underscored their shared commitment to peace, diplomacy, and solidarity in the face of oppressive regimes and challenges during a critical period in Southern Africa’s history.
- President Kaunda’s eulogy also symbolised a broader message of solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect among African nations. It exemplified the spirit of pan-Africanism and emphasised the enduring impact of visionary leaders like Khama on shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for Africa.
Online Reporter