GABORONE, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Batswana (citizens of Botswana) across the country celebrated their 51st Independence Day on Saturday, with President Seretse Khama Ian Khama calling for national unity.
In his Independence Day message to mark the 51st anniversary in the country's capital, Gaborone, Khama described the day as the time Batswana should reflect on some of the core values of unity and respect.
He said the Botswana society has over the years been built on respect and unity and reinvigorated on progressing and overcoming some of the key socio-economic challenges.
Botswana gained her independence from being a British Protectorate on September 30 1966.
"Most importantly, we should be mindful not to let our differences on whatever issue divide us as a nation," said Khama.
"Sustaining our unity in diversity calls for continued adherence to fundamentals values of mutual respect and culture of consultation," he said.
Botswana is rich in natural resources like diamond and today the country has achieved one of the highest per capita income rates in Africa.
