Gaborone — The Department of Information Services yesterday, launched an iconic photography exhibition and coffee-table book at the National Museum and Art Gallery to mark Botswana's Independence Diamond Jubilee.
Themed, Botswana @ 60: A Journey Through The Lens, the exhibition which will run until September 30, celebrates history, values, icons, creativity and cultural influence in Botswana featuring 60 photographs.
It showcases a visual reflection of six decades of a remarkable journey.
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Speaking at the event, assistant Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Maipelo Mophuting-Dikoloti, highlighted the significance of the exhibition as reflecting a nation in transition, showcasing urban development, evolving villages, expanding infrastructure and the preservation cultural transitions.
"As we explore this exhibition, we reflect on significant moments in Botswana's history, from imfluential figures to the everyday lives of its people," she said.
She noted that while national milestones were celebrated, the contributions of ordinary citizens, quietly building and nurturing communities were equally important as their stories created a rich tapestry that shaped the nation's identity.
"This connection to the past is vital as it provides a legacy for future generations to understand the essence of Botswana today," Mophuting-Dikoloti said.
The assistant minister said the photographs on display were not merely illustrations accompanying a historical narrative.
She also said through photography, the Department of Information Services had preserved the nation's achievements and experiences, contributing to a visual archive that captures the essence of Botswana, becoming even more meaningful as Botswana celebrates 60 years of Independence.
She said the 60-year journey through the lens highlighted that a nation's history was reflected not just in monuments and official records.
It is also found in the faces of its people, the streets of its localities, the landscapes that surround us, the traditions we carry and the moments we choose to remember, she said.
Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Goitsemang Morekisi said the launch of the exhibition was an occasion to remember the remarkable journey as a country.
"A time to celebrate achievements, which were at some point a far-fetched dream. We do look to the future with renewed hope and confidence. Despite increasing demands and new technologies, the Department of Information Services has proven its enduring value, highlighting six decades of Botswana's transformation through the lens, Morekisi said.
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According to the Director of Information Services Thebeyame Ramoroka, celebrating the Botswana @60 Photography Exhibition and a coffee table book, was aimed at reflecting on the country and its progress; showcasing and documenting various sectors over the past 60 years.
"The project is earmarked to showcase a bit of what the department documented over the years through photography.
I must hasten to point out that my department has some of the best writers and photographers," Ramoroka said. Ends
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