1. Bagaetsho, It is now seven years since we set ourselves critical and important milestones to achieve by the year 2016, the year in which we will be celebrating our fiftieth anniversary of independence. We must therefore ensure that our celebrations at that time are especially meaningful to all of us. At the same time, we must rededicate ourselves to sustaining prosperity and National Values with renewed vigour to face the emerging world challenges.

2. Fellow country men and women, many Batswana are concerned about the future of our Nation and the need to instill in our children values and qualities that will further solidify National Unity, improve living
standards and make them good and worthy citizens. I cannot over-emphasise the values of hard work, self-discipline and dedication to one's duties as well as self-less devotion to serving one's nation. Many of us, leaders in various spheres of our society, and parents may not be alive in 2016. The youth of this country must therefore become torchbearers of the transformation of our society. But as parents and guardians, we have a duty to guide our children and young people, work with them and support them when they engage in worthwhile pursuits. Equally, we should bring them to the correct path in good time when they go astray.

3. Fellow compatriots, our material well-being cannot define the totality of our character as a Nation. I would urge all of you to exemplify "Botho" jwa Setswana in our various pursuits and to show compassion to vulnerable members of our society. Equally, we should respect and show tolerance to those with whom we interact.

4. Ladies and gentlemen, tomorrow the 22nd September marks the beginning of the Vision 2016 Awareness Week, which shall be commemorated annually from this year. This is an occasion when all Batswana shall evaluate progress towards achievement of Vision 2016 goals and set themselves milestones for the following year. Vision 2016 goals cannot be attained without the active support and full participation by all of us whether as individuals or members of families, religious organisations, Public Sector, Private Sector, NGOs or Civil Society.

5. It is appropriate that the theme for this year's commemoration is "Vision 2016 Ke yame!" This puts the necessary emphasis on the vital contribution of every Motswana. Let me stress that the Vision must not be the domain of a few privileged individuals, but something our entire Nation should rally behind. The Vision is for us all, in the rural areas, peri-urban centres and urban centres.

6. I am informed that activities to commemorate the week have been decentralised to districts and various stakeholders, including government departments, parastatals, the private sector, non governmental organisations, political parties and indeed individuals. I urge and encourage all of you, my beloved compatriots, to participate in commemoration activities with pride, enthusiasm and determination. We should make a solemn pledge to live the spirit of Vision 2016.

7. Furthermore, allow me to impress upon all those taking part in the commemoration that your participation should not be a one-off endeavour. But rather it should mark a special milestone in your full commitment to the ideals of Vision 2016; and that you shall, at all times, be asking yourselves what it is that you are doing to achieve Vision 2016 goals.

8. Finally, my fellow compatriots, I wish all of you an enjoyable and successful commemoration of Vision 2016 Awareness Week. It is my singular honour and privilege to now declare the 2003 Vision 2016 Awareness Week Commemorations officially launched.

Nelwang ke Pula Bagaetsho !