Dr. Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi, president of Botswana, spoke at the opening ceremony of the African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Gaborone, Botswana, on June 25, 2024. His remarks have been edited for length and clarity.
As you gather here today under the theme, “On the Rampart Together: Expanding Cooperation and Sharing Values,” you are called upon to reflect on the critical importance of unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing our continent. Now, more than ever before, it is imperative that we come together as one cohesive force to achieve the African Union’s noble vision of “Silencing the Guns by 2030” and ensuring peace and stability across our continent as espoused in the African Union’s “Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.”
Furthermore, there is an urgent need to face the growing disquiet about the disrespect of the democratic ideal of constitutionally elected governments on the African continent by the military.
In a democracy, we must uphold the principle that the military serves the nation through an elected government and not any particular regime. We must be committed to ensuring that our armed forces remain dedicated to the protection and well-being of our people through governments.
Cooperation among African states is not a choice; it is required if we are to achieve our developmental goals and realize the enormous potential that exists inside our borders. However, achieving this requires more than just lofty aspirations. It demands concrete action and a commitment to good governance and exemplary leadership.
These threats of rampant militarization of our nation states do not only undermine stability and prosperity but also pose significant obstacles to the realization of our collective aspirations for peace and development. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to bolster cooperation, coordination and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to effectively counter these threats and ensure the safety and security of our nation states.
Let us not forget that the foundation of any successful national endeavor lies in good governance and effective leadership. Without transparency, without accountability and the effective rule of law, our efforts to achieve peace and development will be in vain.
Together we can overcome the obstacles that stand on our way. Together we can build a brighter and more prosperous future for all and every African. Let us stand united, hand in hand, on the rampart of expanding cooperation and shared values as we work tirelessly to silence the guns and pave the way for peace, progress and prosperity across our beloved continent.
I wish to extend my sincere wishes for productive and fruitful discussions during this conference. May your deliberations be characterized by mutual respect, open dialogue and a spirit of cooperation. You must seize this opportunity to forge consensus, exchange best practices and chart a course toward a safer, more prosperous Africa for generations to come.
Let me, on behalf of Botswana, conclude my remarks by expressing our appreciation to all the 42 countries represented here today, for honoring the invitation to this year’s African Chiefs of Defense Conference.