Independence Day (Botswana)

[1] Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, fairs, picnics, concerts, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of Botswana.

[2] The most powerful ruler was King Khama III, who had strong support from the British government, and was especially popular among evangelicals in Britain.

He collaborated closely with the British military, and kept his vast, but underpopulated lands independent from intruders from South Africa.

Tshekedi Khama's regency as acting chief of the Bamangwato is best remembered for his expansion of the mephato[clarification needed] regiments for the building of primary schools, grain silos, and water reticulation systems; for his frequent confrontations with the British colonial authorities over the administration of justice in Ngwato country; and for his efforts to deal with a major split in the tribe after Seretse married a white woman, Ruth Williams, while studying law in Britain.

Many politicians make it a point on this day to appear at a public event to praise the nation's heritage, laws, history, society, and people.

Parades are often held in the morning, before family get-togethers, while fireworks displays occur in the evening after dark at the national stadium.