“I come to you today not with political promises, but with a message of hope rooted in God’s Word.” With these words, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko opened his address at the National Leadership Prayer Service held on 14 September 2025 in Gaborone.
The event brought together leaders, clergy, and citizens seeking direction during a time of economic and social strain. President Boko’s tone was one of humility and faith, as he acknowledged the pressing challenges facing the nation.
The President pointed to high unemployment, the rising cost of living, and ongoing difficulties in the health sector as issues weighing heavily on Batswana. “These are painful realities, and as your leader, I carry this burden with you,” he said, emphasizing empathy rather than political rhetoric.
In a moment of vulnerability, President Boko shared his own experiences of hardship. “I stand before you today because God carried me through. He gave me strength when I had none, and hope when I felt hopeless,” he testified. His words aimed to encourage citizens to hold on to faith during adversity.
Quoting from the book of Habakkuk, the President reminded the congregation that hope must endure even in scarcity. “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord,” he read, drawing attention to God’s faithfulness in difficult times.
President Boko urged the nation to embrace unity, compassion, and trust in God as Botswana works to overcome its current struggles. “Botswana has overcome trials before, and we will rise again. But we must do it together, as one people who trust in God,” he said.
The service ended with a heartfelt prayer from the President, asking for God’s guidance over the nation’s future. His appeal for collective resilience, grounded in faith, left a strong impression on attendees. For many, President Boko’s address was not only a message of encouragement but also a call to action for shared responsibility and hope.
