The Minister for State President, Honourable Moeti Caesar Mohwasa, has applauded Botswana’s retired police officers for their invaluable role in maintaining national peace, security, and the rule of law. Speaking at the 5th Annual General Meeting of the Botswana Police Service Retired Members Association (BPSRMA) held in Palapye on 10 July 2025, Minister Mohwasa described the retirees as foundational pillars of the country’s policing history.
He emphasized that their years of service have not only shaped a stable Botswana but also remain relevant today, especially as the nation faces increasingly complex and evolving criminal threats. He called on retired officers to actively participate in community policing and national security initiatives, underscoring their unmatched experience and wisdom.
Minister Mohwasa revealed that the Government is finalizing the Police Veterans Act, a new piece of legislation designed to enhance the welfare of retired officers and formalize their continued participation in policing. Through a broad-based consultative process, the Act is expected to be passed into law before the end of 2025. Once enacted, it will provide a legal framework for retired officers to engage in crime prevention, mentorship, and community security roles.
He also spoke about Botswana’s shift from the National Development Plan (NDP) to the National Transformation Programme (NTP), a new development model focused on accountability, performance, and inclusion. The Minister stated that this model will uplift all citizens, including those who have served in law enforcement.
Commissioner of Police Dinah Marathe also addressed the gathering, praising Minister Mohwasa for his steadfast support of public safety and his engagement with retired officers despite his demanding schedule. She emphasized the critical need for collaboration between serving and retired officers to strengthen crime-fighting efforts.
Commissioner Marathe pointed to the growing threat of serious and violent crimes—especially gender-based violence and drug-related offences—and urged retired officers to step into leadership roles within community policing efforts. She introduced the newly established Police Public Partnerships Branch, which aims to deepen cooperation between the Police Service and local communities.
In her remarks, Commissioner Marathe also highlighted the BPSRMA’s vital role in connecting the Police Service with society, while noting the association’s challenges due to the lack of legal backing—a gap the upcoming Police Veterans Act aims to close.
BPSRMA President and retired Commissioner of Police, Mr. Norman Seduma Moleboge, welcomed the government’s support and reiterated the continued commitment of retired officers to national service. “We have retired, but we are not tired. This Association was formed to remind ourselves and the nation that our service never truly ends,” he said, stressing the importance of unity, visibility, and welfare for retired members.
Delivering the vote of thanks, retired Commissioner of Police Mr. Thebeyame Tsimako described the AGM as a moment of reflection and unity. He reaffirmed the enduring loyalty of retired officers to the nation. “We may no longer be in uniform, but our patriotism remains. Let us continue to be role models and a source of guidance in our communities and to the Police Service,” he said.
The gathering marked a renewed commitment to integrating retired police officers into the broader national security agenda, with growing recognition of their untapped value in building safer, more resilient communities.
