Botswana’s newly appointed Vice President and Minister of Finance, Ndaba Gaolathe, has opened up about his earlier decision to decline an offer to join the previous government, shedding light on the motivations behind his choice. In a statement that has resonated widely, Gaolathe affirmed his dedication to a transformative vision for Botswana—a vision rooted in inclusive prosperity and meaningful change.

“In these defining times for our country, I want to reaffirm my commitment to the vision of a New Botswana. Declining the invitation to join the past executive was not a decision I made lightly, nor was it a step away from serving our nation,” Gaolathe explained. “Rather, it was a commitment to serve with purpose, to remain true to a vision shared by a new generation of Batswana—a vision that transcends partisan boundaries.“

Gaolathe emphasized that his decision was based on a collective desire to build a Botswana characterized by genuine progress and opportunity for all its citizens. He acknowledged that his choice may have appeared unconventional, yet he maintained it was a step taken in good faith, driven by a strong conviction to create a lasting impact.

“I’m dedicated to working alongside you—mentoring our youth, inspiring new ideas, driving policy change, and building platforms for progress,” he continued. “While the journey may seem long, I am filled with the brightest hope that together, we are paving the way toward a New Botswana that serves all her people.”

Gaolathe’s words reflect his commitment to shaping Botswana’s future, focusing on youth empowerment, policy reform, and national unity. His message has struck a chord with many Batswana, who see his leadership as a hopeful step towards building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.