We talk often – and proudly so – about Botswana’s national traditional values. Words like Botho, Botswerere, Bonatla, Botlhakga, Boitshoko, Boineelo, Boikanyo, Boitshupo, Boikarabelo and many others are deeply woven into our nation’s fabric. They aren’t just words; they are the foundation of who we are as Batswana. They shape our sense of identity, our relationships, and our collective vision of what a good and just society should look like.
But here’s the question we must boldly confront: Do we, as a nation, truly understand these values? And are we genuinely living them, every single day, in our workplaces, our schools, our leadership, and in our homes? It’s easy to assume that because we have inherited these values, we automatically embody them. But culture is not static, it is something we must intentionally nurture, practice, and evolve. And beyond simply knowing these values by name, we must ask: Do we have a clear, shared understanding of what these values look like in action, and just as importantly, what they do not look like? Without this clarity, it becomes all too easy for values to remain abstract ideals rather than guiding principles that shape real behavior.
More Than Just Botho
Many organizations across Botswana have made admirable progress in embedding Botho – the principle of humanity, respect, and compassion – into their value systems. It’s not uncommon to walk into an office and see Botho proudly displayed on a wall, echoed in mission statements, or recited in team meetings. That commitment should be applauded. However, while Botho is perhaps the most recognized and celebrated of our traditional values, it is only one piece of a much richer tapestry. Our ancestors passed down a full spectrum of values that, together, offer a blueprint for national excellence. And if we are to build workplaces – and a nation – that thrives, we need to bring as many of these values to life.
Let’s remind ourselves what some of these traditional values are:
There are many more to draw from.
These are not just aspirational words; they are practical tools for creating high-performing workplaces, cohesive teams, and a resilient nation. Yet too often, we stop at Botho – and in doing so, we miss out on the incredible potential that the rest of these values hold.
What Would It Look Like If We Truly Lived These Values?
Imagine a Botswana where Botswerere – excellence – is not a once-off pursuit but a daily expectation. Where every organization, from the largest corporation to the smallest enterprise, is committed to delivering quality, precision, and mastery. Mediocrity would have no place, and every individual would be encouraged – and expected – to strive for personal and professional growth.
Picture workplaces where Bonatla – strength and resilience – are not empty buzzwords but a living reality. Where challenges are met with determination, hard work and setbacks are viewed as opportunities to rise stronger. Think of the incredible creative force we would unleash if Botlhakga – innovation – were not just something for tech companies or entrepreneurs, but a mindset embraced at every level. New ideas would be welcomed, experimentation would be encouraged, and problem-solving would become a shared responsibility. And consider the unshakeable trust we could build if Boikanyo – dependability – became a non-negotiable standard across teams. Imagine the speed and confidence with which we could move as a nation when reliability is deeply ingrained in how we work and lead.
Living these values isn’t just about creating better workplaces; it’s about fostering a culture of national excellence – one that propels Botswana forward on a foundation of authenticity, integrity, and collective ambition.
Learning by Example: A Legacy for the Next Generation
It’s often said that culture is caught, not taught. Our children and young adults are watching us carefully, learning what it means to live with respect, resilience, and purpose – not from what we say, but from what we do. Every action, every decision, and every interaction we have at work sends a message. Are we showing them what Botswerere looks like in action? Are we modeling the patience, perseverance, and loyalty of Boitshoko and Boineelo? Or are we unintentionally teaching them that values are just words to be recited and forgotten? As leaders, parents, and citizens, we carry the responsibility of example. The standards we set today will shape the character of tomorrow’s workforce – and tomorrow’s leaders.
Let’s Make Our National Traditional Culture Our Superpower
There is a powerful African proverb that says, “A tree without roots will fall.” This wisdom is as relevant today as ever. We must ask ourselves: Are we remaining rooted in the values that define us? Or are we, knowingly or unknowingly, drifting away from them, risking becoming a tree that, though tall and outwardly impressive, is hollow at its core? Botswana’s traditional values are not just cultural niceties – they are powerful tools for unlocking national excellence. But to realize their full potential, we must move beyond talking about them. We must live them, intentionally and boldly, every single day.
Here’s your challenge:
· Revisit your organization’s core values. Do they truly reflect the depth and breadth of our national traditional values? Draw the link where you see it.
· Define, in clear terms, what each value looks like in action, and what behaviors stand in contradiction to them.
· Set the example. Make these values the north star of your leadership, your work ethic, and your daily interactions.
· And most importantly, ask yourself: Am I living these values in a way that will leave a lasting, positive legacy for the next generation?
The future of our workplace cultures – and indeed, the future of Botswana – depends on how well we weave these timeless values into the fabric of everything we do. Our culture, lived with conviction, could be the greatest superpower we have to unlock a prosperous, unified, and excellent Botswana. Let’s rise to that challenge – together.
People Interface is here to help you navigate your organization’s culture. We help organizations build intentional, positive workplace cultures that align with national values and drive excellence. Get in touch today. Email us at team@peopleinterface.com for more information.
