BLLAHWU HOLDS SPECTACULAR

Under the planning and execution of the Central Executive Committee , and the wonderful contribution of Management, BLLAHWU held a successful 50th anniversary celebration on Saturday 8th October 2022 in Gaborone, Ditshupo hall, under the theme “50 Years of Militancy and Radicalism for Workers’ Welfare”.

The organisation was formed in 1972 as Botswana Local Authorities Workers Union ( BLAWU), and transformed in 1974 to Botswana Unified Local Government Service Union ( BULGASA). Following changes to labour laws that allowed for unionisation in 2007, the association transformed into a trade union known as Botswana Land Boards and Local Authorities Workers Union( BLLAWU).

In 2010, following the relocation of primary health care services from Local Government to the Ministry of Health, the trade union transformed into Botswana Land

Boards, Local Authorities and Health Workers Union ( BLLAHWU).

The 50th anniversary celebration was graced by domestic and international Trade Union leaders, BLLAHWU veterans, Leadership of BLLAHWU branches and members of the trade union, Ambassadors, Employer representatives, and other stakeholders of BLLAHWU.

The trade union veterans were bestowed with Awards in recognition of their distinguished service to the labour movement. The veterans, domestic and international Trade Unions also gave messages of solidarity wishing the leadership and members of BLLAHWU well in the 50th anniversary, noting that it is a great milestone worth celebrating.

The Secretary General of BLLAHWU, Cde Ketlhalefile Motshegwa described the trade union as a militant, radical and class conscious movement rooted on socialist principles, which subscribe to and practically promote the notion that workers and Trade Unions play in socio- economic sphere of the country of wealth. He said BLLAHWU advocates and policies that promote decent work workers, and remains devoted to protect, deepen workers rights.

Welcoming guests to the celebrations, of BLLAHWU Cde Thatayaone Kesebonye union has a track record of militancy on and that it is something that must be nurtured forward. He urged members to be focused forging ahead towards another milestone.

The Guest Speaker was the distinguished accomplished Honourable Justice Professor Dingake. Prof Dingake outlined that principles BLLAHWU is committed to are the anti- market or neo- liberal economic policies. free- market economy is often characterized

Introductions& synopsis of event by: BLLAHWU Secretary General Cde Ketlhalefile FC Motshegwa

Maxy Khoisan doing her thing at BLLAHWU 50TH Anniversary

Director of Proceedings Costy Moloi and Khumo Kgwaadira

Key note address by Guest Speaker Hounarable Justice Professor Key Dingake

Welcome remarks by BLLAHWU Cde Thatayaone Kesebonye

Cde. Tshepo Garalotse ( SAMWU Chairperson of Northwest Province)

Cde. Mapallo Thabana ( Deputy President of LEPSSA)

Solidarity message by BOFEPUSO Secretary Tobokani Rari

Cde. Gabatsoswe Lebitsa ( BLLAHWU Veteran)

Cde. Pelotshweu Baeng ( BLLAHWU Veteran)

BLLAHWU Choir singing the Anthem

BLLAHWU Traditional Dance Troupe

BLLAHWU