Name Mmathethe-Verda Highway after Dr Chimbombi
Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Dr Edwin Dikoloti, has urged the government of Botswana to honour the late Minister Dr Micus Chimbombi by constructing the Mmathethe–Metlobo–Bray–Verda Highway, which connects the constituencies of Goodhope–Mmathethe and Kgalagadi South.
Dr Chimbombi, who also served as Vice President of the Botswana National Front (BNF), was remembered for his compassion, humility, strength, calm demeanour, and unwavering dedication to unity, public service, and his deep love for God.
Speaking at the memorial service held at the University of Botswana Sports Arena, Dr Dikoloti reflected on the shared dream he had with his late colleague—to see the highway developed as a vital link between the two constituencies and a viable alternative route.
Among the mourners in attendance were Mma Chimbombi and family, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe, members of Cabinet, Acting Speaker of the National Assembly Helen Manyaneng, and several Members of Parliament.
Dr Dikoloti further proposed that, in honour of the late Dr Micus Chimbombi—who had an illustrious career as both a civil servant and public servant—the Mmathethe–Metlobo–Bray–Verda Highway be named after him.
He said this would be a fitting tribute to a man who had dedicated his life to serving the nation. His proposal was met with a round of applause from mourners, signifying widespread support and
appreciation.
The memorial service reflected the unifying spirit Chimbombi embodied. It was inclusive, drawing participation from across the political and public spectrum. Speakers included close friends, senior government officials, and representatives from various political parties.
The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) was represented by its President, Mpho Balopi, while the Botswana National Front (BNF) made a prominent entrance, with Secretary General Dr Stephen Modise opening the tributes.
He introduced fellow party members, including former BNF Chairperson Dr Patrick Molutsi and Minister Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, who were followed by Bobirwa MP and Botswana Congress Party (BCP) Vice President, Taolo Lucas.
In his typical candid style, Lucas lightened the mood with humour while praising Chimbombi's excellence as a minister—so capable that even the most critical voices, including himself, had nothing but admiration.
He noted that Chimbombi's work ethic had earned him praise from tough critics like former President Dr Ian Khama and fellow BCP MPs Caterpillar Hikuama and Goretetse Kekgonegile.
Assistant Minister Lawrence Ookeditse represented the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), commending Chimbombi’s inner strength and resilience.
Professor Phillip Bulawa spoke on behalf of the Botswana People’s Party (BPP), followed by Reverend Prince Dibeela, who urged the nation to reflect deeply on the life and legacy of Dr Chimbombi.
He praised the people of Makopong for raising a man of such calibre and called for a national day of reflection after the funeral—an opportunity, he said, for the country to contemplate the lessons Chimbombi left behind and begin a journey of healing and renewal.
For his part, BNF President Advocate Duma Boko began by acknowledging the presence of former First Lady Jane Masisi. He expressed concern that she is sometimes overlooked, even by those who were once close to her.
Boko also urged the audience to reflect on the words of the Lord’s Prayer, cautioning against praying in vain while living in contradiction to the values they profess. He emphasised the need for consistency between faith and actions.
He then shared how he first heard about Dr Micus Chimbombi through Chimbombi’s daughter, who had been an intern at his law firm. Later, the then Minister of Agriculture, Patrick Ralotsia, spoke to him about a high-performing civil servant who was about to be dismissed.
According to Boko, Ralotsia had intervened by reasoning with the President at the time to reconsider, which ultimately led to Chimbombi retaining his position.
Boko recalled his first meeting with Chimbombi in Johannesburg during the drafting of the UDC manifesto. It was then, he said, that he recognised Chimbombi’s remarkable potential.
He stressed that while many things can be faked, character cannot—and it was his authenticity and integrity that convinced him that Chimbombi was the right person to lead the BNF.
Boko told mourners that both his party and its leadership stood by the Chimbombi family, doing everything within their power to support their comrade’s recovery—but sadly, their efforts were not enough.
He appealed to party members and the nation as a whole to honour Dr Chimbombi’s legacy by fostering unity and solidarity.
Chimbombi will be buried on Sunday in his home village of Makopong.