Seretse Khama

First President of Botswana (1921–1980)

Sir Seretse Khama, KBE (July 1, 1921 – July 13, 1980) was a Botswana statesman from Botswana. He founded the Botswana Democratic Party in 1962. He became Prime Minister in 1965. In 1966, Botswana gained independence and Khama became its first president. During his presidency, the country underwent rapid economic and social progress.[1]

Sir Seretse Khama
1st President of Botswana
In office
30 September 1966 – 13 July 1980
Vice PresidentQuett Masire
Succeeded byQuett Masire
Personal details
Born(1921-07-01)1 July 1921
Serowe, Bechuanaland
Died13 July 1980(1980-07-13) (aged 59)
Gaborone, Botswana
NationalityMotswana
Political partyBotswana Democratic Party
Spouse(s)Ruth Williams Khama
Children
Alma materUniversity of Fort Hare
Balliol College, Oxford
ProfessionBarrister

Khama died of pancreatic cancer in Gaborone, Botswana, aged 59. His son, Ian Khama, is the current President of Botswana.

References

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  1. "The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo in Gold". Archived from the original on 2009-07-20. Retrieved 2014-10-27.