During the World Bank/IMF Spring meetings last week in DC, I attended the Africa Night DC Gala Reception on Wednesday, April 23 2025.
Since I am committed to African nation-building, I prioritize events and professional connections that will advance this life objective. Even personal relationships must directly or indirectly serve the goal of African nation-building.
As such, during the Africa Night Gala Reception which was attended by many splendidly dressed people in a convivial atmosphere, I had the pleasure of hearing the Vice President of Botswana, Mr. Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe, deliver a sincere address to the crowd. When he finished, he sat down and was surrounded by his entourage.
My African nation-building antenna picked up an inner signal, so I decided to approach and confidently walked toward him for a personal conversation. As I neared his entourage, they assessed me then soon created an opening for me to pass. I stepped beside the seated VP, extended my arm in warm greeting, and he stood up and reciprocated. Thereupon I introduced myself, thanked him for his speech, and promptly stated my business which was focused on African nation-building in Botswana. I enjoyed our brief dialogue and also informed him that just last month (March 2025) I had met the Botswana President Duma Boko and Minister of Minerals & Energy Bogolo Kenewendo.
See my previous post on meeting President Boko and Minister Kenewendo: https://nationupbuilding.com/2025/03/14/meeting-the-president-of-botswana/
After interacting with the three government officials of Botswana, I am convinced that the future of the country is bright. The young vibrant team is poised to carry and build on the legacy of the first president and transformative leader: Sir Seretse Khama. In the future I hope to also support the developmental agenda of Botswana.
Onward & Upward!
~Dr. Ikenna A. Ezealah, PhD, MBA
“Builder of the African Future”
Nation Upbuilding 