WATCH: Botswana's Masisi visits Ramaphosa, pays tribute to Madikizela-Mandela

2018-04-13 17:59
Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi. (File: AFP)

Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi. (File: AFP)

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Botswana's new President Mokgweetsi Masisi paid a courtesy visit to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and was expected to visit struggle icon Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's home.

Speaking in Pretoria on Friday, Masisi, who took over from Ian Khama on April 1, said he was in the country to strengthen bilateral relations. 

It is also in line with the tradition in Southern Africa of visiting countries in the region after assuming office. 

Commenting on the visit, Ramaphosa said it was about renewing old bonds and friendships and consolidating relations between the two countries.

Masisi has already been to Zimbabwe to hold talks with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and is expected to visit Namibia to meet President Hage Geingob.

"We have also come to pay our respects to South Africa on the very sad lost of Mama Winnie", Masisi said.

He indicated that before he returns to Botswana that he would also visit the home of Madikizela-Mandela, who is set to be buried on Saturday in Johannesburg.

The stalwart died on Easter Monday after a long illness. 

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