Years back I met a young man full of drive, a young man with a big heart, a young man with the mission to serve those he deemed less on privilege and less on fortune than he was. Years back I met Armstrong Dikgafela, yes, then a student at the University of Botswana but a student, one who stood out and there not like the rest. At the time, I served the University as a staffer.
Born in Kanye, grew up in the mining town of Jwaneng where he got his basic education before he ventured further to the University of Botswana. You could tell that this young man had a unique spark, filled with a spirit that matched no other this came to light when he choose to serve in societies like Botswana Red Cross and not be a bystander displaying his remarkable humble nature.
As a passionate and well rounded athlete he played among softball giants in teams such as Scramblers, Gatalamotho, UB Giants and many more, represented His country and people in Swimming Championships in South Africa, France, Italy, Turkey to name just a few. Not only did he partake in sport he showed tremendous leadership qualities during his sit as the Minister of Sport in the University of Botswana Student Representative/Leadership Council, with all this he still managed to engage the youth and children from all walks of life in sporting activities with his free spirited, fun loving nature the young people had no trouble connecting with him.At the time of his untimely death he dedicated time to being a life-guard at the University of Botswana, protecting lives of young and learning swimmers.
His charm and ability to build bridges brought masses together and saw him soaring on the political front. He was at one point the Chairperson of GS 26, the Botswana Democratic Party the UB Branch, Chairperson of BDP Village Ward and National Political Officer of the Botswana Democratic Party Youth Wing and ultimately it’s Chairperson. He became Council Candidate in Gaborone Central – Village Ward in 2008 By-elections. He was candidate for the same in the 2009 election and was part of my team. He decamped with us to found the BMD in 2010 and became Interim leader of the youth before he went back to the BDP a year and a half later. Anyone who worked with him can tell about his humor; about that special element that kept him young at heart; about this fun loving yet maintaining that amazing level of grit; about a young man who made all the frenetic schedules more than worthwhile.
Yes! He was a gentleman, a big heart, a generous spirit and surely a rare gem in society. One who never took a break from the spotlight of political battles and took inpolitical punches as if he was receiving savored allies.
My young friend Armstrong Dikgafela, to some of us he is gone too soon but to the Lord it was seen that his intended purpose was played out. Like the famous Baobab tree he housed many, his charm like a strong bark bridged over differences, of course, maybe that was the reason he was UNITED. His heart like the baobab’s swollen trunk Overflowed with love truly sent from above.
Yes1 He is gone but will never be forgotten!
May his precious soul rest in peace
