French Elegance Meets Batswana Creativity in Gaborone Celebration
France’s 236th Bastille Day anniversary was celebrated in spectacular fashion at the French Residence in Gaborone, where glamour, culture, and diplomacy converged for an unforgettable evening.
Marking the country’s National Day, the event spotlighted a dazzling fashion showcase from the second cohort of the Création Botswana programme, an initiative backed by the French Embassy to empower and elevate Botswana’s creative sector. Eight established local designers debuted their final collections in a high-end runway show that fused French sophistication with Batswana artistry.
According to Ndibo Tebape, Public Relations Lead for Création Botswana, the event served as a vibrant symbol of Franco-Batswana collaboration in the creative industries, celebrating not just fashion, but the strength of cultural diplomacy and innovation.
“This is more than a fashion show. It’s a culmination of a journey that demonstrates what meaningful international collaboration in the creative economy can achieve,” emphasized Tebape.
The runway show was elevated further with the inclusion of two exquisite pieces from French luxury jeweller Messika, modeled exclusively for the event. Their inclusion, made possible by Lucara Botswana’s sponsorship, added a touch of Parisian sparkle to the night’s already radiant energy.
A Celebration of Shared Values
French Ambassador to Botswana, Olivier Brochenin, addressed the guests, emphasizing Bastille Day’s significance as a celebration of liberty, unity, and democracy, values that continue to unite France and Botswana.
“Being France’s Ambassador to Botswana is an honour. Our countries share a vision rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and deepening partnerships,” said Brochenin.
He highlighted key French collaborations across Botswana’s agriculture, education, security, and public service sectors, including partnerships with the University of Botswana, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Botswana Police Service.
Strong Ties Since 1967
Minister of International Relations, Dr. Phenyo Butale, who officiated the event, praised the enduring bilateral relationship between Botswana and France, which dates back to 1967. He emphasized recent high-level engagements, such as the May 2025 Ministerial talks in France focused on sustainable agriculture and livestock development, a testament to both countries’ commitment to inclusive and innovative growth.
“France remains a trusted partner in advancing innovation, technology, and research. We are eager to expand this collaboration to further Botswana’s development agenda,” stated Dr. Butale.
He also acknowledged the continued role of Alliance Française in Gaborone in nurturing cultural exchange, thanks to the unwavering support from the French Government.
Looking Ahead
The Bastille Day celebration was more than a national commemoration; it was a vibrant fusion of diplomacy, fashion, and cultural pride, setting the tone for an even more dynamic future between Botswana and France.
“The friendship between our two nations will continue to grow, opening new avenues for mutual prosperity,” concluded Dr. Butale.
