The University of Botswana (UB) is set to confer an honorary Doctor of Letters, honoris causa (DLitt), on internationally acclaimed San rights activist, Roy Sesana, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to defending the rights, cultural identity and dignity of one of Botswana’s historically marginalised communities.
Born in Molapo, a settlement in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR), Mr Sesana’s life has been closely connected to the land, traditions and communities whose rights he has spent decades defending.
Sesana will receive the honour during UB’s 44th Graduation Ceremonies scheduled for 21st – 23rd of October 2026 at the UB Campus Indoor Sports Centre. As Botswana marks 60 years of independence, the recognition also brings into focus the contribution of individuals whose struggles have helped shape the country’s democratic and human-rights landscape.
Born in Molapo, a settlement in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR), Mr Sesana’s life has been closely connected to the land, traditions and communities whose rights he has spent decades defending. After working in South African mines for several years, he returned to Botswana in 1971 to live among his community. During this period, he travelled with service providers operating within the CKGR, assisting with interpretation and facilitating communication between the communities and those delivering services.
