Story
27 October 2026
17 Goals. 1 Run - UN Day Run calls for renewed commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals
As Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence, the United Nations in Botswana marked United Nations Day with a Run 4 the SDGs, bringing together communities, development partners and government representatives in a shared call for accelerated action towards a more sustainable, inclusive and equitable future.
The event carried special significance as it coincided with Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, commemorating six decades since independence in 1966. It also marked 24 October, the anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945, which formally established the United Nations.
Addressing participants, UN Resident Coordinator in Botswana, Wenyan Yang, underscored that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires more than good intentions. It demands sustained action, meaningful partnerships and investment to ensure that progress reaches everyone.
“Every step we take towards the Sustainable Development Goals is a step towards a more equitable and sustainable future. The 2030 Agenda is a shared responsibility, and it calls on all of us to turn our commitments into meaningful action. Together, we must ensure that no one is left behind.”
The celebrations also provided an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding partnership between Botswana and the United Nations, which has supported the country's development journey since independence.
Ambassador Thuso Ramodimoosi, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of International Relations, commended the Resident Coordinator for revitalising and accelerating the development of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, which is expected to be launched soon by His Excellency Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana.
He noted that the framework would provide renewed direction for cooperation between the Government and the UN system, strengthening collective efforts towards Botswana's national development priorities.
“The revitalisation and acceleration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework is an important step in strengthening our shared development agenda. It provides an opportunity to align our collective efforts and accelerate progress towards the future we want for Botswana.”
Dr. Phenyo Butale, Minister of International Relations, reaffirmed the enduring importance of the Botswana - United Nations partnership, describing it as a cornerstone of the country's development since independence.
“This partnership has anchored our development since independence, and it is one we will continue to rely on as we embark on the next phase of our national development journey. As Botswana looks towards the future, our partnership with the United Nations remains vital in advancing shared priorities and creating opportunities for all.”
As participants walked and ran side by side, the event served as a powerful reminder that sustainable development is a collective endeavour, requiring governments, communities, civil society, the private sector and development partners to work together.
As Botswana looks towards its next 60 years, the message was clear: the future must be built through inclusive growth, stronger partnerships and renewed commitment to the Global Goals. Together, we move forward. Together, we run towards 2030.