国际英语新闻:Botswana to redouble efforts in fighting poverty: president

GABORONE, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Botswana government will redouble its efforts to ensure that unemployment, poverty, crime and HIV/AIDS are addressed, the southern African country's leader vowed on Sunday.

In his inaugural Independence Day message to mark Botswana's 52nd anniversary of its independence, President Mokgweetsi Masisi said he is committed to building a Botswana in which sustainable development is underpinned by economic growth.

Masisi said he is upbeat about economic diversification, sustainable economic growth, employment creation and investment in human capital, for building a prosperous and inclusive society.

According to Masisi, this is informed by the country's desire to eradicate poverty with the ultimate goal of sustaining a society that provides opportunity and dignity for all.

"Government will redouble its efforts to ensure that all the challenges faced by our country are addressed in a robust and effective manner, through appropriate policies and programmes," he said.

Botswana continues to face a myriad of challenges such as unemployment, poverty, crime, HIV and AIDS, alcohol and drug abuse amongst others.

Masisi expressed confidence in the ability of Batswana (citizens of Botswana) to overcome above mentioned challenges in order to achieve their set goals and national aspirations.

Botswana got its independence from Britain on Sept. 30, 1966.