Dalai Lama scheduled to attend a special conference in African nation, the Republic of Botswana in August this year. His Holiness is schedule to participate in a three day conference in Botswana which will be presided over by His Excellency the President, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama, also attended by many eminent African leaders.
“His Holiness will participate in a 3-day Mind & Life Dialogue on Botho/Ubuntu: A Dialogue on Spirituality, Science and Humanity with the Dalai Lama organized by the Mind & Life Institute to be held at the University of Botswana Indoor Sports Center.” according to the schedule of the Dalai Lama in OHHDL website.
After being denied an African visa to His Holiness the Dalai Lama over several occasions in the past few years, this is the one only schedule of His Holiness planned in an African country. Despite China acknowledging its opposition and effort in the denial of the African visa to the Dalai Lama in the past openly, this effort from the Republic of Botswana is highly commendable owing to the fact of strong Chinese influence in most of African nations economically.
“This historic visit by the Dalai Lama to Botswana is his only planned destination in Africa. The opening address will be delivered by His Excellency the President, Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama. Conference participants include renowned international human rights advocate Graça Machel, and Ponatshego H. K. Kedikilwe who is celebrated among the foremost leaders of the liberation struggle and advancement of democracy in Southern Africa. Also included in the Dialogue are Carsten de Dreu, Michael Onyebuchi Eze, Uri Hasson, Mandaza Kandemwa, Lily Mafela, Rebecca Shansky, Theo Sowa and Thupten Jinpa. The event will feature special guests Reverend Canon Mpho Tutu Van Furth and musician Vusi Mahlasela.” according to the press release of the event organizers/sponsors.
The conference, “Botho/Ubuntu: A Dialogue on Spirituality, Science and Humanity with the Dalai Lama,” brings African humanitarian and spiritual leaders, scholars and healers into conversation with the Dalai Lama and international neuroscientists about the African worldview of Botho/Ubuntu added the press release.
Besides the conference in Botswana, His Holiness will deliver a public talk on August 19th afternoon at the same venue. According to reports, the Chinese Embassy at Botswana replied to the press queries that the issue is a very sensitive one and they will also release a press release on the same in due time. However, it is to the courage of Khama to stand up against odds and invite the Dalai Lama, who is a beacon of hope across the world.
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