Classical English poet John Donne aptly wrote, “Death be not proud for you are not mighty.” Indeed how can death be mighty when it preys on the vulnerable, the sick, the weak and the young? The cowardly grim reaper sneaked on us in the stealth of the night and snuffed the promising young life of the 24 year old dear friend and colleague, Keoleboge Kobe on Sunday 14th January 2007.
Keoleboge, who had only a month earlier survived a horrific road accident when the vehicle he was driving overturned in the vicinity of Tshodilo Hills, met his untimely death in a fatal road accident in Boseja ward in Maun. The tragic accident also claimed the life of a companion, Segametsi Basiamang of Kasane. The two were headed home following a nocturnal prowl of the village watering holes.
I came to know Keoleboge at the beginning of 2006 when I joined the Okavango Delta Management Plan (ODMP) Project, where he worked as the Project Assistant. The esprit de corps at the ODMP Project Secretariat was amiable and one settled in quickly amongst the team. However, the alluring warmth and friendly disposition of Keoleboge stood out amongst the rest. He had refined manners and a pleasant personality. He radiated an angelic charm that endeared him to all whose lives he touched. His personality was always felt throughout the office and gave colour and a pleasant character to the workplace.
His soft spoken and easy-going jovial nature however belied a serious and focused outlook to life as he displayed maturity beyond his youthful years. He had joined the project fresh from tertiary education having attained a Bachelor of Social Sciences (Environmental Science and Public Administration) degree from the University of Botswana, and had quickly adapted to the rigorous work ethic that prevailed at the Project Secretariat.
A formidable member of the ODMP Project Secretariat team, “Butt Man” or “Young Officer” as he was affectionately known at the office, interacted well with his peers and responded equally well to authority. His strong work ethic and attention to detail ensured that even under enormous pressure the quality of work that he produced was always exceptional. He was always ready to respond to the call of duty even beyond his regular hours and scope of work. He was a diligent, focused and hard working young man who was certainly destined for greater achievements.
Keoleboge was handsome and a debonair gentleman, he was a snappy dresser who was always immaculately groomed. Many a young lady, (and the senior girls too) were dazzled by his potent charm and charisma. The ODMP poster boy enthralled the fairer sex who found him irresistible, not surprising, urban legend is rife with his exploits in the playboy league of the fellowship of the single male culture.
He prided himself in his Tawana heritage and was anchored in the African principle of Botho, or courteousness. He was African, yet modern, sophisticated, yet grounded, playful yet respectful. I consider myself honoured and privileged to have known Keoleboge and for my life to have been touched by such a bubbly young, loyal and hardworking colleague and friend. Though the wretched death has robbed us of such a fine young man, the indelible and beautifully engraved memories we have of him will live with us for ever.
Keoleboge was laid to rest in Boseja ward in Maun on Sunday 21st January 2007. The eldest of five siblings, he is survived by his mother, Mme Kolobetso Mmusi nee Kobe, a brother and three sisters. May his soul rest in peace.
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