GABORONE, Oct 20, 2026 – The University of Botswana (UB) will confer honorary doctorates on indigenous rights activist Roy Sesana, public health leader Dr Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti and jurist Justice Professor Oagile Bethuel Key Dingake during its 44th Graduation Ceremony from October 21 to 23.

The university said the awards recognise the trio’s outstanding contributions to human rights, public health and the advancement of justice in Botswana and beyond.

Sesana will receive a Doctor of Letters (DLitt) honoris causa for his lifelong advocacy for the rights, dignity and cultural identity of the Basarwa, particularly communities living in and around the Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

UB said his activism helped draw national and international attention to issues affecting indigenous communities, including land rights, cultural preservation and access to essential services.

“By honouring Sesana, UB recognises the importance of grassroots leadership and the role of individuals who work to ensure that marginalised communities are heard and their rights respected,” the university said.

Former World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa Dr Moeti will be conferred with a Doctor of Science (DSc) honoris causa in recognition of her distinguished leadership in public health and her contribution to improving healthcare systems across Africa.

Dr Moeti, who served as WHO Regional Director for Africa from 2015 to 2025, was the first woman to hold the position. During her tenure, she led efforts aimed at strengthening health systems, improving emergency preparedness and advancing universal health coverage across the continent.

The university said the award recognises her role in promoting evidence-based policymaking, institutional collaboration and investment in public health as pillars of sustainable development.#

Justice Dingake will receive a Doctor of Laws (LLD) honoris causa for his contributions to the judiciary, legal scholarship, human rights and the advancement of justice both locally and internationally.

Currently serving as a judge of the Supreme and National Courts of Papua New Guinea, Dingake became the first African appointed to the courts. He has also served on international judicial bodies and is widely recognised for his work in constitutionalism, labour law, human rights and access to justice.

UB said his career exemplifies the growing influence of African legal professionals in shaping international jurisprudence and judicial education.

The honorary degrees form part of this year’s graduation celebrations under the theme, “Building High-Performance Economies: From Local Excellence to Global Impact.”

According to the university, the three recipients represent different paths of service and leadership but share a commitment to addressing societal challenges through advocacy, public service and professional excellence.

UB said the awards highlight the institution’s commitment to recognising achievement beyond academia while inspiring future generations to contribute meaningfully to society.

The conferments come as Botswana marks its 60th anniversary of independence, with the university describing the recipients as exemplary citizens whose work has advanced human rights, healthcare and justice at national and international levels.

Fact Box: UB 2026 Honorary Doctorate Recipients

• Roy Sesana – Doctor of Letters (DLitt), honoris causa
  • Recognised for indigenous rights advocacy and grassroots leadership.
• Dr Matshidiso Moeti – Doctor of Science (DSc), honoris causa
  • Recognised for public health leadership and strengthening healthcare systems across Africa.
• Justice Prof O.B.K. Dingake – Doctor of Laws (LLD), honoris causa
  • Recognised for contributions to jurisprudence, human rights and judicial development.