Cynthia Thanda
Botswana’s spirit of giving was on the spotlight during the cook-off workshop that was held on 23rd February 2025 at Al- Nur, Gaborone.
The atmosphere in Al Nur School Hall was filled with warmth and excitement as participants, volunteers, judges and peace lovers learnt different Palestinian dishes such as the Musakhan wrap, Mutabal, and Hummus.
Organized by Voice for Palestine as part of the Mission Resuscitate Gaza Workshops, this particular workshop was intended to raise funds for Gaza and to remind the world that it has a duty to respect human rights and show the Palestinians that they matter.
This comes after the announcement of a ceasefire deal on 15 January that was to take effect on 19th January 2025.
There have been mixed reactions since the ceasefire was effected with Palestinians being relieved to see an end to the airstrikes, albeit temporarily, and hope to reunite with loved ones or return to what’s left of their homes.
Others remain skeptical, seeing this as yet another cycle of violence followed by silence. The ceasefire has offered a brief moment to breathe after weeks of relentless violence, but it’s far from a solution.
For many Palestinians, it feels like a pause rather than progress. The root causes—occupation, blockade, and displacement—remain unresolved.
However, some hope that the ceasefire could open the door for international diplomacy to finally address these core issues.
For the future of Palestine, it’s a reminder that lasting peace requires justice and freedom, not just temporary agreements.
One of the journalists in Gaza, Mr. Tareq mentioned that there is cautious optimism but also frustration at the lack of accountability for what has happened. Many worry that this ceasefire will only delay inevitable war unless deeper issues are addressed.
“I reckon the ceasefire was necessary to stop the immediate suffering, but it feels like a judgment that prioritizes silence over justice.
“There’s little acknowledgment of the destruction and loss Palestinians have endured. The fact that such agreements often come without any accountability for war crimes or meaningful change leaves a bitter taste,” he said.
Asked whether the ceasefire is a step away to fully getting their freedom, Mr. Tareq explained that true freedom means living without fear, having control over their land, borders, and resources, and being able to determine their own future.
“This ceasefire is not freedom—it’s a halt to the bombing. While it’s a necessary step to stop the bloodshed, it doesn’t address the broader struggle for self-determination or justice.
“Freedom still feels like a distant dream. While we welcome any effort to stop the killing, the terms of the ceasefire must lead to a broader conversation about rights, reparations, and the end of the occupation—or it’s just another cycle of injustice.”
The world might be moving on but for others, life is different, it remains stagnant, or is a nightmare. We are encouraged to continue to offer our support to the less fortunate.
Batswana are also encouraged to help those who were affected by the flood. No help is too little. Donations are welcome through various organizations.
(TPA)
