Talks

The following are selected talks that I gave at conferences, workshops and seminars.

• Botswana Place Names Dictionary: A Proposal A presentation to the Botswana Place Names Interim Committee. Surveys & Mapping, Gaborone.
  July 31, 2015
• Power Relations in Setswana Names: A Study of "Kgotla" and "Kgosi" Names Department of English 8th International Conference, University of Botswana.
  22–24 June, 2015
• Making Setswana Relevant in a Globalised World January 2015
• Presentation at the International Conference of the African Association of Lexicography A contribution to the ongoing development of African-language lexicography.

These presentations reflect my ongoing commitment to Setswana lexicography, the documentation of place names, and the study of how language encodes social and political relationships.

The study of Setswana names reveals deep cultural and historical dimensions within Botswana's linguistic landscape. Names carry meanings that reflect power relations, social structures, and community values. A place like the kgotla is not merely a physical location but a symbol of justice, governance, and collective decision-making. Similarly, names associated with traditional leadership embody principles of authority, responsibility, and service to the people. Lexicographers and corpus linguists work to document these naming practices, preserving the richness of the Setswana language for future generations. Understanding the etymology and cultural context of names strengthens national identity and contributes to the broader appreciation of African languages in a globalised world.

The development of dictionaries and linguistic resources for Setswana is essential for the preservation and promotion of the language. Lexicography involves careful study of word meanings, usage patterns, and historical evolution. Corpus linguistics provides the tools to analyse large collections of spoken and written texts, revealing how language is actually used by speakers. This work supports education, translation, and the creation of reference materials that serve both native speakers and learners. In Botswana, such efforts contribute to the ongoing development of the nation's official languages, ensuring they remain relevant in modern contexts while honouring their deep roots in the cultural heritage of the Batswana people.

Language is central to national identity and the celebration of milestones such as Botswana's fiftieth anniversary of independence. The Setswana language connects citizens across generations, carrying the wisdom of forebears and the aspirations of youth. Lexicographers and translators play a vital role in making this language accessible through dictionaries, educational materials, and literary works. The study of language also intersects with broader themes of liberty, justice, and human dignity. By investing in linguistic resources and scholarship, Botswana strengthens its cultural institutions and affirms the value of its linguistic heritage in a diverse and interconnected world.