BotswanaPost, through its Philately Unit, officially released the first commemorative stamp issue of 2025 on February 27th 2025, the Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts series. As Botswana’s designated Postal Operator, BotswanaPost is mandated to issue stamps that celebrate the nation’s rich heritage while fostering communication and storytelling across the globe.
Celebrating Botswana’s Cultural Heritage
Stamps play a vital role in showcasing a nation’s identity, telling stories of conservation, education, tourism, and history. The Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts stamp issue is a tribute to Botswana’s dynamic cultural landscape, honoring the traditional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. Despite the evolving influences of colonization, technology, and modernization, Batswana continue to uphold their ancestors’ traditions, ensuring cultural knowledge and customs endure.
BotswanaPost's Stamp Issuing Policy
BotswanaPost adheres to a conservative stamp issuing policy to maintain the value and significance of each release.
- A definitive set is issued every five years, featuring themes of global interest.
- Commemorative sets are issued four to five times per year, highlighting themes related to Botswana’s environment, culture, and history.
The Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts commemorative stamp issue is the first of 2025 and serves as an artistic representation of Botswana’s craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural depth.
Showcasing Botswana’s Artistic Talent
This stamp issue features artwork by Omphile Sefako, a renowned contemporary fine artist with over a decade of experience. This marks the second stamp issue Sefako has worked on with BotswanaPost Philatelic Museum. Sefako is known for his detailed and immersive ballpoint pen, graphite, painting, and pastel works. His art has been collected by individuals, government entities, and parastatals, and he has collaborated on various government projects.
Follow Omphile Sefako on social media: @OmphileSefako (Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok).
The graphic design for the Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts stamps was created by Shathani Basupi, a Senior Art Director with seven years of experience in graphic and motion design. Having contributed to BotswanaPost’s stamp designs since 2020, this marks his fifth issue.
Follow Shathani Basupi on social media: @Shatie Basupi (BeReal) and @Shathani Basupi (LinkedIn).
Categories in the Stamp Issue
The Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts commemorative stamps highlight six unique traditional crafts:
- Woodwork - P2.00
- Lekgapho - P5.00
- Beadwork - P9.00
- Basketry - P10.00
- Pottery - P11.00
- Tapestry - P20.00
Empowering Young Artists & Expanding Philately in Botswana
BotswanaPost remains committed to empowering young Batswana artists, providing them with visibility and opportunities through philately. This initiative not only gives artists exposure but also creates employment and encourages stamp collecting as a growing activity within Botswana. The goal is to connect local collectors and artists with international markets, further elevating Botswana’s presence in the global philatelic community.
Acknowledgments
BotswanaPost extends its gratitude to Botswana National Museum, Dr. Keletso G. Setlhabi, and Local Corner Photography for contributing images and brochure information to this stamp issue.
The Botswana Heritage - Arts and Crafts stamps are now available at all Post Offices nationwide.
For more information and to view the newly released stamp issue click on the below link.
