The Peace Corps recently held a swearing-in ceremony for five new Response Volunteers in Botswana. Ambassador Howard Van Vranken addressed the volunteers, highlighting the significance of their commitment to service over the next year.
Ambassador Van Vranken emphasized the importance of collaboration and relationship-building alongside technical expertise. "The relationships you build and the respect and understanding you show will be just as important as the projects you support," he stated.
In addition to welcoming new volunteers, Ambassador Van Vranken acknowledged seven Peace Corps Volunteers who transferred from Mozambique and one volunteer extending their service from Samoa. He praised their dedication, saying, "Your commitment to service — across borders and through new challenges — is remarkable."
He described Botswana as a country with rich culture and community spirit, expressing confidence that the volunteers' work would be both challenging and rewarding. "The work you do and the connections you make will leave a lasting impact — not only on the communities you serve but also on you," he said.
As they took their oaths, Ambassador Van Vranken assured them of support from various quarters: "Know that you are supported — by the Peace Corps, by your fellow Volunteers, and by the U.S. Embassy."
Concluding his remarks, he congratulated them on reaching this milestone and expressed anticipation for their future achievements in Botswana.