We were saddened to learn of the passing of Ms Magdeline ‘Maggie’ Kamogela Setsetse, National President of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul in Botswana, on 14 July 2025.
A staunch Catholic, Maggie was also chairperson of St Bernard’s Finance Committee in Taung at the time of her passing. She served as chairperson of The Missionary Associates of Mary Immaculate (MAMI) in Botswana, and was a Catholic lecturer (mmadi) and a commissioned Catholic Instructor (mokatisi).
Born in Ga-MmaDira ward, Ramotswa on 24 Februrary 1965, Maggie qualified as a journalist and worked for a time at Radio Botswana – but that was by no means the only hat she wore.
Education and lifelong learning
A firm believer in education and continuous development, Maggie carved a successful career in the Diamond Industry, qualifying as a certified Diamond Professional at the University of Leicester in England. She was also an entrepreneur and farmer.
Over the years she earned qualifications in public relations and entrepreneurship development, a National Diploma in Production Management from the University of South Africa, a qualification in Foundation Management from the Gordon Institute of Business Sciences in Pretoria, and she completed the Management Development Programme at the University of Stellenbosch.
Maggie was well travelled, having spent time in England, Italy (Vatican) France (Louvre Museum), China, India, Israel, Egypt, Kenya, Namibia and South Africa.
She leaves three sons, two daughters-in-law and four grandchildren. We will always remember her beautiful smile and contagious laughter.