Shevchenko Monument Inaugurated in Botswana
The first monument in Africa dedicated to the Ukrainian poet and artist Taras Shevchenko has been unveiled on the grounds of the University of Botswana. This event marks a significant recognition of Shevchenko's work on the African continent. The official ceremony was attended by university leadership, faculty, students, diplomats, members of the Ukrainian community, and journalists.
Sculptor Francois Kotece created the monument using bronze sourced from Botswana. During the ceremony, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Tapelo Otlhogetswe, delivered a reading of his own Setswana translation of Shevchenko's poem 'Testament,' highlighting the event's relevance to local culture.
Global Recognition for Shevchenko's Legacy
According to Minister Andrii Sybiha, there are now 1,384 monuments to Taras Shevchenko worldwide, with 128 located in 35 countries outside Ukraine. This global tribute coincides with the approaching 212th anniversary of Shevchenko's birth on March 9, 2026. In this context, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree awarding the National Taras Shevchenko Prize. This year sees the highest number of nominations in the prize's 65-year history, with the award amount set at 484,480 hryvnias.
The inauguration in Botswana underscores the international stature of Shevchenko's artistic legacy and the importance of cultural ties between Ukraine and African nations. Taras Shevchenko is a foundational figure in Ukrainian literature, and his works have long symbolized national identity and cultural resilience. This event also reflects the growing global appreciation for Ukrainian culture, particularly as the anniversary of the poet's birth approaches. The establishment of Shevchenko monuments across the world stands as a testament to his enduring influence on global literature and art.