The Alien Resident

The Alien Resident, My Cry for Belonging emerged from a defining moment in January 2024, when my application for Botswana citizenship was rejected. After 14 years of service as a clinical oncologist, managing thousands of cancer patients, I was still an outsider. I initially considered the title The Resident Alien, a legal term often used for those granted some rights of citizens. However, it didn't capture my reality. The Alien Resident mirrors the duality of my life: contributing to a nation while being denied inclusion. It speaks to the universal struggles of displacement, migration, and the search for belonging. Determined to pursue citizenship, I explored the presidential program, only to discover it was nomination-based, not open to applications. Having already drafted a letter to the president, I turned it into this book-a way to share my journey and advocate for recognition, not only for myself but for others in similar circumstances. In my story, I invite readers to reflect on what it truly means to belong, to include, and to appreciate those who make significant contributions to society. My hope is that this book inspires empathy and fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of home and identity.