What is the theme in Tears of the Giraffe by Alexander McCall Smith?

ne of the dominant themes in the book is ethics and values. As believers in the old traditional Botswanan traditions and culture, both Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni and Mma Ramotswe are concerned with ethics and values. They both have businesses which they run. In his mechanics business, Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni stands by his word. When he quotes a price, he stands by it even if the job ends up costing more. When he accepts the orphans from the orphan's farm, he promises that he will take care of them and provide for them. Once he has told them that, he knows he cannot retract his promise even if Mma Ramotswe breaks their engagement over the issue. When he gives his word, he doesn't go back on it. He feels morally bound to stand by it. That is the kind of person he is.