Kutlo Motseta
3rd July 2025
The Ministry of Youth and Gender signed a memorandum of understanding with Botswana Manufacturing and Export Association (BEMA) at the ministry in Gaborone.
The purpose of the initiative is to facilitate the growth of women and youth in business by providing business opportunities and upskilling.
One of the main benefits of the program is to link up women and youth with business mentors to guide them through the process of entrepreneurship.
“The objectives of the MoU are therefore to establish a framework for cooperation to facilitate industrial and business skills development, open up market access locally and internationally, empowerment through skills and support for business incubation and growth, job creation, advocacy … as well as collaboration on research and information sharing,” said Ms.Bridget Poppy John, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Gender.
Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ms. Thapelo Phuthego emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships which are important for the country’s economic growth.
“We are alive to the fact that government alone will not be able to adequately address youth unemployment that and development challenges that come with gender inequality. Ewe therefore need to enter into partnerships with stakeholders such as the private sector, civil society, bogosi (traditional chiefs), faith-based organisations and other sectors to unlock the opportunities that will capacitate the youth and women to contribute meaningfully to the development of Botswana,” she said.
“The memorandum of understanding will be a standing marriage for five years with provision for renewal pending the outcomes … Partnerships are the new currency, they are the new norm … partnership are like relays, we’ve witnessed out 4 x 400m performing [that’s how it is], it’s a complementary effort … This is a strong collaboration that will move our nation to the next level,” she added.
BEMA, which was led by its CEO Ms. Mantlha Sankoloba, is a local organisation which promotes investment and industrialisation with a focus on manufacturing and export.
Ms. Phuthego lauded speed at which the program was implemented as the signatories only met last year.
Ms. John said the ministry intends to use its influence in government to shape policy, legislation and facilitate with the complete realisation of the program.
BEMA and the Ministry intend to establish a Joint Technical Committee during this financial year, which will develop the annual workplan.
