Kutlo Motseta
12th August 2025
The Ministry of Youth and Gender in junction with the SRHR Africa Trust (SAT) andUnited Nations sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA), celebrated International Youth Day at Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC) in Gaborone, driven by the theme: ‘Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation.’
The theme reflects a shared national commitment to building a future-ready generation through education, skills training, entrepreneurship, and meaningful economic inclusion
The Minister of Youth and Gender, Ms. Lesego Chombo highlighted some of the challenges facing the youth such as gender-based violence (GBV), unemployment and teenage pregnancies.
She urged the youth to get involved in leadership roles, recognise the importance of their economic potential and contribute to the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP), adding that the public had already made about 4000 submissions.
“In Botswana we are building our true north, the ‘Call for ideas’ initiative (BETP) is not just for economists, policy makers … but for you to share your ideas,” said Chombo.
She said that the youth can use their indigenous knowledge such as traditionally made baskets to create products for export, which can boost their entrepreneurial journey.
Lamenting the scourge of GBV she said: “No community can thrive when half its nation, lives in fear … my voice is as a minister of youth, your voice is as a mother.”
She also urged the public to donate blood, adding that whilst donating, she learnt that one pint of blood cans save three lives.
Chombo expressed excitement about ongoing societal youth developments such as the recent board appointments at the BNYC, which is led by Ms. Moitshepi Matsheng, a Managing Director & Co–founder of ‘Youth Impact Organisation’ and a recipient of the ‘Queen’s Young Leaders Award’ (Commonwealth countries).
Matsheng raised her concern about youth training, education, infant mortality, teenage pregnancies and cited the lack of contraceptives as a possible cause. She said contraceptive use amongst the youth is below the global target, as only one in five use condoms, whilst it remains moderate for 19- to 24 year olds.
“The challenges of the financial crisis … has deeply affected lives and opportunities for young people, we will soon we will be launching initiatives …. you are never too young to lead,” she added.
Various organisations set up stalls too support the event, which included Botswana National Blood Transfusion Services, SAT and Majestic services.
Linda Mokgosi of Majestic Services explained that their function is provide counselling to the youth for childhood trauma, HIV mental health and GBV by victims by providing trauma sessions to express emotions, ventilate and receive counselling which can done in masks or anonymously. Counselling session are available 24/7, the organisation is accessible through www.majestichonourfoundation.com.
Ms. Motheo Kebuang, a 17-year-old form five student at Naledi Secondary School, led as co-master of ceremonies. The event was also attended by representatives from the United Nations, World Bank, Ambassador of Ukraine, His Excellency Dr Oleksly Syvak and Miss Botswana, Ruth Thomas.
17th August 2025 – ‘Call for Ideas’ submissions deadline.
