The Honourable Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, has urged industry stakeholders to deepen efforts toward increasing women’s participation in the diamond and mining sectors. She made the call during her keynote address at the opening of the Women in Mining Botswana (WiMBO) Pitso held in Gaborone on 14 May 2025.
Speaking under the theme “Embracing Inclusivity and Resilience for A New Era,” Minister Kenewendo emphasised the importance of building an inclusive and forward-looking mining industry. She challenged stakeholders to reimagine traditional industry models and embrace new ways of doing things, especially through gender inclusion, innovation, and sustainability.
“It is no longer enough to speak about inclusion—we must act on it,” she said. “The mining and energy sectors must develop ecosystems that are not only resilient and sustainable but also embedded with gender equity.”
The Minister highlighted innovation, digital transformation, and cleaner energy solutions as critical components for the future of mining. She noted that without embracing modern technologies and more sustainable practices, the industry risks falling behind in an increasingly competitive global market.
“Digital technologies and green energy are not optional—they are essential for the survival and growth of our industries,” she added.
Minister Kenewendo also commended Women in Mining Botswana (WiMBO) for its continued commitment to the advancement and empowerment of women in the sector. She praised the organisation’s role in breaking barriers and creating platforms for women to grow as leaders, entrepreneurs, and technical experts.
“WiMBO is doing important work in shifting the narrative and making space for women across all levels of the mining value chain,” she said.
Also present at the event was Mr. Charles Siwawa, Chief Executive Officer of the Botswana Chamber of Mines, who lent his voice in support of greater female participation in mining. He stressed that diversity in leadership and operational roles brings innovation and strengthens the sector’s competitiveness.
Among the attendees were representatives from Debswana, including the Executive Head of Governance, Risk and Compliance, Ms. Tshegofatso Modise, whose presence underlined the growing involvement of women in senior mining leadership roles.
The WiMBO Pitso continues to serve as a key platform for dialogue, networking, and advocacy, aimed at building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable mining industry for Botswana. As the nation pushes for economic diversification and sustainable development, the message from the Pitso is clear—women must be at the centre of this transformation.
