The Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Hon. Lesego Chombo, together with the Acting Minister of Water and Human Settlement, Hon. Motsamai Motsamai, convened a high-level strategic meeting yesterday to discuss key initiatives aimed at advancing youth empowerment and gender inclusivity across critical sectors. The dialogue centered on increasing youth participation in housing and construction, accelerating the digitisation of public services, and embedding gender-inclusive policies within governmental frameworks.
During the meeting, Hon. Lesego Chombo proposed several forward-looking measures to enhance youth engagement within the Ministry of Water and Human Settlement. Among these was the recommendation to actively involve young people in flagship initiatives such as the Botswana National Non-Revenue Water Office (BONNO) project. This move aims to create tangible opportunities for youth to contribute to and benefit from major infrastructure developments.
Hon. Chombo also called for the appointment of gender focal persons within the ministry to mainstream gender considerations into all policies and programs. She further advocated for the establishment of strategic partnerships to strengthen advocacy efforts toward a nation free from gender-based violence (GBV). A critical aspect of the discussion involved improving youth access to public services through targeted consultations, ensuring that programs remain aligned with the evolving needs of young people.
Both ministers underscored the vital role of inter-ministerial collaboration in harmonizing strategies that promote equal opportunities, particularly in sectors where youth representation has historically been limited. Their joint commitment reflects a broader government agenda focused on fostering sustainable and inclusive development that empowers Botswana’s next generation.
This meeting marks an important milestone in building cohesive frameworks that address the intersection of youth development and gender equality. By fostering collaboration and inclusivity, the ministries aim to pave the way for a future where young people can actively participate in national growth and transformation.
