The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Dithapelo L. Keorapetse, has officially opened a Capacity Building Workshop for Members of Parliament in Jwaneng, reaffirming the legislature’s unwavering commitment to transforming Parliament into a high-performing, efficient, and citizen-responsive institution.
Addressing MPs during the opening ceremony, Speaker Keorapetse stressed the importance of strong support systems, strategic partnerships, and investment in skilled personnel as pillars of parliamentary transformation. He revealed that the reform journey is well underway, marked by early milestones such as the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures, the use of task tracking tools, and a successful strategic planning retreat focused on Change Management.
The four-day workshop, which runs from 2–5 July 2025, is fully sponsored by a range of development and corporate partners including Cresta Hotels, the Chinese Embassy, BIHL, Phakalane Golf Estates, the Botswana Public Service College (BPSC), and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung. The Speaker noted that this level of sponsorship signals Parliament’s growing capability to mobilize resources and foster key strategic collaborations.
Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Gabriel Malebang, provided insight into the workshop’s objectives. He outlined its focus on strengthening parliamentary oversight, improving governance systems, enhancing legislative and diplomatic competencies, and sharpening the public image of MPs. Dr. Malebang also addressed persistent structural and financial constraints facing the institution, underlining the need for continued reforms and innovation.
Local MP Hon. Omphemetse Kwapa welcomed the initiative, describing the workshop as an important platform for democratic maturity and institutional development. He commended the leadership for championing capacity building as a critical path to legislative excellence.
In delivering the vote of thanks, Chief Whip Hon. Caterpillar Hikuama encouraged MPs to go beyond their titles and become authentic symbols of public trust, integrity, and hope. He emphasized that only a Parliament grounded in service and ethics can meaningfully respond to the aspirations of the people.
The workshop is expected to equip legislators with practical tools and strategies to improve performance and accountability, aligning Parliament more closely with national development goals and citizen needs.
