Business Botswana Meets with Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs Honourable Lesego Chombo

12 Feb, 2025

On the 11th February 2025, Business Botswana CEO, Mr. Norman Moleele, along with Head of Policy and Research, Mr. Mpaphi Tsholofelo, and Youth Sector Chairpersons, Ms. Pato Kelisitse and Mr. Thabiso Titus Paul, recently met with the Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Honourable Lesego Chombo, for a courtesy call.

Mr. Moleele congratulated Minister Chombo on her appointment and outlined the role of Business Botswana as an Employer's Federation, Chamber of Commerce, and representative body. He expressed Business Botswana's commitment to collaborating with the Ministry to address critical issues such as youth job creation and combating corruption.

Mr.Tsholofelo added that Business Botswana functions as a policy advocacy organisation, continuously working to create a favourable business environment that fosters opportunities for youth enterprises. He emphasised the organisation's dedication to advocating for policies, decisions, and directions that ensure these opportunities are available.

Ms. Kelesitse, Youth Sector Chairperson, highlighted the challenges faced by youth, including high unemployment rates.  She also raised concerns about the Youth Development Fund (YDF), noting that since its establishment in 2009/10, it has not effectively served its intended purpose of supporting youth development.

Minister Chombo acknowledged the valuable work being done by Business Botswana and expressed her appreciation for their collaborative efforts. She informed the delegation that the Ministry is currently in the process of revamping the YDF program to ensure it better serves the needs of young people.

This meeting signifies a strengthened commitment between Business Botswana and the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs to work together to address the challenges facing youth in Botswana and create a more conducive environment for their development and economic empowerment.