23 May 2017

 The 2nd Botswana Youth Awards were held on Saturday at the Gaborone International Conference Centre (GICC).

The awards were hosted by Remmogo Youth Organisation to honour, reward, recognise and celebrate the youthful top achievers.

Officially opening the awards ceremony, Assistant Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Culture Development, Mr Kefentse Mzwinila said initiatives such as the youth awards would go a long way in empowering the youth to play a pivotal role in the development of the nation.

“The decision by Remmogo organisation to host these awards is commendable as it shall in no small measure provide the much needed focus on the youth agenda,” he said.

He added that the youth awards would ensure that his ministry was fully engaged on youth matters as reflected in the recently released ministry’s initiatives and policies.

He further said it was the responsibility of government and the private sector to empower the youth and up-skill and groom them for future leadership roles.

Mr Mzwinila implored the private sector to support youth initiatives geared towards job creation and poverty eradication as part of their corporate social responsibility.

He congratulated the winners for their achievements and growth in their areas of expertise.

“I would like to implore you not to forget what these awards symbolise. For those who will not be receiving any award tonight, I would like to encourage you to continue investing in yourselves and your projects to achieve sustainable development, and use these awards as a form of motivation and encouragement,” he said.

For his part, Remmogo director, Mr Kagiso Morebodi said the awards were a platform for giving young people an opportunity to be celebrated.

“We are here to celebrate young people who have been doing a great work in their respective communities,” he said.

Mr Morebodi said the biggest mistake any country could make was failing to invest in its youth, saying there was a need to invest, empower and develop the youth.

“Thanks to the leadership of this nation for showing commitment in empowering and developing the youth. To the youth use these opportunities,” he said.

Some of the big winners of the night included Mr Boago Ramogapi for Best Male Youth of the Year, and the Best Female Youth of the Year award went to Ms Kgomotso Phatsima.

Ms Chaikhwa Lobatse took home the Best Youth Promoting Health and Wellbeing award for her vocal voice in raising awareness on early detection of cancer whilst Mr Kabelo Malongwa scooped the Best Youth Advocating for People Living with Disabilities award. ENDS