04 Jul 2021

First Lady Ms Neo Masisi has applauded Ramotswa UCCSA for its contribution to women empowerment. 

She said the ordination of Reverend Bonolo Mmereki-Burns in Taung Saturday was an indication that the church was also concerned about gender and women in leadership.

Ms Masisi, who was speaking after handing presents to the newly-ordained pastor, praised the church for teaching about role modeling, which she said was one of national priorities. 

She urged the congregation to remain steadfast in teaching about family bonds and moulding children at home. 

For her part, Reverend Mmereki-Burns, a faith-based sector gender activist, appealed to women to support one other. 

“I want to appeal to women that it is imperative in this world of inequality and gender injustice that women should make a conscious decision to support other women who are in this journey and in all leadership positions. On the same note I urge women to do work assigned to them diligently,” she said. 

Reverend Mmereki-Burns encouraged men to be agents of change in the world of patriarchy.

It was through male involvement that the nation could provide positive masculinity and safer spaces for women and girls who were predominantly GBV victims, she said.

Addressing the new pastor, UCCSA Synod of Botswana chairperson Reverend Gabriel Tsuaneng stressed the importance of communicating with God in the face of any emerging challenges. 

Planning for any life’s situation and experience were an integral part of the calling, Reverend Tsuaneng said. 

He advised her to base  judgment on truth and facts. 

Reverend Tsuaneng said as a leader, Reverend Mmereki-Burns had to play an advocacy role for people and the church. Ends