10 Mar 2024

In recognition of women’s leadership in national and economic development, Bakwena women gathered at Lewis grounds on Friday to mark International Women’s Day.

Women from various sectors shared insights on overcoming challenges and empowering themselves.

 Bank Gaborone in Molepolole, managing director Ms Olebile Makhupe, emphasised the importance of women investing in themselves amidst tough employment conditions. 

She highlighted the need for women to prove themselves capable of leadership through hard work and dedication, giving an example of herself that she became the managing director of Bank Gaborone after 17 years of being led by men.

She said it was through hard work and dedication  that she managed to climb the ladder of leadership.

 Ms Makhupe expressed concern over high female unemployment and lack of engagement in business, urging a shift in mindset. 

“Nothing comes easy in life,” she said.

 She encouraged women to utilise government business funding programmes.

Additionally, Ms Mkhupe said Bank Gaborone offered free teachings on business investment to both the youth and old, adding they also assist with start-up business funding. 

The managing director took the opportunity to congratulate Kgari Sechele Senior Secondary school for taking position 3 in the BGCSE results, adding that the bank will donate P10 000 to the school.

Another speaker, managing director of Regent Hotels, Ms Tshidi Ralebala, shared her journey in owning hotels in a male-dominated industry. 

She stressed the role of parenting in instilling values and importance of education in children. 

“Raising children is the responsibility of parents, children should be not be in control,” she said. 

She added that for women to excel in life, they should appreciate the importance of education and so as to be what they wanted to be in future. 

Ms Ralebala further said for one to be rich, they needed to stand up and work hard instead of relying government to provide.

Commissioner of Police, who was the guest at the event,  Ms Dinah Marathe, emphasised women’s capability in leadership roles and nurturing future leaders. 

“My appointment as Police Comissioner is  proof that women had what it takes to be in any leadership position and produce results.

 Therefore, she encouraged women to handle challenges without anger for stable homes.

Ms Phondy Morwaeng emphassed the need for women to support and uplift each other, reflecting on International Women’s Day objectives. 

The event also celebrated Mohumagadi MmaTumagole’s birthday, recognising her contributions to empowering Bakwena women. 

Member of Parliament for Molepolole South, Mr Kabo Morwaeng, thanked the organising team for a successful event, highlighting women’s hard work in various spheres and their role in shaping the future.

He said his office has kept its promise of celebrating the day to recognise and celebrate women across spectrum.

Mr Morwaeng said women had a lot in their hands and their determination and commitment on working hard to raise their children was unparralled. 

He thanked the organising team for making sure that the international women’s day a success. Ends