18 Jun 2025

Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs has encouraged Dikgosi to actively engage young boys and men in the gender-based violence (GBV) fight so as to promote gender equality toward a violent free Botswana. 

Officiating at a five-day capacity building workshop organised in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Botswana Police Service, Ministry of Health and Directorate of Public Protection in Gaborone on Monday, Ms Lesego Chombo expressed concern that boys and men played a vital role in ending the cycle of violence, but were left behind in matters aimed at ending GBV.

“We need Bogosi to lead by example. First, to speak up against violence in the strongest terms and make it clear that abuse has no space in our homes and communities and most importantly to ensure that a kgotla remains a safe space for survivors to seek justice and healing. We aspire to see a Botswana and a Bogosi system where violence is not perpetuated by culture,” she added. She further said Dikgosi were the bedrock of leadership in the country and continued to hold significant influence and respect within their communities, as traditional leaders.

As such, she urged them to uphold their dignity and moral responsibility by actively leading the fight against GBV.

She further said Dikgosi were crucial partners in national development, through the Bogosi system, whose influence promoted justice and equality. 

“Your influence and honesty as Dikgosi, is highly respected by many Batswana. They truly believe in your guidance to shape their behaviour, social values and community standards,” she said.

Minister Chombo also said the ministry prioritised a multi-sectoral approach to gender equality and GBV, as the most practical and impactful way of dealing with such issues and was committed to receiving help from everyone.

“So, we have an Inter-Ministerial committee on GBV in partnership with ministries of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Health, Child Welfare and Basic Education, Labour and Home Affairs, Justice and Correctional Services and State President” she added.

While UNFPA head of office’s, Ms Tlangelani Shilubane-Pietersen commended Dikgosi for their continued effort and commitment in leading the response in the fight against GBV, she called for a renewed commitment. 

“As the pillars of our communities, be tireless in leading the nation in the fight against GBV. Use your esteemed authority and profound leadership in being champions in ending GBV. Make your powerful voices heard and create safe spaces for all GBV survivors,” she added.

She also hailed Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs for its continued coordination, leadership and all stakeholders who made the workshop a success.

“Your efforts are crucial in galvanising multi-sectoral national initiatives to end GBV at all levels, as demonstrated by the National Prayer Week, as well as efforts toward fostering progressive nationwide action against all forms of GBV, across various platforms, constituencies and communities,” she added.

Kgosi Basadi Seipone of Kang also said promoting a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach to address GBV was key in mainstreaming its awareness and prevention in all sectors of society, as a way to build safer communities for all.

The workshop was held under the themed: Ntlo ya Dikgosi against Gender Based Violence: Moremogolo go betlwa wa taola, wa motho oa ipetla. ENDS