The Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Hon. Lesego Chombo paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship, Hon. Tiroeaone Ntsima this afternoon. The two ministers discussed key issues affecting women and youth in Botswana. The meeting highlighted several critical areas, including women’s empowerment, youth unemployment, and the national youth policy. Minister Chombo also addressed the pressing issue of gender-based violence, emphasising the need for continued efforts to combat this societal challenge.
Minister Ntsima, on the other hand, focused on initiatives to support entrepreneurship and trade. He highlighted the role of Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) as a financier open to individuals of all ages, as well as the services provided by Local Enterprise Authority (LEA). He also discussed the importance of cooperatives and building capacity in business processing. Minister Ntsima noted that the current Youth Development Fund (YDF) allocation of P100,000 is insufficient for starting a business, suggesting a need for review.
Mr Phadza Butale, Chief Negotiator, brought attention to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its protocols aimed at uplifting women and youth in trade.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by women and youth, while also fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and economic growth. Both ministries pledged to continue collaborating on policies and initiatives that empower these key demographics.
