Botswana: Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture hosted Cynthia Alexandria Pratt, Governor General of Bahamas during a event. The meeting and interaction between the Governor and Minister Tumiso Rakgare was hosted on Wedneday.
The event aimed to highlight the shared cultural heritage and the crucial role played by the youth in both nations futures. Minister Tumiso Rakgare accorded a warm welcome to the Governor General of Bahamas.
He emphasized the significance of her visit at the event hosted by his Ministry. He highlighted that 66% of Botswana’s population is under 35 which is similar to the youthful demographic of The Bahamas.
He claimed that the presence of Governor General Cynthia Pratt was an inspiration for Botswana’s youth. He said that her attendance at the event encouraged the youngsters of Botswana to learn from her leadership and excellence.
Governor General Pratt will be staying in Botswana as part of her state visit till August 2nd. Â Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, the president of Botswana had also hosted a dinner in her honor.
The dinner, which was hosted by the president and First Lady Masisi was hosted on Tuesday. The event showcased traditional food, attire, song, and dance of the nation.
The event also offered Governor General Cynthia Pratt a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Botswana.
The Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture spoke of his ministry’s efforts to empower the youngsters. In this regard, he compared the economies of Botswana and Bahamas, noting  that Botswana’s youth unemployment stands at 34.4%.
Meanwhile The Bahamas’ unemployment rate is around 25%. Minister Tumiso Rakgare highlighted that Tourism is a major economic driver for both nations.
In light of this observation, he proposed that the two nations can come together to collaborate in this sector and come up with growth and job creation strategies.
In her address, Governor General Cynthia Pratt acknowledged the pivotal role of youth in national development. She emphasized that youth are the future, and their talents and gifts need recognition and support.
Expressing her deep affection for the youth, she advocated for giving young people a second chance reinforcing the belief that they hold the future of every country.
During the visit, Governor General visited the stalls showcasing exhibitors funded by the (MYSC) through the YDF program. Exhibitors included Glotto, Middle Star Dental, Peculiar Couture, Leclair Bakes, and United Chem, among others.
The aim of the exhibition was to highlight the diverse and innovative contributions of Botswana’s youth entrepreneurs.