Botswana: Minister in the Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture Tumiso Rakgare visited Serowe Main Kgotla yesterday as part of his obligations to check the welfare of different parts of the country on matters concerning youth, gender, sport & culture.
Rakgare said it was paramount to share with the audience the Ministry’s daily undertakings as well as new developments that came about with the rationalization of Ministries. He alluded that one of the major changes included the inclusion of gender as a different sector into the Ministry and the dissection of programs across departments.
Rakgare pointed out that it is rather unpleasant to witness the state at which the youth of Botswana is wavering in the streams of unemployment as that continues to pose a grave threat to the livelihood of youth so much that the effects have since given rise to many social ills.
The high rates of drug abuse were one of the concerns raised. He urged community members to encourage youth to find ways to create employment amongst and for themselves, as the government cannot tackle this crisis alone.
He highlighted that the reset agenda was tailored for everyone to self-introspect and make informed decisions about their lives. Regarding school sports, Minister Rakgare assured attendees that one of the Ministry’s plans concerning school Sports was to involve teachers in the project heavily.
He highlighted that teachers play a significant role in grooming future sportsmen and women from the grassroots.
Speaking on the aspect of culture, Rakgare emphasized that the Ministry continues to fully support promoting this crucial aspect of the country’s heritage. He gave reference to the just-ended culture day event held in Letlhakeng that Botswana should continue the spirit of inclusivity, adding that over the years, natives of different ethnicities have been hosting events to showcase the beauty of culture as a collective.
The Minister reiterated that the daily increment of cases pertaining to gender-based violence is a serious cause for concern and a threat to national security.
He noted with sorrow that GBV has significant and long-lasting impacts not only on the physical and mental health of victims but also on the general welfare of the country; therefore, society needs to work hand in hand with the government to put an end to violence against women and children.
The day ended with a football match between team Dimajwe and MYSC.