Botswana: The First Lady of the Republic of Botswana Neo Jane Masisi accompanied Cynthia Alexandria Pratt to a youth engagement. The officials have shared that the engagement was one of the final activities of the Governor General during her state visit to Botswana.
The Botswana National Youth Council (BNYC) hall served as the venue for the interaction session between the Governor General and the students. According to the authorities, the session was attended by several students from different secondary schools.
Several students from tertiary level of education were also present at the event with the First Lady and Governor General Pratt.
Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Annah Mokgethi delivered the welcome address in hoor of the two ladies. She acknowledged the First Lady for putting the youth at the forefront with her efforts.
The first lady had tailored several programmes to cater the needs of the youth. Further, the Minister appreciated the First Lady Neo Jane for planting a seed of confidence in the youth which is a key element in ensuring that the youth are empowered.
First Lady Neo Jane Masisi emphasized the critical role of gender equality in the development of the youth in the nation. She said that they need collective efforts to make a lasting impact in the lives of the youth.
Further, the First Lady highlighted that the youth of Botswana make about 65% of Botswana’s population. She added that they are faced with challenges such as drug and alcohol abuse, gender based violence and teenage pregnancy.
Accordingly, the First Lady said they owe it to them to bring about change and pave a way for a better tomorrow. She stated that as the UNAIDS champion, it is in her best interest to ignite change and inspiration.
Governor General Cynthia Alexandria Pratt applauded the efforts made by First Lady Masisi and the government of Botswana to nurture and inspire the youth. She emphasized that the youth are the future leaders of tomorrow.
Accordingly, they should be empowered to make informed better decisions which shape their future. She added that the two nations will continue to work together to collaborate and forge strategic partnerships.
They can come up with several new initiatives for the benefit  to benefit the youth. The Governor General encouraged the youth to not let anything discourage them, take up space and be advocates of the bright future which is in their hands.
The rest of the engaging session saw enthusiastic youth share the stage to appreciate both Her Excellencies and express their gratitude for the powerful session and bid farewell to the Governor General as her state visit came to an end.