Africa-Press – Botswana. Batswana have been called upon to invest in young people by unlocking their potential to serve as an investment for the future.
Speaking during the launch of Change Makers-Stories of Hope, a booklet of inspirational stories told by 20 Let Youth Lead advocates in Gaborone yesterday, First Lady Neo Masisi said investing in young people was one of the most impactful strategies to ensure a brighter future for the society.
“Investing in young people is like planting a seed, the fruits are borne, and the seed will be harvested in future” she said, adding that it was not only a moral imperative, but also a strategic decision that leads to stronger, more prosperous and equitable society.
She said majority of the African population was at an all-time high with youth population, Botswana at 65 per cent of individuals below the age of 35.
Ms Masisi observed that the youth of today navigated a complex landscape marked by significant challenges ranging from unemployment, critical issues affecting health and wellbeing such as HIV, GBV, and mental health.
She said it was, therefore, important that they be empowered for sustainable development as they represented a significant demographic force, and also embodied innovation, energy, and resilience necessary to tackle global challenges.
She also applauded the Let Youth Lead initiative programme which operates under the guidance of Sentebale for providing the environment and platform for young people to thrive as the change makers that the world needs.
Sentebale is a charitable organisation established in 2006 by the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho
She thus said the inspirational stories in the Change Makers-Stories of Hope reflected energy, wisdom and commitment to make a difference, while striving for self-development through continuous learning.
“You are indeed the touch bearers of the future and architects of progress of this country” she said.
The First Lady said the cohort was in a unique position as agents of change as they have written their life stories to demonstrate the power of young people to influence history.
“You are mentors, advocates and leaders in your communities as your stories reflect bravery, hope, destinies reached and desire to make positive change,” she said.
Sharing on Botswana Sentebale, the country director, Ms Ketlogetswe Montshiwa said Sentebale leads youth to reach their full potential, develops and empowers young people in a unique way through education, mentorship, and various development initiatives.
She said Sentebale had garnered widespread acclaim for its commitment in creating an enabling environment and platform for young people to thrive.
She further pointed out that the endeavour not only benefits the participants directly involved but also contributes to building stronger, more resilient communities for generations to come.
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