Africa-Press – Botswana. The French Embassy in Botswana, in partnership with MYGA and PulaSpace, hosted a youth and AI roundtable that brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts to explore opportunities in the country’s growing digital economy.
Ambassador Valerie Baraban highlighted the global transition toward AI-driven solutions and reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Botswana in advancing technology-led entrepreneurship. She encouraged young innovators to leverage emerging technologies to create scalable solutions.
PulaSpace founder Mooketsi Tekere stressed the importance of identifying and funding young tech talent. He noted that his organisation has helped raise over $300,000 for Botswana startups led by youth aged 23 to 26. Tekere called for stronger national support for digital ventures with the potential to compete globally.
Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs Hon. Lesego Chombo emphasised the Ministry’s dedication to integrating AI and technology into youth development policies. She announced that the incoming youth policy prioritises digital transformation and highlighted reforms to the Youth Development Fund aimed at providing more impactful support to tech-led enterprises. She encouraged young people to embrace AI with confidence, lead with creativity, and develop solutions with tangible social impact.
The interactive youth panel showcased Botswana’s rising innovators. Nineteen-year-old Tapiwa Moffat presented two AI-powered projects under the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme: a redesigned DTEF digital interface and Pula Scholar, an AI scholarship-matching application that helps students access funding aligned with their strengths. Moffat also introduced a personalized AI photo-studio tool capable of producing professional-quality portraits without expensive photoshoots.
Health-tech entrepreneur Lesego Ramaphane presented her digital platform KAI, designed to store and secure personal medical information, promote healthy lifestyles, and address gaps in Africa’s largely paper-based health systems. She highlighted the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and proactive skill development for thriving in the digital economy.
The session concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen collaboration between the French Embassy, the Ministry, and Botswana’s young innovators. The aim is to build a future powered by technology, creativity, and opportunity, positioning Botswana as a hub for innovation in Southern Africa.
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