Africa-Press – Botswana. A human rights advocate, Ms Margaret Mosojane has painted a grim picture of Botswana’s current state, characterising the nation as being at a crossroads as it faces a deep-seated societal challenges.
Addressing Matsiloje women at a seminar to celebrate Mother’s Day, Ms Mosojane, also former Tatitown Court President, cited rising rates of gender-based violence (GBV), substance abuse, and divorce as significant concerns, noting that these issues disproportionately affect women and often leave them financially and emotionally vulnerable.
The event, hosted by Thari Ya Phala, a women’s support group led by Kgosi Eric Moipolai’ s wife, Ms Moreriemang Moipolai and Ms Gomolemo Segopa, aimed to provide a platform for Matsiloje women to discuss their challenges and successes.
Ms Mosojane declared that Botswana was at a crossroad and its nation in a tortured state, adding that the seminar came at a time when the society was experiencing unprecedented negative social challenges that have thrown the country into the deep end.
“We are a society that has been hit by ugly gender based violence, drug and alcohol abuse despite having a traditional background that was supported by strong loving families that trained and equipped young people with life skills that helped them navigate life,” said Ms Mosojane.
She highlighted the lack of legal protection for women in cohabiting relationships, where their contributions often go unrecognised upon separation. She explained that the traditional structures, once a source of strength, were now often sources of oppression.
While acknowledging the progress made by women in various sectors, Ms Mosojane emphasised the need for comprehensive societal reform. She called for a concerted effort from individuals, religious institutions, political parties, and NGOs to address these challenges.
She urged the improvement of family structures to provide safer environment for women and girls and emphasised the importance of mentorship and positive role modelling. Ms Mosojane stressed the need for effective use of social media to build community support and empower women.
On the other hand, she acknowledged the strength and resilience of Batswana women, pointing to the legacy of trailblazers like the late Dr Gaositwe Chiepe and Dr Margaret Nasha. She said the two women had paved the way for progress, but their fight was far from over.
“Vision 2036, with its emphasis on women’s empowerment, was a noble goal, but it required introspection and a collective commitment,” said Ms Mosojane.
She pointed out that mothers had a responsibility to model positive behaviour, build trust, and instill a sense of self-worth in their children. She noted that the Thari Ya Phala group was a crucial step towards building and supporting the community, and called for its outreach to expand to encompass the entire village. Ms Mosojane declared that it was time for Batswana to rebuild a nation founded on justice and equality.
In his welcome remarks, Matsiloje deputy chief, Kgosi Solomon Segopa commended the government for the inclusion of women in the military, highlighting it as a positive step towards gender equality.
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