Africa-Press – Botswana. The rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in Botswana have prompted calls for greater involvement from the church community.
This message was delivered by the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware during a Pentecostal Holiness Church dinner held in Francistown on Saturday.
Minister Mokgware emphasised the critical role of the church in shaping societal values and building a cohesive nation.
“We get worried when the Church goes mute when things are not going well,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for the church to take action against GBV, which has resulted in monthly reports of deaths.
He urged church leaders to be proactive and visible in their communities, forming committees to address GBV and other pressing issues, such as child labour.
“Let us stand against such things; even for kids who roam the streets, let’s desist from buying from them as it encourages child labour,” he advised.
In addition to addressing GBV, Minister Mokgware expressed concern over conflicts among church leaders, particularly regarding financial disputes.
He condemned such behaviour and called for unity within the Pentecostal Holiness Church, encouraging members to work collaboratively for the glory of God.
The minister also announced government’s commitment to allocate land for churches, believing that their presence can help mitigate societal issues.
He reminded church leaders of their responsibilities and the legal implications of misconduct, referencing the Society’s Act, which imposes fines or imprisonment for financial mismanagement within church organisations.
Maj. Gen Mokgware encouraged members of the Pentecostal Holiness Church to support their leaders in fulfilling the church’s vision.
He commended the church for providing leadership opportunities to Batswana, contrasting it with practices in some international churches where locals were often sidelined.
Bishop Kutlo Mokgwathi expressed gratitude to church members for their efforts in organising the fundraising dinner and urged continued contributions toward the church’s building project.
He noted that the project, which would be completed in phases, was expected to create jobs and benefit the broader community.
Bishop Lesego Lekgetho outlined the building plans, which included an office structure, office block and sanctuary, with an estimated cost of P8 million.
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