Africa-Press – Botswana. Women have been urged to utilize government programs to uplift their livelihoods.
Speaking at an occasion where women met to share ideas at Loologa ward in Molepolole on Wednesday, MP for Molepolole South, Mr Kabo Morwaeng, said the government remained committed to empowering women as they were previously disadvantaged.
He mentioned that the President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi had appointed women to key leadership roles based on their ability rather than solely because they were women.
MP Morwaeng further highlighted the fact that women are often the most affected by Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and emphasized the importance of empowering them. He noted that police stations have dedicated areas dealing with cases of GBV, and laws have been amended to handle such issues.
Senior Gender Officer, Ms Gorata Maswabi, urged women to report cases of GBV.
She said there was need for women to understand what GBV is and its causes. Additionally, she pointed out that lack of economic empowerment is a major reason why women remain in abusive relationships and advocated for empowering women to reduce reliance on abusers.
Ms Maswabi emphasised that as women, they should stand up against abuse, noting that children who grow up in abusive homes are more likely to become abusive or accept abuse.
Ms Phondi Morwaeng, the wife of the MP, mentioned that they decided to hold such events as a means to empower women.
She encouraged women to embrace their humble beginnings and work hard to achieve a good life.
She gave an example of one woman who had been able to buy a car through can collections, emphasizing that women should not belittle themselves or be discouraged by the public when trying to improve their lives, but instead look forward to the day they reap the benefits of their hard work.
Beyond offering women empowerment ideas, the day was also meant to prepare for Women’s Day, to be held at Lewis grounds as the kgotla shelter has been destroyed.
It was further mentioned that they would be celebrating the birthday of Mohumagadi Mma Tumagole, who was expected to be in the country for the event.
Mma Tumagole is currently pursuing her PhD in the UK.
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