Lesego Chombo, Botswana's youngest cabinet minister at just 26, is making headlines as both a beauty queen and a lawyer. An advocate for youth empowerment and gender equality, Chombo is committed to addressing unemployment and systemic issues affecting the younger population in Botswana, which sees a staggering 28% unemployment rate, particularly among youth and women.
Appointed by President Duma Boko after the UDC's historic electoral win, Chombo's new role in the cabinet highlights her integrity and passion for social change. As the Minister of Youth and Gender, she aims to create an enabling environment that fosters entrepreneurship and engagement of young people in decision-making. Her personal motto, “I’ve never been more proud to be young,” encapsulates her vision for the future of Botswana.
Chombo's rise began with her victory as Miss Botswana in 2022, which catapulted her into the public eye and enabled her to launch the Lesego Chombo Foundation to support disadvantaged youth, demonstrating her commitment beyond her political office. She noted that this public recognition was a remarkable pathway to her current influential role.
In her tenure, Chombo is tackling high levels of youth unemployment and advocating for initiatives that nurture young entrepreneurs. Her ambitious policy goals also include addressing gender-based violence – an issue that has resonated deeply in Botswana, where over 67% of women have reported experiencing abuse. She emphasizes the importance of education in combatting gender-based violence and pushing for the implementation of the Gender-Based Violence Act.
Despite facing criticism over her initial voting record, Chombo remains dedicated to change, fortifying laws against gender violence and engaging with various government ministries for a collaborative approach. She believes in developing an ecosystem where youth thrive, asserting that the focus should be on executing existing laws rather than creating new ones without follow-through.
Moreover, Chombo's advocacy extends to men’s mental health and positive masculinity, seeking a holistic understanding of gender dynamics. With a focus on representation, she acknowledges the uphill battle young women face in leadership, inspired by her mother's resilience.
As her tenure progresses, Chombo understands the gravity of her legacy. “Impact. Tangible impact. That's what success would look like to me,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in her initiatives. With her historical appointment, she wields significant influence, proving that dedicated young leaders hold the key to a brighter future for Botswana.
