Lesego Chombo: Botswana's Trailblazing Youth Minister Redefines Leadership

Lesego Chombo, Botswana's youngest cabinet minister at 26, embodies a new wave of leadership. Through her legal expertise and advocacy for youth and gender equality, she aims to transform the socio-economic landscape in Botswana while promoting the rights of young people and women.

Lesego Chombo's journey from beauty queen to Botswana's cabinet reflects a paradigm shift in a nation traditionally dominated by older politicians. Crowned Miss Botswana in 2022 and later clinching the title of Miss World Africa 2024, Chombo's vibrant spirit and commitment to societal change caught the attention of President Duma Boko. In November 2023, she made history by becoming the youngest cabinet minister at just 26 years old, leading the Ministry of Youth and Gender.

President Boko's administration aims to diversify Botswana's economy beyond its diamond dependency, placing strong emphasis on empowering youth. He believes young citizens should be the architects of their own futures, fostering entrepreneurship. "I've never been prouder to be young," Chombo remarked during her first days in office, expressing her dedication to youth development and gender equality.

Despite her unexpected ascension as a specially elected MP—one of only six women in the 69-member National Assembly—Chombo acknowledges the pressures and responsibilities her position entails. The burgeoning rate of youth unemployment in Botswana, nearing 28%, especially impacts women and ignites her determination for change.

Fundamentally, Chombo envisions a more supportive environment for youth, pledging to implement policies that promote entrepreneurship and ensure young voices are part of critical decision-making processes. To combat corruption, her plans involve a systematic approach to ensure that government tenders include quotas for young entrepreneurs.

While addressing pressing concerns of youth development, Chombo is also an ardent advocate for gender equity. An alarming report by the United Nations Population Fund reveals that over 67% of women in Botswana have faced violence, a statistic she finds deeply troubling. Her stance following criticism for voting against opposition motions on gender-based initiatives has been that while existing laws must be enforced, public awareness campaigns must accompany legislative reform.

Through her Lesego Chombo Foundation, she supports disadvantaged youth and their families, underscoring her belief that representation matters. Chombo's innovative journey continues to inspire young women in Botswana, demonstrating that leadership can stem from various paths.

In her heartfelt aspirations for a sustainable future, she emphasizes the importance of educational curriculums reflecting gender equity, childhood teaching about gender-based violence, and addressing mental health issues affecting men. As she reflects on her path, Chombo is rooted in gratitude for the influential women in her life, including her mother, and her mentors, exemplifying the necessity of perseverance in a patriarchal society.

As Minister, she recognizes the immense potential of her role, stating, "Impact. Tangible impact. That's what success would look like to me." With countless challenges ahead, Chombo's commitment to gender equity and youth empowerment is just the beginning of her legacy in Botswana.