Govt calls on youth to

Botswana is being urged to leverage the energy and creativity of its youth to cultivate a culture of integrity, according to Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa. Mr Mohwasa was delivering a keynote address at the International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration in Gaborone on Tuesday. “Corruption has no place in our society.

We are implementing reforms to empower the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) and other institutions dedicated to safeguarding our national resources,” he said. Citing historical movements like the Soweto Uprising and the Arab Spring, the minister underscored the power of organised youth movements to demand accountability and foster societal change. He stressed the importance of educating youth about the nation’s anti-corruption history, referencing past scandals and commissions that led to the formation of the DCEC.

He also welcomed the engagement of Commonwealth Africa Anti-Corruption Agencies at this year’s event. Reflecting on the theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” Mr Mohwasa emphasised the significance of raising awareness about the links between corruption, underdevelopment, insecurity and economic inequality. Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Ms Lesego Chombo, echoed the call for empowering youth. “Corruption continues to undermine institutions and rob young people of opportunities,” she stated, advocating for the institutionalisation of youth participation in governance and their inclusion in decision-making at all levels, from community organisations to Parliament.