Ramotswa, Botswana- “She faces walls made of silence, doors locked by tradition, and dreams weighed down by voices that say, ‘a girl’s place is not there,’” said Keemanao Setsosarona, Miss Teen Universe Botswana Kweneng.
On Friday, 10 October 2025, UNFPA Botswana joined hands with SAT Botswana, in partnership with TAWLA, to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child in Ramotswa. The event was held under the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crises.”
“In this day and age, many issues around the world continue to affect girls more than ever. When we talk about gender-based violence, rape, or economic challenges, young women and girls remain the most affected,” said Kagiso Molatlhwa, UNFPA Youth and Gender Analyst.
In attendance was Kgosi Macheng of Magope ward in Ramotswa, who emphasized the importance of education and goal-setting among girls. “I love this theme. Let us build ourselves and set goals with the support of our parents,” he said. “Without education, others will make decisions for you. Women of the 21st century are powerful and independent. Accumulate your own wealth so you can stand on your own and remain relevant.”
The celebration brought together students from local schools, including boys, to participate in dialogue sessions on issues affecting girls. Their inclusion was deliberate, ensuring that boys also learn about gender equality and help end stigma and misconceptions. “Comprehensive sexuality education encourages girls to speak up with confidence. Guidance and counselling do not leave boys behind, and that is why they are here,” said Ms. Sentsho from the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, under the Department of Learner Support Services.
A student from St. Joseph’s College shared, “Growing up, I was always made to cook and clean, and I was told that boys do not do that. It limited how I saw my future.” Her classmate added, “We experience abuse because we have been taught to accept men as being more superior.”
The dialogues underscored the need for continued investment in Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), which empowers adolescents with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their health, relationships, and futures. Over the years, UNFPA, in collaboration with the Government of Botswana, has strengthened national capacity for the delivery of CSE in schools through both face-to-face and online teacher training. Evidence shows that these programmes reduce risky behaviours and promote positive outcomes such as increased condom use and reduced unplanned pregnancies.
Also present was a representative from the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs, who encouraged the girls to believe in themselves and lead with confidence. Speaking to students living with disabilities from Camphill School in Otse, she said, “To lead your life, your vision defines you, not your disability.” Her message inspired the girls to dream without limits, many shared their aspirations of becoming police officers, soldiers, teachers, and pilots.
In closing, Hon. Botshelo Motsumi, area Councillor shared words that captured the spirit of empowerment and possibility:“When a woman tells me she is an electrician or a carpenter, I am happy. These days, many companies even prefer female truck drivers.”
