- – Prioritises youth empowerment, women’s development, and support for vulnerable groups
The Okavango District Council says youth empowerment, women’s development, and support for vulnerable groups remain vital priorities in efforts to build a self-reliant and prosperous district.
Speaking during the Okavango District Full Council Session, Okavango District Council Deputy Chairman Brian Samoka highlighted several programmes aimed at creating employment opportunities, improving skills development, and strengthening social protection in communities across the district.
Samoka said the government is continuing to invest in programmes that support young people, especially at a time when youth unemployment remains a major challenge in many communities.
“As leaders, we are all aware that youth unemployment remains one of the greatest challenges facing our communities,” he said.
He explained that the implementation of the National Youth Policy is already underway following its approval by Parliament. According to Samoka, the policy is expected to guide youth development programmes and ensure that young people are given opportunities to participate in the country’s economy.
He further revealed that the National Youth Employment Strategy has already been developed and is awaiting Cabinet approval. Once approved, the strategy is expected to help create sustainable employment opportunities for young people across Botswana.
Samoka also noted that the remodeling of the Youth Development Fund has been completed and submitted to the Ministry, while the National Mentorship Programme Pilot is nearing completion ahead of a nationwide rollout.
He added that the programme will allow experienced professionals and entrepreneurs to mentor young people, helping them develop leadership, innovation, and business skills.
On social development, the Deputy Chairman announced that the government has approved the establishment of a One-Stop Centre for survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the Okavango District. “Land has already been secured in Sepopa for this important facility,” he said.
The centre is expected to provide comprehensive support services for survivors of Gender-Based Violence, including counselling and other forms of assistance under one roof.
Samoka also said the district continues to empower women entrepreneurs through climate-smart agriculture and enterprise development programmes carried out in partnership with development partners.
Meanwhile, the council has allocated over P83 million for labour-intensive and technical projects under the Ikageng Programme during the 2026/2027 financial year. The projects include classroom construction, community farms, school kitchens, and housing projects in several villages.
Over 268 participants are expected to benefit from practical training in construction, agriculture, carpentry, plumbing, fish farming, and poultry production. “This initiative will not only provide temporary employment but also empower beneficiaries with lifelong skills,” said Samoka.
The district is also working with partners such as Khoemacau Mine, Sandfire Copper Mine, HATAB, and the Ghanzi District Council to create more economic opportunities for vulnerable groups. Samoka said the council remains committed to ensuring that development reaches every household and community across the district.
