In a historic decision that marks a turning point in Botswana’s politics, President Duma Boko has just appointed Lesego Chombo, 26, and former Miss Botswana, as Minister of Youth and Gender. This appointment, announced on November 11th, makes her one of the youngest ministers on the African continent.
A remarkable journey despite her young age
Lesego Chombo is not just a beauty queen. A lawyer by training and a graduate of the University of Botswana, she holds a law degree and practices at the Botswana High Court. Her record in the beauty world is equally impressive: Miss Botswana 2022, she was recently crowned Miss World Africa 2024.
But it is above all her community involvement that caught President Boko’s attention. Through her eponymous foundation, Lesego Chombo actively works to improve the living conditions of marginalized communities. She has also created the “Law Talks” platform, an innovative initiative aimed at democratizing access to legal knowledge for the general public.
An appointment based on merit
President Boko was keen to point out that this appointment was not due to chance or personal relationships. “I didn’t know her […] It’s thanks to you and what you have been, and not to those you have known or by whom you have been known,” he said during the presentation of the new minister. It is the impact of her community work and her commitment to fighting gender-based violence that motivated this choice.
A strong signal for young African women
This appointment has been widely hailed across the continent. The historic act resonates as a powerful message of hope for millions of young African women. It demonstrates that talent, commitment, and competence can transcend the traditional barriers of age and gender. As the African Union’s Department of Women, Gender, and Youth pointed out, this appointment opens up a new path for women in public policymaking.
“Today, I have the opportunity to occupy a role that gives me the opportunity to better serve young people,” said Lesego Chombo. These words take on a particular dimension coming from a young woman minister, herself embodying the change she wants to see in society.
This appointment is also accompanied by a role as a specially elected member of parliament, thus strengthening the presence of young people in the country’s decision-making bodies. It symbolizes a clear desire of Botswana to rejuvenate its political class and give more weight to the new generations in the governance of the country.
A precedent that changes the game
This bold appointment by President Boko could mark a decisive turning point in the representation of women, particularly young women, in African governments. It proves that competence has no age or gender, and that women have their place at the highest levels of decision-making on the continent.
For young African girls and women who aspire to political careers or leadership positions, Lesego Chombo becomes a living model, tangible proof that their ambitions are legitimate and achievable. Her journey demonstrates that with determination, commitment, and skills, women can access the highest responsibilities, regardless of their age.
This historic political action in Botswana should not remain an exception but become the beginning of a new era where the presence of women, especially young women, in decision-making spheres becomes the norm rather than the exception. It is a call to all African countries to rethink their traditional criteria for selecting leaders and to trust the new generation of women leaders.