Adolescents
confront developmental challenges, such as restricted access to adequate
education, healthcare, and nutrition. Violence, prejudice, and a lack of
supporting surroundings are also obstacles to their safety and well-being.
Furthermore, concerns regarding jobs, skills, and empowerment frequently impede
their transition into adulthood and limit their ability to shape their destiny.
The Government of
Botswana recognizes the need to take a holistic strategy that requires working
together in a coordinated and collaborative manner to address the above various
intersecting issues affecting adolescents and Young People. An indication of
this political will is the recent signing, by His Excellency the President of
Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi of a National Commitment for Adolescents and Young
People’s Wellbeing, which was launched on the 10th of October 2023.
This Commitment
recognizes the importance of prioritizing adolescents' needs, promoting their
rights, and providing them with opportunities for education, healthcare, and
engagement to ensure a sustainable future for them.
To augment this commitment, The President
also hosted adolescents for a breakfast session at the State House. The
invitation followed the successful launch of the
National Commitment for Adolescents and Young People’s Wellbeing.
In his address, H.E stated that as part
of the Agenda for Sustainable Development, by 2030, Botswana’s vision for
adolescent well-being for all adolescents and young people, including the most
marginalized, regardless of age, gender, disability, place of residence,
language, and socioeconomic status, to be educated, healthy, thriving,
prosperous, and their potential fulfilled. In addition, H.E stated that this
vision will be attained through an accountable, collaborative, effectively
coordinated, and participatory process. President Masisi assured the young
people of the Government’s commitment to facilitate the realization of the full
potential of adolescents, through the execution of robust policies and
strategic investments.
UNICEF has
reiterated its commitment to keep working closely with the Government of Botswana,
civil society organizations, adolescents, and parents to ensure that
adolescents, particularly the most vulnerable and marginalized, receive the
support they require to reach their full potential.
