Sheila Tlou: I am ready to serve under Masisi

Young people, particularly girl children who want to advance in their careers and participate in governance and leadership should forget about boys and focus on their personal development. This was said by Sheila Tlou in an interview with The Midweek Sun this week. Tlou was recently listed among the 100 most Influential African women by Avance Media.She was recognised in the Diplomacy category. Tlou, who is currently the co-chair of the Global HIV Prevention Coalition initiated by UNAIDS and UNFPA, and the co-chair of the Nursing Now Global campaign, has an impressive and well-documented legacy in the health sector that includes a tenure as Minister of Health in Botswana and a stint as chairperson of the African Union ministers of health. Tlou expressed hope that this award would serve as inspiration for many Batswana who are committed to serving their country diligently in any capacity to persevere and remain steadfast in their chosen fields. She was positive that more Batswana women would be included in the coming years because “she is not the only one” pointing out that there are many Batswana who are doing great work in development. Meanwhile, Tlou said she would not turn down President Mokgweetsi Masisi if he were to summon her to take up any role in his administration. “I have a lot of respect for Masisi. I can identify with him as someone who grew up in a rural village and has worked his way to the top,” she said. She said Masisi could elevate the lives of young people and help them tap into the arts industry, which is a minefield with potential to grow the economy. “He has a background in acting and therefore has an understanding and appreciation for the arts and the contribution they make to not only character building but also economic opportunities,” she said. She however noted that she had Batswana’s interests at heart and would support anyone voted to be president. She did not want to be drawn into the feud between Masisi and former President Ian Khama as well as the infightings that have seen the BDP dealing with yet another breakaway party and mass resignations but pointed out that like all other Batswana, her hope is that the two individuals would resolve their issues and bury the hatchet. “As a Motswana who travels across the world, I spread the message of how our country is a land of peace and tranquillity. What is happening obviously does not sit well with me especially as civil developments are not taking place. “We need to focus on the needs of people rather than the needs of individuals. That said, I look forward to elections and working on the national mandate to improve the lives of Batswana. I hope that whoever loses will hold their horses and support the elected President of our country.”