Mophuting champions women's empowerment in Qatar

 

In countries with greater inequality, closing the gap in women’s labour force participation could boost economic output by an impressive 35 percent, Maipelo Mophuting told the 2024 First Ladies Economic Development Forum in Qatar.

Mophuting highlighted the global awakening regarding the importance of elevating women to positions of influence. She commended Botswana government for its efforts towards gender equality, citing President Mokgweetsi

Masisi's 2023 State of the Nation Address, which revealed that women now constitute 50 percent of Permanent Secretaries.

Despite these advancements, she emphasised that women in Botswana remain more vulnerable to poverty and unemployment, underlining the need for continued efforts to integrate them into political, social, and economic spheres.

Her view is that if women were supported in key focus areas including; investing in women human capital, encouraging women to work outside the home, and challenging ingrained biases stemming from colonialism and customary laws, equality would be achieved.

The forum, which brought together women from the Gulf, Africa, the US, and Canada, provided a unique platform for exchanging ideas on using the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for driving sustainable economic growth. Mophuting highlighted the significance of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 9 (Innovation and Infrastructure Development), and SDG 17 (Collaborative Partnerships).

She emphasised that such events are crucial for raising awareness, advancing discourse, and accelerating measures toward achieving these global goals.

Mophuting also discussed the burgeoning economic relations between Africa and the Gulf region, driven by mutual interests in diversification, investment, and sustainable development. She expressed excitement about her ongoing discussions with HRH Princesses Dr Moradeun Ogunlana and Dr Mervat Rashad Ibrahim Mohammad from AWHPI Global.

These discussions could lead to Botswana's increased involvement in the First Ladies Forum and Economic Development Summit, fostering greater collaboration and strengthening regional partnerships.

Reflecting on her motivation to run for public office, Mophuting shared her desire to influence policy and law-making processes that can transform lives. She advised aspiring leaders to have a clear vision and agenda, emphasising that leadership is about influencing people towards positive change. She acknowledged the challenges of navigating a male-dominated sphere like politics but encouraged young women to persevere with a clear mandate.

Mophuting also expressed her admiration for the hospitality extended by the Qatari government, particularly highlighting the efforts of His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Yousef Fakhro from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She praised the seamless coordination of the event, which brought together royals, government heads, ambassadors, and distinguished guests.

In a special mention, Mophuting recounted a surprise dinner hosted by Mr. Khalid Abdulla Al Binali. She was struck by his humility and grace, noting his message that Qatar welcomes everyone without bias. She took the opportunity to share information about Botswana and invited Mr. Khalid to visit the diamond-rich country, to which he responded positively.