UNSUNG HERO
In a career marked by dedication, innovation, and transformative leadership, former Minister of Minerals and Energy Lefoko Moagi, was earlier this month honoured with a lifetime achievement award as a Prominent African Statesman.
This is a State of Carolina’s prestigious recognition by The House Of Representatives in the USA, bestowed on African persons deemed to have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the advancement of their countries.
The award also celebrates individuals that have played a transformative role in their specific fields for the advancement of their people.
For a man that played a leading and pivotal negotiating role in the widely celebrated transformative deal with DeBeers for the benefit of Batswana, the award has come as no surprise.
In fact, the award lends credence to the initial recognition of last year when former President Mokgweetsi Masisi bestowed upon him the country’s prestigious Naledi Ya Botswana award.
It is clear that the local award also recognised the role he played in the landmark negotiation of the deal with De Beers, which included the signing of a statement of principles and heads of terms, and the conclusion of the long-form agreement.
Although the final signing occurred after he left office, the deal was hailed worldwide as a significant achievement, with his role said to have been pivotal.
Moagi also played a crucial role in advancing green energy projects, ensuring that solar projects gained traction, with some already commissioned, others under construction, and the rest at the
procurement stage.
His efforts to sustain power generation to ensure the end of load shedding and to eliminate installation costs for electricity uptake were instrumental in improving livelihoods and supporting Botswana’s economy.
Yet for Moagi, the recognition as a Prominent African Statesman is not about the title but about the motivation it provides to continue serving the people of Botswana, Africa, and the world.
“The recognition propels me to do much more for the people of Botswana and by extension Africa and the world in whatever small way that others recognised,” he said in an interview with The Midweek Sun.
“There is no doubt a lot of things in the world need to change for the better, and if we could learn from each other across the continent and replicate good things, we surely will be on track for the utilitarian benefit of the continent,” he added.
According to those close to him, Lefoko Moagi’s leadership style has always been defined by his ability to identify challenges and devise innovative solutions.
As the Member of Parliament for Ramotswa - now Gamalete - Constituency from 2019 to 2024, Moagi earned a reputation as a “think tank” who tirelessly worked to address the needs of his constituents while contributing to national development.
Former Ramotswa District Council Chairperson Zahid Jalal, who worked closely with Moagi during his tenure, described him as a leader who thrived on solving problems.
“His ability to negotiate and transform our deals with partners in the diamond industry, particularly De Beers, was both visionary and daring,” Jalal remarked.
“Although he didn’t see his initiatives through to completion, his efforts were undeniably impactful and deserving of recognition.”
Reflecting on his work in transforming Botswana’s diamond industry, Moagi highlighted the challenges of liberalising legislation to benefit both citizens and investors.
“All mineral resources are vested in the State in Botswana, so it is imperative for the State to enact laws, regulations, and policies that impact beneficially for the citizen and the investor,” he explained.
Through the review of the Mines and Minerals Act, the approval of the National Minerals Policy, and the implementation of digital systems like the National Integrated Geoscience Information System and the Mining Cadastre, Moagi’s initiatives streamlined processes, boosted employment, and generated wealth.
“Through these, citizens were able to start on what otherwise they thought they would never be able to do with minerals in their country. More diamond factories and more mines were opened, boosting employment levels and generating wealth.” he said.
Moagi’s tenure as MP was also marked by a series of transformative projects that significantly improved the lives of his constituents. One of his most notable achievements was the allocation of Constituency Community Projects (CCP) funds, amounting to P10 million annually, to address critical infrastructure needs.
Under his leadership, a water pump station and reservoir tank were constructed in the Magope/Disana area, with plans underway to complete the second phase of water reticulation to reach starved homes in the area. This project, budgeted at P35 million, is a testament to Moagi’s advocacy for sustainable development. In addition to water infrastructure, Moagi championed the construction of three river-crossing bridges at Llara, Ratauyagae, and Lesetlheng. The completion of the Llara bridge has been hailed as a game-changer, particularly during the rainy season.
According to Jalal, farmers can now access their lands safely, and the bridge has alleviated flooding issues that previously stranded residents and disrupted travel.
Moagi also dedicated CCP funds to internal pavement roads across the constituency that extends to Otse, Mogobane and beyond up to Lobatse Farms, enhancing connectivity and accessibility. His successful advocacy for the resurfacing of the A11 road from Boatle to Ramotswa border, along with 25 km of internal bitumen-standard roads equipped with storm-water drainage and street lighting, underscored his commitment to long-term infrastructure development. The projects have since been paused and subjected to review by the new government, along with others across the country.
These projects, should the new government eventually give them the green light, are expected to significantly improve transportation and safety in the region as one of the envisaged roads was to offer an alternative route into Ramotswa from the A1 highway.
Beyond infrastructure, Moagi’s leadership extended to social responsibility and community engagement. He organised successful social football tournaments in partnership with the Gamalete Constituency Tourney, providing clubs with branded materials, soccer balls, and prize money. These tournaments not only fostered community spirit but also provided a platform for youth development and recreation.
“Sports plays a pivotal role in the growth of our children,” Moagi says. “I started sponsoring ball tournaments and inviting scouting agents to assess talent in the constituency. On the football front, this was reasonably successful as a number of our players were given opportunities to play in bigger leagues, with some income accruing.”
Moagi also supported church initiatives and donated Jojo tanks to remote areas, ensuring access to clean water storage. His efforts to uplift communities through both large-scale projects and grassroots initiatives reflect his holistic approach to leadership.
“Given that there was strong advocacy for food security, I deployed some of the funds from the Constituency Fund to ensure the three bridges were built as they would connect production areas such as ploughing fields and cattle posts with the village,” he explained.
“This ensured seamless travel to and from these areas and hence assisted a lot more people to plough and plant, boosting agricultural production. I further sponsored or sought sponsorship for
drilling boreholes to assist pastoral farmers. These boreholes are about to be equipped.”
He quietly toiled with these initiatives while balancing his responsibilities at the national level as a minister, with the needs of his constituency.
“It was a tough balancing act, but the teams I worked with assisted greatly,” he said. “They understood ours was not a nine-to-five job, and we could cram a lot in a day. My residency at the constituency also assisted me to be up to date on issues and hence to action things timeously.”
Moagi’s inspiration to pursue a career in politics and public service stemmed from his belief in giving back to those who shaped his life.
“My conviction has always been that one needs to give thanks to those who have shaped their career and their life,” he said.
“This piggybacks from the adage, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ I still had the energy, and when an opportunity presented itself to represent my constituency at the national level, I seized it.”
He also brought his private sector experience to his ministerial role, influencing legislation and project management positively.
“I remain grateful to the men and women who embraced my vision and saw where I wanted to take the ministry and the nation at large,” he added.
With Jalal describing him as a ‘think tank and problem solver,’ an appreciative Moagi says it was down to the importance of engagement and collaboration.
“I am an engaging leader. I listen to those I work with and those who may be involved as stakeholders,” he said.
“More often than not, the people carry the solution, and it is for the leader to give them the confidence to trust their instincts. Engaging people in what appeals to them is a sure way of getting the
right solution. This way, all of us own both the problem and the solution.”
Receiving the Naledi Ya Botswana from then President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi was a moment of profound gratitude for Moagi.
“Amidst the tough demands and relentless efforts, it is gratifying to know it was for a greater cause,” he said. “I am grateful to Former President Masisi for the recognition.
“As I said then, it is the tough accountability questions from colleagues at Parliament and Cabinet and the general populace who trusted us with their vote that we were able to be tough in our negotiations for their greater good.”
Such are Moagi’s contributions that must have turned heads as far as the State of Carolina. His ability to navigate complex negotiations, advocate for meaningful development, and engage with communities has set a high standard for leadership among his peers.
As Zahid Jalal aptly put it, “You can’t bring a good man down. Your efforts speak for you.” Lefoko Moagi’s legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those he served. It is no wonder a lot in is constituency look back at his departure from his political role with regret. Many feel he still had a lot to offer but fell victim to the irrationality of party politics.
This is a State of Carolina’s prestigious recognition by The House Of Representatives in the USA, bestowed on African persons deemed to have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the advancement of their countries.
The award also celebrates individuals that have played a transformative role in their specific fields for the advancement of their people.
For a man that played a leading and pivotal negotiating role in the widely celebrated transformative deal with DeBeers for the benefit of Batswana, the award has come as no surprise.
In fact, the award lends credence to the initial recognition of last year when former President Mokgweetsi Masisi bestowed upon him the country’s prestigious Naledi Ya Botswana award.
It is clear that the local award also recognised the role he played in the landmark negotiation of the deal with De Beers, which included the signing of a statement of principles and heads of terms, and the conclusion of the long-form agreement.
Although the final signing occurred after he left office, the deal was hailed worldwide as a significant achievement, with his role said to have been pivotal.
Moagi also played a crucial role in advancing green energy projects, ensuring that solar projects gained traction, with some already commissioned, others under construction, and the rest at the
procurement stage.
His efforts to sustain power generation to ensure the end of load shedding and to eliminate installation costs for electricity uptake were instrumental in improving livelihoods and supporting Botswana’s economy.
Yet for Moagi, the recognition as a Prominent African Statesman is not about the title but about the motivation it provides to continue serving the people of Botswana, Africa, and the world.
“The recognition propels me to do much more for the people of Botswana and by extension Africa and the world in whatever small way that others recognised,” he said in an interview with The Midweek Sun.
“There is no doubt a lot of things in the world need to change for the better, and if we could learn from each other across the continent and replicate good things, we surely will be on track for the utilitarian benefit of the continent,” he added.
According to those close to him, Lefoko Moagi’s leadership style has always been defined by his ability to identify challenges and devise innovative solutions.
As the Member of Parliament for Ramotswa - now Gamalete - Constituency from 2019 to 2024, Moagi earned a reputation as a “think tank” who tirelessly worked to address the needs of his constituents while contributing to national development.
Former Ramotswa District Council Chairperson Zahid Jalal, who worked closely with Moagi during his tenure, described him as a leader who thrived on solving problems.
“His ability to negotiate and transform our deals with partners in the diamond industry, particularly De Beers, was both visionary and daring,” Jalal remarked.
“Although he didn’t see his initiatives through to completion, his efforts were undeniably impactful and deserving of recognition.”
Reflecting on his work in transforming Botswana’s diamond industry, Moagi highlighted the challenges of liberalising legislation to benefit both citizens and investors.
“All mineral resources are vested in the State in Botswana, so it is imperative for the State to enact laws, regulations, and policies that impact beneficially for the citizen and the investor,” he explained.
Through the review of the Mines and Minerals Act, the approval of the National Minerals Policy, and the implementation of digital systems like the National Integrated Geoscience Information System and the Mining Cadastre, Moagi’s initiatives streamlined processes, boosted employment, and generated wealth.
“Through these, citizens were able to start on what otherwise they thought they would never be able to do with minerals in their country. More diamond factories and more mines were opened, boosting employment levels and generating wealth.” he said.
Moagi’s tenure as MP was also marked by a series of transformative projects that significantly improved the lives of his constituents. One of his most notable achievements was the allocation of Constituency Community Projects (CCP) funds, amounting to P10 million annually, to address critical infrastructure needs.
Under his leadership, a water pump station and reservoir tank were constructed in the Magope/Disana area, with plans underway to complete the second phase of water reticulation to reach starved homes in the area. This project, budgeted at P35 million, is a testament to Moagi’s advocacy for sustainable development. In addition to water infrastructure, Moagi championed the construction of three river-crossing bridges at Llara, Ratauyagae, and Lesetlheng. The completion of the Llara bridge has been hailed as a game-changer, particularly during the rainy season.
According to Jalal, farmers can now access their lands safely, and the bridge has alleviated flooding issues that previously stranded residents and disrupted travel.
Moagi also dedicated CCP funds to internal pavement roads across the constituency that extends to Otse, Mogobane and beyond up to Lobatse Farms, enhancing connectivity and accessibility. His successful advocacy for the resurfacing of the A11 road from Boatle to Ramotswa border, along with 25 km of internal bitumen-standard roads equipped with storm-water drainage and street lighting, underscored his commitment to long-term infrastructure development. The projects have since been paused and subjected to review by the new government, along with others across the country.
These projects, should the new government eventually give them the green light, are expected to significantly improve transportation and safety in the region as one of the envisaged roads was to offer an alternative route into Ramotswa from the A1 highway.
Beyond infrastructure, Moagi’s leadership extended to social responsibility and community engagement. He organised successful social football tournaments in partnership with the Gamalete Constituency Tourney, providing clubs with branded materials, soccer balls, and prize money. These tournaments not only fostered community spirit but also provided a platform for youth development and recreation.
“Sports plays a pivotal role in the growth of our children,” Moagi says. “I started sponsoring ball tournaments and inviting scouting agents to assess talent in the constituency. On the football front, this was reasonably successful as a number of our players were given opportunities to play in bigger leagues, with some income accruing.”
Moagi also supported church initiatives and donated Jojo tanks to remote areas, ensuring access to clean water storage. His efforts to uplift communities through both large-scale projects and grassroots initiatives reflect his holistic approach to leadership.
“Given that there was strong advocacy for food security, I deployed some of the funds from the Constituency Fund to ensure the three bridges were built as they would connect production areas such as ploughing fields and cattle posts with the village,” he explained.
“This ensured seamless travel to and from these areas and hence assisted a lot more people to plough and plant, boosting agricultural production. I further sponsored or sought sponsorship for
drilling boreholes to assist pastoral farmers. These boreholes are about to be equipped.”
He quietly toiled with these initiatives while balancing his responsibilities at the national level as a minister, with the needs of his constituency.
“It was a tough balancing act, but the teams I worked with assisted greatly,” he said. “They understood ours was not a nine-to-five job, and we could cram a lot in a day. My residency at the constituency also assisted me to be up to date on issues and hence to action things timeously.”
Moagi’s inspiration to pursue a career in politics and public service stemmed from his belief in giving back to those who shaped his life.
“My conviction has always been that one needs to give thanks to those who have shaped their career and their life,” he said.
“This piggybacks from the adage, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ I still had the energy, and when an opportunity presented itself to represent my constituency at the national level, I seized it.”
He also brought his private sector experience to his ministerial role, influencing legislation and project management positively.
“I remain grateful to the men and women who embraced my vision and saw where I wanted to take the ministry and the nation at large,” he added.
With Jalal describing him as a ‘think tank and problem solver,’ an appreciative Moagi says it was down to the importance of engagement and collaboration.
“I am an engaging leader. I listen to those I work with and those who may be involved as stakeholders,” he said.
“More often than not, the people carry the solution, and it is for the leader to give them the confidence to trust their instincts. Engaging people in what appeals to them is a sure way of getting the
right solution. This way, all of us own both the problem and the solution.”
Receiving the Naledi Ya Botswana from then President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi was a moment of profound gratitude for Moagi.
“Amidst the tough demands and relentless efforts, it is gratifying to know it was for a greater cause,” he said. “I am grateful to Former President Masisi for the recognition.
“As I said then, it is the tough accountability questions from colleagues at Parliament and Cabinet and the general populace who trusted us with their vote that we were able to be tough in our negotiations for their greater good.”
Such are Moagi’s contributions that must have turned heads as far as the State of Carolina. His ability to navigate complex negotiations, advocate for meaningful development, and engage with communities has set a high standard for leadership among his peers.
As Zahid Jalal aptly put it, “You can’t bring a good man down. Your efforts speak for you.” Lefoko Moagi’s legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those he served. It is no wonder a lot in is constituency look back at his departure from his political role with regret. Many feel he still had a lot to offer but fell victim to the irrationality of party politics.
