The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Claare Gatete, held a productive meeting today with President Duma Boko to discuss deepening the collaboration between the Government of Botswana and UNECA. The meeting was a significant step toward strengthening ties and aligning Botswana’s development goals with the broader objectives of the African continent.
President Boko expressed his appreciation for the fruitful discussions, noting that they had focused on issues critical to Botswana’s development aspirations, particularly in the areas of green economy, smart agriculture, eco-tourism, and skills development. These sectors are central to Botswana’s vision for sustainable growth and youth empowerment, and the President emphasized that partnerships, both local and international, are crucial to achieving these goals.
“Durable and sustainable partnerships, as well as strategic investments, are key to accelerating development in our country,” said President Boko. “We are grateful for UNECA’s continuous support and their role in helping us navigate the transformative journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.”
During the meeting, Gatete and President Boko discussed various action plans, many of which are already underway. These initiatives are aimed at achieving sustainable, inclusive, and equitable human and social development, not only for Botswana but for the entire African continent. With a shared commitment to tackling key challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and climate change, both parties emphasized the importance of working together to create long-term solutions that benefit future generations.
In particular, the discussions centered on advancing Botswana’s green economy agenda, a key priority for the government. The goal is to integrate environmental sustainability into all sectors of the economy, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of the planet’s resources. Similarly, there was a strong focus on smart agriculture, which involves utilizing technology and innovative practices to enhance food security and improve agricultural productivity.
Eco-tourism was another area of focus, with both parties recognizing the potential for Botswana to position itself as a leading destination for sustainable tourism. By promoting eco-friendly practices in the tourism sector, the government aims to preserve its rich natural heritage while fostering economic growth and job creation.
A critical element of the meeting was the emphasis on skills development, particularly for the youth. President Boko underscored the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and digital world. With a focus on education, vocational training, and digital skills, Botswana seeks to empower its youth and create opportunities for them to actively contribute to the country’s development.
“The partnership with UNECA is vital as we strive to improve the socio-economic landscape of Botswana,” President Boko added. “Their expertise and support are essential as we continue working towards creating a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous nation for our people.”
The collaboration between Botswana and UNECA marks a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of sustainable development. As both parties continue to work hand in hand, the shared vision of a greener, more equitable Africa remains at the forefront of their efforts, fostering a future where all people can benefit from progress and prosperity.
