CEDAW 5th Report Preparation in Francistown

The Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) 5th Country Report was officially launched by the Minister of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture, Hon. Tumiso Rakgare in Francistown.

Hon. Rakgare said Government’s commitment to the Gender Agenda cannot be overemphasised. He said the Ministry will continue to support the Gender Machinery, the Department of Gender Affairs in the pursuit of Gender equality and equity.

When presenting the overview of the 5th CEDAW Report, Director of Gender Affairs Department, Ms Thapelo Phuthego said this is the first time that the report preparation consultations have gone beyond Gaborone. She said after Francistown they will go to Maun, Gantsi and Bobirwa.

She also said they will be discussing 16 areas which Botswana needs to address before they submit their report in March 2023.

In his closing remarks, Assistant Minister MYSC and MP for Francistown East Hon. Honest Buti Billy said it is time for Botswana to have discussions on issues surrounding homosexuality, abortion, sex work and other topics that border on human rights.