Bogolo Kenewendo

When Bogolo Kenewendo was appointed Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in Botswana in 2018, she was hailed as the youngest Minister in her country’s history. Throughout her journey—from her studies in Botswana and the United Kingdom to her roles at the United Nations and the G-7’s Gender Equality Advisory Council, her achievements have been nothing short of remarkable.

But Bogolo didn’t rest on her laurels. In 2021, she joined the second cohort of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development’s Amujae Leaders—a group of remarkable women who are transforming the landscape for women in public leadership in Africa. And earlier this year, she was also appointed as the Africa director and special adviser to the U.N. Climate Change High-Level Champions, putting the voice of young people and women at the heart of climate action. Her insights will no doubt prove crucial as the world endeavors to become more sustainable, and more just.

I remember reading a magazine interview on her, one year after she was appointed Minister, entitled “Youthful Minister opening doors for women and girls.” This title sums up Bogolo’s achievements. Through her tireless commitment to advancing women’s representation in all sectors, and advocating on behalf of children and women, she continues to open doors wide across Africa for youth and women’s leadership.

Sirleaf is the former President of Liberia and a Nobel Peace Prize winner

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