Bogolo Joy Kenewendo: Botswana’s Economist Turned Minister

Bogolo Joy Kenewendo is a Botswana economist and politician who gained significant attention for her achievements at a young age. Born on May 29, 1987, in Motopi, Botswana, Kenewendo became the youngest minister in Botswana’s government when she was appointed as Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in April 2018 at the age of 30.

Kenewendo’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Botswana, where she graduated with distinction. She also holds a Master of Science in International Economics from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom.

Before entering politics, Kenewendo worked as an economic consultant and served as a trade economist in the Ministry of Trade and Industry in Botswana. Her expertise in economics and trade policy contributed to her rapid rise in the political arena.

As Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Kenewendo focused on promoting economic diversification, attracting foreign investment, and enhancing Botswana’s competitiveness in the global market. She implemented various initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, empowering youth, and advancing gender equality in the business sector.

Kenewendo’s appointment as a minister was widely celebrated, not only because of her youthfulness but also because of her competence and dedication to driving positive change in Botswana’s economy. She became a role model for young people, particularly women, aspiring to pursue careers in politics and economics.

Throughout her tenure as minister, Kenewendo remained committed to advocating for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Botswana. Her leadership and contributions continue to inspire many within Botswana and across the African continent.

Here’s why we consider her a woman giant:

• Graduated from the University of Botswana with a BA in Economics and obtained an MSc in International Economics from the University of Sussex with a Chevening scholarship.
• Held positions such as Trade Economist ODI Fellow in Ghana and economic consultant at Econsult, Botswana.
• Selected as one of Botswana’s youth delegates to the United Nations General Assembly and participated in leadership programs, including the Foreign and Commonwealth Office International Leadership program for young women leaders.
• Appointed as Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry by President Mokgweetsi Masisi in 2018, also appointed to the United Nations Panel on Digital Cooperation. Here, she introduced policies to streamline business registration, reform licensing requirements, and promote e-commerce and SME development.
• Advocated for children’s rights and initiated motions for a sex offenders registry in Botswana’s parliament.
• Received awards such as the Obama Young African Leaders Initiative for Young Women, Ten Outstanding Young Persons award, and Botswana Change Maker Award. She also holds positions as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and member of the Global Future Council for Global Public Goods. Appointed to the Gender Equality Advisory Council by UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss in 2021.