In a move signaling Botswana’s commitment to economic transformation, President Mokgweetsi Masisi has named economist Bogolo Kenewendo as the new Minister of Minerals and Energy. The appointment positions the 36-year-old former trade minister to lead Botswana’s critical mining sector and energy transition at a pivotal moment for the resource-dependent economy.
Kenewendo, a respected global voice on sustainable development and Africa’s youngest cabinet minister during her previous tenure (2018-2019), takes charge of managing Botswana’s diamond wealth—which accounts for about 25% of GDP—while accelerating renewable energy projects. Her mandate includes overseeing emerging opportunities in rare earth minerals and steering the country’s shift toward solar and green hydrogen energy solutions.
“Botswana’s next chapter requires balancing immediate economic needs with long-term sustainability,” Kenewendo stated after her swearing-in. “We must transform mineral wealth into lasting value through beneficiation, skills development, and climate-smart policies.”
The appointment has drawn praise from business leaders and international partners. Mining industry representatives highlighted Kenewendo’s unique blend of technical expertise—honed at the London School of Economics and the United Nations—and grassroots policy experience. Energy analysts noted her potential to fast-track Botswana’s stalled renewable energy projects, which currently contribute less than 5% of national generation despite abundant solar resources.
Key challenges awaiting the new minister include:
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Finalizing long-delayed reforms to Botswana’s mining royalty framework
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Implementing the government’s “Coal Roadmap” amid global decarbonization pressures
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Attracting investment for battery metal processing facilities
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Expanding electricity access to rural communities
President Masisi’s decision reinforces his administration’s focus on youth leadership and gender parity—Kenewendo becomes one of five women in Botswana’s 18-member cabinet. Her return to frontline politics after serving as Africa Director at the UN Climate Champions initiative brings international credibility to Botswana’s economic diversification agenda.
All eyes now turn to Kenewendo’s maiden parliamentary address next week, where she’s expected to detail plans for local mineral beneficiation and announce partnerships with renewable energy investors. The speech could set the tone for Botswana’s resource governance approach as it prepares to host the 2025 Kimberley Process Plenary Meeting.
