Botswana President Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K Masisi Attends Rwandan Presidential Inauguration

Mokgweetsi Masisi

President of Botswana

Early Life and Education

Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi was born in the village of Moshupa, Botswana, into a politically active family. His father, Edison Masisi, was a senior government official and later a cabinet minister in Botswana’s first government after independence. Mokgweetsi Masisi completed his early education in Botswana before pursuing higher education abroad.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in English and History from the University of Botswana and a Master’s degree in Education from Florida State University, USA. Masisi worked as a teacher and education specialist, focusing on curriculum development before entering the public service.

Political Career

Masisi’s political career began when he was elected to Botswana’s National Assembly in 2009 as the Member of Parliament for the Moshupa-Manyana constituency. His rise within the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) was swift:

Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration: Masisi served in this senior role, helping to manage government policy and programs.
Minister of Education and Skills Development (2014–2018): In this capacity, he focused on reforms aimed at improving Botswana’s education system.
Vice President of Botswana: Masisi was appointed Vice President in 2014 under President Ian Khama.

Presidency

Masisi assumed the presidency on April 1, 2018, following the retirement of Ian Khama. He was elected in his own right in October 2019, winning a majority of the vote. During his presidency, Masisi has focused on diversifying Botswana’s economy beyond its reliance on diamonds. His administration has promoted sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

Masisi has also placed a strong emphasis on fighting corruption, improving healthcare and education, and tackling unemployment, particularly among youth. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was marked by efforts to secure vaccines and maintain stability.

Personal Life

Mokgweetsi Masisi is married to Neo Jane Masisi, and they have one daughter. Masisi is known for his passion for education and development, reflecting his background in the education sector.