Mokgweetsi E.K Masisi

Intro

H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi was sworn in as the 5th President of the Republic of Botswana on 1st April 2018. Prior to this, he was Botswana’s 8th Vice President from 2014.

As Vice President he was responsible for oversight of Government programmes including flagship programme such as: Poverty Eradication, Economic Diversification Drive and Employment Creation. He has served cabinet in various portfolios including as Minister for Presidential Affairs and Public Administration and Minister of Education and Skills Development. Prior to public life, His Excellency Dr. Masisi had established a career in education.

He was an Education Project Officer with UNICEF and worked extensively with the Ministry of Education as a Curriculum Specialist and in other capacities. In 1989 he studied at graduate level at Florida State University, USA, specializing in Social Studies, Education and Instructional Systems Design. He attained his MSc from FSU in 1990. In 1999 he was awarded a Commonwealth Chevening Scholarship to undertake graduate studies in Economics and Social Policy in Manchester University in the UK. In 2018, the University of Botswana conferred him an honorary doctorate.

Early Development

Mokgweetsi Masisi is the son of Edison Masisi (1921–2003), the long-time MP for Moshupa and many-time cabinet member. The younger Masisi grew up in Gaborone, attending Thornhill Primary School and Maru A Pula School. One of his three brothers, Tshelang, was the MP for Francistown West for many years, while another is a retired army general. He also has a sister, Phadi.

In school, Masisi competed in soccer and tennis, but ultimately found acting to be his calling. In 1984, he won acclaim for his portrayal of the lead role in a Gaborone production of Cry the Beloved Country. He has taken part in several South African films.

In the 1980s, Masisi became a high school social studies teacher after graduating from the University of Botswana in 1984 in English and History. He taught at Mmanaana Secondary School in 1984 in Moshupa village before moving on to the University of Botswana in 1987 as a curriculum development specialist.

In 1989, he went to Florida State University to obtain a Master’s degree in social sciences education, after Masisi met some FSU faculty members working in Botswana for the Junior Secondary Education Improvement Project. Following graduation, he was employed by UNICEF in Botswana.[9]

Professional Career

Early Career

Before entering politics, Masisi had a varied career in education and development. He worked as a teacher and education officer, reflecting his academic background. His professional journey also included roles with international organizations such as UNICEF, where he focused on education programs and community development.

Political Career

Entry into Politics

Masisi entered the political arena in 2004 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Moshupa constituency. His ascent in politics was marked by his dedication to public service and his ability to connect with constituents.

Ministerial Roles

During his parliamentary tenure, Masisi held several key ministerial positions. He served as Assistant Minister for Presidential Affairs and Public Administration from 2009 to 2011. Subsequently, he was appointed as the Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration, a role he held until 2014. In 2014, he became the Minister of Education and Skills Development, a position that allowed him to influence national education policies significantly.

Vice Presidency

In 2014, Mokgweetsi Masisi was appointed as the Vice President of Botswana by President Ian Khama. This role positioned him as the second-in-command and gave him considerable influence over domestic policies, especially in education and governance.

Presidency

Ascension to the Presidency

Mokgweetsi Masisi became the 5th President of Botswana on April 1, 2018, succeeding Ian Khama. His rise to the presidency was part of a planned transition within the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Upon assuming office, Masisi emphasized his commitment to continuing Botswana’s democratic traditions, enhancing economic diversification, and addressing social issues such as unemployment and education.

Key Policies and Initiatives

As president, Masisi has focused on several key areas:

• Economic Diversification: Aiming to reduce Botswana’s reliance on diamonds, Masisi has promoted economic diversification through investment in other sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and technology.
• Education Reform: Building on his background in education, Masisi has pushed for reforms to improve the quality of education and vocational training in Botswana.
• Anti-Corruption Efforts: His administration has taken a firm stance on corruption, with initiatives to strengthen governance and accountability mechanisms.
• Health Initiatives: Under his leadership, Botswana has continued to combat HIV/AIDS while also addressing emerging health challenges such as COVID-19.

Foreign Relations

President Masisi has actively engaged in regional and international diplomacy. He has worked to strengthen Botswana’s relations with neighboring countries and has been a vocal advocate for regional integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). His foreign policy also emphasizes attracting foreign investment and enhancing Botswana’s global standing.

Personal Life

Mokgweetsi Masisi is married to Neo Masisi, and the couple has one child. They are known for their involvement in various charitable activities and social causes in Botswana. President Masisi’s interests include reading, sports, and community development projects.

Legacy and Impact

Mokgweetsi Masisi’s tenure as president is characterized by his efforts to modernize Botswana’s economy, improve education, and uphold democratic values. His leadership style is marked by a pragmatic approach to governance, with a focus on both domestic development and international cooperation.

Positions Held	Period
President of Botswana	18 Oct 2018 – Current
8th Vice President of Botswana	12 Nov 2014 – 1 Apr 2018
Chairman of the Botswana Democratic Party	1 Apr 2017 – 4 Apr 2018
9th Vice-President of Botswana	4 April 2018 – Current
Member of Parliament for Moshupa/Manyana	2009 – 1 Apr 2018
Education Project Officer with UNICEF	1990
Curriculum Development Specialist	1987
Teacher	1984 – 1987