Women & Politics in Botswana Situational Analysis of History and Current Perceptions

More interesting opinions on Women and Politics from Respondents:
I believe it's largely due to lack of interest. Batswana
women take up space! They show up for any job if room is created, e.g. BDF, engineering, etc. Women
who have had a real interest in politics have built rapport and won and we know them. So I believe
it's an interest issue. Most women I know who advocate for more women in politics are just that,
activists. They don't attempt themselves to run for office. I don't believe there is a swarth of women
who tried and failed, rather there are women who haven't attempted. It looks like a man's game
because the majority are men but there is evidence everywhere of Batswana women breaking down
barriers and in large numbers entering
"men spaces" of their own accord. I'm of the opinion that most just aren't
interested.
Woman, 18-35 years, Gaborone
Women are nurturers, leaders in their own right.. maybe they aren’t involved in politics simply
because they don’t want ♀ to
Woman, 18-35 years, Selibe Phikwe
Lack of self believe and belittling mentality women have towards their capabilities to lead is the
reason we have fewer women in the political space
Man, 18-35 years, Gaborone
Preference, career choice. Some people political spaces are not where their hearts are. Some would
support those in positions but behind the scenes and prefer not to be on the front. Others nd
politicking as a game, a dirty one for that matter, it kills spirits and erodes morals. The Botswana
society is patriarchal therefore support towards women in political leadership is not enough largely
because of that. Lots of stereotypes and meila which are a hindrance to the growth of women in
politics
Woman, 18-35 years, Gaborone
The survey overall reflected the line of thought that perceptions on women and politics are influenced
by societal norms. That most of the women's decision not to pursue a political career may on the surface
seem like a personal choice but digging deep, one will realise that the reason is mostly to do with how
politics are portrayed in our traditionally patriarchal society. This is a belief worth debunking.
A comprehensive, unedited report of this survey can be shared upon request.