30. The Commission commends introduction of the following youth development
programs:
i. The Youth Development Fund which provides technical and financial assistance
in the form of grants, loans and capacity building;
ii. The Youth Empowerment Scheme which is a life skills development program
aimed at curbing unacceptable social behaviours by youth associated with
conditions such as unemployment, poverty, idleness, excessive consumption of
alcohol, crime, dysfunctional families, HIV/AIDS and other health related issues;
iii. The Constituency Sport Tournament through which various sporting
competitions such as football, netball and volleyball were introduced at
constituency level to curb youth from indulgence in substance abuse and criminal
activities.
Right to peace and security
31. The Commission commends establishment of the Joint Permanent Commissions on
Defence and Security (JPCDS) with all its neighbouring countries, through which
Botswana benefits through the exchange of information on intelligence, defence,
security, as well as issues of mutual interest.
Duties
32. The Commission commends inclusion of duties of the Individual towards the family,
society and the State, in the Report.
III.
FACTORS RESTRICTING THE ENJOYMENT OF THE RIGHTS
GUARANTEED IN THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON HUMAN AND
PEOPLES’ RIGHTS
33. Despite its notable achievements, Botswana faces a number of challenges which are
impacting the enjoyment of human rights, including the growing inequality between
the rich and the poor, high unemployment, extreme poverty in rural areas,
desertification and a high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate.
34. Additionally, the country continues to face the challenge of a relatively undiversified
economy given the country’s heavy reliance on diamond exports, coupled with the
drop in revenue from the mineral sector which impacted the country’s Gross
Domestic Product (GDP).
IV.
AREAS OF CONCERN
35. While acknowledging the significant efforts made by the Government to promote and
protect human rights, the Commission is however concerned about a number of areas.
10