Every November, Voice Woman breaks with tradition and features a man in honour of Movember – a global movement to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men’s suicide – and International Men’s Day on November 19th – to celebrate boys’ and men’s lives, achievements and contributions.
This week, Yours Truly had the privilege of conversing with the multifaceted Kitso Motlhabane, a young change-maker whose ambition and determination have set him on a bold path toward becoming a presidential biographer.
At just 27 years old, Motlhabane is already making a name for himself as an author under the pen name, Kitso Speaks.
But his talents don’t stop there, the community-minded father-of-two is also a digital entrepreneur and a transformational speaker, driven by a passion to empower the youth by guiding them towards personal and professional growth through education and innovation.
As an exciting new chapter unfolds for the nation, the Serowe native has committed himself to telling the story of the man who has promised to shape the future of Botswana, President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko.
In his new book, ‘Duma Gideon Boko: Pioneering the African Renaissance,’ a 188-page biography he penned in under a week, the young author delves into the life and leadership of BW’s 6th President.
With a focus on Boko’s potential to drive transformative change, Motlhabane highlights how his leadership could shape not just Botswana, but Africa as a whole.
Please introduce yourself to our readers; do tell us about your pen name, ‘Speaks’.
My real name is Kitso Motlhabane, but I chose ‘Speaks’ as my pseudonym to reflect my passion for communication and storytelling.
This name embodies my commitment to sharing ideas and inspiring change through my writing and public engagements.
I hail from Serowe, where I was raised in the Kalanga tribe. My educational journey began at Mophane Primary School, where I excelled academically, which laid the foundation for my future endeavours.
I continued my studies at Tlogatloga Junior Secondary School and completed my education at Ledumang Senior Secondary School.
My passion for technology led me to pursue a degree in Computer Systems Engineering at the Botswana Accountancy College.
I’m therefore a digital entrepreneur, transformational speaker, and author.
Wow, quite the résumé for someone so young! So, what inspired you to pen this biography?
The inspiration to write about President Duma Boko stems from the historic nature of his electoral triumph, which marks a seismic shift in Africa’s political landscape.
Boko’s journey to the presidency is inspiring; as a lawyer and human rights activist, he represents a new generation of African leaders who have risen through merit rather than political connections or liberation struggle credentials.
His background as an ordinary Motswana without ties to old money or historical advantages resonates deeply with many Africans.
This aspect of his story is particularly powerful in a continent where political leadership has often been dominated by established elites or those with connections to liberation movements.
Take us through your writing process.
The journey of writing began on November 2nd. Recognising the significance of this moment in Botswana’s political history, I immediately entered a focused state of mind, dedicating countless sleepless nights to capturing the essence of his story.
I thrive in focus mode; once I commit to a task, distractions fade away, and I immerse myself completely in my work.
The urgency of the situation fuelled my dedication.
How were you able to gather enough information in such a short space of time?
I employed ‘deep dive’ research methods that went beyond surface-level inquiries.
The late nights spent researching and writing were driven by my passion for storytelling and a commitment to presenting an accurate portrayal of a leader.
Despite the brief timeframe since I began writing, the combination of rigorous research methods and my intense focus allowed me to craft a biography that celebrates President Duma Gideon Boko’s achievements while serving as an inspiration for ordinary citizens.
Have you delivered a copy of the book to OP yet?
The book and accompanying letter were submitted to the Records Department at the Office of the President on November 9th.
While an official response is still pending, there has been some communication regarding the process.
Michael Ngakane from the President’s office has informed me that the President’s Senior Private Secretary will review the book before potentially bringing it to President Boko’s attention.
In your preface, you write about your passion for learning and firm belief in education as a necessary vehicle for shaping destinies. Kindly unpack that for us.
Education in the context of 21st century learning emphasises skills that are essential for navigating today’s rapidly evolving workforce; encompass critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication, often referred to as the ‘four Cs’, which include digital literacy and the ability to adapt to new technologies.
Alignment with Duma Boko’s Education Agenda, which prioritises innovative learning approaches that prepare students for future challenges.
African renaissance is not an entirely new concept. Kwame Nkurumah, Thabo Mbeki and, more recently, Julius Malema, are some of the strong proponents of the rebirth of Africa: do you believe it can ever be a reality in our lifetime?
The concept of African Renaissance is indeed becoming a reality under the President’s leadership.
His actions since taking office demonstrate a practical application of these ideals, moving beyond rhetoric to tangible change.
Boko’s approach to governance exemplifies the core principles of African Renaissance.
By appointing Minister of Youth and Gender Affairs, Lesego Chombo, he has shown a commitment to involving young people in high-level decision-making and recognises their potential to drive innovation and progress.
Including opposition MPs demonstrates a commitment to national unity and diverse perspectives in governance.
The new Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education underscores Boko’s belief in education as a cornerstone of national development.
Boko’s emphasis on diversifying the economy shows a forward-thinking approach to economic management.
Boko’s statement, “We will not be confined by labels like socialism, capitalism or communism. We will design solutions unique to our country,” reflects a commitment to African centred solutions rather than imported ideologies.
You also refer to him as a “revolutionary visionary ….whose voice rings with the promise of an African renaissance”. Sounds prophetic!
I believe we are witnessing the emergence of a leader whose impact could indeed be prophetic for Africa as a whole.
His journey from humble beginnings to the presidency is not just a personal triumph; it embodies the hopes and aspirations of many ordinary citizens.
Boko is not merely a figurehead; he embodies the aspirations of a continent yearning for renewal.
As a young adult, what do you hope to see as this administration’s priority?
In a world where young voices often go unheard, the opportunity to see a leader who genuinely values and prioritises our perspectives is both exhilarating and profoundly moving.
Is this your first book?
It is my second book.
My first, titled ‘M.E.K Masisi: Creed of the Phoenix’, is currently with the former president and explores the complexities of leadership in Botswana’s political landscape.
When I embarked on ‘Duma Gideon Boko: Pioneering the African Renaissance’, I felt a profound responsibility to capture not just a life but the heartbeat of a nation at a pivotal moment.
In my writing, I strive to humanise leadership, showing that leaders are shaped by their backgrounds, struggles and aspirations.
Talk to us about your involvement with the Masiela Trust Fund.
I have been a dedicated volunteer with the Masiela Trust Fund, and I am thrilled to now be partnering with them to organise a Gala Dinner and Book Launch just before Christmas.
This event represents a beautiful convergence of our efforts to support vulnerable children while celebrating the launch of my book.
We are hopeful that President Boko will grace us with his presence as we have formally invited him through his office.
On the day of the gala, we plan to make announcements regarding the future of the Masiela Trust Fund.
For those interested in purchasing your book, where can one get a copy?
This book will be available at various bookstores across Botswana for P250.
WhatsApp (+267) 76577552 or call (+267) 8580071 to get a copy.
Additionally, copies will be available during events where I will be speaking or signing books.
