From airwaves to Mayorship: Makgosa’s political journey
maikgantsho ramontsho | Monday April 20, 2026 06:00
Before stepping into active politics, he was widely known across Botswana’s radio landscape as a fearless and persistent caller, using his voice to challenge injustice and advocate for ordinary citizens. Branding himself as “Mopalamente wa Seterata” (Street Member of Parliament),” Makgosa carved out a unique identity that resonated well with listeners nationwide.
In an interview with Mmegi, he explained that the title reflected his mission: to be the voice of the voiceless.
Through his calls, he consistently agitated for social justice, raising issues that many citizens experienced but few had the platform or courage to articulate publicly.
Amongst his most impactful advocacy efforts was his campaign against the treatment of security guards stationed at substations built by the Botswana Power Corporation.
Makgosa highlighted a glaring contradiction: while the state-owned company invested heavily in secure infrastructure to house electrical equipment, it neglected the welfare of the guards tasked with protecting those assets.
He highlighted that these workers were often left without shelter, forced to improvise with cardboard structures or endure harsh weather conditions unprotected.
Makgosa’s relentless calls brought national attention to what he then described as an inhumane practice. Over time, his advocacy contributed to tangible change. Currently, guard houses are routinely included in substation construction plans a shift he credits, in part, to sustained public pressure generated through his radio interventions.
Not content with that victory, Makgosa later carried the principle into local governance, ensuring that council planning approvals require guard facilities as a standard component.
His activism extended beyond labour conditions as he also used his platform to advocate for inclusive infrastructure, particularly for people living with disabilities.
Makgosa criticised the design of public buildings that made access difficult or impossible for some citizens.
Through consistent engagement, he helped raise awareness about the need for accessible design, contributing to a broader shift in how public infrastructure is conceived and implemented.
Beyond specific issues, Makgosa believes his radio presence played a role in reshaping civic attitudes.
He observed that many Batswana began to see the importance of active citizenship, moving away from passivity toward greater engagement in national issues. For him, this cultural shift was as significant as any policy change.
His transition into active politics was driven by frustration with what he perceived as shortcomings in governance. Makgosa argued that certain policies under the previous regime were either fundamentally flawed or poorly implemented, limiting their potential to benefit citizens.
Determined to effect change from within, he joined the Botswana Congress Party, whose policies he felt aligned closely with his vision for social justice and community development.
Makgosa approaches political leadership with a clear philosophy: public office is a social contract. He emphasises that voters entrust leaders with responsibility based on expectations and retain the power to withdraw that trust.
“They vote us in or out because of their expectations from us,” he noted, underscoring accountability as a cornerstone of his leadership style.
Despite speculation that he may contest the Selibe-Phikwe West parliamentary seat, Makgosa has indicated that he is serving his final term as a council representative.
While rumours continue to circulate, he remains focused on delivering results during his tenure, pointing to his performance as mayor as evidence of his commitment and effectiveness.
Amongst his notable achievements is a collaboration between the Selibe-Phikwe Town Council and the Unhappy Family Foundation, aimed at addressing gender-based violence.
Makgosa identifies this as a critical issue requiring urgent intervention, aligning it with broader development priorities under what he refers to as “pillar number three.”
The initiative reflects his belief in partnerships as a means of tackling complex social challenges.
Economic development also features prominently in his agenda. Makgosa revealed plans for a ground-breaking ceremony in mid-May for a new mall in the former Area One. The project is expected to stimulate local economic activity and provide new opportunities for residents. Additionally, he has initiated discussions to secure donations of orange trees for community distribution, promoting both environmental awareness and food sustainability.
Further plans include engaging with the Kopano Ward Development Committee (WDC) regarding a large plot behind Segomotso Primary School.
Makgosa envisions a partnership to develop another mall on the site, which would generate rental income for the WDC and support its long-term sustainability. These initiatives reflect a broader strategy of leveraging local assets for community benefit.
Makgosa’s journey is deeply rooted in humble beginnings. Born in 1966 in Molalatau in the Bobirwa region, he grew up in the same village where he began his early education.
He later pursued building engineering at the brigades before advancing his studies at the then Polytechnic. His professional career started at the Selibe Phikwe Town Council, where he worked in the building department.
After leaving formal employment, Makgosa ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing a construction company. His interests expanded into property development, where he has achieved notable success.
Committed to continuous learning, he furthered his expertise by studying property-related modules, eventually diversifying into property actuarial work.
This blend of technical knowledge, business acumen, and grassroots activism has shaped Makgosa’s approach to leadership. He brings a practical understanding of infrastructure, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a deep connection to community concerns qualities that distinguish his tenure as mayor.
From being a persistent radio caller challenging authority to a municipal leader shaping policy, Makgosa’s story illustrates the power of civic engagement. It is a testament to how ordinary platforms, when used effectively, can become catalysts for extraordinary change.