MPs challenged to build a smarter, stronger Parley
staff writer | Tuesday July 7, 2026 12:05
He said the 13th Parliament carries enormous public expectations and must rise to the challenge by strengthening its knowledge, embracing innovation, and improving the quality of legislation.
Speaking during a Parliamentary Capacity Building Seminar in Gaborone on Monday, the Speaker stressed that Parliament's constitutional responsibility extends far beyond passing laws.
'Our responsibility is to ensure that legislation is evidence-based, responsive to the needs of our people and capable of addressing emerging national and global challenges,' he said.
Keorapetse described continuous professional development as an indispensable requirement for effective leadership, arguing that a rapidly changing governance landscape demands legislators who are adaptable, informed, and resilient.
A key feature of his address was a call for Parliament to embrace Artificial Intelligence as a tool to strengthen legislative work.
“We also meet at a time when technological innovation is transforming governance worldwide. Artificial Intelligence presents new opportunities to improve parliamentary research, document Parliament proceedings, support legislative drafting, enhance committee work, improve records management, and enhance public engagement. “Whilst embracing these innovations, we must also be wary and remain committed to principles of transparency, accountability, privacy, and ethical governance,” he said.
The Speaker also urged legislators to adopt a more inclusive approach to lawmaking by working closely with civil society organisations, researchers, development partners, and citizens to enhance public confidence in democratic institutions.
Beyond institutional reforms, Keorapetse highlighted the importance of investing in the personal well-being of MPs.
“Topics on raising awareness on the importance of pensions and future planning, holistic health, mental fitness, and functional nutrition remind us that effective leadership begins with individuals who are physically and mentally healthy, resilient, and prepared for the future,” Keorapetse added.
He further called on Parliament to strengthen legislation that advances gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights, youth development, and the fight against gender-based violence.
“Parliamentarians remain actively engaged with constituents, diligently reviewing legislative proposals and policy initiatives that influence SRHR, address early and unplanned pregnancies, improve maternal care, and support key populations. This proactive engagement ensures these pivotal issues are comprehensively addressed within the legislative framework, promoting a more equitable and just society,” Keorapetse said.
On climate change, the Speaker urged Parliament to play a leading oversight role as Botswana advances its sustainability agenda. He referenced government efforts to develop a national Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Strategy, saying legislators must ensure the country remains prepared to address one of the defining challenges of the modern era.
The seminar brings together MPs, parliamentary officials, development partners, and subject-matter experts to strengthen legislative capacity and equip lawmakers with the skills required to navigate an increasingly complex policy environment.