09/04/2026
Justice for Tshephi: A Cry from the Community
Today, we gathered in strength and numbers at Notwane Grounds youth and community united to protest for Justice for Tshephi. Tshephi was only 13. A young soul with dreams still unfolding, laughter still waiting to echo through the years that were stolen from her. No child should leave this earth surrounded by pain and uncertainty. Children are meant to be cherished, protected, and embraced by a community that refuses to turn away.
Her story cannot be buried in silence. Her memory must not be betrayed by the very systems entrusted to shield the most vulnerable among us.
Yet, as we marched peacefully towards Parliament to submit our petition, we were met with overwhelming police presence. Armed officers threatened us, blocking our path, while countless police vehicles flooded the grounds. It is painful to witness such force deployed against a peaceful march for a child’s rights, when in times of community need we are told there are “no cars available.” But when we gather to demand justice, suddenly every vehicle is brought out not to protect children, but to silence those who advocate for them.
We saw Mr. Mabeo try his best to negotiate for us to walk to Parliament, but his efforts were refused. The Minister of Youth, Lesego Chombo, also came, yet progress remained stalled. It was only when His Excellency the Vice President, Mr. Gaolathe Ndaba, arrived supported by Mma Unity Dow that we managed to walk together to Parliament. There, at last, we submitted our petition, giving the government two weeks to respond.
We await their feedback, but our message is clear: our government must do better. On issues of Gender-Based Violence, Children’s Rights, and above all, Human Rights, silence and delay are unacceptable. Justice for Tshephi is justice for every child in Botswana.
