BOTSWANA TO THE WORLD! AWARD WINNING WOMAN IN LAW!

Welcome to the September edition of A-CHOICES Magazine,where we celebrate the visionaries shaping Africa’s future.This month, our cover proudly features Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey,an esteemed Botswana-based lawyer, activist, and policy advocate.

Mbewe-Boatey is a multi-award-winning attorney, notary public, and conveyancer with over 13 years of national and international legal experience. Her career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to advancing justice, driving systemic reform, and empowering marginalized communities.

She is the Founder and CEO of Mbewe Legal Practice, a female-led and inclusive law firm that prioritizes social impact, empowerment, and access to justice. Beyond her legal practice, Mbewe-Boatey serves as a Commissioner at the National Gender Commission and Chairperson of the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA). She also contributes her expertise as an advisory board member of the Nigerian NGO AdvoKC, and as Patron of Mosadi Ko Pele, a movement redefining women’s leadership in Botswana.

Her impact extends further through the founding of the Justice Connect Foundation, dedicated to providing legal support for the indigent, and the Sewelo Mentorship Programme, which equips young people to become the next generation of leaders and change-makers. A 2023 Mandela Washington Fellow (The Presidential Precinct), Mbewe-Boatey embodies the values of leadership, service, and innovation.

In this edition, enjoy our exclusive interview with Counsel Mbewe-Boatey—an inspiring conversation filled with insight, resilience, and motivation.

A-CHOICES:Can you please tell us a bit about yourself, educational, and family background?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:I am Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey is a multi award winning attorney, notary public and conveyancer, an activist, and policy advocate with over 13 years  of legal national and international experience dedicated to advancing justice and systemic change. I am the Founder and CEO of Mbewe Legal Practice, a female led inclusive firm that places social impact, empowerment and access to justice at the heart of its mandate, and I also serve as Commissioner in the National Gender Commission as well as Chairperson of the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA), I am also an advisory member on the Nigerian NGO board called AdvoKC and patron of ‘Mosadi Ko pele’ which is a movement that aims to redefine women’s leadership in Botswana. I am the founder of the Justice Connect Foundation that aims to provide access to justice to the indigent and Sewelo Mentorship Programme that focus on youth empowerment for the next generation  of leading trailblazers.

Academically, my journey began with a deep love for the law and its transformative potential. I pursued my legal studies with the conviction that the law should not only protect but also empower the marginalized. I am also a Mandela Washington Fellow 2023 alumni (The Presidential Precinct) an honor that expanded my global outlook and gave me opportunities to collaborate on human rights initiatives internationally, including with the Urban Justice Center in New York.

Beyond my professional work, I come from very humble beginnings, a foundation I am very proud of, I am the first to graduate from University from my fathers side of the family , a family that values resilience, education, and service. Those values shaped me into a holistic individual who views her role not merely as a lawyer but also as a bridge builder, mentor, and advocate. This holistic grounding has inspired me to establish platforms such as the Justice Connection Foundation, the Baagisanyi Network, and the Sewelo Mentees Program to nurture the next generation of leaders.

My story is therefore not only about my education or professional path, but also about, overcoming and becoming, the convergence of family values, personal conviction, and a lifelong calling to serve humanity with courage.

A-CHOICES: In terms of your career choice, who has had the biggest influence?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:The greatest influence on my career has come from my Father to be exact, and my family’s unwavering belief in me, defiant women like Rosa Parks and the ordinary people whose courage has lit my path. Women who, despite facing challenges , choose to speak out; communities that, despite systemic barriers, organize and demand recognition; and young people who, against all odds, aspire to leadership. Their resilience has influenced me more deeply than any textbook or precedent ever could, this includes the resilience of my President advocate Duma Boko.

On a personal level, my mentors,both within Botswana and internationally have profoundly shaped my approach to justice. I have drawn strength from wisdom from them, Justice of the Court of Appeal Ms Garekwe, who constantly reminds me that leadership is service. The Mandela Washington Fellowship, for example, also connected me with global change-makers whose example reinforced the value of principled leadership.

A-CHOICES: What recent change/amendment in the law (in your country) has caught your attention? (Do you agree with the change?)

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:One of the significant legal developments in Botswana that has captured my attention is the progressive recognition of human rights in areas such as gender equality and protection of marginalized communities. For instance, the landmark decriminalization of same-sex relations signaled an important step toward inclusivity and dignity.

I strongly agree with such changes, because they reflect a society that is maturing in its understanding of justice, one that recognizes that the law must evolve with the lived realities of its people. These amendments are not only about aligning Botswana with international human rights standards but also about affirming the humanity of those who, for too long, were relegated to the margins. Ofcourse there is more to be done and that is why I am never any of advocating for laws and policies in my Capacity not only as Attorney but as a National Gender Commissioner.

A-CHOICES: What was it like winning the Woman in Law award on the 24th of April 2024 in London and 2025 in Singapore on behalf of Botswana and your firm?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Winning the Woman in Law Award (Community Champion) in London and singapore  was both humbling and affirming. To stand on that stage, not only as an individual but as a representative of Botswana and my firm, was a moment that transcended personal recognition. It symbolized the visibility of women from Africa,women who work tirelessly, often under challenging circumstances, to make justice accessible. Not just for billable hours.

It was particularly significant for me because the award was not just about achievement, but about impact and authenticity, that I was deliberate about being myself unapologetically. It honored the voices I have amplified, the policies we have influenced, and the communities we have walked alongside in pursuit of justice through my pro bono initiatives, communities that are often overlooked. In that moment, I felt I was carrying not only my own story, but the collective aspirations of Botswana’s legal fraternity, especially young women who need to see that it is possible to lead, to innovate, and to thrive at home and on international platforms. The love and support that my country has given me has left me speechless, I remain grateful always.

A-CHOICES:As a legal professional, it is quite important to effectively use your network. How do you meet other professionals and what are some of your effective networking skills?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:I see networking not as transactional, but as relationship-building rooted in authenticity. My approach has always been to connect beyond titles, to engage with people’s values, passions, and visions for change. This means I often meet professionals through purposeful spaces: international fellowships, advocacy coalitions, boardrooms, and even grassroots community engagements.

Some of the skills I have found effective include listening deeply, adding value before asking for it, and being consistent. I am intentional about follow-ups, creating collaborative opportunities, and ensuring that networking is mutually enriching. To me, true networks are not just contacts; they are communities of shared purpose. And when nurtured well, they become powerful vehicles for systemic change.

A-CHOICES:Our world is changing, in your opinion, what are some of the challenges that legal professionals will face in future?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:The future of law will be shaped by rapid technological, social, and environmental shifts. One of the greatest changes will be technology and artificial intelligence, which, while creating efficiency, also raises deep questions about ethics, privacy, and fairness. Lawyers will need to adapt to new tools without losing sight of human dignity.

Another challenge lies in globalization. Issues such as climate change, migration, cybercrime, and cross-border commerce transcend national boundaries. Legal professionals must therefore cultivate agility and cross-jurisdictional competence. I am glad to have made amazing contacts with Lawyers in different jurisdictions.

Finally, there is the enduring challenge of justice accessibility. Even as the world progresses, vulnerable populations remain at risk of being excluded from legal protection. This, is something very personal to me, access to justice. The role of the lawyer will increasingly be to bridge this gap ensuring that no innovation or reform leaves behind those who need justice the most.

A-CHOICES:What inspired you to establish Mbewe Legal Practice and how does it differ from traditional law firms in its approach to justice?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Mbewe Legal Practice was born out of both vision and necessity. I wanted to create a firm that was not only about representing clients in court, but to represent women in what traditionally was a male dominated fraternity and provide opportunity, but also about advocating for systemic reform and expanding access to justice for marginalized groups. Too often, traditional law firms are seen as exclusive, reserved for the few who can afford them. I wanted to disrupt that model.

What sets my firm apart is its integrated approach, combining litigation, policy advocacy, community empowerment, and mentorship. We believe that justice must be holistic: it is not enough to win a case if the community continues to suffer in silence, especially the vulnerable. By blending legal expertise with activism and strategic partnerships, Mbewe Legal Practice has positioned itself as more than a law firm; it is a catalyst for change. Our mission has been to be legal service with a difference. I have achieved this through justice initiatives under the Justice connect foundation, public education on radio, television and all social media platforms.

A-CHOICES: How do you remain autonomous while working in the legal field?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Autonomy, for me, is about alignment. I remain true to myself and my values and principles, even when they may not be the most convenient or popular. I choose my cases, my causes, and my collaborations carefully, ensuring that they reflect my commitment to human rights and equity. This is a decision I make for myself.

Practically, autonomy is maintained through independence of thought, not being swayed by political or societal pressure, and through cultivating a strong personal brand. I also guard my wellbeing and my time, because true autonomy requires balance. In essence, I remain autonomous by remembering that the law is my profession, but justice is my calling. I am not defined by the outcome of a case, I am not defined by others, but by the impact I have even in one person. I define my own narrative.

A-CHOICES:What is your take on mentorship and are you open to mentoring young lawyers or law students?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:I believe mentorship is not a luxury, but a responsibility. No one rises in isolation; we are all shaped by the wisdom, generosity, and sacrifices of those who came before us. In law, a profession that is both demanding and complex, mentorship is critical in equipping young lawyers and professionals even from other disciplines not only with technical knowledge but also with resilience, confidence, and clarity of purpose, having been historically marginalized.

I am deeply passionate about mentoring because I see it as an investment in the future of justice and Leadership. This is why I founded initiatives such as the Sewelo Mentorship Programme, to create structured spaces where the youth and students can learn, network, and grow. Through mentorship, I aim to share both the lessons of success and the wisdom born from challenges. To me, mentoring is not about creating replicas of ourselves, but about nurturing unique leaders who will shape the law in ways we cannot yet imagine. I look forward to seeing my mentees taking up spaces in areas that may seem like a dream today. These are the trees whose shades my team at Sewelo and I have planted now, and shall enjoy the shade later. Sewelo was one of the largest roughest diamonds found in Botswana It means a “rare find”. That is what my mentees mean to me.

A-CHOICES:Gender-based violence is a common social problem in Africa. There has been an increase in the cases of domestic violence, sexual exploitation, forced early marriage, and rape of minors, what do you have to say?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Gender-based violence (GBV) is not just a social issue , it is a human rights crisis. Its prevalence across Africa reveals the depth of systemic inequalities that continue to silence and endanger women, children, and vulnerable groups. What is heartbreaking is that GBV often thrives in silence, fueled by stigma, fear, and cultural norms that normalize violence.

We must confront this reality with urgency. Laws like Botswana’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act are crucial, but they must be matched with awareness, survivor-centered services, and accountability for perpetrators. We must also tackle the root causes,poverty, patriarchy, and power imbalances if we are to see lasting change.

For me, every case of GBV is not just statistics; it is a story, a life disrupted. And as a lawyer and activist, I will continue to speak, act, and advocate until homes, schools, workplaces, and communities are truly safe for all. I also continue to advocate for specialized GBV courts and strengthened laws and my work can attest that as Commissioner of the National Gender Commission, I won’t give up, because it can never be an option when we all seek a safer community.

A-CHOICES:What suggestions do you have to make it safer for victim-survivors to come forward?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Safety for survivors begins with trust and the feeling of safety. Too many victims remain silent because they fear disbelief, judgment, or retaliation. To change this, we must create survivor-centered systems that place dignity and confidentiality at the core.

Practically, this means establishing specialized units within law enforcement that are trained to handle cases of violence with sensitivity and urgency; creating shelters and safe spaces where survivors can seek immediate refuge; and ensuring access to psychosocial support alongside legal remedies.

Equally important is breaking societal stigma. Survivors should never feel that speaking out will cost them their reputation or livelihood. Communities must learn to stand with survivors, not against them. If we create systems that protect rather than punish, more voices will rise from the shadows of silence into the light of justice.

A-CHOICES:You are an eloquent speaker, an impassioned activist, who finds serenity in championing the rights of marginalized communities. What drives you?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:What drives me is the conviction that justice is not a privilege, it is a birthright. I am deeply moved by the resilience of marginalized communities who, despite facing unimaginable barriers, continue to rise, organize, and hope. Their courage is my constant reminder that the law must serve humanity, not the other way around.

I also draw strength from legacy. I know that my work is part of a larger continuum, generations before me fought for freedoms I enjoy today like abolition of the Marital Powers Act in Botswana, and I must do the same for those who will come after me. This long view of justice, as a relay rather than a sprint, gives me both purpose and serenity.

Ultimately, what drives me is purpose, Purpose anchors me through the challenges and fuels my resolve to keep going, even when the road is difficult.

A-CHOICES:Tell me about your experiences as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated profession, the challenges you have faced, and your advice for other women pursuing careers in law?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Being a woman in a male dominated profession is both a test of resilience and a testament to possibility. There have been moments where my competence was questioned simply because of my gender, or where my presence in certain rooms was treated as an exception rather than the norm. I have had to constantly prove myself, even sometimes threatened when doing my job because of stereotypes and biases, but also through unwavering courage to claim space where women were historically excluded.

The challenges have been real, from balancing expectations of leadership with societal stereotypes, to navigating networks where men often dominate influence. Yet, these challenges have strengthened me, sharpened my voice, and deepened my commitment to open doors for others.

My advice to women entering the legal profession or any other  is this, never shrink yourself to fit outdated molds. Lead with authenticity, anchor yourself in your values, and remember that your voice is powerful. Where you find barriers, see them not as walls but as stepping stones to create pathways for the women who will come after you. stand and stand tall, the wind my bend you, but don’t let it break you.

A-CHOICES:Do you identify as a feminist? (Why/why not)

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Yes, I identify as a feminist. For me, feminism is not about division, it is about equality for everyone, dignity, and justice. It is the belief that women and men deserve the same opportunities to thrive, lead, and contribute to society without discrimination or limitation.

My feminism is deeply rooted in African realities recognizing that women in our communities often carry the heaviest burdens while having the least access to resources or decision-making. Identifying as a feminist is therefore both a personal conviction and a professional duty. It means using my platform to challenge patriarchal systems, amplify women’s voices, and reimagine a world where gender does not determine destiny.

A-CHOICES:What does women empowerment means to you?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Women empowerment, to me, is about agency, the ability of women to make decisions about their own lives, bodies, and futures without constraint. It is about access to education, economic opportunities, healthcare, and leadership spaces. Empowerment is not charity; it is justice.

True empowerment goes beyond slogans. It means dismantling structural barriers, changing harmful cultural narratives, and building systems that allow women to rise and lead on their own terms. For me personally, empowerment also means mentorship and solidarity, lifting as we climb, and ensuring that every achievement translates into opportunity for the next generation.

When women are empowered, families, communities, and nations thrive.

A-CHOICES:Tell me about your work as chairperson of the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS – BONELA?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:My role as Chairperson of BONELA and even in the commission has been a platform to amplify my leadership competencies. It has required me to balance governance, strategy, and advocacy at the highest levels, and to do so with both decisiveness and empathy. I have been able to drive forward conversations that are often sensitive, yet critical for justice and equality.

What I am most proud of is that my contribution at BONELA has never been about occupying a position, but about delivering impact. My skills in legal analysis, policy reform, and advocacy have been sharpened. I have had to navigate complex issues, push boundaries and try to ensure that marginalized voices are placed at the center of the NGO’s decision making recognizing that the interests of those we serve are and should run paramount as opposed to being self serving.

A-CHOICES:Do you have a mentor or role model who is helping you along the way in your career?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:Yes, I have been blessed with mentors and role models whose wisdom and encouragement have shaped my path. Some are senior lawyers and judges who demonstrated that excellence and integrity are not negotiable and others are National Leaders and  activists  who reminded me that courage and compassion are equally essential in advancing justice. 

But I also draw mentorship from afar, from global figures such as Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks whose defiance we share, whose resilience and vision inspire me to stay grounded in service. I also believe role models can be found in everyday life. The resilience of women in our communities, who balance so much with so little, has been as instructive to me as any formal mentorship.

Mentorship, for me, is a two-way exchange. While I have been guided, I also make it a point to guide others. This cycle of learning and teaching ensures that wisdom never ends with one generation. I have also learnt through mentorship that I am allowed to make mistakes, for each fall, it is getting up that speaks volumes and that I owe myself Grace in a world that can sometimes be harsh. 

A-CHOICES:What would you say are your major achievements?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:My achievements are not measured only by titles or awards, but by the tangible shifts I have helped to create in people’s lives and in the legal landscape, establishing a firm that blends litigation with advocacy is one of my proudest accomplishments. it is proof that law can be practiced differently, with justice at its heart.

On a broader scale, I consider my appointment as Commissioner of the National Gender Commissionand Patron of Mosadi Ko Pele as major milestones, because they reflect trust in my ability to shape policy and influence systemic reform. Internationally, being recognized with awards such as the Nelson Mandela University Rising Star Award, the Community Champion Award in London, and the Leadership in Law Award in Singapore are affirmations of my impact and credibility on global platforms.

But beyond recognition, my greatest achievement lies in mentorship. Through initiatives like Sewelo Mentees, I have invested in building a pipeline of young leaders who will continue the work. To me, that legacy of impact will always outweigh any accolade or criticism. 

A-CHOICES:For what in life do you feel most grateful?

Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey:I am most grateful for the gift of purpose. I am grateful to be a mother. To wake up every day knowing that my work aligns with my deepest values is a blessing I do not take lightly. I am grateful for my family, whose grounding and support have been my anchor through every challenge and triumph. I am grateful for resilience and defiance, the inner strength that has carried me through seasons where the path was not clear, yet the calling remained undeniable.

I am also grateful for the communities and people who trust me with their stories, their struggles, and their hopes. Their courage fuels mine. Gratitude, for me, is not passive; it is a daily reminder to serve, to remain humble, and to use my voice and skills to uplift others. 

Most importantly I thank God, for holding me through storms unseen and triumphs unspoken, I am endlessly grateful.