BOTSWANA URGED TO UPSKILL WORKFORCE FOR HEMP ECONOMY

Article By: Diana Motsu

There is an urgent need for national action to prepare Botswana for the emerging industrial hemp economy.

This was said by the founder of the Institute of Energy and Technology Development (IETD), Charity Gigi Kennedy during the launch of the Botswana Hemp Impact Conference 2025.

Kennedy emphasized the need to upskill the workforce, particularly youth and women, to ensure inclusive participation in the hemp sector. She also highlighted the importance of educating the public on the differences between cannabis and industrial hemp.

IETD, accredited by the Botswana Qualifications Authority and registered with the Human Resource Development Council, aims to close skills gaps in sectors like renewable energy, artificial intelligence, waste management, and hemp industrialization.