27 Mar 2025

Attorney Njiramanda Mbewe-Boatey, a name synonymous with groundbreaking legal work in Botswana, has been shortlisted as a finalist for the WONE Global Awards 2025 in the category of ‘Leadership in Law’ at Singapore. 

Known for her remarkable legal contributions in gender-based violence (GBV) activism and human rights advocacy, along with her appointment to the Botswana’s National Gender Commission and work as chairperson of the Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA), this nomination comes as a well-earned recognition of her exceptional work. 

WONE Global is a modern and integrated network of leading firms and professionals across over 80 countries, committed to delivering excellence through collaborative innovation. Their expertise spans continents and industries, providing unparalleled guidance in navigating complex cross-boarder challenges. 

With a career spanning over a decade, Mbewe has set a strong example of leadership and commitment to justice. “I believe that my work is a calling. I was meant for this,” Mbewe shared in an interview when asked how she got into law. She added that growing up, she always knew that she wanted to stand up for people and be the voice of the voiceless. 

“I also believe in justice,” she continued, reiterating the importance of making sure that no one was left behind when it comes to having their fundamental human rights protected, a testament of this being her De Beers sponsored mentorship initiative called Sewelo, a programme dedicated to empowering young women in Botswana by providing them with support and opportunities for personal and professional growth. “Growing up, I was surrounded by male lawyers. 

Law is a profession that has always been predominantly practiced by men, but not only law, other professions too. I want to be a close female figure that I never had for the girl-child,” said Mbewe, adding that through this initiative, she equips young women with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate complex professional landscapes. 

Speaking on some of the challenges she has faced as a woman in law, Mbewe reminisced on the moments when she had been dictated which cases to take on and which to avoid, simply because she was a female lawyer. She described them as times when she felt most taken for granted but it only fueled her determination to succeed.

“I was defiant,” she said, revealing that her defiance and the aggressive persona that she has had to channel in the court led to being misunderstood. “I may not seem like it at first, but trust me, I’m a blast,” she said. 

Mbewe encouraged Batswana to support her journey to Singapore by recognising and investing in her work as human rights and anti GBV advocate, which includes engaging Mbewe Legal Practice for legal services. “The time for our flag to fly higher has arrived as we are the epitome of democracy. I am going to Singapore and I’m going to win that award for our country,” she said. ENDS