Kgosi Mosadi Seboko
Photo credit: Botswana Museum Blog
Mosadi Seboko is the paramount chief of the Balete people of southern Botswana - and the first woman to hold this title in Botswana’s history.
Mosadi Seboko was born on June 7th, 1950, and is the oldest child of the late Bamalete paramount chief, Mokgosi III.
Due to Botswana's traditional patriarchal system, Mosadi was not allowed to assume the role of chief when her father died in 1966. Instead, her male relatives ruled one after the next, until 2001 when her uncle died and her mother and sisters encouraged her to fight for her rightful place as the chief of the tribe.
After a lengthy battle, Mosadi succeeded in her claim. Her ascension was revolutionary, overthrowing a long standing tradition where women were only allowed in the kgotla (central administrative meeting place in Tswana villages) if they were invited by a male. She assumed office on January 7th, 2002 and was officially crowned later that year - becoming the first ever female chief in Botswana!
Mosadi Seboko is an inspiration and role model to all of us who strive for an equal society. We celebrate Kgosikgolo Mosadi Seboko and her continued service to the people of southern Africa!
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