The Government of Botswana has appointed Ms. Abigail Lillian Khumoyame as the new Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, marking a significant leadership transition for one of the country’s key ministries overseeing environmental sustainability and tourism development.
In an official announcement, the Ministry said Ms. Khumoyame will provide strategic leadership and oversight across the Ministry’s departments, parastatals and operational units. Her appointment is expected to strengthen institutional coordination while advancing Botswana’s environmental management agenda, eco-tourism development, and the conservation of the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
The Ministry described Ms. Khumoyame as a distinguished and multi-skilled expert in environmental science, development practice and academia, with extensive expertise in sustainable natural resource management and community livelihood enhancement.
She brings more than 12 years of professional experience gained through work with government institutions, multilateral development partners, the private sector, academia and civil society organisations.
Throughout her career, Ms. Khumoyame has been recognised for her competence in policy coordination, strategic planning, programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation, stakeholder engagement and institutional leadership. The Ministry further highlighted her strong analytical and governance capabilities, particularly in Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, environmental auditing, and the interpretation and application of Botswana’s environmental legislation and regulatory frameworks.
A recipient of the prestigious Barclays-F.C. Mogae Scholarship, Ms. Khumoyame holds a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science from the University of Botswana. Her professional and academic contributions have consistently promoted climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of natural resources and inclusive community development.
According to the Ministry, her appointment reflects the Government’s confidence in her leadership, technical expertise and commitment to environmental sustainability and national development.
