The Role of Women in the Church in Botswana

Abstract

This article explores the role and contribution of women in the church with a specific focus on Reverend Boiketlo T. Ngwako of the Revelation Blessed Peace Church in Botswana (RBPC). The paper examines the contribution and experiences of Reverend Ngwako in a male-dominated church in Botswana. Data was collected through personal observations and by attending church services, listening to the testimonies, preaching, singing, and prayers of members of the RBPC as led by Reverend Ngwako. Reverend Ngwako, the key participant, was interviewed to understand her role and contribution in the life of the church and to collect data on her views on a wide range of issues, such as politics. Content analysis of the data allowed the mapping of different themes of Ngwako's development as a minister of religion in the context of a male-dominated Christian leadership and cultural environment. The results suggest that the cultural environment and the biblical doctrines of the church have an impact on the development and ministry of a pastor. The study concludes that biblical doctrine is interpreted and understood in the light of Tswana cultural contexts, which continue to have an impact on her ministry, gender relations, and leadership style.