Legatum Center Unveils New Podcast On Leadership

The Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT has launched a new podcast, “A Legacy of Purpose: Conversations with Dina H. Sherif,” which focuses on leadership and features individuals working to create meaningful change for both the present and future.

The inaugural episode features an insightful conversation with President Dr. Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi of the Republic of Botswana, a public servant dedicated to leveraging innovation, technology, and strategic partnerships to shape the future of Botswana and, by extension, Africa.

In the episode, President Masisi talks about his career in public service and his own beliefs around leadership and the kind of leadership that Africa needs.  President Masisi stressed the importance of making sustainable, long-term decisions that serve the broader public interest, laying the groundwork for future generations. As Botswana transitions from a resource-driven economy to a knowledge-based economy, President Masisi shared the rationale behind his ambitious “Reset and Reclaim” agenda, aimed at unlocking Botswana’s potential through innovation and investment in human capital.

Beyond Botswana, President Masisi spoke about the potential that has always been a part of Africa. solidified his hope for this future, saying, “Africa is proud. It is beautiful, it has intelligent people and wonderful resources, it has capacity, and it is potentially much more prosperous if not abused.” He continued, “We are clear. We want innovation. We want to dig in deep, get the very best that we have and can generate, and share it with the world, and the world only owes us a fair price.”

During the conversation, President Masisi discussed several cutting-edge initiatives. One of the key highlights was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for future collaboration with the Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship at MIT. This partnership aims to support Botswana in its transition to a knowledge-based economy and establish the country as a core African hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Additionally, President Masisi emphasized the target to increase research and development (R&D) investment to 3 percent of Botswana’s GDP, reinforcing the country’s commitment to a future driven by science and technology.

Another major initiative discussed was the launch of a fund to support entrepreneurship and innovation across Africa. This fund will create opportunities for African innovators to scale groundbreaking solutions, positioning the continent as an exporter of innovation rather than raw commodities. Based on a blended financing model, the fund will collaborate closely with African governments, philanthropists, development finance institutions (DFIs), and bilateral donors, aiming for the ultimate goal of an independently prosperous Africa.

Dina H. Sherif, Executive Director of the Legatum Center and host of this new series produced monthly by the Center, noted that the podcast aims to amplify the voices of purpose-driven individuals who are laying the foundation for inclusive, innovation-driven prosperity in Africa and the world.