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Botswana has taken a major step in its journey to build a stronger and more diversified economy with the selection of 200 projects under the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP). The projects were carefully chosen from more than 6,000 submissions across different sectors, showing the wide interest from citizens, businesses, and development partners who are eager to play a role in the country’s future.
Speaking in Gaborone, President Advocate Duma Boko described the project selection as a rigorous and competitive process that only allowed the most impactful and strategic proposals to be approved. He explained that the programme is designed to fast-track Botswana’s shift from a resource-dependent economy to one that is broader, inclusive, and globally competitive. According to him, the new projects represent a turning point for the country’s growth ambitions.
President Boko also noted the high level of participation from private sector players, social entrepreneurs, innovators, and international partners. He said this wide engagement shows that there is confidence in Botswana’s development vision. It also reflects that many people, both local and foreign, see the country as a trusted partner in long-term investments and development programmes.
Agriculture, one of the key pillars of the country’s economy, featured strongly among the approved projects. The President pointed out that many of the initiatives in this sector will help reduce Botswana’s heavy dependence on imported food. By promoting import substitution, these projects are expected to secure national food supplies while also laying the foundation for export opportunities. He stressed that the projects will not only ensure food security but also create jobs and sustainable livelihoods for thousands of Batswana.
Manufacturing and infrastructure also received strong attention under the BETP. The selected projects in these areas aim to strengthen local production, reduce reliance on imports, and create industries that can compete regionally and internationally. With improved infrastructure, Botswana hopes to provide the right conditions for trade, attract new investors, and boost its role as a regional economic hub.
Other important sectors covered by the programme include financial services, digitalisation, tourism, energy, water, mining, and social development. The government believes that these areas are critical in diversifying Botswana’s economy and building resilience against external shocks such as global price fluctuations or supply chain disruptions. For instance, digitalisation projects are expected to improve access to technology, while energy and water projects will ensure sustainable use of natural resources.
President Boko explained that the BETP is not just about approving projects on paper but about seeing measurable results that will impact people’s lives. He emphasised that partnerships will remain central to the success of the programme, as government alone cannot achieve the ambitious goals. By bringing together different players from the private sector, civil society, and international development agencies, Botswana hopes to build strong synergies that will drive inclusive growth.
With 200 projects now confirmed, the focus is shifting to implementation. The President made it clear that delivery will be the key test of success. He called on all stakeholders to remain accountable and committed, noting that projects must not stall due to lack of seriousness or poor coordination. “What will determine success is not how many projects we have on paper but how many we complete and the real impact they bring to our people,” he said.
Economic analysts say the BETP could significantly transform Botswana if execution is properly handled. By targeting high-value sectors and fostering new industries, the country has a chance to reduce overdependence on diamonds, which have long been its economic backbone. Diversification has been a priority for successive governments, and this programme appears to be the boldest attempt yet to achieve it.
Observers also note that Botswana’s approach under BETP sends a positive signal to investors who are keen to explore opportunities in Africa. The country’s commitment to transparency and accountability in selecting projects could help attract more financing and partnerships in the future. If successful, Botswana may also serve as an example for other African nations seeking to reduce reliance on single-resource economies.
The coming months and years will therefore be crucial for Botswana. Citizens and businesses will be watching closely to see how these projects are executed and whether they bring the promised benefits. For now, the government is confident that with strong political will, private sector engagement, and international support, the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme can reshape the country’s economic landscape and secure a better future for all Botswana.
