Botswana Minute.
Monday, 27 July 2026
Botswana’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Monday, 27 July 2026
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Archive Minute from Monday, 27 July 2026

Politics

  1. President Boko describes Botswana as broken country needing healing

    At the BNF's 60th national conference, President Boko characterized his inherited administration as "a broken country, a collapsing economy and a nation bereft of hope," attributing challenges to more than a decade of declining diamond revenues and shrinking export earnings while framing current hardships as part of a necessary rebuilding process.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  2. BNF warned not to let office change its principles

    BNF vice president Moeti Mohwasa told the party's 60th national conference in Jwaneng that winning government was the beginning, not the end, of a greater test, cautioning that the party must distinguish itself by the discipline with which it fulfils its promises and not allow the comfort of office to distance it from those who entrusted it with leadership.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  3. Malema warns UDC: revolution requires ordinary Batswana controlling wealth

    Speaking at the BNF's 60th National Conference, Julius Malema told the Umbrella for Democratic Change government that a true revolution requires ordinary Batswana to take control of the country's wealth, and warned that if the oppressed gained nothing while the oppressors lost nothing after the transition, "there was never a revolution."

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  4. No DIS officers currently facing criminal charges

    The Minister for State President, Defence and Security told Parliament that his ministry has no record of any DIS officer facing criminal prosecution for offences allegedly committed during or outside official duties.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  5. BCP election shows mixed voting, not straight team allegiance

    The BCP internal election was contested by two campaign groups, with Dow defeating Lucas for vice presidency (942 to 842 votes) and Kekgonegile retaining secretary general (891 to 877 votes). Although Dow won the vice presidency, candidates aligned with Taolo's team won the majority of positions, with members voting based on individual candidates rather than along strict team lines.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  6. Gaolathe urges hope despite economic difficulties

    Addressing party delegates in Palapye, Gaolathe said Botswana's future remains bright despite current economic difficulties, emphasising that a "new Botswana" will surprise those who have lost hope.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  7. BPP leadership says strong affiliates strengthen UDC coalition

    At a BPP leadership forum in Francistown, Molapise said the party's participation in the UDC remains critical, and that all affiliate parties should evaluate their contribution to the coalition, recommend policy changes, and review policies that are not delivering for citizens while maintaining their own organisational strength and political identity.

    27 July 2026 · Mmegi

  8. UDC's rights pledge tested by fiscal crisis and CSO cuts

    The UDC entered office promising a rights-based approach to governance, but a deep fiscal crisis is forcing difficult trade-offs. A new report warns that the government has cut financial support to key civil society organisations at a time of worsening economic pressures, rising unemployment, and poverty.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  9. BCP president Saleshando asserts fitness to lead party

    Dumelang Saleshando, president of the Botswana Congress Party, has asserted his readiness and capability to lead the party into the 2029 General Election, putting to rest doubts about his health.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  10. Botswana's revamped Income Tax Act 2026 requires employer compliance

    Botswana has implemented a new Income Tax Act, 2026, that overhauls payroll and employment income compliance rules. Employers must align their payroll systems, benefits, reimbursements, and termination payments with the updated tax rules set by the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS).

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  11. BNF generates P4.4 million in annual revenue

    The Botswana National Front, the main opposition party founded in 1965, operates with a disciplined financial model that generates P4.4 million annually.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  12. BCP completes internal elections, now faces national expansion challenge

    The Botswana Congress Party has passed the hurdle of holding internal elections, described as a rite of passage for the party. The article indicates early signs are positive, though it is too early to assess whether things will ultimately work out well for the BCP.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  13. Butale sues Attorney General over Penal Code deletion procedure

    Prominent attorney Biggie Ganda Butale has taken the Attorney General to the High Court, challenging the legality of a 2026 administrative order that removed the "unnatural offences" laws from Botswana's statute books without a final vote in Parliament. Butale argues the Statutory Instrument No. 41 of 2026 bypassed parliamentary authority, contending that only Parliament has the power to repeal laws under Section 86 of the Constitution.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  14. Constitution Amendment Bill 2025 advances toward referendum on Constitutional Court

    The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2025, adopted by the National Assembly to establish a Constitutional Court, now awaits a referendum before presidential assent. Debate focuses on whether the timing is appropriate given the country's economic situation, with proponents arguing a dedicated court protects democratic governance and human rights by ensuring constitutional questions are properly determined.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  15. Dr. Unity Dow elected BCP Vice President in factional contest

    Dr. Unity Dow, a former High Court judge and human rights advocate, was elected Vice President of the Botswana Congress Party at its elective congress in Mogoditshane during the President's Holidays in 2026, defeating Taolo Lucas by 100 votes (942 to 842). The close result and factional divisions within the party underscore ongoing tensions between competing leadership camps.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  16. Government rules out audit of disputed 2019 elections

    The Botswana government has rejected calls for an independent audit of the 2019 General Elections, despite persistent accusations from the Umbrella for Democratic Change that the polls were manipulated. Minister Moeti Mohwasa told Parliament the administration will focus on economic transformation and electoral reforms rather than revisiting past election controversies.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  17. Boko administration spent P3.7 billion clearing inherited government debts

    President Duma Boko disclosed his administration has spent about P3.7 billion settling unpaid government invoices inherited from previous administrations, some dating back to 2018, saying these accumulated debts have slowed progress on delivering promised economic reforms.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  18. Police launch vehicle leasing pilot in Maun and Gaborone

    Botswana Police Service has launched a 12-month vehicle leasing pilot project with Avis Rent A Car, acquiring 28 operational vehicles (9 for Broadhurst Policing Area, 19 for Maun Policing Area) with comprehensive maintenance and insurance included, as part of efforts to modernise resources and improve operational readiness.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  19. Government hands over 28 vehicles to Botswana Police

    The minister for State President, Defence and Security handed over 28 leased vehicles to the Botswana Police on Friday at Maun Sports Complex, marking the launch of the Botswana Police Service Vehicle Leasing Pilot Project in partnership with Avis Rent A Car, aimed at ensuring police officers have reliable mobility to carry out their duties.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  20. Saleshando and Speaker clash over constituency allowances Bill

    Opposition Leader Dumelang Saleshando and Speaker Dithapelo Keorapetse have clashed over a proposed Bill to scrap constituency allowances for the President, Speaker, and Specially Elected MPs.

    17 hours ago · The Botswana Gazette

Business

  1. Botswana maintains tariff-free access to US diamond market

    Botswana has secured tariff-free entry into the US market for exports including natural diamonds under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, while Angola and South Africa face a 12.5 percent tariff. The US is the biggest market for natural diamonds, accounting for more than 50% of demand.

    16 hours ago · Mmegi

  2. Sunday Standard investigation finds questionable salary practices at CITF

    Sunday Standard investigations have found questionable salary adjustments and allowances at Construction Industry Trust Fund (CITF), including a 26% allowance increase awarded exclusively to CITF Executive Management in 2025 that was approved by a Board of Trustees whose tenure expired in March 2026.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  3. Botswana plans largest debt auction since January

    Botswana plans to raise P5.1 billion from the domestic market on July 31, its largest debt auction since January, reflecting the government's increasing reliance on local borrowing to finance a widening budget deficit and refinance maturing obligations.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  4. CCECC Botswana invests millions in community aid beyond construction

    China Civil Engineering Construction (Botswana) has contributed millions of pula to charitable initiatives including donations of houses to vulnerable families, school renovations, and village development programs. Between 2023 and 2024, eight villages in the Boteti region benefited from donations supporting schools and road maintenance.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  5. Opracon marks decade with expansion into HR and skills services

    Technology firm Opracon, established in July 2016, has diversified into human resources, skills development, and academy services as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations and growth strategy.

    23 hours ago · Mmegi

  6. Fixed asset investment in Botswana drops sharply in Q1 2026

    Botswana's fixed asset investment fell P1.2 billion to P10.4 billion in the first quarter of 2026, driven by declines in plant machinery, transport equipment, and infrastructure spending. Fitch Solutions attributed the contraction to weak business confidence, citing uncertainty in global diamond markets and tighter credit conditions.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  7. BSE market value stays above trillion pula despite trading slowdown

    The Botswana Stock Exchange maintained total market capitalisation above P1 trillion in the first six months of 2026, supported by foreign-listed companies, though six-month turnover fell 65.2 percent from 2025 levels.

    17 hours ago · The Botswana Gazette

  8. Diamond rebound expected to drive modest economic recovery

    Botswana's economy is expected to stage a modest recovery over the next two to three years, largely on the back of a rebound in diamond production from historically low levels, though the World Bank warns that only structural reform can meaningfully reduce poverty and unemployment.

    17 hours ago · The Botswana Gazette

  9. BHC posts P102m loss, banks on new strategy

    The Botswana Housing Corporation reported a P102 million pre-tax loss and is pursuing recovery through a new 2025–2030 strategy and the Bonno programme to rebuild finances and expand housing delivery.

    17 hours ago · The Botswana Gazette

Mining & Energy

  1. De Beers lifts diamond production; Botswana accounts for 70 percent

    De Beers raised rough diamond production sharply in the first half of 2026, with Botswana providing nearly 70 percent of total output, though weak prices and subdued consumer demand continue to constrain revenue and profitability.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  2. BPC commissions coal storage at Morupule B Power Station

    Botswana Power Corporation has commissioned a new coal storage facility at Morupule B Power Station to improve electricity generation reliability and reduce the country's dependence on imported power.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  3. Equinor partners with Cobre on Botswana copper project

    Australia-listed Cobre Ltd has signed a collaboration agreement with Norwegian energy company Equinor to advance its Ngami copper project in Botswana, joining existing partners BHP and China's Sinomine.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  4. NexMetals extends copper-nickel zone at Selebi Main project

    NexMetals Mining has extended a high-grade copper-nickel zone at its Selebi Main project, boosting confidence that the former BCL mine could support a larger resource as the Canadian company advances plans to restart the operation.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  5. De Beers ownership sale could reshape global diamond market

    Anglo American is preparing to sell its majority stake in De Beers to a consortium led by Gareth Penny, a former De Beers CEO. Botswana, which holds a 15 percent stake in the company, is considering whether to exercise its right of first refusal, partner with the bidder, or approve a new ownership structure.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  6. Vantage Metals begins copper drilling in northwestern Botswana

    Vantage Metals has launched a diamond drilling program at its Kalahari Copper Project in northwestern Botswana, drilling 5,000 to 10,000 meters to explore high-priority sediment-hosted copper deposits through at least October 2026. The Australian-listed explorer identified three key targets after analyzing aeromagnetic and airborne electromagnetic survey data.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  7. De Beers rough diamond production surges 88% in Q2 2026

    De Beers' rough diamond production jumped 88% year-over-year to 7.8 million carats in the second quarter of 2026, largely driven by Botswana's mines where output more than doubled to 5.5 million carats following maintenance resumption at Orapa and higher-grade mining at Jwaneng. Sales declined slightly to 7.1 million carats amid geopolitical instability, shifting consumer preferences, and rising synthetic diamond competition.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

Agriculture & Land

  1. BDC imports 1,000 Brazilian dairy cattle to boost milk production

    Botswana Development Corporation has begun importing 1,000 high-yield dairy cattle from Brazil to increase local milk production and reduce the country's dependence on dairy imports.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

  2. El Niño event expected to bring severe drought to southern Africa

    The World Meteorological Organization warns that a strong El Niño event starting October 2026 could trigger severe drought across southern Africa, with temperatures predicted to reach 35 to 45 degrees Celsius. Botswana, with its semi-arid climate and rain-fed agriculture, faces particular vulnerability to the drought risk and threat to livelihoods.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  3. Moringa farming positioned as Botswana's economic opportunity

    Farmer's Pride International director Hunter Zadzagomo argues that moringa oleifera cultivation could position Botswana as Africa's premier production and export hub, offering a sustainable livelihood enterprise capable of creating income, employment, and rural industrialisation through local value addition.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

Society

  1. University of Botswana to honour Kengalogile family generosity

    The University of Botswana will name one of its buildings after the Kengalogile family, who donated land for the establishment of the Okavango Research Institute. The pledge recognises the family's philanthropic contribution and their belief in education as an enduring investment.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  2. Mary's Meals feeds 3 million children daily across 16 countries

    Mary's Meals, a charity operating school feeding programs in 16 countries, provides nutritious meals to over 3 million children daily in more than 6,400 schools at a cost of €22 per child per school year. The organization uses a community-driven model with volunteer cooks and locally sourced ingredients to keep costs low while supporting local farmers and economies.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  3. Parliamentary inquiry into Botswana's nationwide drug shortages

    A parliamentary hearing saw Lobatse MP Kamal Jacobs demand accountability from health officials over persistent medicine stock-outs in public facilities, blaming administrative failures at the Central Medical Stores and questioning whether its acting director has the capacity to resolve procurement and distribution challenges. The Ministry of Health defended the appointment and stated efforts are underway to stabilize medicine supply chains, as the country's public healthcare system faces renewed scrutiny over shortages affecting patients with chronic illnesses and emergency care needs.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  4. Child Helpline opens P1.1m call centre in Gaborone

    Child Helpline Botswana has opened a new P1.1 million call centre in Gaborone funded by the Government of Japan, featuring new technology including WhatsApp access, AI-assisted call translation, and call recording for improved case management. The facility expands capacity to meet growing demand for the 116 Child Helpline service.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  5. Kgosi Mosadi mobilises tradition to combat gender-based violence

    Kgosi Mosadi Seboko of Balete is using custom and community leadership to advance Botswana's efforts to end violence against women and girls, including supporting the country's ratification and implementation of the AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls following a July 17 visit by the African Union Technical Assistance Mission.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  6. Africa-focused HIV cure research strategy is essential, experts say

    Experts are calling for an Africa-centred research agenda in the search for an HIV cure, arguing that scientific breakthroughs must be designed to meet the unique realities and healthcare systems of African populations. According to Professor Catherine Koofhethile from the Botswana Harvard Health Partnership, Africa recorded approximately 663,000 new HIV infections and 396,000 AIDS-related deaths in 2023, falling short of global targets, and ending HIV requires a coordinated international response.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

Culture

  1. Gaborone hyperrealism artist Martin Sefako gains international recognition

    Martin Sefako, a Gaborone-based hyperrealism artist trained in architecture, has earned recognition for graphite and charcoal portraits that combine emotional realism with conceptual storytelling, with social media expanding his reach beyond Botswana to international commissions and collaborations. Sefako aspires to showcase Botswana's art on global platforms while mentoring emerging artists, though he notes the sector faces challenges including limited funding and inadequate institutional support.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  2. Botswana artists missing long-term asset value through IP protection gaps

    Botswana's music and entertainment industry generates millions through concerts and sponsorships but loses long-term value because creators rarely register intellectual property like trademarks and brand equity. While the country ranks 58th globally in innovation inputs, it falls to 116th in creative outputs, reflecting a broader African trend where national trademark registries account for less than two percent of global filings annually.

    22 hours ago · Weekend Post

Sport

  1. Botswana track coach Dipeba awarded US sports leadership scholarship

    Botswana national track and field coach Justice Dipeba has been awarded a scholarship to pursue a Master's degree in Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the University of Kentucky, where he will also work with the university's track and field programme. Dipeba, a former 1996 Olympic flagbearer, has coached Botswana sprinters including Isaac Makwala and Christine Botlogetswe.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  2. Extension Gunners FC secures 15-year sponsorship deal with DC Tours

    Following the departure of a South African investor, Lobatse football club Extension Gunners FC has secured a new investor, DC Tours, on a 15-year contract that gives the investor 100 per cent shares ownership of a newly established Gunners Holdings company. DC Tours will provide transport, accommodation, meals, and player allowances as part of a major sponsorship deal.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  3. Cycle4Life cycling club thrives under Pelaelo's leadership

    Following a successful tenure since 2023, Modielo Pelaelo is stepping down as leader of Cycle4Life, a mountain bike club that has strengthened its brand through community outreach and regional competition participation. Under her strategic leadership, the club expanded membership and participated in endurance races across the region, inspiring new riders and showcasing Botswana's cycling capabilities internationally.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

  4. SuperSport broadcasts 2026/27 football season on DStv

    Following coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, SuperSport continues delivering football's elite leagues for the 2026/27 season on DStv.

    21 hours ago · Mmegi

  5. CANAL+ to broadcast all 34 matches of 2026 CAF Women's AFCON

    CANAL+ has confirmed that all 34 matches of the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 will be broadcast live on SuperSport across Sub-Saharan Africa via DStv, DStv Stream, GOtv & GOtv Stream. The tournament, taking place 26 July to 16 August 2026, is the biggest edition with 16 participating nations and serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

    22 hours ago · Weekend Post

  6. Mochudi Centre Chiefs recruit nine players for Premiership title push

    Mochudi Centre Chiefs, after returning to Botswana's FNB Premiership, have signed nine new players including defender Mosha Gaolaolwe, winger Mpho Kgaswane, and striker Omphile Vissagie, as part of an ambitious rebuilding strategy aimed at competing for trophies rather than merely surviving in the top division.

    22 hours ago · Weekend Post

  7. BFA hosts FIFA Forward workshop on governance and financial accountability

    The Botswana Football Association is intensifying its commitment to accountability in managing FIFA-funded projects through a FIFA Forward workshop designed to equip administrators with skills in planning, executing, monitoring, and reporting on development programs.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

Tourism & Environment

  1. North American and European tourists increasingly visit Botswana

    A recent Botswana Inbound Visitor Survey by the Department of Tourism shows that North American and European tourists make up a significant share of first-time visitors to the country.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  2. 10th Jwaneng Bushwalk draws 6,000 hikers, boosts sport tourism

    The 10th edition of the Jwaneng Bushwalk attracted 6,000 hikers across 15km and 30km routes, with President Advocate Duma Boko and Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso of Lesotho among attendees. The event, which began in 2014, continues to position Jwaneng as a sport tourism hub while supporting charity work and regional integration.

    27 July 2026 · Daily News Botswana

World & Region

  1. Ghanaian nationals petition ICC over South African xenophobic violence

    Two Ghanaian nationals have petitioned the International Criminal Court to investigate xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, alleging systematic and widespread violence that may amount to crimes against humanity. The African Union Commission chairperson has offered critique of South Africa's handling of the crisis.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

  2. ZCC bus crash families await Road Accident Fund compensation

    More than two years after a deadly bus crash in South Africa involving Botswana-based St Engenas Zion Christian Church members that claimed 45 lives, at least 20 of the affected families may receive compensation from the Road Accident Fund before year's end, though around 10 families have been deemed ineligible after failing to meet RAF criteria.

    27 July 2026 · Weekend Post

Opinion

  1. Botswana must modernize institutions after sixty years

    The Sunday Standard argues that Botswana's post-independence institutions have served their purpose and need to be rewired to prepare the country for the future, yet little progress is visible on rebuilding or reforming existing structures.

    27 July 2026 · Botswana Sunday Standard

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