What are the latest news in Botswana? August 31st, 2026
Telecommunications & Technology
- BTC 5G Network Rollout: Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC) announced a P240 million investment for the 2026/27 financial year to modernize its network and roll out commercial 5G coverage, targeting key areas in Gaborone by October.
- Digital Creative Economy: UNESCO and Botswana’s Ministry of Sport and Arts concluded a multi-stakeholder workshop to map the country’s digital creative and cultural industries, aiming to improve digital skills, investment, and market access.
- Debswana Crackdown on Fronting: Diamond mining giant Debswana removed eight companies from its supplier database following investigations into violations of citizen economic empowerment and anti-fronting policies.-
- Renewable Energy Infrastructure: Progress continues on the Lobatse solar photovoltaic power plant as it approaches completion to bolster local energy independence.
- Gambling Amendment Bill: The National Assembly recently passed the Gambling (Amendment) Bill, 2026, updating regulatory frameworks, licensing provisions, and lowering the legal gambling age from 21 to 18.-
- Political Developments: Parties including the Botswana National Front (BNF) and Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) are preparing for upcoming policy conferences addressing presidential authority and governance accountability.
- Military Exercises Concluded: The Botswana Defence Force and US Africa Command recently wrapped up Exercise Southern Accord 2026, focusing on multinational interoperability, cyber defense, and crisis response planning.-
- Diplomatic News: Sahrawi Ambassador to Botswana, El-Hiba Abbas, passed away following a brief illness.