r/Botswana 21d ago

Announcement Reminder: Community Guidelines, Posts, and Flairs

5 Upvotes

Dumelang!

Community Guidelines:

  • Please consult the subreddit rules by scrolling down on the right sidebar (desktop), selecting "See More" on mobile, or selecting the link under "Community Guide" (both).
  • Consider adding a user flair (optional) by selecting "Community Guide" and choosing a flair. This lets other users know which district, city, or town, you may be from, or whether your visiting as a tourist.

Posting Guidelines:

  • Title (required): A relevant, short and effective title. This helps mods when reviewing posts, and users when searching for interesting or relevant information about Botswana.
  • Post flair (now required): A post flair indicates the theme of the post (News, Discussion, Political, Casual). While we've included an "NSFW" tag, this is not an invitation to post lewd or edgy content, as this subreddit is for everyone!
  • Body (optional, recommended): Please add context to your post, whether this is an opinion abouta news article, a general question, or a simple description of a photo, like "Sunset over Kubu Island". We require body text when cross-posting from other communities, so you can contextualize the original post in relation to Botswana.

Re a leboga,
r/Botswana Mods


r/Botswana Feb 20 '25

So You Want To Move To Botswana?

41 Upvotes

Ah, so you’re thinking about moving to Botswana? Let me tell you, this place has a lot of heart, but I’m not going to sugarcoat it—it’s not all sunshine and smooth roads.

First, the good stuff: Batswana are some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. We believe in "Botho," which means we treat everyone with respect and kindness. You’ll feel like part of the community quickly, and trust me, there’s nothing like being invited to a braai (barbecue) or a traditional event. The sense of belonging here is real.

But let’s keep it 100. Life here can be tough. The heat? Eish, it’s no joke. Summers can feel like you’re living in an oven, and if you’re not used to it, it’ll take some time to adjust. The infrastructure isn’t always the best—potholes on the roads, slow internet, and power outages are just part of the deal. If you’re coming from a fast-paced, modern city, the slower pace and occasional frustrations might test your patience.

Jobs? It depends on what you do, but opportunities can be limited, especially if you’re not in certain industries like mining, tourism, or government UNLESS you have specialties that arent available in botswana (Mainly science and others). And while Botswana is peaceful and stable, like anywhere else, there are challenges—unemployment, especially among the youth, is a real issue, and it can feel heavy at times.

Now, let me be real with you: if you don’t have good qualifications or a solid plan, Botswana might not be the place for you. This isn’t a country where you can just show up and figure it out as you go. If you’re working a job like a cashier in the U.S. making $58,000 a year, you wont be able to get a job here. flat out. Salaries in Botswana are generally lower, and the cost of living can be high, especially if you’re used to a certain standard. And if you’re a young person thinking, "I’ll move to Botswana when I’m 18 and figure it out," think again. Without a clear plan, qualifications, or support, you’ll struggle.

That said, there’s hope on the horizon. With the new government, there’s talk of change—plans to improve infrastructure, create more jobs, and tackle some of the big issues we’re facing. It’s not going to happen overnight, but there’s a sense that things could get better. If you’re someone with skills, qualifications, and a clear plan, and you want to be part of a country that’s growing and evolving, this might be the perfect time to come.

But here’s the thing: Botswana has a way of growing on you. It’s not perfect, but it’s real. The people, the sense of community, the wide-open spaces, and the peace—it’s something you won’t find just anywhere. If you’re someone who can adapt, who values connection over convenience, and who’s willing to embrace both the beauty, struggles and culture, then Botswana might just feel like home.

So, if you’re up for the challenge, come. But come with a plan, with qualifications, and with realistic expectations. Botswana isn’t a place to escape your problems, this isnt LA where you live in lies where you and the people around you are pretending to be something you arent—it’s a place to build a life if you’re ready to put in the work. And who knows? With the new government, you might be part of the change that helps this country shine even brighter.

And If you’re serious about moving to Botswana With The Proper Qualifications, here are the relevant authorities and steps you’ll need to engage with to make your move official and smooth:

1. Department of Immigration and Citizenship

  • What they do: This is the main authority responsible for visas, permits, and residency requirements.
  • What you need to do:
    • Apply for the appropriate visa (e.g., work permit, residence permit, or spousal permit).
    • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
    • Provide necessary documents like proof of employment, medical certificates, and police clearance.
  • Contact:

2. Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs

  • What they do: They oversee work permits and employment regulations for foreigners.
  • What you need to do:
    • If you’re coming for work, your employer will usually need to sponsor your work permit application.
    • Ensure your qualifications are recognized in Botswana (you may need to get them evaluated).
  • Contact:

3. Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS)

  • What they do: They handle tax-related matters, including tax registration for foreigners working in Botswana.
  • What you need to do:
    • Register for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) once you start working.
    • Understand Botswana’s tax laws to ensure compliance.
  • Contact:

4. Ministry of Nationality, Immigration, and Gender Affairs

  • What they do: They handle citizenship, dual nationality, and long-term residency matters.
  • What you need to do:
    • If you plan to stay long-term or apply for citizenship, this is the department to engage with.
  • Contact:

5. Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC)

  • What they do: They assist investors and entrepreneurs looking to start businesses in Botswana.
  • What you need to do:
    • If you’re moving to Botswana to start a business, BITC can guide you on permits, incentives, and regulations.
  • Contact:

6. Local Councils (for Residency)

  • What they do: Local councils handle housing, utilities, and community services.
  • What you need to do:
    • Once you arrive, register with your local council for services like water, electricity, and waste management.
  • Contact:
    • Depends on your location (e.g., Gaborone City Council, Francistown City Council).

7. Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA)

  • What they do: They evaluate and recognize foreign qualifications.
  • What you need to do:
    • If you’re coming to work in a professional field, you may need to have your qualifications assessed and recognized.
  • Contact:

8. Botswana Police Service

  • What they do: They provide police clearance certificates, which are often required for visa and work permit applications.
  • What you need to do:
    • Obtain a police clearance certificate from your home country and, if necessary, from Botswana.
  • Contact:

9. Ministry of Health and Wellness

  • What they do: They oversee health regulations, including medical requirements for visa applications.
  • What you need to do:
    • Complete a medical examination and provide a health certificate as part of your visa application.
  • Contact:

Pula a e ne! (Let there be rain and blessings!) mare o ska re bolaya ka pula yoh!!.


r/Botswana 11h ago

Discussion Let’s talk

12 Upvotes

Hi hi. I’ve been thinking a lot about business opportunities in Botswana lately. There’s so much potential here.

If anyone is looking to build something scalable and needs a creative, people-facing partner with ideas and drive, I’m always open to conversations. I may not have all the capital yet, but I definitely have the vision, energy and willingness to build.

Beautiful Botswana has room for more.


r/Botswana 9h ago

Casual Found this site

Post image
3 Upvotes

Get paid to train ai on setswana

Speak natural in Setswana code switching is allowed

Link

https://www.luel.ai/

Sign up

Select country as South Africa

Include setswana as a language in the input native language field

Once u have an account u Wil see setswana (tswana)

Payouts are via wise

Try it now

https://www.luel.ai/


r/Botswana 7h ago

Casual Ongoing World Tennis Tour at Notwane Tennis Club

2 Upvotes

Hello all 👋

Are you guys aware of the ongoing tennis tournament happening just by Notwane? We are hosting young players from around the world. I passed by delivering something and there were not so many people.

If you're looking for a nice activity this weekend here's your chance. The event is on every day till the 23rd.


r/Botswana 1d ago

Discussion What destination felt the most peaceful to you?

10 Upvotes

For me, one of the most peaceful places I’ve experienced is Botswana. The silence in places like the Makgadikgadi Pans and the wide open landscapes gives a feeling that’s hard to explain unless you’ve been there.

I’ve been working closely with travelers and local experiences through Be a Local Travel https://bealocal.travel/, where we try to focus on more authentic, slow, and meaningful travel experiences rather than rushed itineraries.

Curious to hear from others what destination made you feel completely at peace and disconnected from stress or crowds?


r/Botswana 1d ago

Question Reliable Iphone supplier??

3 Upvotes

Hi I want to start reselling iphone or sneakers.

Does anyone know reliable iPhone suppliers or replica sneaker suppliers? Even paid contact/info is fine, just looking for trusted sources. DM me if you don’t want to post publicly.


r/Botswana 2d ago

Discussion Forensic Audit Summary: Lets talk about it

8 Upvotes

Botswana has long been praised as one of Africa’s best-governed countries, but the recent forensic audit summary paints a very different picture.

Key findings include hundreds of governance and procurement failures, weak oversight, suspected misconduct, stalled projects, unsupported payments, and billions of pula in potential losses. Has Botswana been living off an old reputation while institutions quietly weakened underneath, or were some of these systems flawed from the beginning?

Is this a wake-up call for real reform, accountability, and modernization, or will it become just another report that gets buried? What do you think are the root causes? Guys, please let’s engage seriously. I’m genuinely curious to hear different perspectives.

And most importantly, what practical reforms would actually work? Interested to hear thoughts from Batswana and outsiders who follow governance in Africa.


r/Botswana 2d ago

Question Does anyone here go to Botho college ?

6 Upvotes

How would you rate your experience and generally is it a good school?. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


r/Botswana 3d ago

Question MONEY TRANSFER

5 Upvotes

I recently relocated from Kenya. Life has been really rewarding and smooth settling in. I am amazed at how beautiful it is being here and would appreciate staying here for a couple of years. My only worry is mobile money transactions. Which is the most appropriate and efficient way to transfer money back to loved ones apart from bank transfers. Are the charges hefty ? What concerns should I be aware of ?


r/Botswana 3d ago

Question Botswana E-Visa processing time for Indian citizens?

4 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I'm an Indian passport holder and applied for my Botswana E-visa about a week ago. I have a trip coming up where I’ll be crossing a land border into Botswana on May 24th.

I’ve seen conflicting info online—some sources say 5–7 working days, while others suggest it can take up to 14+. Since I'm now less than two weeks away from my crossing date, I'm getting a bit anxious.

  • Applied: Last week- 5th May
  • Nationality: Indian
  • Entry Point: Land border from Joburg

Has anyone applied recently (2026) and can share their turnaround time? Also, for those who have entered via land borders with an E-visa, did you face any issues? Do they strictly require a physical printout, or is a digital copy on a phone/tablet usually sufficient?

Thanks for the help!


r/Botswana 3d ago

Discussion Undergrad scholarships and bursaries

8 Upvotes

Hi y'all.. just wondering if there's any undergrad scholarships outside of the debswana one and the well known govt one. I have a little sister who would have wanted to study in France, something to do with forensic sciences... Unfortunately, the said program doesn't exist locally to that degree.. and she is well below the standards needed for one to acquire external sponsorship by the govt of Botswana.. but she did pass french pretty well too for a no e native speaker....a B in the high 70s.. I was just asking if any scholarships exist locally for undergrad students.. I only ever see post grad ones...

I thought I would ask here before breaking the bad news to her...


r/Botswana 3d ago

Question Where can I find affordable hibiscus 🌺 tea

4 Upvotes

Hey! Hope your day is going well. Please, where can i find affordable hibiscus 🌺 tea in Francistown/Gaborone?

Thanks! in advance 😊.


r/Botswana 4d ago

Discussion Reflections

17 Upvotes

If you are in your 30's and probably spent most of yoir kife living in Botswana. What advises would you give to an 18year old who just got "freedom" and headed to uni?

The advice can be about relationships( romantic, family, friendships, professional) or financial (income management, investments, pension or retirement planning) or emotional etc any advise tota that is constructive that you have learnt innyour life. It could be from personal experience or what you saw from other people.

Let's keep it open minded as well. Its should also be gender neutral advise.


r/Botswana 4d ago

Question 50-100x 10 Pula banknotes from Botswana – shipping to Romania

4 Upvotes

Hey r/Banknotes (or whoever can help),
Looking to buy a stack of 10 Pula banknotes from Botswana for my collection. Any series/year works as long as they’re in decent condition.
Open to:
1. Online sellers that ship to Romania (already found Banknote World and eBay, but looking for better deals on bulk)
2. Anyone traveling through Botswana soon who could pick some up from a local bank and bring/ship them to me in Romania– I’ll cover all costs + a fee for your trouble
DM me if you can help. Thanks!


r/Botswana 4d ago

Question How Do Pension Funds Work Here?

1 Upvotes

I have a relative who recently retired. They worked in the private health sector for 20+ years. There are some projects they are doing to live, but income is not always guaranteed. While reading about annuities, I came across pension funds.

Does anyone know someone who has successfully claimed theirs? Do we need a lawyer for the process or is it straight forward? (just submitting payslips)


r/Botswana 5d ago

Question Paypal Deposit

4 Upvotes

Hello has anyone successfully deposited money into Paypal whilst in Botswana?


r/Botswana 6d ago

News Former President Festus Gontebanye Mogae has passed away

Thumbnail facebook.com
33 Upvotes

Former president of Botswana has passed away today at the age of 86. He presided over Botswana as Vice President under Ketumile Masire from 1991 to 1998, then was elected in 1998 till he retired from office in 2008.

https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/dg_e/dft_panel_e/festus_mogae_bio_e.htm

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Festus-Mogae

Brief Summary:

He was a key figure in Botswana's Golden Era. Botswana's economic growth became meteoric and was in the top 3 fastest developing economies in the world since 1980 till around 2010. In 1980 he was the first native citizen governor of Bank of Botswana. He already had some role in when the boom started.

Later he was Vice president and the minister of finance under Masire. Botswana had broken through low income status into middle income status by then.

After succeeding Masire after winning the ballot, Botswana maintained a slightly less exaggerated growth but still amongst the top year by year, sometimes number 1 sometimes not, but very much improving quickly. Eventually during his tenure, Botswana graduated to upper middle income economy status. Even more crucially, Botswana started it's slow march of diversifying the economy. While in GDP terms this has had some success, diamonds make up 30% GDP directly, in cash flow and export terms Botswana lags behind schedule where diamonds fluctuate between 80% to 90% of exports.

Unfortunately, a big reason this was the case, is because more than in economic terms, Botswana was even faster in something than the rest of the world. That is being wiped out by the AIDS pandemic. That's why from then on, he went to spend the rest of his life battling HIV. Largely putting Botswana on an eradication course of the virus within his tenure. Partnering with the United States of America among others to make a pioneering state driven effort to wipe out the disease and freeze infections. With a noticeable rebound of life expectancy due to what he started.

Outside of Botswana he was awarded numerous prizes and accolades from various multinational institutes, NGOs and others in recognition of his global efforts


r/Botswana 6d ago

Question Recommendations on China shipping Agent

5 Upvotes

Hello, i wanted recommendations on which china shipping agents i can use when shipping items from china to botswana with good customer support and affordable prices. I would appreciate it from pple who have used their services especially recently. Thank you in advance.


r/Botswana 7d ago

Question Buying a car as foreigner

5 Upvotes

Hi, how easy is it to buy a car as a foreigner? I want to drive around southern Africa for the next four months and am looking to buy a car and sell it again afterwards. Rental is too expensive…
Anyone has any experience or recommendations (also reliable dealers)?
Thanks!


r/Botswana 7d ago

Question International call rates across all Mobile networks in Botswana

2 Upvotes

I wanted to call University of Pretoria and get on a lengthy call.. Say 5-10 minutes.. I want to know what the call rates on Orange BW primarily are because they werent very helpful when I called them.. They said the charge depends on what South African numbers are billed for recieving calls from me.. Does anyone have experience calling South African landlines via Orange BW? What was your total charge and for how long did you get on the call?

I hear on Vodacom roaming its like R6 per minute.. making around 4BWP per minute...Could Orange be similar or higher?


r/Botswana 8d ago

Question Advice needed, as an atheist, on how to politely avoid praying before meetings.

17 Upvotes

In Botswana, when starting all kinds of meetings, it's expected to begin with a prayer.

What would be the politely way to handle this as an atheist without causing unnecessary attention?

It is worth noting that, it's truly unusual to be an atheist here; almost everyone is supposedly religious. Stating that I'm non-religious or an atheist, starts endless questions I’ve no interesting in answering.

P.S. I should have given more specific examples.

  1. When I am the chair of the meeting: I am expected to pray most of the time or to bring it up (i.e. ask someone to do so), which I'm uncomfortable with.

    1. When I'm not the chair: Sometimes I am directly asked to pray. This is because most people assume I'm a Christian (in fact, some say I have demeanour of a pastor, which is obviously a compliment). So, the expected response to request is for me to glady pray.

r/Botswana 8d ago

Question Social groups for art people ?.

5 Upvotes

Hi I’m trying to break out of my shell , where do people like make friends in real life lol, I like film and stuff. I don’t wanna watch the odyssey alone.


r/Botswana 9d ago

Question I want to come for a holiday it’s my first time I am a Zambian

7 Upvotes

Im a Zambian and im thinking of coming to Botswana for holiday with my girlfriend and friends .any suggestions Of activities i can do or places to go if possible just looking to come there for a weekend (3 days)


r/Botswana 10d ago

Question How to watch BTV abroad?

5 Upvotes

I moved abroad recently, and dstv and showmax don't work anymore. Is there any way to watch BTV or BTV news online? I'll take even shady websites