Botswana Roundup: Diplomatic relations, birth rate developments, climate threats
Climate threats
Botswana's new climate plan prioritises adaptation to climate impacts like drought and floods over emissions reduction, garnering praise from African climate negotiators for addressing the unique challenges faced by low-emitting countries. The plan, submitted as part of the Paris Agreement, maintains a 15% emissions reduction target by 2030, but emphasises specific adaptation measures such as expanding water storage, promoting drought-resistant crops and cattle, and enhancing weather monitoring systems. With a budget of $2.1 billion for adaptation and $0.9 billion for mitigation, Botswana aims to address the severe climate threats it faces due to its semi-arid environment. Climate Change News reports that the plan includes over 50 targets and reflects a shift towards emphasising resilience in vulnerable nations. As countries prepare for the COP30 climate conference, discussions on measuring adaptation progress are expected to gain momentum.
Birth rate
On January 1, 2025, Botswana recorded 98 births, a significant increase from 46 the previous year, as announced by the Ministry of Health. Most births occurred in Gaborone, with additional numbers from Francistown and Maun. Despite an estimated population of 2,346,179 from the 2022 census, the country's growth is stagnant, with a projection of over 4 million residents not occurring for at least 58 years. President Duma Boko highlighted plans to encourage higher birth rates among locals, English News reports.
Namibian model shares plans
Namibian model and fashion designer Julia Kandjimbi, crowned Miss Africa Unite in Botswana last December, expresses excitement for her future. According to The Namibian, she described the experience as emotionally overwhelming and a significant validation of her dreams. Kandjimbi plans to focus on youth empowerment and community development through her Frans Foundation, aiming to launch awareness campaigns and mentorship programs for young Africans. She emphasises the importance of effective time management in balancing her responsibilities as Miss Africa Unite with personal and professional pursuits. Kandjimbi is committed to empowering young women through education, skills development, and mental health awareness. She encourages Namibians to support her initiatives and advises Africa's youth to embrace their uniqueness and work hard to overcome challenges.
Botswana supports SADR
The newly elected Speaker of Botswana’s National Assembly, Dithapelo L. Keorapetse, reaffirmed Botswana's support for the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) in a letter to the President of the National Sahrawi Council, Hamma Salama. Expressing gratitude for prior congratulations, Keorapetse highlighted the strong relationship between Botswana and the Sahrawi people and emphasised the need for stronger legislative ties. AL24 News reports that his message underlines Botswana's commitment to decolonisation and human rights, receiving a warm welcome from the Sahrawi Council amid ongoing struggles for self-determination in Africa.
China-Botswana relations
China and Botswana celebrated the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, with President Xi Jinping emphasising the steady development of their partnership despite global changes. He expressed confidence in the future growth and cooperation between the two nations, particularly in light of the upcoming 2025 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) outcomes. Xi highlighted the desire to further strengthen mutual trust and support each other's interests. Botswana's Duma Boko recognised the anniversary as a significant milestone in bilateral history, Plenglish reports.
