Botswana Roundup: Holiday for historic gold, UAE health aid, new wealth fund

Historic world title commemorated with September 29 holiday

Botswana has declared September 29 a public holiday to celebrate its men’s 4x400m relay team’s historic gold medal at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The victory marks the first time an African nation has ever won the event. President Duma Boko hailed the team’s triumph over 10-time champions USA as “electric” and a symbol of Botswana’s growing global stature. The country also achieved its best-ever championship finish, ranking fifth overall with four medals.

UAE sends aid as Botswana faces health crisis

The United Arab Emirates has delivered 91 tonnes of medicines and medical supplies to Botswana, offering urgent relief as the country struggles with a nationwide health emergency. The shipment arrived Sunday and was hailed by Botswana’s Health Ministry as critical support amid severe shortages that have forced hospitals to delay non-urgent surgeries. President Duma Boko declared a national health emergency last month after a breakdown in the Central Medical Stores disrupted access to treatments for chronic and life-threatening conditions. 

Botswana launches sovereign wealth fund to spur growth, jobs

Botswana has unveiled a new sovereign wealth fund aimed at diversifying the economy, creating jobs, and improving management of state-owned companies. The move comes as the country struggles with a prolonged diamond market downturn that has drained the central bank-managed Pula Fund, traditionally used to stabilize finances. Board chair Farouk Gumel said the new fund will focus on growth, investing in both cash assets and state enterprises. Deputy chair Emma Peloetletse stressed that only returns — not capital — will be used. Officials say the fund may invest abroad as well as domestically to boost performance and reduce reliance on diamonds.

UN expert calls on Botswana to act against indigenous marginalization

A United Nations special rapporteur has urged Botswana to adopt a clear strategy and dedicated budget to address the marginalization of indigenous peoples. Following a 12-day visit to 12 cities and meetings with President Duma Boko and community representatives, Albert Barume reported that groups like the San face exclusion from public services, cultural erosion, and discrimination, particularly in schools. The report recommends constitutional recognition of indigenous status and greater public education to combat stigma. Botswana recently ratified ILO Convention 169, and the government has formed an inter-ministerial committee to address these issues. 

Acting president Gaolathe warns students against financial crimes

Acting president Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe has urged students to steer clear of financial crimes, warning that offenses like money laundering and fraud threaten Botswana’s economy and international standing. Speaking at the Financial Intelligence Agency’s 10km walk in Francistown on September 20, he stressed that blacklisting for financial misconduct can cripple access to loans, trade, and business growth. Gaolathe praised the FIA’s outreach, calling on youth to champion integrity and help protect Botswana’s economy by rejecting illegal financial activities and fostering a culture of responsibility.