Social, economic and political development in Botswana

The continent of Africa, three times the size of the continental U.S., is diverse culturally, linguistically and politically. The country of Botswana, located in southern Africa, is in many ways illustrative of this diversity.

In contrast to the post-independence experience of many African countries, Botswana has enjoyed uninterrupted civilian leadership since gaining independence in 1966. Through careful long-range planning, progressive social policies, and significant investment in education, Botswana has emerged as one of the most dynamic econ-omies in Africa.

The principal source of economic activity is diamond mining, along with tourism, financial services and cattle ranching. Extensive nature preserves in Botswana attract world attention, and it is becoming a favored ecotourist destination.

On the other hand, Botswana must deal with many of the social problems confronting African countries. It has one of the world’s highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection. The cities reflect many of the challenges that result from a high rate of economic growth and rural-to-urban migration: poverty, health disparities, breakdown of family stability, and conflicts between local and national identities.

Significantly, the government has developed substantial programs for confronting and managing these and other problems. As such, the country provides both a healthy antidote to the negative characterizations of Africa often found in Western media and a rich array of possible solutions to the various crises of the third world.

Gaborone

The program is centered at the University of Botswana in Gaborone, the nation’s capital, largest city, and center of its economic and political life. Gaborone prides itself on being one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa.

Students find the people of Botswana, called Batswana, involved in the enterprise of educating the nation and preparing it to confront the demands of 21st century globalization.