Address

Botswana's future: Vice President Gaolathe on economic resilience amid global uncertainty

Hear Vice President and Minister of Finance Ndaba Gaolathe set out Botswana’s priorities for inclusive economic reform.

Event date and time: 17 September 2026 — 14:30 TO 15:30 BST

Event location: Hybrid — Chatham House and Online

As Botswana marks 60 years of independence, a weakening of the diamond market has exposed the limits of the model that drove the country’s rise to upper-middle-income status. The 2024 election brought the first change of governing party since independence in 1966, and Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe will set out the new government’s response to economic challenges.

This event discusses:

  • What does the first change of governing party since independence mean for economic reform?
  • How can economic transformation deliver more inclusive and sustainable growth?
  • What opportunities will the government’s agenda create for businesses and investors?
  • How will Botswana reduce its dependence on diamond production?
  • Which sectors could drive growth as the economy recovers from contraction?
  • How will the new government strengthen resilience to climate and geopolitical shocks?
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