Gaborone – Botswana’s Ministry of International Relations has taken a significant step in shaping the country’s global engagement strategy, presenting a draft foreign policy document at a national consultative gathering known as a Pitso in May 2026.
Permanent Secretary Ambassador Thuso Ramodimoosi presented the speaking notes outlining the objectives of the draft policy, which was developed over more than a decade through a process that included task forces, public questionnaires, workshops, parliamentary briefings and consultations with key stakeholders.
The process dates back to March 2011 when a Task Force on Foreign Policy was formed. The Ministry subsequently held seminars with special interest groups including Business Botswana, the Kalahari Conservation Society, MISA, BOCONGO, LEA, Ditshwanelo, former Botswana Ambassadors, the University of Botswana and various farmers’ associations. A public questionnaire was later developed and the Botswana Institute for Development Policy Analysis was brought in to analyse the data collected. 
The first Foreign Policy Pitso was held in March 2012, followed by a briefing to the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Justice, Defence, Security and Government Assurances on 18 April 2012.
At the heart of the draft policy is the protection of national sovereignty, the safety and welfare of citizens, and the advancement of inclusive socio-economic development. The document is guided by Botswana’s national values including democracy, good governance, Botho, self-reliance, peaceful coexistence, national unity and the peaceful resolution of conflict.
On economic diplomacy, the policy seeks to attract investment, expand trade, promote tourism, develop infrastructure, create jobs and accelerate economic diversification through international partnerships that support innovation, industrialisation and skills transfer.
Regionally, Botswana reaffirmed its commitment to deeper integration within SADC and SACU, while at continental level the country pledged continued support for the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The policy also prioritises climate action, food and energy security, youth empowerment, poverty eradication, and health and education partnerships as part of Botswana’s response to evolving global realities.
Ramodimoosi said the policy is not government’s responsibility alone.
“As the Ministry for International Relations, we will lead in policy coordination, diplomacy, and representation. However, we recognise that an effective foreign policy is a collective effort requiring collaboration across government, engagement with the private sector, and partnership with civil society,” he said.
He added that all citizens have a role to play in projecting Botswana’s interests and values on the global stage.
