Our Beginnings: A Truly Remarkable Story
Since independence country was hit by droughts. One biggest drought after the 1966 elections, primary export and largest sector were beef, contributing 39 percent to the GDP. Botswana was classified among the world's poorest nations, with a per capita income of just 70 USD per year. Until the 1970s, international aid dominated the government budget.
Today Botswana’s GDP stands at 20.35 billion US dollars with a per Capita expected to reach 6910.00 USD by the end of 2023. In the long-term, the Botswana GDP per capita is projected to trend around 7200.00 USD in 2024 and 7524.00 USD in 2025.
It’s no luck: visionary leadership, accountability, planning, and prudence stewarded by the Botswana Democratic Party.
1962 : On the 28th of February greatness was founded. The then Bechuanaland Democratic party was formed by Sir Seretse Khama, it later changed to Botswana Democratic Party.
1965 : Botswana Democratic Party won the first ever Botswana elections, it won 28 of 31 seats. It has been in power for 48 years.
1966 : Under the rule of Botswana Democratic Party, on September 30 the country became the independent Republic of Botswana with Sir Seretse Khama its first President.
H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi
President of the Republic of Botswana
H.E. Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama
Former President (2008 - 2018)
H.E. Festus Gontebanye Mogae
Former President (1998 - 2008)
H.E. Sir Ketumile Masire
Former President (1980 - 1998)
H.E. Sir Seretse Khama
Former President (1962 - 1980)