President Duma Boko used his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to outline an ambitious economic transformation strategy aimed at steering Botswana away from its long-standing dependence on diamonds. He insisted that Botswana must “walk this journey one step at a time” toward a diversified, export-driven economy.
At the center of the new direction is the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP), which targets high-income status by 2036, massive job creation, and the expansion of new value chains. Boko said BETP is designed to “accelerate Botswana’s transition into a high-income economy with per-capita income of P200 000 by 2036”.
Agriculture, mining, manufacturing, digital transformation, and green energy form the backbone of the plan.
Agriculture, mining, manufacturing, digital transformation, and green energy form the backbone of the plan. Government has already implemented tariff cuts, wage reforms, and social programmes to stimulate economic participation. Boko defended increased government spending, saying it is intentional and people-centred: “We have absolutely no qualms of conscience about increasing expenditure for the improved welfare of our people.”
The President also highlighted an overhaul of the public service and institutional governance, including merit-based appointments and reforms to procurement systems. He argued that these reforms are essential to reverse decades of institutional decline and rebuild public trust.
Despite fiscal pressures, Boko struck a confident tone. “Botswana is rising again, to heights she has never reached before,” he said, quoting Mandela to emphasize national resilience.
