United Nations in Botswana

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Botswana:

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07 October 2026

Where the Game Takes You: Sheikh Sesay’s Journey from Liberia to Botswana

As the 2026–27 football season kicks off in Botswana, IOM Botswana spoke to Liberian midfielder Sheikh Sesay about the journey that brought him from Liberia to Gaborone United, and the opportunities and challenges of building a life in a new country. The interview was conducted as part of IOM Botswana’s Mainstreaming Human Mobility in Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies in Botswana (MECC) project.When Sheikh Sesay arrived in Botswana at the age of 20, he had only two weeks to prove himself.The Liberian midfielder had been invited to Botswana Premier League (BPL) side Gaborone United for a trial. The terms were simple:“If I make it, I stay. If I don't, I go back.”Three years after arriving in Botswana, Sheikh is preparing for his fourth season with the current defending BPL champions and looking towards whatever opportunity comes next.His journey began in Liberia, where he grew up dreaming of becoming a footballer. His father, an imam at the local mosque, had watched Sheikh’s ambitions grow from childhood. By the time he reached high school, Sheikh had begun to realise that football could take him beyond the life he knew at home.“I believed if I put my time and effort into football, it could take me somewhere.”He began playing competitively with a third-division team in Liberia before moving to Watanga FC in the first division. Then an opportunity came through his former national team coach, who introduced him to Gaborone United.The club was looking for a midfielder, and Sheikh was invited to Botswana for a trial.“I never thought I would come to Botswana.”He decided to take the chance.Leaving Liberia meant leaving his family, friends, and the familiarity of home behind. Sheikh says football in Liberia did not offer the opportunities he was looking for.“To pursue my dreams, leaving my comfort zone was necessary.”There was no guarantee that it would work out.“When I came here, I worked hard, played hard, and then by the grace of God, I was awarded a contract.”His first match for Gaborone United came in the CAF Champions League against South Africa's SuperSport United in 2023. He scored on his debut, much to the delight of Gaborone United supporters and his Liberian fanbase cheering him on.Receiving the contract, however, was only the beginning.Starting againBotswana was different from Liberia in ways Sheikh had not expected.The surroundings were unfamiliar. His teammates mostly spoke Setswana, one of the main local languages. Even settling into everyday life took time.At one point, he remembers wondering whether he had made the right move.“I thought to myself, I'm not supposed to be here.”Thankfully, football gave him something familiar.“Football speaks one language.”People around him also helped. Sheikh credits Gaborone United General Manager Thapelo Mothusi with helping him feel at home when he first arrived. Mothusi would sometimes give him the keys to his house so Sheikh could watch television and have access to things he did not yet have in his own place.Settling into a new country was only part of the challenge.As a foreign player, Sheikh says he also felt pressure to prove himself.“It's not easy, especially when you are a foreigner. People have higher expectations of a foreign player than they do of local players before they accept you as one of their own.”He says that pressure is one of the reasons he keeps working hard.“If you stop working hard, I don't think you're going to be here much longer.”Now in his fourth season, Sheikh continues to fight for his place at Gaborone United and wants to repay the trust the club has placed in him.Why people migrateSheikh's experience is one example of the many reasons people move.People may leave home in search of work, education, family opportunities, safety, livelihoods, or a different future. Sometimes an opportunity changes the direction of a life. In other cases, changing circumstances can make staying more difficult.Climate and environmental change can also influence human mobility. Although Sheikh's decision to leave Liberia was driven by football, opportunity, and his hopes for the future, his story takes place within a broader context of changing conditions in the country. Liberia is increasingly experiencing the impacts of climate change, with around 2.2 million people in the country exposed to flooding, while approximately 320,000 are exposed to coastal erosion. These pressures do not affect everyone in the same way, and they do not necessarily lead directly to migration. However, they can interact with economic, social, and personal circumstances to shape people's choices about whether to stay, move, or seek opportunities elsewhere. Sheikh's journey therefore offers one example of how human mobility can intersect with the wider factors that influence people's lives and decisions.IOM Botswana and the Government of Botswana are examining these connections through Mainstreaming Human Mobility in Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies in Botswana (MECC) supported by the IOM Development Fund. The project is building evidence on how climate change and disasters affect human mobility, including mobility linked to floods and droughts, while examining the social and economic factors that influence people's decisions to move.The project also examines how mobility can be part of people's responses to changing circumstances, and how human mobility can be incorporated into climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction planning.Another seasonFor Sheikh, the journey is not over.He hopes to play at a higher level, in South Africa or Europe, and continues to work towards that goal. He knows the next opportunity may come from somewhere he does not expect.“You don't exactly know where your luck will come from.”That was true when an invitation brought him from Liberia to Botswana.It may be true again.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Written by: Yahya UqailiProject Development and Reporting Assistant at IOM Botswana

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14 September 2026

Youth Voices for Botswana’s Future

The United Nations in Botswana is commemorating Botswana’s 60 years of independence. We can take inspiration from the values that have defined the country's success: long-term planning, responsible leadership, and a commitment to leaving a better future for the next generation. To mark Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee and the United Nations Day 2026, the United Nations in Botswana is launching Youth Voices for Botswana’s Future, a creative campaign inviting young people across Botswana to share original artwork, digital products or photographs that reflects their ideas, hopes and vision for the country’s future.Young people are not only beneficiaries of development. They are creators, innovators and partners in building peaceful, healthy, inclusive and resilient communities. Through this campaign, the UN in Botswana invites young people to use creativity to show how youth can contribute to positive change in Botswana.Who can participate?The campaign is open to young people in Botswana aged 10 to 35 years.Young women and men from all regions of Botswana, including persons with disabilities and youth from diverse communities, are encouraged to participate.Campaign themesSubmissions should focus on one of the following themes:1. Youth and climate action2. Leave No One Behind. Youth and Inclusion3. Youth and healthy communitiesWhat can you submit?Participants may submit original creative work only.Accepted formats include:Digital illustrationGraphic designPainting Drawing Digital posterDigital comics/caricaturesPhotographs 3D digital artTypography Other artwork created in digital and non-digital formatImportant: AI-generated artwork is strictly prohibited. Submissions must be entirely human created. Work generated, enhanced, or co-created using text-to-image AI tools will be automatically disqualified.All submissions should be original, respectful and suitable for public sharing.How to submitPlease complete the online submission form and upload your digital artwork or provide an accessible link to your file.Submit your creative work here: bwrcomail@un.org

For large files, please upload your work to Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, WeTransfer or another accessible platform, and paste the link in the submission form.Please make sure the link is accessible and set to: anyone with the link can view/download.Submission deadlineThe deadline for submissions is:30 October 2026Late submissions may not be considered.Selection and visibilitySubmissions will be reviewed based on:Relevance to the campaign themeOriginality and creativityClarity of messagePublic-facing valueRespect for dignity, inclusion and non-discriminationSelected submissions will be featured on the UN in Botswana website and UN Botswana social media platforms as part of the Independence celebration and relevant publications, on a weekly basis until 07 November 2026.This is a non-monetary campaign. There will be no financial prize. Selected participants may also be considered for future youth engagement opportunities with UN agencies in Botswana.The United Nations in Botswana reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to reject or select any submitted artwork for any reason. Furthermore, the United Nations in Botswana is under no obligation to provide feedback, justification, or further explanation regarding the selection or non-selection of any submitted artwork.Important conditionsBy submitting your work, you confirm that:You are between 10 and 35 years oldThe submission is your original workYou give the United Nations in Botswana permission to publish your selected submission on its website, social media platforms and publications.Your submission does not include hate speech, discrimination, political campaigning, misinformation, or harmful or offensive contentThe views expressed in your submission are your own and do not necessarily reflect the official views of the United NationsWe look forward to seeing your creativity.

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01 September 2026

UN and FAO Launch Green Cities Initiative as Botswana Marks 60 Years of Independence

As Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence, the United Nations and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) kicked off the Diamond Jubilee commemoration with the FAO Green Cities Initiative, reaffirming their commitment to supporting a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for all Batswana. At the heart of the initiative was the donation of 400 citrus trees, to be planted at clinics, parks and schools. The trees represent more than a greener Gaborone, they are an investment in food security, healthier communities and a more sustainable future. The tree planting was followed by the Mayor’s Green Cities Drive Walk from Old Naledi to Village Park, an initiative bringing together Government, development partners, local authorities and communities in building healthier and more sustainable urban spaces.Speaking at the launch, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Wenyan Yang highlighted the significance of the initiative as Botswana reflects on six decades of nation-building and looks ahead to the next chapter of its development journey. “Planting trees to celebrate Botswana's six decades of progress is fittingly symbolic – trees draw nutrients from the earth, combine them with energy of the sun to grow. They are symbols of deep-rooted growth, hope and possibility. What we plant today is a celebration of progress, partnership and a promise of future growth. This forms part of the broader UN Botswana Diamond Jubilee commemoration plans and demonstrates One UN delivery and genuine partnership,” said Ms. Yang. The Minister of International Relations, Hon. Phenyo Butale, commended Gaborone City Council, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), development partners and communities for organising the initiative. Hon. Butale stated that “a clean city is a more resilient city,” emphasising that responsible citizens are essential partners in building sustainable communities. He noted that a green economy can contribute significantly to Botswana’s economic transformation, urging businesses to take responsibility for their environmental footprint. He called on everyone to renew their commitment to building not only a greener Gaborone, but a cleaner and more sustainable Botswana.The Mayor of Gaborone, His Worship Oarabile Motlaleng, said the walk was more than just a journey from one place to another. It showed shared commitment to building a greener, stronger and more sustainable Gaborone. He highlighted the importance of working together to address climate change and noted that the Green Cities Initiative, supported by the FAO of the United Nations, aims to improve green spaces and promote sustainable urban food production. The Mayor reminded everyone that building a greener city is a shared responsibility and that caring for our environment should be part of our everyday lives.The event forms part of the broader UN Botswana Diamond Jubilee commemorations and symbolizes the enduring partnership between Botswana and the United Nations. As Botswana enters its next 60 years of independence, the launch of the FAO Green Cities Initiative sends a strong message that environmental sustainability and inclusive development remain central to the country’s future aspirations. Because every tree planted today is a step towards a greener, healthier and more food-secure tomorrow.

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19 August 2026

In Botswana’s Border Communities, Protection Starts Early

For World Humanitarian Day, the experience of Botswana’s North East District offers a quieter view of humanitarian action: the work of protecting people before exploitation takes hold.World Humanitarian Day draws attention to people affected by crisis and to those working to protect life, dignity and safety. In Botswana’s North East District, that work also has a preventive dimension, particularly in communities where movement across borders is part of everyday life.Masunga lies within a part of the country where people routinely travel for work, trade and family reasons. On any given day, vehicles move between villages, border posts and nearby towns carrying traders, workers, students and families. Opportunity often arrives through movement. Increasingly, however, it can also arrive through a message on a phone, a social media advertisement or an offer that seems difficult to refuse.That mobility is not itself a risk. But it can create opportunities for others to take advantage of people searching for work or a better future.Human trafficking in Botswana does not necessarily begin with force. It can begin with an offer: employment, a scholarship, travel or another opportunity presented as a way forward. In the North East District, the concern is particularly relevant because of the area’s proximity to the international border and its exposure to trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants.The response therefore begins at an earlier point: when a person is still considering whether to accept an offer.At kgotlas in Tsamaya, Jackalas No. 1, Ramokgwebana and Matsiloje, residents discussed how trafficking occurs, how it differs from migrant smuggling and the signs that may indicate exploitation. In Ramokgwebana, residents were encouraged to verify employment offers before travelling, avoid surrendering identity documents to strangers and report suspicious recruitment or signs of exploitation through the appropriate channels.The conversations were local and practical. Rather than treating trafficking as something that happens elsewhere, they placed it within decisions people make every day: whether to travel for work, whom to trust and what to do when an opportunity comes from an unfamiliar source.In Masunga, Dikgosi, councillors, village leadership representatives and faith-based organisations took part in training on Botswana’s anti-trafficking framework, prevailing trends and the mechanisms available to support and refer victims. The training also considered the responsibilities of community leadership in reporting and prevention.That local role matters because concerns about trafficking may first emerge outside formal institutions. A family may hear about an unusual recruitment offer. A community leader may become aware of a pattern. A young person may be preparing to travel without a clear understanding of who has arranged the work.Recognising those signs early creates an opportunity to intervene before exploitation becomes more difficult to address.Behind the community discussions are the frontline professionals responsible for identifying and responding to trafficking cases. In Masunga, police officers, immigration officials, social workers, prosecutors and other officials strengthened their ability to recognise trafficking indicators, identify potential victims and coordinate referrals.Their role is particularly important in a district where legitimate movement and criminal exploitation can exist alongside one another.Trafficking and migrant smuggling are related but distinct. Smuggling generally concerns the facilitation of illegal border crossings, while trafficking involves exploitation through means that may include deception, coercion or force. A person may travel voluntarily and still become a victim of trafficking.Recognising that distinction is part of a wider protection system, one that depends on communities knowing what to look for, frontline institutions knowing how to respond and referral pathways being available when someone is identified as being at risk.IOM supported the Government of Botswana through technical assistance, capacity building, awareness raising and efforts to strengthen victim identification and referral pathways.For World Humanitarian Day, Masunga offers a reminder that humanitarian protection does not always begin when harm has already occurred. Sometimes it begins earlier, when a community member questions an offer, a traditional leader recognises a warning sign or a frontline officer knows how to respond when someone may be at risk.In a border community where movement is part of everyday life, that work helps ensure that the search for opportunity remains a pathway to a better future rather than an opening for exploitation.Written by: Yahya UqailiProject Development and Reporting Assistant at IOM Botswana

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22 June 2026

UN commends Botswana for granting citizenship to long-term refugees on World Refugee Day in Botswana

The United Nations in Botswana commends the Government of the Republic of Botswana for granting citizenship to 64 refugees on the commemoration of this year’s World Refugee Day and the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention in Dukwi Refugee Settlement.Botswana’s Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General (Rtd) Hon. Pius Mokgware handed over the citizenship certificates to individuals who have been residing in Botswana for decades without nationality documents. Hon. Ramaotwana Nelson Ramaotwana, Minister of Justice, and Hon. Lawrence Ookeditse, Assistant Minister of Health, were also in attendance.This is a milestone that reflects remarkable leadership, compassion, and commitment to inclusive development.By creating pathways to citizenship, Botswana is unlocking the full social and economic potential of individuals who are eager to contribute meaningfully to their communities.Speaking at the occasion, Minister Mokgware said, “This is a practical demonstration of the government's efforts to ensure that everyone is afforded the fullest protection available under the law.” He added that “Safety is not only about physical protection, but also about ensuring access to procedures and opportunities to have one’s voice heard. A decision that will unlock opportunities for them and directly contribute to the (World Refugee Day) theme until everyone is safe.”“This historic decision is a welcome step in ending the cycle of displacement for people who have lived in limbo for years and demonstrates Botswana’s exceptional leadership in ensuring solutions for people forced to flee,” said,Kavita Belani, Representative, UNHCR South Africa Multi-Country Office. “By enabling refugees to become citizens, Botswana is not only providing legal status but restoring dignity, fostering belonging, and opening pathways for individuals and families to fully participate in economic, social, cultural, and civic life.” said Belani.This step is closely aligned with the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency High Commissioner Barham Salih's vision of moving beyond care and maintenance toward durable solutions, where refugees are able to rebuild their lives with autonomy, security, and hope. It embodies the spirit of responsibility-sharing and demonstrates how progressive national action can advance global commitments under the Global Compact on Refugees.For years, UNHCR has worked closely with the Government of Botswana and partners on legal documentation that would grant citizenship for long-term refugees and prevent the risk of statelessness. UNHCR remains committed to advancing efforts that will strengthen refugee protection systems and expand access to durable solutions ensuring that safety, dignity, and opportunity become a reality for all.Botswana’s action also reflects the spirit of the Global Compact on refugees, promoting responsibility-sharing, inclusion, support to host communities, and sustainable solutions. It also underscores the country’s continued commitment to international and regional refugee protection frameworks.

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Press Release

05 March 2026

International Women’s Day: Eight Actions for A More Equal World

Over nearly a decade leading the United Nations, I have seen our world repeatedly tested – by climate shocks, deepening poverty, violent conflict and shrinking civic space. But I have also watched many solutions take root, and they shared one common denominator: women.As the world marks International Women’s Day, it is time to recognize that gender inequality is the greatest human rights challenge of our time – and advancing equality is one of the strongest drivers of sustainable development and peace.Here are eight actions drawn from my own experience, and inspired by the work of the UN system and civil society movements across the globe, to advance women’s rights and deliver results.1. Fix the Power GapGender equality is a question of power. But male-dominated institutions still shape our world. A rising tide of authoritarianism is deepening these inequalities, rolling back hard-won protections – from fair work practices to reproductive rights – and entrenching racial and gender biases that hold women back. Gender equality lifts societies. When power is shared, freedom expands.2. Make Parity a Priority Women are grossly under-represented in governments and boardrooms across the globe. At the United Nations, we set out to make gender parity a priority, starting with senior leadership. We did this by widening the search for qualified candidates, not by lowering standards. The UN is stronger for it, with an enhanced workplace culture and more inclusive decision-making. The lesson is clear. When institutions choose equality, results follow.3. Bet on the Highest-Return Investment Investment in women delivers outsized returns. Every dollar spent on girls’ education yields nearly triple the gains, while maternal health and family planning generate more than eightfold benefits. Policies that support families such as child care and elder care strengthen communities and unlock even more growth. Taken together, such steps lay the foundation for closing gender gaps – which can boost national income by as much as 20%.4. Make Room at the Peace TablePeace agreements are more durable when women take part in negotiating and implementing them. Yet in too many conflicts – including Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan – women have been largely shut out of the room, even though they carry the heaviest burdens of war. At a time of rising instability, inclusion is not symbolic – it is a shortcut to stabilize our fractured world.5. End Legal Discrimination Worldwide, women hold only 64 per cent of the legal rights enjoyed by men. In too many places, they cannot own property, work freely, or seek a divorce. Even where protections exist, women face higher barriers to access legal aid or the courts. Every country must commit to dismantling discriminatory laws, and to enforcing rights in practice. 6. Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence – and Zero ExcusesViolence against women is a global emergency, rooted in inequality and sustained by silence. Every woman and girl has the right to live free from fear. Yet gender-based violence – including sexual exploitation and abuse – remains a horrific breach of trust and humanity. We must confront it everywhere, with zero tolerance, full accountability, and unwavering support for survivors. 7. Code Out BiasWith women comprising just one in four tech workers, bias is being hardwired into the systems that shape daily lives. Meanwhile, misogyny is exploding online. Technology companies and governments must act together to build safe, inclusive digital spaces – and the world must do more to remove barriers for girls in science and technology.8. Put Gender in the Climate Plan Climate change is sexist. Women often eat last in food crises and endure greater danger in emergencies. Girls face higher risks of child marriage when livelihoods collapse. But women are also leading climate solutions – advancing green legislation, powering global movements, and driving change on the ground. A liveable planet demands gender-responsive climate policies, including equal access to green jobs, better protection in emergencies, and full participation in environmental decision-making.Across the globe, I have seen these eight solutions in action – in war zones and recovery efforts, parliaments and classrooms, organizations and communities.If leaders get serious about gender equality and commit to them now, we will change the world – for women and girls, and for us all.

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Press Release

17 July 2025

A Moment of Opportunity: Speech by the Secretary-General on Climate Change

As part of his 2025 climate strategy, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will deliver a pivotal global address on 22 July 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. EDT (3:00pm to 4:00pm Botswana time), live from UN Headquarters in New York. Titled “Moment of Opportunity”, the speech is expected to reset the global climate narrative by making a powerful economic case for a just and inclusive energy transition.The Secretary-General will outline the progress made since the Paris Agreement was adopted a decade ago, examine the barriers that continue to stall climate action, and make a bold call to speed up pathways to energy transitions.The address is intended to build global momentum in the lead-up to key multilateral forums and national decision-making processes. It aims to inspire bolder commitments ahead of major international milestones such as the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference and to inform the next generation of national climate action plans, including Botswana’s forthcoming third round of Nationally Determined Contributions, which are being led with the support of UNDP.The Secretary-General’s address will also underscore how transitioning to clean and affordable energy is not only feasible, but vital to delivering jobs, economic growth, energy security, and resilience, especially for developing countries. It will challenge the outdated perception that climate action is too costly, instead presenting evidence that greater investment in renewable energy is sound economic policy.The United Nations is inviting policy makers, civil society organizations, private sector, youth and members of the public to join the Secretary General as he unpacks the speech to the global community.Event Details:
Title: Moment of Opportunity: A Global Climate Address by the UN Secretary-General
Date: Tuesday, 22 July 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. EDT (3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Botswana Time)
Location: United Nations Headquarters, New York |

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Press Release

02 May 2023

Botswana’s human rights record to be examined by Universal Periodic Review

Botswana is one of 14 States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during its upcoming 43rd session from 1 to 12 May 2023. Botswana’s first, second and third UPR reviews took place in December 2008, January 2013 and January 2018, respectively. The documents on which the reviews are based re: 1) national report - information provided by the State under review; 2) information contained in the reports of independent human rights experts and groups, known as the Special Procedures, human rights treaty bodies, and other UN entities; 3) information provided by other stakeholders including national human rights institutions, regional organizations, and civil society groups. The three reports serving as the basis for the review of Botswana on 3 May can be found here. Location: Room 20, Palais des Nations, Geneva Time and date: 9:00 – 12:30, Wednesday, 3 May 2023 (Geneva time, GMT +2 hours) The UPR is a unique process which involves a periodic review of the human rights records of all 193 UN Member States. Since its first meeting was held in April 2008, all 193 UN member States have been reviewed thrice within the first, second and third UPR cycles. During the fourth UPR cycle, States are again expected to spell out steps they have taken to implement recommendations posed during their previous reviews which they committed to follow up on and highlight recent human rights developments in the country. The delegation of Botswana will be led by Mr. Machana Ronald SHAMUKUNI, Minister of Justice. The three country representatives serving as rapporteurs (“troika”) for the review of Botswana are South Africa, Qatar, and Bolivia (Plurinational State of). The webcast of the session will be at https://media.un.org/en/asset/k1u/k1uyawzk9o The list of speakers and all available statements to be delivered during the review of Botswana will be posted on the UPR Extranet. The UPR Working Group is scheduled to adopt the recommendations made to Botswana at 15:30 on Friday, 5 May 2023. The State under review may wish to express its positions on recommendations posed to it during its review. // ENDS // For more information and media requests, please contact Pascal Sim, HRC Media Officer, at simp@un.org and David Díaz Martín, HRC Public Information Officer, at david.diazmartin@un.org To learn more about the Universal Periodic Review, visit https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/upr/upr-main UN Human Rights Council, follow us on social media: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram

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Press Release

30 November 2021

The UN in Botswana celebrates Court of Appeal judgement to decriminalize consensual sex between same sex partners

This is indeed a clear message that justice and state laws should protect everyone, regardless of who they are and whom they love. We congratulate the Court of Appeal for ruling against discriminatory legal provisions that infringe upon the rights of LGBTQI+ persons to privacy, personal freedom, dignity, and to be treated equally and without discrimination of their human rights. This represents another great step for LGBTQI+ human rights in Botswana and is yet another example of the transformative power of civil society organizations and movements, and of the results that strong multi-stakeholders’ partnerships can bring. While celebrating the achievement, let us also bear in mind the need to keep up the good work and to increase efforts to raise awareness about human rights and to promote continued support for a more favourable legal, political, institutional, and social context for LGBTQI+ communities and for everyone to participate and prosper in dignity and equality, in line with human rights treaty bodies recommendations to Botswana, such as the UPR, the ICCPR, the CEDAW and others. The UN believes in a world where everyone’s human rights are respected and where every human being deserves to love and to be loved, without fear of discrimination. We are proud partners with Botswana’s active and vibrant civil society organizations. The UN in Botswana stands ready to continue to provide support to ensure no one is left behind.

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Press Release

31 March 2021

Botswana receives its first shipment of the COVID-19 Vaccine from COVAX

The delivery of the first 24 000 doses of the AstraZeneca South Korea COVID-19 Vaccine licensed to SKBioscience in Korea, is part of the largest, most complex global roll-out of vaccines in history through the COVAX Facility which plans to deliver at least 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of this year. This is an unprecedented global effort to make sure all citizens have access to vaccines. “UNICEF is proud to support the Government of Botswana in this vital work. Availability of vaccines will go a long way in protecting the lives of Batswana from the COVD-19 scourge. Each step on this journey brings us further along the path to recovery for Batswana children and their families affected by COVID-19 and importantly the start of the vaccination roll-out brings immense hope for the population of Botswana.” Joan Matji, UNICEF Representative for Botswana. The shipment received today is the first tranche of many that will be allocated to Botswana in the coming months through the COVAX Facility. The facility is working to accelerate the development of and access to COVID-19 vaccines. It is co-led by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization (WHO) working in partnership with UNICEF as well as the World Bank, manufacturers, civil society organizations and others. “WHO and the COVAX partners are happy to support the Government of Botswana in combating COVID-19. These vaccines will complement the other public health measures including wearing of masks, handwashing and social distancing. Botswana has done a tremendous job in their efforts to control the disease and roll out vaccination. We commend their efforts and reaffirm our commitment to support them further.” WHO Representative, Dr Josephine Namboze. To facilitate vaccinating against the COVID-19 scourge, the Ministry has launched an on-line COVID-19 vaccination self-registration portal for eligible vaccine beneficiaries to register. The on-line self-registration will assist in identifying the eligible vaccine beneficiaries as well as help plan for the distribution of vaccine. “Once registered, the Ministry of Health and Wellness will communicate with the enrolled individuals about vaccination program, eligibility, place of vaccination, follow-up and appointments” Director, Health Services, Dr. Malebogo Kebabonye. The website address or URL for the COVID-19 Vaccination self-registration is https://dhis2sms.gov.bw/vaccine/

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