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Gabarone News

World Headlines Affecting Botswana

Botswana has been elected to chair the Southern African Development Community (SADC) for 2025/26, with President Mokgweetsi Masisi prioritizing regional energy security. The World Bank approved a $150 million loan for Gaborone's Smart City Initiative following successful digital governance reforms. The International Court of Justice ruled in Botswana's favor in the longstanding border dispute with Namibia over Kasikili Island.

The EU lifted all COVID-era restrictions on Botswana beef imports after improved veterinary controls. Botswana and Zambia signed a new energy agreement to share excess electricity during peak periods.

Business and Economic News

• Pula holds steady at BWP13.2/USD
• GDP grows 4.9% (diamond exports +15%, tourism +22%)
• Inflation drops to 3.8% (lowest since 2020)
• Gaborone Diamond Exchange attracts 8 new international dealers
• Construction begins on $200 million CBD expansion project

Political News

• Parliament passes controversial Media Practitioners Amendment Bill
• Gaborone City Council approves pedestrianization of Main Mall
• Opposition UDC party splits as faction forms Botswana Patriotic Front
• Botswana-South Africa sign new cross-border crime agreement

Employment News

• Unemployment falls to 17% (Gaborone at 14.5%)
• 6,000 new jobs in financial services and construction sectors
• Government launches "Digital Botswana" training for 3,000 youth
• Minimum wage rises to P2,500/month (≈$185)

Entertainment News

• Gaborone International Music Festival returns (June 20-23)
• New film "The Cattle Post" premieres at New Capitol Cinema
• Comedy show "Parliament of Fools" sells out at Maitisong
• National Museum hosts "50 Years of Botswana Art" exhibition

Election News

• IEC begins voter registration for 2026 general elections
• Latest polls show BDP at 52%, UDC at 41%, BPF at 5%
• Controversy over proposed electronic voting system
• First televised mayoral debate scheduled for July 15

Legal News

• High Court sentences 6 officials in P50 million COVID funds scandal
• Landmark ruling recognizes customary marriages for inheritance
• New cybercrime law imposes strict data protection rules
• 18 gender-based violence convictions in May

Market News

• Gaborone Main Mall vendors protest relocation plans
• Fuel prices decrease to P11.8/liter
• New Airport Junction Mall expansion adds 30 stores
• Beef exports to EU reach record levels

Seven-Day Weather Forecast

Friday: Sunny, 24°C/8°C
Saturday: Clear, 25°C/9°C
Sunday: Breezy, 23°C/7°C
Monday: Sunny, 26°C/9°C
Tuesday: Mild, 24°C/8°C
Wednesday: Clear, 25°C/9°C
Thursday: Sunny, 26°C/10°C

Local Events

Sports:

Township Rollers vs Gaborone United (June 15 at National Stadium)
Gaborone Marathon training runs begin (Race day October 5)

Concerts:

"Jazz in the Park" at Gaborone Game Reserve (June 16)
Traditional Music Night at National Museum (June 18)

Cultural:

Maitisong Festival preparations underway (March 2026)
Botswana Day celebrations planning begins (September 30)

Community:

Gaborone Farmers Market (Every Saturday)
Kgale Hill Community Hike (June 15)

Final Notes

Gaborone continues to evolve as Southern Africa's model of stable governance and economic management, though income inequality remains a challenge. The city's unique blend of modern infrastructure and traditional culture positions it as both an administrative capital and cultural hub. With elections approaching and regional leadership responsibilities increasing, Gaborone stands at a pivotal moment in its development trajectory. The coming months will test whether Botswana's capital can maintain its reputation for good governance while addressing urban youth unemployment and housing shortages. As diamond revenues rebound and digital transformation accelerates, Gaborone's ability to balance growth with inclusivity will determine its future success.