Key Facts
- GDP (ppp) per CAPITA
- $13,900 (2008 est.)
- Inflation Rate
- 12.6% (2008 est.)
- Population
- 1,990,876
- Country Risk Ratings
- A4
- Ease of Doing Business
- 38/181
- Global Competitiveness
- 56/134
Country Map
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Botswana : Introduction
Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Botswana has one of the world's highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.
Capital City:
Gaborone (+2 GMT)
Currency:
Pula (BWP)
(convert)
Languages:
Setswana 78.2%, Kalanga 7.9%, Sekgalagadi 2.8%, English 2.1% (official), other 8.6%, unspecified 0.4%
Calling Code:
267
Voltage:
231
Religions:
Christian 71.6%, Badimo 6%, other 1.4%, unspecified 0.4%, none 20.6%
quick links
Botswana: Country Commercial GuideBotswana: World Bank Doing Business Indicators
Botswana: BBC Country Profile
Botswana: MSU Global Access
- Botswana: Bank of Botswana
- A major financial institution of this country. Aside from the monetary policy statements, information of money and banking in Botswana, and financial statistics, this site also presents recent economic and financial news.
- Botswana: The Government of Botswana
- The official site of the government of Botswana includes an index of ministries, daily new updates, and a section on business and investment featuring general economic information, tenders, customs and taxation.
Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (August 2009)
