Botswana is staking its economic future on digital transformation, unveiling plans to use technology and innovation as the main levers to diversify growth, improve productivity and reduce the country’s long-standing dependence on diamonds.
The 2026/27 Budget Strategy Paper positions digitalisation as one of four core national priorities, alongside private-sector expansion, infrastructure modernisation and human capital development. Government believes a digitally enabled economy will unlock new industries, attract investment and create much-needed jobs, particularly for young people.
At the centre of the strategy is the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP), which seeks to build “a digitally enabled, export-driven and economically diversified high-income economy by 2036.” Authorities plan to accelerate the shift of public services onto online platforms while expanding national digital infrastructure to support businesses and citizens alike.
The SmartBots initiative will spearhead the migration of government services to digital channels. Officials say this will shorten business registration timelines, streamline tax processes and reduce red tape that has long frustrated entrepreneurs.
Policymakers argue that digital reform must be backed by strong research and innovation systems. The paper highlights partnerships with universities, the private sector and the Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub to support product development, fintech solutions and tech-enabled manufacturing.
Bridging the digital divide
A key intervention is the Village Connectivity Programme, designed to bring high-speed internet to rural and remote communities. Government sees universal connectivity as critical for allowing small businesses to reach online markets, enabling youth to access gig-economy opportunities and ensuring citizens can obtain government services without travelling long distances.
Other flagship projects include a Smart ID system and a National Retail Payment Switch, which will strengthen digital identification and electronic payments. These platforms are expected to support e-commerce, fintech growth and a shift toward a cash-lite economy.
Private sector at the wheel
While the state will provide the regulatory and infrastructure backbone, officials insist that the private sector must drive the digital economy. BETP targets growth in financial services, digital trade, creative industries and technology-powered manufacturing as new export pillars.
Government hopes that better digital services will help local firms plug into regional value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area and SADC markets. Investments in data centres, cybersecurity and logistics platforms are also planned to position Botswana as a regional tech hub.
Skills remain the missing link
The strategy concedes that technology will not deliver results without the right skills. Plans include curriculum reform, expanded STEM and technical training, and reskilling of civil servants to manage a digital state.
With youth unemployment above 38%, authorities view the tech sector as a crucial source of employment. Coding academies, innovation hubs and entrepreneurship programmes will be expanded to prepare young Batswana for the digital economy.