Botswana - Country Details

Basic Information

Capital

Gaborone

Region

Africa / Southern Africa

Population

2,592,980

Area

582,000 km²

Currencies

Botswana pula (P)

Languages

English, Tswana

About Botswana

Botswana's history is deeply rooted in the migrations of Bantu-speaking peoples who settled in the region centuries ago. The area was initially sparsely populated by various Tswana groups, who established their own chiefdoms and communities. In the late 19th century, British influence grew, leading to the establishment of the Bechuanaland Protectorate in 1885. Following decades of colonial rule, Botswana gained independence on September 30, 1966, becoming a republic within the Commonwealth. Since independence, Botswana has been lauded for its stable democracy and economic development, particularly driven by its diamond industry.