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.
Location
Southern Africa, north of South Africa
Area Comparative
Slightly smaller than Texas
Maritime Claims
none (landlocked)
Climate
Semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
Natural Hazards
Periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
Environment Current Issues
Overgrazing; desertification; limited fresh water resources
Environment International Agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Geography Note
Landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country
