Welcome to the Political and Economic Section

The combined Political/Economic Section is responsible for the conduct of bilateral relations with the Botswana Government on political and economic policy matters. The Section ensures that the U.S. Department of State and other U.S. government agencies are aware of significant political and economic developments, including domestic developments in Botswana. We also work where possible to coordinate U.S. and GOB positions on sub-regional, African, and international issues ranging from peace and security to human rights to trade.

The Political/Economic Section maintains official contact with Botswana government Ministries and offices, Members of Parliament and other elected officials, political parties, non-governmental organizations, academics, and business leaders.  We would like to hear from a wide range of Batswana from around the country to better understand their diverse views and perspectives.  As we listen to Botswana points of view, we also advocate for policies consistent with U.S. interests, assess the degree of support for U.S. policies, and try to maximize cooperation with Botswana in areas of mutual concern.

The Political/Economic office manages day to day relations between the USG and the Secretariat of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) on political and economic matters.  SADC is a regional economic community which includes 16 member states in the southern Africa region.  Its headquarters is located in Gaborone, Botswana.
We also promote trade and commercial ties between Botswana and the United States by informing US businesses about opportunities in the Botswana market and assisting US companies who wish to find local partners or do business in Botswana.

Finally, the Embassy's small grant program, the Ambassador's Self-Help program, also fits within the Political/Economic section.  Each year, the Self-Help program coordinators evaluate proposals from community-based, not-for-profit organizations around Botswana for assistance and provide funding for a few deserving projects.