Canada-Botswana relations
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Bilateral relations
Canada established diplomatic relations with Botswana in 1966, shortly after Botswana gained independence. Canada manages its relations with Botswana through its High Commission in Harare, Zimbabwe. Botswana maintains diplomatic representation to Canada through its High Commission in Washington, D.C., with additional support from honorary consuls located in Toronto and Edmonton.
Canada’s relations with Botswana are anchored in Commonwealth ties and a shared commitment to human rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law and democracy. Botswana has also benefited over the years from Canada’s Military Training and Cooperation Program.
Trade relations
The Botswana market presents opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors in ICT, renewable energies, mining (especially green energy solutions) and professional services. In 2023, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Botswana totaled $343.7 million, comprising of $340.0 million in exports from Canada and of $3.8 million in imports from Botswana.
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International assistance
The majority of Canada’s assistance to Botswana is delivered through regional and multilateral organizations or implemented by Canadian and international non-governmental organizations in partnership with local organizations in Botswana. This assistance has primarily been in the health sector, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as in supporting access to clean water and sanitation. Canada also provides scholarships and training opportunities for students and professionals in Botswana.
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), managed by the Embassy of Canada to Zimbabwe (which serves as Canada’s High Commission to Botswana), supports local organizations in Botswana with a focus on promoting human rights and empowering women and girls. In 2023-2024, the CFLI partnered with a local organization in Botswana to raise awareness about unpaid care work and its social impact, serving to enhance women’s ability to participate more fully in the economy.
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Partnerships and organizations
To develop effective responses to today’s most pressing global challenges, Canada and Botswana work closely in multilateral forums, such as:
- Commonwealth
- United Nations (UN)
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
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