12 Jan 2026

Residents of Somerset in Francistown have expressed differing views on the proposed  Citizenship By Investment Bill, which was debated in Parliament towards the end of last year.

The Bill proposes granting citizenship and national identity cards to selected foreign investors as a way of attracting investment and diversifying Botswana’s economy.

Speaking on the sidelines of a kgotla meeting addressed by the Member of Parliament for Francistown West, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi, some residents raised concerns while others welcomed the proposal.

Mr Noah Majube of Somerset said the Bill did not sit well with him, expressing fears that foreign investors could eventually take over Batswana-owned properties.

He said Batswana were a trusting and vulnerable nation that could easily be deceived into losing their land and other valuable assets.

“If investors are given citizenship in our country, Batswana will end up being servants in their own land and may lose their precious land,” he said.

However, Mr Majube noted that if citizenship were to be granted, investors should be encouraged to establish businesses in regions such as the North West and North East to ensure balanced development, rather than concentrating investment mainly in Gaborone and the southern part of the country.

In contrast, a youthful resident, Mr Kediretswe Kediretswe, welcomed the Bill, saying it could help address unemployment, particularly among young people.

“It would be a wise move for investors to come and set up businesses here, as this will promote development and create jobs.”

Ms Galenkgope Ludick shared similar sentiments, stating that the Bill could positively benefit the country.

She said Botswana’s economy had been struggling in recent years and attracting foreign investors could help revive economic growth and stimulate development.

The Economic Citizenship Bill, also known as Citizenship by Investment, was presented to residents by Mr Mmolotsi, who emphasised the need to explore various ways of revitalising the economy.

Mr Mmolotsi also Minister of Environment and Tourism  said attracting multi-billion pula investors would help diversify the economy, particularly in key sectors.

“For investors with substantial capital who wish to invest in Botswana, after thorough assessment and ensuring they have no criminal background, citizenship may be granted,” he said.

He said priority investment sectors would include tourism, agriculture, infrastructure and mining.

On the Ipelegeng programme, Mr Mmolotsi informed residents that it would be rebranded as Ikageng and implemented based on skills development, with participants receiving training in various skills. He added that beneficiaries would earn P2,500.

Mr Mmolotsi was addressing Somerset residents to update them on issues discussed during the last sitting of Parliament. BOPA