Debating the Ministry of International Relations’ budget request for the 2026/27 financial year recently, Members of Parliament argued that while Botswana’s foreign policy had traditionally focused on non-alignment and peaceful resolution of disputes, the country’s voice on global affairs must be more distinct. 

Tlokweng MP, Mr Phenyo Segokgo, suggested that Botswana should pivot toward economic diplomacy to yield tangible outcomes in trade, investment and job creation. He asserted that a codified foreign policy was essential to explicitly define and prioritise national interests and ensure consistency in international interactions. Again, Mr Segokgo called for an independent office to market the expertise of Botswana’s diplomats, noting that citizens serving in the diaspora contributed significantly to the Gross National Income (GNI) and ultimately the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 

Contributing to the debate, Francistown East legislator, Mr Tiroeaone Ntsima, commended the shift toward economic diplomacy as a driver of trade and praised the ministry for recognising the diaspora as a vital resource for national development. 

Okavango West MP, Mr Kenny Kapinga, opined that government must strike a balance when appointing ambassadors and utilise both seasoned career diplomats and political appointees to enhance mission quality. 

“We should maintain a good balance and appoint fit and proper persons,” he said. He also cautioned against expanding diplomatic outreach at the expense of strengthening existing missions during times of economic hardship.

 Conversely, Takatokwane MP, Mr Jacob Kelebeng, welcomed the expansion of missions, noting that seeking partnerships beyond traditional Western allies was vital. He emphasised that codifying foreign policy would mark a milestone in outlining the roles and career progression of diplomats. Leader of the Opposition and  Maun North MP, Mr Dumelang Saleshando, called for the appointment of highly experienced diplomats. 

He argued that a human rights-driven government should publicly pronounce its position on rights violations in countries where the will of the people was disregarded. “Are we driven by human rights selectively? Where we may seem to ruffle feathers, do we compromise our values?” he asked. Kgatleng Central legislator, Mr Mpho Morolong, expressed concern over instability within the SADC region. He warned that the concept of sovereignty should not be used as a shield to mask electoral irregularities. 

Letlhakeng MP, Brig. Domcaza Mokgwathi and specially elected MP, Dr Stephen Modise both emphasised the importance of demystifying the rumour that there was a United States military base in Botswana, stating that such misconceptions would damage the country’s international image.

 Mahalapye West MP, Mr David Tshere, commended the ministry’s leadership for steady hand in ushering in the new Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) administration. He noted that the country’s connectivity and communication networks were anchored on strategic collaborations the ministry maintained globally. 

Lentsweletau/Lephepe MP, Mr Tshenolo Bogatsu, stated that Botswana should maintain its posture as an active member of the international community by engaging in issues of global concern. He also expressed support for economic diplomacy as a vital tool for trade, adding that international interactions can establish collaborations and generate trade leads such as potential investment in Sengaparile (Devil’s Claw), a resource his constituency was well-endowed with. 

Specially elected MP, Maj. Gen. Pius Mokgware emphasised that foreign policy was essential for projecting the country’s power. He supported the opening of more foreign missions to exert national influence where it mattered most and described the diaspora policy as a welcome development. 

Molepolole South MP, Mr Shima Monageng, observed that the policy of non-alignment had served Botswana well, suggesting that it was better than aligning strictly with specific nations. Mr Monageng added that, moving forward, the country should strengthen regional dialogue and enhance diplomatic capacity, noting that economic diplomacy remained crucial for the promotion of trade. 

Maun East MP, Mr Goretetse Kekgonegile, stated that Botswana’s voice in global affairs needed to be heard. He said to meaningfully participate in global affairs, it was high time the principle of non-alignment was reviewed. 

Responding to the debate, Minister for International Relations, Dr Phenyo Butale informed Parliament that plans were underway to rationalise diplomatic missions through targeted deployments to ensure optimum benefits. 

Dr Butale explained that expanding missions was closely tied to private sector growth and necessitate presence in countries with high capital flows. He also announced that the ministry was planning a consultative forum to discuss the formal codification of Botswana’s foreign policy. ENDS