24 Mar 2026

The review of the Revised National Policy on Destitute Persons of 2002, is currently ongoing to ensure a comprehensive social protection system, Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa has said. 

Minister Motshegwa revealed this when responding to a parliamentary question from Mogoditshane West legislator, Mr Galenawabo Lekau, on Monday. 

The minister explained that the current National Policy on Destitute Persons was last reviewed in 2002 following the 1980 destitute policy. 

He said the review formed part of government’s broader efforts to strengthen and modernise the social protection framework in order, to ensure that support to the vulnerable individuals and households remained relevant, efficient and responsive to the changing socio-economic realities. 

He however, noted that due to the scope and technical nature of the work, the review of the policy would extend into the 2026/27 financial year and it would require extensive consultations with stakeholders and assessment of programme implementations to ensure that it aligned with national priorities and international practices. 

“Most importantly, the review will inform the development of a comprehensive social protection policy for Botswana,” he said. 

Mr Lekau had asked the minister to state when the National policy on Destitute Persons was last reviewed and if there were any plans to review the policy. BOPA