27 Apr 2026

In a move aimed at modernising the country’s judicial system and strengthening its investment climate, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services has launched a dedicated Commercial Court division of the High Court.

Speaking during the launch in Gaborone yesterday, Mr Nelson Ramaotwana said the establishment of the Commercial Court was driven by the need to resolve business and commercial disputes more efficiently, noting that delays in handling such cases had historically hindered economic progress.

“For too long, commercial disputes have been subjected to the backlog of general litigation.

This dedicated platform commits to speed, efficiency, expertise and ultimately investor confidence,” he said.

Mr Ramaotwana said the new court would also support local producers and small businesses by ensuring disputes were resolved quickly and fairly, enabling them to compete effectively in global markets.

Mr Ramaotwana said the launch signalled Botswana’s intention to position itself as an attractive destination for business and investment.

“In the fast-paced world of global commerce, time is money. By modernising our justice system, we are declaring that our nation is open for business,” he said.

He added that a strong and reliable dispute resolution framework was critical to a healthy investment ecosystem.

He said the initiative formed part of broader efforts to transform the judiciary into a world-class institution by 2036.

Mr Ramaotwana said the Administration of Justice remained committed to reforms that ensured the legal system stayed relevant and responsive to the evolving demands of the 21st century.

“The focus of the Administration of Justice continues to be on transforming the judiciary to make it more responsive to emerging trends, particularly through reforms such as specialised courts,” he said.

As part of the launch, Mr Ramaotwana introduced a panel of judges who will serve in the Commercial Court division.

They include Chief Justice Gaolapelwe Ketlogetswe and Justice Barnabas Nyamadzabo, who will head the Commercial Court based in Gaborone.

Other judges appointed to the division are Justices Ranier Shakes Busang, Godfrey Nthomiwa, Tapiwa Boingotlo Kgangyago, Bahuma, Dr Ookeditse Maphakwane, Reuben Lekorwe, Bugalo Maripe, Masilo Mathaka, Dr Onkemetse Tshosa, Onkagetse Pusoentsi and Mako Abram, who will serve across various High Court and Industrial Court locations.

Mr Ramaotwana urged the judges to uphold high standards and maintain investor confidence in the judiciary, stressing that the success of the Commercial Court would depend on its ability to deliver specialised and reliable justice.

“It is now upon you to sustain and maintain a high level of investor confidence in the Administration of Justice,” he said. ENDS