Botswana Unlikely to see illegal Immigrants Surge
19 Jun 2026
Botswana is unlikely to experience a significant influx of illegal immigrants despite South Africa’s June 30 deadline for undocumented foreign nationals, Botswana’s Ambassador to South Africa, Dr Sanji Monageng, has said.
In an interview, Dr Monageng said Botswana’s border management systems remained strong and the country was capable of monitoring movements along its more than 1,000-kilometre border with South Africa.
“I do not think we should anticipate a major influx into Botswana as we have a very professional border management system and we are able to monitor our borders,” she said.
She said many people who entered Botswana had historically done so while in transit to other destinations, adding that there was no indication of an impending surge in undocumented migration.
“Most of the people who come into Botswana are not necessarily coming to stay and, in many instances, Botswana is a transit route to other countries,” Dr Monageng said.
Addressing concerns about the safety of Batswana living in South Africa amid tensions surrounding illegal immigration, crime and related social challenges, Dr Monageng said citizens had largely remained unaffected.
“Batswana have not been involved either as participants or as victims,” she said, adding that they continued to maintain a good reputation in South Africa.
“During my four-year tenure in South Africa, the Embassy has not recorded major challenges involving Batswana citizens,” she added.
Dr Monageng, however, urged citizens residing in South Africa to remain cautious and prepared.
“We always encourage Batswana to know their surroundings, to be vigilant and to have emergency contacts for the relevant authorities,” she said.
She said the Embassy continued to provide support to citizens through established structures and had a police officer attached to the Embassy who assisted with security-related matters.
She encouraged Batswana in South Africa to remain alert while continuing to pursue opportunities in education, business and employment. ENDS
Source : BOPA
Author : Taboka Ngwako
Location : Gaborone
Event : Interview
Date : 19 Jun 2026
Related News
18 Jun 2026
Commission targets youth empowerment
18 Jun 2026
Countries commit to partnership
18 Jun 2026
Learners commemorate Day of the African Child
18 Jun 2026