Overview
Botswana adopted its new name gained independence from Britain in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies and significant capital investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Botswana has one of the world's highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.

Through fiscal discipline and sound management, Botswana has transformed itself from one of the poorest countries in the world to a middle-income country. Tourism, financial services, subsistence farming, and cattle raising are key sectors. On the downside, the government must deal with high rates of unemployment and poverty. HIV/AIDS infection rates are among the second in the world and threaten Botswana's impressive economic gains.

History
Mennonite Central Committee began work in Botswana in the 1970s, providing schoolteachers and training in job skills. As a result of friendships with local African-Initiated Churches, Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission www.aimmintl.org - with which Mennonite Mission Network is a partner - was invited to send Bible teachers. Beginning in 1975, six Mennonite denominations have sent workers to Botswana. In addition to Bible teaching among African-Initiated Churches, these workers are involved in AIDS education and counseling, community development, youth ministry, friendship evangelism, teaching and issues related to families.

Ministries
Below is a list of ministries happening in Botswana. Choose a ministry for a detailed description.

Indigenous Church Support Leadership Training Youth Outreach

Workers
Below is a list of workers serving in Botswana. Choose a person's name to read their worker profile including ministry involvement, home congregation and term information.

Partners
Mennonite Mission Network networks with other organizations to support workers and ministries around the world. Choose a partner's name to read a description.

Bopaganang Basha Ba Semoya Inter-Church Ministries Botswana Mennonite Church Canada