Gov't spends P9.5m on research projects
Pauline Dikuelo | Wednesday March 25, 2026 06:20
In line with this vision, Cabinet approved the National Research Agenda in July 2025. Communications and Innovation minister, David Tshere, apprised legislators that already P9.5 million has been spent on 45 research projects during the 2025-2026 financial year, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s research and innovation ecosystem. 'These projects are at different stages of implementation,' he said when presenting to the Committee of Supply recently, adding that all 45 projects approved in 2024 were carried forward into the current financial year, with no new projects added.
The funded projects are being implemented by a diverse group of beneficiaries, including local universities, private sector entities and members of the civic community. According to the minister, the research spans a wide range of thematic areas, such as mining, human health and social sciences, water and environment, indigenous knowledge systems, livestock and veterinary research, food and agriculture, as well as digitisation and digitalisation. He revealed that of the 45 projects, five have already been completed, with policy briefs currently being developed to share findings with relevant stakeholders and inform decision-making processes. The National Research Agenda outlines eight research focus areas and 22 thematic priorities designed to guide national research efforts.
These include agriculture, digital economy, energy, environmental sustainability, health, manufacturing, social development and mineral beneficiation. The framework was developed following a comprehensive technology foresight study to ensure alignment with national development goals. Amongst the latest innovations are solutions related to Foot and Mouth Disease, including point-of-care diagnostic kits and next-generation sequencing for pathogen surveillance, which are expected to strengthen disease monitoring and response systems. To enhance governance and accountability, the Ministry has established the National Research Fund Management Committee, which will oversee the transparent administration of research funding in accordance with the National Research Fund Order of 2024. Government had initially approved over P200 million under the Research Fund to support various research initiatives during the financial year.
However, due to budgetary constraints, the allocation was revised downward to P50 million, of which P9.5 million has so far been utilised. Further institutional reforms are underway, with plans to table the National Research and Innovation Council Bill during the 2026-2027 financial year. The draft bill, already approved by Cabinet, proposes the establishment of an autonomous body responsible for overseeing the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of national policies on research, development and innovation. The proposed council will also administer two key funds dedicated to research and innovation, aimed at accelerating Botswana’s industrialisation efforts. In addition, the Ministry is finalising several strategic frameworks, including the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Policy, the National Private Sector Engagement Strategy for Research, Science, Technology and Innovation, and the Space Science and Technology Strategy. These initiatives are expected to create a supportive legislative and policy environment to enable the National System of Innovation to thrive.