Mmegi

US sees enduring value in Botswana relationship

Eyeing opportunities: Van Vranken sees room for greater partnership with Botswana
Eyeing opportunities: Van Vranken sees room for greater partnership with Botswana

US Ambassador to Botswana, Howard Van Vranken, speaks to Mmegi Staff Writers, MBONGENI MGUNI & PAULINE DIKUELO, on shared values, critical minerals and the health deal recently agreed between the two countries Mmegi: Kindly share on the state of Botswana/US relations, given the dynamic nature of global geopolitics? Van Vranken: Yeah, I would characterize our relationship with Botswana as very strong.

It's enduring and I think that I would attribute the fact that it's a strong, enduring relationship to the fact that it's built on shared values. You know, the United States is the oldest democracy in the world and Botswana is the oldest multi-party democracy in Africa.

Despite the fact that we are vastly different in many ways, we share some common attributes and values. We both believe in the rule of law. We believe that the people should be governed by elected governments and we share a heritage where we were both at one point ruled by the British.

Editor's Comment
Rising abortion figures demand urgent action

Instead, they should serve as a warning to health authorities, community leaders, and policymakers that something is not right. According to the Palapye District Development Committee’s latest report, 130 abortion cases were recorded between April and June 2026.On the face of it, the overall figure may represent a decline from the preceding quarter. However, going deeper into the figures, the monthly trend tells a different and more worrying...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up