Dagga dominates Botswana’s drug trade :: Mmegi Online

Botswana’s latest Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment Report (2025) paints a concerning picture of the country’s drug landscape, with marijuana locally known as dagga or motokwane emerging as the most prevalent substance.

According to the report, dagga accounts for the largest share of drug-related proceeds, exceeding P48m, followed by a growing presence of methcathinone (commonly known as CAT) over P5m. Smaller quantities of other drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine (crystal), and ephedrine, were also recorded.

Despite these figures, authorities assessed the overall proceeds from drug trafficking between 2020 and 2024 as relatively low compared to other major crimes. This is largely because the reported amounts are based on the street value of confiscated drugs rather than the full profits generated through illicit trade. The report further indicates that much of the actual proceeds are laundered outside Botswana.

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Dagga dominates Botswana’s drug trade

Botswana’s latest Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing National Risk Assessment Report (2025) paints a concerning picture of the country’s drug landscape, with marijuana locally known as dagga or motokwane emerging as the most prevalent substance.

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