Khama�s foreign policy is flawed

Botswana government has recently implicitly attacked China over its territorial claim to the South China Sea. The media reported that consequently a diplomatic row, leading to the temporary closure of the latter’s embassy in Botswana, ensued.

The Leader of Opposition, Duma Boko aptly described Botswana’s posture as “one of its many instances of thoughtless enthusiasm” in a statement to Parliament.

Unlike in the past or during the presidency of Messrs.  Seretse Khama, Ketumile Masire and Festus Mogae, contemporary foreign policy of Botswana is characterised by roof-top diplomacy, discrepancies, double standards and knee-jerk foreign policy decisions. During the Cold War (1945-1990) Botswana was able to be friends with both the West led by the US, and the East led by the USSR. A landlocked country, which was during its early years and right up to late 1980s or early 1990s sandwiched by warring parties, the country managed to survive because of its adept foreign policy and diplomacy. Most things in the past were discussed internally and through diplomatic channels as opposed to audaciously releasing of statements that have a potential to cause diplomatic spats.

Editor's Comment
Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

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