Botswana Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in botswana, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Telecommunications
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Overview 

Botswana’s telecommunications sector is well-developed, covering much of the country and contributing significantly to the economy.  The market is dominated by three main operators—Botswana Telecommunications Limited (BTCL), Mascom Wireless Botswana, and Orange Botswana—which hold network facilities and service licenses, offering internet, voice telephony, and value-added services.  These operators are complemented by Independent Service Providers (ISPs), which primarily rely on the main operators, though some have limited independence.  Botswana Fiber Network (BoFiNet), a state-owned entity, provides wholesale national and international telecommunication infrastructure and services, expanding fiber connections to businesses and homes.  BoFiNet has ensured extensive communications infrastructure, with 4G coverage at 98.2 percent and 5G coverage at 41.89 percent, according to the Botswana Communications and Regulatory Authority (BOCRA).

The ICT sector accounted for 2.5 percent of Botswana’s GDP in Q2 2023, with an annual growth rate of 3.7 percent, according to Statistics Botswana.  Mobile telephony subscriptions increased by 1.04 percent to 4.43 million in 2024, while fixed broadband subscriptions rose by 3.46 percent to 143,628.  Mobile broadband subscriptions grew by 5.15 percent to 2.91 million.  Commercial radio coverage stands at 80 percent, promoting diversity in broadcasting and advancing the information society.  Botswana’s Global Cyber Security Index improved from 53 percent in 2023 to 63 percent in 2024, signaling progress in safer online transactions and secure communications. In August 2025 the GoB passed a few pieces of legislation to accelerate its digital transformation efforts and these are the Digital Services Bill of 2025, which is intended to support Botswana’s digital transformation by regulating digital services and establishing a Digital Services Authority, Cybersecurity Bill, 2025, which is intended to establish structures to promote cybersecurity and capacity building.

Competition in the sector is intense, with providers offering affordable services to attract consumers.  The entrance of Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, has shifted market dynamics by providing high-speed internet access, particularly in remote areas where traditional providers have struggled.  Starlink offers a cost-effective alternative to deploying fiber in challenging locations.

BOCRA regulates the telecommunications sector, issuing licenses and type-approving communications equipment to ensure compliance with national standards for health, safety, electromagnetic compatibility, interoperability, and the national radio frequency plan.  BoFiNet is constructing the Digital Delta Data Centre (DDDC), a Tier III facility certified by the Uptime Institute, capable of hosting 400 racks and offering cloud services to improve connectivity.  BoFiNet is also a shareholder in three global undersea cable systems: EASSy, WACS, and WIOCC, enhancing international connectivity.
The government’s SmartBots initiative aims to transition Botswana from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy.  Key projects include nationwide digital connectivity, moving government services online, leveraging smart technologies for food security, and transforming the education sector.  The FY 2025/2026 development budget includes ICT projects such as Local Area Network upgrades.

In March 2025, Botswana launched its first national satellite, BOTSAT-1, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 in California.  This milestone positions Botswana as a growing player in Africa’s space industry.  The satellite, equipped with a hyperspectral camera, enhances capabilities in environmental monitoring, agriculture, and mining while fostering a regional hub for space technology and education.

Despite progress, challenges remain, including limited online government services, system downtime, high internet subscription costs, and cybercrime threats.  However, Botswana’s ICT sector continues to grow, driven by infrastructure expansion, regulatory improvements, and innovative initiatives.

Sub-sector Best Prospects 

Communications services, including internet service provision, telecommunications equipment, and software are the best sub-sector prospects.  Other prospects are in e-services (e-government, e-health, e-education, and e-commerce).

Opportunities 

The entrance of satellite internet service providers has created significant opportunities for investment in Botswana’s ICT sector. The GoB continues to implement initiatives and regulatory instruments to support sector growth. BoFiNet’s “UNLEASH 2025” strategy focuses on driving socio-economic growth through digital transformation, offering investment and partnership opportunities.   BoFiNet is expanding its fiber network, public Wi-Fi hotspots, and data centers, further enhancing connectivity across the country.
The growth in mobile subscriptions and internet usage presents opportunities in telecommunications equipment, software and app development, and e-waste management solutions to address the increasing need for responsible electronic waste disposal.  Investments in digital skills training are critical to equipping citizens with the capabilities to participate in the digital economy, while innovation hubs can support start-ups and entrepreneurs in developing ICT solutions.  Additionally, cybersecurity solutions are urgently needed, as Botswana’s cybersecurity framework remains in its early stages.

Resources

  • Botswana Telecommunications Corporation
  • Botswana Communications and Regulatory Authority
  • Botswana Ministry of Communications and Innovation
  • Botswana Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurshi
  • Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS), Customs and Excise Division

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