Botswana
Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. The economy, closely tied to South Africa's, is dominated by cattle raising and mining (notably diamond-mining). Over the past 35 years, the economy has experienced one of the most rapid economic growth in the region. This has translated into a more developed infrastructure as well as improvement in the standard of living. This resulted in Botswana graduating from a low income country to a middle income country based on per capita income.
Botswana has arguably the most stable democracy in Africa, and is a country where human rights and personal freedoms are respected. There is little anti-foreigner sentiment and, in general, foreigners are welcomed throughout the country, although there are tensions over an influx of Zimbabweans, whom many blame for an increase in crime. The threat of terrorism in Botswana is minimal, however, transnational terrorism knows no boundaries.
President Festus Mogae's party won a landslide victory in the October 2004 elections, winning a new five-year mandate to rule. On being sworn in, Mogae promised to tackle poverty and unemployment. He also pledged to tackle the spread of HIV-Aids; he has said that he aims to achieve an Aids-free Botswana by 2016. Mogae's Botswana Democratic Party has governed the country since its independence in 1966. Mogae succeeded former president Quett Masire when he stepped down in 1998.
Civil unrest is rare, especially for the region. University of Botswana students demonstrate in Gaborone from time to time, but these protests are usually orderly and peaceful. There are occasional bouts of labor unrest, but these are typically peaceful and responsive to negotiations. They can pose serious inconvenience, however.
Myriad diseases are present. Botswana has the highest rate of HIV-AIDS in the world. Travelers should receive the appropriate vaccinations, use measures against disease-carrying insects, and take precautions with food and water. Medical care that is adequate by Western standards is available but can be expensive. Medical providers will insist on up-front payment.
