Canada-Botswana relations

Bilateral relations

Canada established diplomatic relations with Botswana in 1966, following its independence. Canada is accredited to Botswana from our embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe. Botswana is accredited to Canada from its embassy in Washington, D.C., and has honorary consuls based in Toronto and Edmonton.

Canada’s relations with Botswana are anchored in our Commonwealth ties and our shared commitment to human rights, freedom of expression, the rule of law and democracy. Botswana has also benefited over the years from Canada’s Military Training and Cooperation Program.

Trade relations

In 2018, two-way merchandise trade totaled $774.9 million, comprising $774.2 million in exports to, and $0.6 million in imports from, Botswana. Top Canadian merchandise exports to Botswana include diamonds, machinery and electrical products. Top Canadian imports from Botswana comprise mainly diamonds and textiles. Canadian investments in Botswana's mining sector exceeded $300 million in 2016. Botswana presents further opportunities for Canadian businesses in the mining and clean technology sectors.

International assistance

The majority of Canada’s assistance to Botswana is channeled through regional and multilateral organizations or is implemented by Canadian and international non-governmental organizations in partnership with Botswanan local organizations. Canada also provides scholarships and training opportunities for Botswanan students and professionals.

The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives administered by the Embassy of Canada to Zimbabwe has provided support to local organizations to promote human rights and the empowerment of women and girls.

Partnerships and organizations

To develop effective responses to today’s most pressing global challenges, Canada and Botswana work closely in multilateral fora, such as:

Date Modified:: 2022-10-20

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