The Chairperson of the Private Security Licensing Board, Mr. Ikwatlhaeng Bagopi, has called for a bold transformation in Botswana’s private security industry, urging stakeholders to embrace new technologies and a forward-thinking mindset to effectively confront emerging security threats.
Mr. Bagopi made the remarks today during the official opening of the Private Security Licensing Board Strategic Workshop, where industry leaders, government representatives, and private sector stakeholders gathered to chart the future of security services in the country.
In his keynote address, Mr. Bagopi highlighted that the threat landscape in Botswana and globally is rapidly changing, with criminals leveraging sophisticated methods and digital tools. He stressed that the private security and fire protection sectors must evolve in response.
“The future of Botswana’s security industry depends on our willingness to adopt new technologies and cultivate a progressive mindset. These are no longer optional—they are essential if we are to remain effective and relevant,” said Bagopi.
He pointed to innovations such as surveillance drones, biometric access control, AI-driven analytics, and smart alarm systems as examples of tools that can significantly enhance operational efficiency and threat response.
Mr. Bagopi also emphasized the importance of collaboration, urging private companies and government agencies to break traditional silos and work together in designing and deploying cutting-edge security solutions.
“Synergy between public and private sectors can unlock a new level of innovation. Partnerships can accelerate progress, enable knowledge-sharing, and lead to better protection for our communities, businesses, and national assets,” he noted.
The workshop aims to align regulatory frameworks with emerging global best practices and to foster dialogue around professional standards, ethics, and training in the private security industry.
Stakeholders welcomed the call for modernization, noting that enhancing digital readiness and regulatory support can position Botswana as a regional leader in security services.
As threats continue to evolve—from cyber intrusions to industrial espionage and organized crime—the Private Security Licensing Board is positioning itself as a catalyst for transformation in the sector.
The strategic workshop is expected to produce key policy recommendations and action plans that will guide the integration of advanced technologies while reinforcing safety, professionalism, and public trust across the security landscape in Botswana.
