Minister for State President, Honourable Moeti Caesar Mohwasa, has called for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to address infrastructure challenges within the Botswana Police Service. Speaking during an engagement with the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) in Maun on 26 June 2025, the Minister highlighted the urgent need for improved police accommodation in the area.
Acknowledging the critical role police officers play in maintaining law and order, Minister Mohwasa urged businesses to consider contributing towards infrastructure development. “We recognize the challenges our officers face, especially in terms of accommodation. We appeal to the private sector to partner with us in closing this gap and strengthening our policing capacity,” he said.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sectors, government officials, and law enforcement leadership. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Solomon Mantswe, emphasized that public safety is the cornerstone of business sustainability and investor confidence. “Without safety and security, no business can thrive. We need all stakeholders to work with us in building a safe environment for residents, tourists, and investors,” he said.
Demonstrating the private sector’s willingness to support this national cause, HATAB CEO, Ms Lily Rakorong, announced a significant pledge towards police station refurbishment. Through their Adopt a Police Station initiative, HATAB has committed to upgrading 11 police stations across the country. Rakorong reported that refurbishment work has already commenced at six stations, with the remaining five scheduled for upgrades in August.
“By working together, we can ensure that our police officers are equipped to serve us as communities and guarantee our safety. This is our shared responsibility as different sectors of the community,” Rakorong said.
The initiative aims to enhance working conditions for police officers, boost morale, and improve service delivery in communities that rely heavily on law enforcement presence, especially in tourism hubs like Maun.
This partnership reflects a growing recognition in Botswana of the value that strong police infrastructure brings to both social stability and economic growth. The government and private sector stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together in ensuring that Botswana remains a safe destination for business and tourism.