The Botswana Police Service (BPS) held the 2025 Arms Quota Raffle Draw on 21 August 2025 in Gaborone. The event saw 300 successful applicants selected to acquire firearms permits, with 150 permits allocated for rifles and 150 for shotguns.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Support Services, Solomon Mantswe, reported a notable increase in applications this year. BPS received 20,250 applications for shotgun licenses and 18,747 for rifles, compared to 15,891 and 14,376 respectively in 2024. He highlighted that the growth in applicants reflects rising interest in legal firearm ownership.
Deputy Commissioner Mantswe emphasised the importance of a fair and transparent selection process, aligned with the legislative framework governing arms licensing. He stated that BPS continues to collaborate with stakeholders to adopt best practices in managing arms and ammunition. Botswana remains committed to international protocols, including the Arms Trade Treaty and Small Arms and Light Weapons agreements.
Despite these measures, Deputy Commissioner Mantswe expressed concern over rising firearm thefts. Between 2022 and 2025, 29 firearms were reported stolen, including 16 shotguns and 13 rifles. Some of these stolen firearms were linked to criminal activities. He urged licensed firearm owners to secure their weapons and prevent access by unauthorised persons and children.
Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Gaobuswe Ramatlakadibe-Sefhako, Director of Legal Services, gave a vote of thanks to members of the public, media, and Arms Quota Board members for their participation and support. He encouraged applicants who were unsuccessful this year to reapply in the next application cycle.
The 2025 Arms Quota Raffle Draw demonstrates BPS’ commitment to regulated firearm ownership, transparency, and public safety, while addressing challenges related to firearm security in Botswana.
