The Government of Botswana has intensified its focus on strengthening national security infrastructure through high-level inspections of key Botswana Police Service (BPS) projects nearing completion. On 20 April 2026, the Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Honourable Moeti Caesar Mohwasa, visited two major facilities under development, the Forensic Science Services Laboratory in Village and the Police Air Support Hangar at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport. The visits form part of ongoing efforts to modernise policing infrastructure and improve operational readiness within the security sector. These projects are seen as critical investments that will directly enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement services across the country. The inspections also highlighted the Government’s determination to ensure that security institutions are equipped with modern tools and facilities to meet evolving challenges.
At the Forensic Science Services Laboratory in Village, Honourable Mohwasa was joined by the Assistant Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Honourable Keoagile Atamelang, demonstrating coordinated government oversight of infrastructure development. The facility is designed to strengthen the country’s forensic capabilities by improving the speed and accuracy of criminal investigations. Once fully operational, it is expected to support the analysis of critical evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, toxicology reports, and other scientific data used in court proceedings. The project is part of a broader national push to modernise justice and security systems through advanced technology. During the inspection, officials reviewed construction progress and assessed the readiness of technical installations that will support laboratory operations.
At the Police Air Support Hangar located at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport, Honourable Mohwasa was accompanied by the Minister of Water and Human Settlements, Honourable Onneetse Ramogapi, as well as Assistant Minister Honourable Motsamai Motsamai. Their presence underscored a whole-of-government approach to strengthening security infrastructure that supports rapid response operations. The hangar is expected to improve maintenance and operational readiness of police aircraft, which play a key role in surveillance, emergency response, and cross-border operations. It will also enhance the ability of the Botswana Police Service to respond to incidents in remote and hard-to-reach areas. The facility represents a significant upgrade to the country’s air support capabilities and is aligned with long-term national security objectives.
The inspections highlighted Government’s firm commitment to improving the operational capacity of the Botswana Police Service through modern, state-of-the-art infrastructure. Both projects are intended to enhance efficiency, reduce response times, and improve overall service delivery within law enforcement. Despite delays attributed to technical and logistical challenges, Honourable Mohwasa expressed satisfaction with the progress made on both sites. He emphasized that Government remains committed to ensuring the swift completion of the projects so they can be fully operational as soon as possible. His remarks reinforced the importance of maintaining momentum in infrastructure development within the security sector.
Honourable Mohwasa further stated that the developments demonstrate clear Government investment in strengthening policing systems and providing officers with the necessary tools to perform their duties effectively. He noted that modern infrastructure plays a critical role in improving both investigative capacity and operational efficiency. The projects are also intended to support broader reforms within the police service, including improved working environments and access to advanced technology. He added that such investments are essential for building public trust and ensuring effective service delivery. The Minister’s comments reflected a broader national strategy aimed at transforming policing through infrastructure modernization.
The Government also reaffirmed its commitment to improving police accommodation and living conditions as part of efforts to enhance morale and performance within the force. Better housing and working environments are seen as key factors in retaining skilled officers and ensuring long-term institutional stability. The infrastructure upgrades are therefore not limited to operational facilities but extend to broader welfare considerations for personnel. This holistic approach is intended to create a more efficient, motivated, and professional police service. It also reflects recognition of the demanding role played by officers in maintaining national safety and security.
Also present during the inspections were Deputy Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner Stephen Tsheko, senior government officials, and various members of the Botswana Police Service. Their participation underscored the importance of direct leadership involvement in monitoring the progress of strategic national projects. It also ensured accountability and coordination between different government departments involved in infrastructure delivery. The presence of senior officials highlighted the significance of both the forensic laboratory and air support hangar within the national security framework. Their engagement provided an opportunity to assess challenges on the ground and support timely decision making.
The inspections led by Honourable Moeti Caesar Mohwasa reflect Botswana’s strong commitment to modernising its police infrastructure and strengthening national security systems. The development of the Forensic Science Services Laboratory and the Police Air Support Hangar represents a major step forward in enhancing operational capacity and improving service delivery. These projects are expected to significantly improve the efficiency of investigations, emergency response, and overall policing effectiveness. Despite construction challenges, Government has reaffirmed its dedication to completing the projects without delay. As Botswana continues to invest in advanced security infrastructure, these developments stand as a clear indicator of progress toward a more capable and modern police service.
