Key Facts About Botswana: Geography, Economy and Biodiversity

Introduction: Botswana is a landlocked country in Southern Africa known for its diamond resources, stable institutions, extensive wildlife habitats and the Okavango Delta.

Key pointers

  • Capital: Gaborone.

  • Region: Southern Africa.

  • Neighbouring countries: Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

  • Geographical feature: Much of the country lies within the Kalahari region.

  • Major wetland: The Okavango Delta, an inland delta that spreads into northwestern Botswana.

  • UNESCO World Heritage: The Okavango Delta is a World Heritage Site.

  • Climate: Predominantly semi-arid, with rainfall variability and recurring drought risks.

  • Economy: Diamonds have historically been a major export and source of government revenue.

  • Currency: Botswana pula.

  • Wildlife: Supports elephants, large mammals and diverse savanna and wetland ecosystems.

  • Environmental challenges: Water scarcity, drought, biodiversity conservation and economic diversification.

UPSC focus: Botswana is landlocked, and the Okavango Delta is an inland delta that does not drain into the sea. Do not confuse Botswana with its neighbour Namibia, which has an Atlantic coastline.