Operations

Operational context and population trends

Botswana’s economy continues to grow, with an estimated GDP growth of about 5.4% reported in 2014. Despite good governance and economic growth records, the country continues to grapple with many social and economic challenges. Specifically, the country accounts for the second highest HIV prevalence (23.4%) in the world. In economic terms, Botswana is characterized by an over-dependence on the mining sector and high income disparities.

Though people of concern to UNHCR enjoy unfettered access to the territory, those awaiting refugee status determination (RSD) are detained. Once status has been conferred, refugees are encamped, with limited freedom of movement and curtailed self-reliance opportunities owing to legislative restrictions on employment.

In 2014:

• Botswana hosted 2,646 refugees and 329 asylum-seekers from 13 different nationalities
• 69 individuals were repatriated, 158 were resettled, 68 babies were born, 10 deaths were registered and 78 new arrivals were reported
• Zimbabweans account for the largest proportion of refugees and asylum-seekers (1,023), followed by Namibians (988).

Key priorities in 2016

• Prioritizing activities related to durable solutions, in particular voluntary repatriation and resettlement
• Providing basic needs and essential services, including access to potable water, sanitation, health and education services, as well as community empowerment and self-reliance opportunities
• Transitioning from food distribution to cash based interventions
• Advocating for a favourable protection environment related to personal security and freedom from exploitation.