Botswana

Botswana is the oldest and perhaps the most stable democracy in southern Africa. Due to significant diamond deposits, Botswana is a relatively wealthy country. Indeed Botswana's model of national public ownership of mineral wealth, particular through the Debswana Corporation, is viewed in many places, as one approach that balances national ownership and foreign direct investment. Despite this, Botswana remains a deeply unequal society with more than fifty percent of the population living below the poverty line.

Despite its reputation as the beacon of democracy in the region, there are worrying signs of tribalism, xenophobia and narrow sectarianism creeping into the Botswana political sphere. The country's first-past-the-post electoral system means that political representation through parliament is not inclusive. Indeed the dominance of a single party, that has ruled Botswana since independence in 1966, is a matter of concern. This perhaps demonstrates the need for stronger opposition parties that would ensure a more participatory electoral system.The government's human rights record - exemplary for the most part - is tainted by its maintenance and use of the death penalty, as well as by its marginalisation of ethnic minorities.

Some argue that the most critical challenge Botswana faces is its alarmingly high HIV infection rates. The government has declared it a national emergency.