Gaborone – Incoming Botswana President Duma Boko has pledged to legalise all undocumented Zimbabweans by granting them temporary work and residence permits.
“Many Zimbabweans are already here, doing jobs that would otherwise not get done,” Boko said on the BBC Africa Daily podcast.
Botswana hosts the world’s second-largest Zimbabwean community fleeing economic hardship, and daily deportations are common.
According to government data, 98% of “irregular migrants” in Botswana from 2021 to 2023 were Zimbabwean nationals.
Boko acknowledged that illegal migration strains resources and breeds resentment.
“They live outside the law, sometimes committing crimes, which adds to the resentment,” he noted. His plan seeks to formalise their stay, improve access to services, and reduce illegal activity.
Despite backlash over proposals for more accessible cross-border travel, Boko sees Zimbabwean migrants as a solution to Botswana’s skills gap.
“In construction, Zimbabweans have skills we lack, like welding and plumbing,” he explained. “We should utilise these skills while transferring knowledge to our citizens.”
A human rights lawyer and founder of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Boko’s campaign promises to focus on economic revival.
He aims to create 100,000 jobs annually, backed by a new diamond deal with De Beers.
“
With a population of 2.4 million and 30% unemployment, we face a ticking time bomb,” Boko warned.
Boko’s inauguration, set for Friday in Gaborone, will include international dignitaries and has been declared a public holiday.
Info News
Luxury and Precision: High-End Corporate Event Planning Services
For companies seeking premium experiences, firms like Quintessentially Events and The Event Company deliver bespoke solutions tailored to elite clientele. These agencies focus on high-end corporate galas, VIP experiences, and executive-level gatherings.
Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensure every aspect of the event reflects the brand’s prestige. From exclusive venues to curated entertainment, they create sophisticated environments that impress stakeholders and clients alike. This level of service is essential for businesses looking to elevate their corporate image.
Mental Health Awareness and Emotional Well-Being
Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being that affects emotions, thoughts, and behavior. Anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional burnout have become increasingly common due to modern lifestyles, financial pressure, social expectations, and digital overload.
One major reason mental health awareness has grown is the recognition that emotional well-being affects physical health, relationships, and workplace productivity. Many organizations now provide mental health support programs, counseling services, and wellness initiatives to help employees manage stress effectively.
Technology has expanded access to mental health resources through teletherapy platforms, meditation apps, and online counseling services. Social media campaigns and public awareness initiatives are helping reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health challenges.
However, barriers such as limited healthcare access, cultural stigma, and financial constraints still prevent many individuals from seeking help. Experts emphasize the importance of supportive communities, education, and professional mental health services in improving emotional well-being.
Mental health awareness continues becoming a global priority as societies recognize the importance of emotional balance and psychological support for overall quality of life.
