September 30, 1966, marks Botswana’s attainment of independence following the period of the British protectorate. This date represents a significant moment in the nation’s history and serves as an annual opportunity to celebrate the country’s journey, its achievements, and its aspirations for the future.

A National Trajectory Focused on Development

Since gaining independence, Botswana has focused on building its institutions and developing its national capacities, while also committing to the diversification of its economy, the expansion of infrastructure, and the improvement of services for its population.

The celebration of this day also highlights the importance of values ​​such as peace, stability, national solidarity, cooperation, and sustainable development—all of which are essential dimensions of progress for African nations.

On a continent undergoing rapid transformation, national experiences in governance, institutional development, and the modernization of public administration serve as a valuable source of learning and dialogue among African countries.

Botswana and CAFRAD: Strengthening African Cooperation

Botswana and CAFRAD share a framework for cooperation that aligns with the broader African effort to strengthen institutional capacities and modernize public administration.

Through its participation in the Centre’s initiatives and activities, Botswana contributes to the exchange of experiences and the sharing of knowledge among African public administrations. This cooperation fosters peer-to-peer dialogue and facilitates the dissemination of practices and approaches that can support the transformation of the public sector.

For CAFRAD, strengthening such partnerships is a key lever for promoting a public administration that is efficient, inclusive, innovative, and citizen-oriented—in line with the development aspirations of the African continent. Cooperation in Support of Africa’s Aspirations

The celebration of Botswana’s Independence also serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of inter-African cooperation in building a shared future.

In a landscape shaped by digital transformation, economic shifts, environmental challenges, and evolving citizen expectations, African public administrations are called upon to strengthen their capacity for adaptation and innovation.

CAFRAD remains committed to supporting this process by providing platforms for training, research, dialogue, and the exchange of best practices among African states.

Congratulatory Message from CAFRAD

On this occasion, Dr. Coffi Dieudonné ASSOUVI, Director-General of CAFRAD, along with the Centre’s entire staff, extends warmest wishes for peace, prosperity, and success to His Excellency Mr. Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic, as well as to the Government and the people of the Republic of Botswana.

CAFRAD reaffirms its commitment to strengthening cooperative ties with Botswana and to continuing joint efforts toward institutional development, good governance, and the transformation of African public administrations.