 Background:
Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana
adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Four decades
of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social
policies, and significant capital investment have created one
of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction,
principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity,
though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's
conservation practices and extensive nature preserves.
Botswana has one of the world's highest known rates of
HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive
and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.
Borders:
Namibia 1,360 km, South Africa 1,840 km, Zimbabwe 813 km
|
Population:
1,764,926
|
GDP
per capita:
$5,918.21 per capita
|
Capital with population:
Gaborone - 138,000
|
Largest city with population:
Gaborone - 138,000
|
