Mogoditshane – Botswana President Duma Boko has raised alarm over the growing number of individuals smuggling weapons into the country to fuel crime.
President Boko, the Commander-in-Chief of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), on Africa Day, Monday, 25 May 2026, warned about threats to the country’s security.
He was speaking at the opening of the 21st Senior Officers Strategic Conference at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks in Mogoditshane, a 15-minute drive from the capital, Gaborone.
The five-day conference brings together senior military leaders to review the BDF’s strategic direction and explore ways to maintain a capable, cost-effective defence force amid fiscal constraints.
President Boko cautioned that the rapidly evolving global environment—marked by geopolitical tensions, cyber threats, terrorism, organised crime, illegal mining, and other emerging risks—demands vigilance and proactive measures.
“We have begun to experience an influx of armed individuals bringing weapons into the country to commit crimes,” President Boko said.
He stressed the need to build the BDF into a modern, disciplined, and ethically grounded force capable of tackling complex, technology-driven threats.
President Boko highlighted how smaller nations can leverage smart technology to maximise limited resources.
The President also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving soldiers’ welfare through better housing, enhanced conditions of service, professional military education, and related initiatives.
“Members of the armed forces are human beings who face social and personal pressures like all citizens,” he said.
“We must strengthen systems of support, accountability, intervention, and rehabilitation to confront these challenges directly and responsibly.”
President Boko expressed appreciation for the service and sacrifice of BDF personnel, praising their courage, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to defending Botswana’s sovereignty, security, and stability.
