Botswana flag

Botswana

Republic of Botswana

Capital

Gaborone

Region

Africa

Population

2,359,609

Area (km²)

582,000

💡Quick Summary

Botswana, a landlocked nation in Southern Africa, boasts a population of about 2.36 million people across its vast 582,000 km² expanse, with Gaborone serving as its bustling capital. Renowned for its stable democracy and diamond-rich economy, it has achieved impressive growth despite challenges like water scarcity and HIV/AIDS prevalence. While GDP data isn't specified here, the country focuses on eco-tourism and conservation, highlighted by the stunning Okavango Delta.

Key Insights

High Electricity Access for a Developing Nation

Botswana has achieved a commendable level of access to electricity, reaching 76% of the population. This high connectivity rate is vital for supporting the country's high urbanization level and facilitating industrial and digital development, positioning it ahead of many regional peers.

Moderate Economic Growth Facing Inflationary Pressures

The economy is growing at a moderate pace of 3.2%, which is healthy but not rapid enough to absorb the high number of unemployed citizens. This growth is being partially eroded by a significant inflation rate of 5.068%, which impacts the purchasing power of the general population.

Robust Forest Cover in Arid Environment

Despite being largely characterized by the semi-arid Kalahari Desert, Botswana maintains a substantial forest area covering over 26% of its total landmass. This preservation effort is crucial for biodiversity and climate resilience, especially given the country's extensive land area (582,000 sq km).

Improved Life Expectancy Despite High Infant Mortality

Botswana has achieved a relatively high life expectancy of 69.16 years, suggesting successful management of chronic diseases and improved healthcare access compared to historical trends. Yet, the infant mortality rate remains high at 38.2 per 1,000 live births, indicating persistent challenges in maternal and neonatal care.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$19.41B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$7,826.35

GDP Growth (%)

3.21%

Inflation (%)

5.07%

Unemployment (%)

23.38%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 1/23/2026

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-12.00%-6.00%0.00%6.00%12.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230650,0001,300,0001,950,0002,600,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
201420152016201720182019202020210.0%7.0%14.0%21.0%28.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$2,500$5,000$7,500$10,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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