22 August 2025
Smiles, handshakes, and a sense of accomplishment filled the room on Thursday as President Duma Gideon Boko witnessed the signing of a landmark $12 billion investment deal between Botswana and Al Mansour Holdings of Qatar.
The Botswana Government and Al Mansour Holdings signed substantive agreements to kickstart cooperation at the highest level, cementing a partnership designed to drive economic transformation. In addition, Al Mansour Holdings concluded an agreement with the Botswana Development Corporation, (BDC) paving the way for the fruition of a $12 billion investment package that will be critical to the country’s long-term development.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Boko described the agreements as the culmination of months of intensive engagements between the two parties, marked by reciprocal visits and strategic discussions in both Gaborone and Doha.
“This partnership is not just about numbers on paper. It’s about turning words into real projects, real investments, and real change for our people,” President Boko said.
The $12 billion investment will be directed towards key sectors, including energy, infrastructure, mining, diamonds, agriculture, defense, and cybersecurity. The deal is expected to create ripple effects beyond Botswana’s borders, with potential collaborations in Zambia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA).
For many, Thursday’s signing is more than just a business transaction. It represents hope , a chance for young people to find jobs, for farmers to access new markets, and for communities to benefit from improved roads, power, and services. As the pens touched paper and the deal was sealed, the President summed up the moment with two words: “Allahu Akbar” (Thank you).
On Wednesday, His Excellency Sheikh Mansour Bin Jabor Bin Jassim Al Thani, Member of the Ruling Family of the State of Qatar and his delegation, paid a courtesy call on President Duma Boko at the Office of the President in Gaborone. President Boko warmly welcomed the delegation, reaffirming Botswana’s commitment to fostering stronger relations with Qatar.
“Botswana values its friendship with the State of Qatar and looks forward to cementing strategic partnerships that will unlock new opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity,” President Boko said.
President Boko further noted, “This visit marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Together with Qatar, we aim to develop projects that will not only advance our national development priorities but also create lasting benefits for our people.”
While in Botswana, the Qatari delegation engaged with senior Government officials, state-owned enterprises, and private sector leaders across key sectors of the economy. Discussions centred on potential collaborations in infrastructure and other development projects.
The two sides intend to establish a framework agreement to guide future cooperation, with details to be shared as the partnership progresses.
Source: BWPresidency Facebook page
