30 March 2026
A grassroots movement that began in a single ward in the city of Francistown more than a decade ago has grown into a nationwide network of self-reliant communities, challenging traditional models of aid and empowerment.
The Botswana Homeless and Poor People’s Federation was established in Monarch ward in 2011. The idea was brought back from Zambia by a social worker, who sought to empower the less privileged in her own neighbourhood.
With a motto, “We are the problem, we are the solution,” the federation’s core objective is to change individual mindsets in order to alleviate poverty, starting with the discipline of saving whatever small amount a person can afford each day. Weekly meetings are held to maintain momentum and mutual accountability.
Learning from peers
The federation regularly undertakes benchmarking and learning exchanges, both within Botswana and internationally, to study the methods of other similar organisations. Community participation is a cornerstone of the approach: members are required to understand their surroundings and identify their own needs, developing solutions themselves before turning to the government for support. Initiatives such as “Know Your City” and “Profiling and Enumeration” help members to document where they come from, their needs and wants, population figures, and the improvements required in their area.
From pit latrines to profit
Savings accumulated by federation members have been put to tangible use. Some have paid off debts to the Self Help Housing Agency (SHHA), covered school fees, installed electricity, or replaced pit latrines with waterborne toilet systems. Others have purchased cars.
Crucially, members no longer rely on food rations from the social worker who helped found the movement. They have become self-sustaining.
The federation now operates across Botswana, with a presence in Kasane, Pandamatenga, Maun, Gumare, Marobela, the North East district, Francistown and its surrounding areas, Selibe-Phikwe, Bobonong, Mmadinare, Gaborone, Lobatse and Ramotswa.
Partnerships and progress
The federation has formed partnerships with a range of organisations to contribute to Botswana’s development. In Francistown, it has completed a slum-upgrading project that installed six water-based toilet systems. The local council has also leased a garden to the federation, where it will carry out hydroponic farming – a technique that other members are welcome to come and learn. A partnership with Kagiso Funeral Parlour provides burial services for just P49 a month, covering a coffin, food, transport and a tent.
Get involved
The federation says it is ready and willing to empower anyone interested in its initiative. For more information, call 73 945 042 or 72 854 603. The project manager officer can be reached on 74 550 141.
Source: BWGoverment Facebook page
