Botswana

The Republic of Botswana boasts abundant natural resources, such as diamonds, bronze, nickel, and coal, which have contributed to the acceleration of Botswana's economy. In 2011 Botswana's per capita GNI rose to 7,480 US Dollars (WB 2012), one of the highest rates in southern Africa. However, in contrast to its rapid growth, Botswana has encountered challenges, such as income disparities, underdevelopment in rural areas and high unemployment rate. Botswana also faces the second highest prevalence of HIV/AIDs (24.8% of adults aged 15 to 49, UNAIDS 2009) in the world. To address these diverse challenges, JICA's support to Botswana primarily focuses on 1) infrastructure development for economic growth, and 2) development acceleration in areas of poverty.