Botswana

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Botswana
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Viewed by its people as Second only to Heaven, Botswana is one of the most
stable countries in Africa. Good economic policies transformed Botswana from one
of the poorest countries to a middle income one. Once focused solely on diamond
mining, the government has worked to broaden the economy.
With a multi-party democracy since independence, Botswana is relatively

corruption-free and in 2105 was ranked the least corrupt country in Africa by
Transparency International as well as the 28th least corrupt country in the world.
The country has good relations with neighboring countries and the international
community.
Culture Overview
Cultural Essentials
There are vast differences between the values of the rural and urban
dwellers. More importantly, each ethnic group has their own distinct
culture. There are similarities and differences between these individual
tribal cultures. The similarities create a national culture, but the differences
may mean that some behaviors are less pronounced with some Batswana.
Conformity / Group Centeredness

Batswana want to appear like everyone else. This is a culture where
standing out is not valued. As an agrarian culture, Batswana know the
value of working together towards a common goal. They expect their
leaders to be strong and provide detailed instructions.
There are great differences between the old and the young as to what is
considered conformity. Young, urban Batswana (Generations X and Y)
want the accoutrements of success, while their parents are more
concerned with taking the time to sip tea leisurely and converse with
friends.
The Family
The basic unit of culture is the family, which includes both the nuclear and
the extended family or tribe. In traditional African cultures, the tribe is the
most important community, since it is the equivalent of a nation. The tribe
provides emotional and financial security.
http://kpmg.culturewizard.com/DesktopModules/RW3Modules/CP2014/PrintView.aspx... 8.2.2017.
Batswana consider their extended family to be almost as important as their

nuclear family. Although educational or work opportunities may force family
members to move from the village, Batswana still return to their "home"
whenever possible. As more people move into the urban areas, they
maintain familial ties and provide financial support to family members who
have remained in villages.
Communication
Although in the middle between direct and indirect communication styles,
Batswana generally maintain polite communication and avoid any form of
confrontation. Greetings are leisurely and include the words Sir (Rra) or
Madam (Mma).
In their attempt to be helpful and appear courteous, many Batswana have

difficulty giving a negative response. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask
open-ended questions.
Botswana has a high-context communication culture where people use

non-verbal language to enhance their spoken words. They expect others to
pay attention to their non-verbal cues and use them to interpret the true
meaning of their words. For the most part, Batswana are non-
confrontational and go out of their way to maintain harmonious
relationships. If there is a rule, they obey it, since to do otherwise would be
confrontational.
Impact of Generations
As a relatively young country, Batswana over the age of 45 have seen
massive changes within their lifetimes. Younger Batswana, who have
grown up in an independent country and have benefited educationally,
seek to live in urban areas and amass the accoutrements of success. Quite
often, their parents have remained in rural areas and maintain the lifestyle
of their ancestors.
Religion
Botswana is predominantly a Christian country. David Livingstone was a

pioneer in bringing the religion of Botswana to Christianity. As in much of
Africa, Christianity is interspersed with traditional beliefs.
Freedom of religion is enshrined in the Constitution and the various

religious groups coexist amicably. There is an interfaith council that
includes representatives of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Bahai.
Batswana are open to missionaries, in part because they often build

schools and health centers.
Religion in Batswana extols the virtues of treating people equally. It also

plays a pivotal role in unifying the people and developing harmonious
relationships.
Role of Women
The Constitution enshrines equality, although the traditional patriarchal

culture has historically viewed women as inferior to men and sees them as
homemakers rather than business professionals. In rural areas, these
prejudices override the government's attempt to foster equality.
The relatively young country has made tremendous strides towards gender
equality, seeing it as fundamental to the country's financial and economic
success as well as necessary to compete on an international level. Female
representation in decision-making positions has risen substantially,
although it remains relatively low compared to most Western countries.
The Womens Affairs Department (WAD) in the Ministry of Labor and

Home Affairs is Botswanas lead agency on gender equality. The
government is committed to redressing the gender imbalances of the past.
Women have attained senior roles in many government and public

enterprises, including Attorney General, Director of Public Prosecutions,
Governor of the Bank of Botswana, permanent secretaries, heads of
department and parastatals and ambassadors. In the business sector,
women are rising commensurate with their experience and expertise.
About 75% of women who move from rural to urban areas engage in small
business. About 95% of all female-owned companies involve
knitting/sewing, poultry, baking, or small-scale food processing. The
remaining companies owned by women have developed into larger-scale
operations. These success stories are paving the way for entrepreneurial
women.
About one-third of senior management roles are held by women according

to the 2014 Grant Thornton International Business Report.
View of Foreign Women

Foreign businesswomen are generally treated with respect. Older
Batswana businessmen may be somewhat chauvinistic; however, they will
also be exceedingly polite. Those who have worked for international
companies or NGOs are more interested in a woman's with qualifications
and credentials than her gender.
Tips for Businesswomen

Status is derived from position in this hierarchical culture. Businesswomen
are generally afforded respect.
Batswana are generally private people and do not discuss personal

matters in business. Therefore, it is a good idea to refrain from asking
personal questions or relaying too much information about yourself.
Although it is important to appear warm and friendly and develop strong
personal relationships, do not to appear overly friendly or casual. Business

relationships take time to develop.
Some older Batswana businessmen may think a woman should lower her
eyes when greeting them. Although this practice is slowly dying out, it is
probably a good idea to do so when meeting with government officials.
Establishing Credibility
Titles tell Batswana how to behave towards you and where to place you
relative to themselves -- and relative to the hierarchy. Without a title of
manager or above, they may assume that the businesswoman does not
have a position of authority. If you are a business traveler, you may wish to
invent a "business card title" to facilitate smoother working relationships.
It is a good idea to establish your credentials quickly. If this is not done by

the person making the introduction, forward a brief bio of yourself, including
your academic background and professional accomplishments. Even with
an introduction, a businesswoman may be asked questions about her
expertise from older Batswana businessmen. It is important not to appear
bothered by these questions since Batswana admire people who retain
their professional demeanor.
In many companies there remains a tendency to defer to the men on a

team. To avoid this, it is a good idea to arrange with your team to have
certain questions referred to you as the subject matter expert. If you are
part of a team, leading the business discussion, even if all team members
are equal. This visible taking charge enhances your credibility.
A woman should be authorized to make decisions. If she says she must

refer the decision to someone else, she loses credibility.
View of Foreigners
The view of foreigners often depends on their nationality. As a relatively

new country, Botswana has watched the effects of racism in both South
Africa and Zimbabwe. At the same time, they are sensitive to Africans from
neighboring countries who are willing to work for less. They can also be
concerned about other foreigners who they believe take jobs away from
their own people. Black South Africans are welcome in the country while
those from other African nations are considered more problematic.
Since 2013, the government has had a practice of deporting homosexuals

and prostitutes.
Although somewhat wary of foreigners' intentions, Batswana are generally

warm and hospitable, if initially a bit standoffish. If you behave in a polite
manner, you should have few difficulties.
Cross Culture Tips
The following cultural observations are based on the dimensions in the

ICAM169; Cultural Model. They are designed to help you work and
understand people from other cultural backgrounds.
Please keep in mind that not all people from any given culture act the
same, but in order to describe cultural traits, we had to make
generalizations, which may not apply in some cases. Perhaps the most
important tip we can provide is that when interacting across cultures, you
need to approach every situation with an understanding of the basic tenets
of a given culture and yet remain alert to the specific cultural signals you
receive in each situation and adjust your behavior and expectations
accordingly.
Hierarchical vs. Egalitarian

The defining characteristics of this dimension are:
How society is structured

How power is allocated or earned
Tolerance for social mobility
How organizations are structured and run
The amount of responsibility and control employees are given
Botswana is both an egalitarian and a hierarchical society, depending upon

the circumstances. When you interact with Batswana, the following tips will
help you:
People appreciate structure in manners, behavior and planning.

If you are on a global team or managing a corporate group or
household help, you will want to give clear, explicit directions
regarding responsibilities and decisions.
As a manager or employer, you will want to demonstrate a somewhat
authoritative leadership style unless the corporate culture you're
dealing with is different.
Be aware that people from different socio-economic backgrounds or
different levels of the organization may feel uneasy being invited to
the same social or business function.
Show the appropriate level of respect, through language and
behavior, to the more senior members of the organization.
Expect to encounter some bureaucracy in organizations and
government.
Formal vs. Informal

The importance of appearance and demeanor as an indicator of

status
The importance of protocol and etiquette

The appropriate use of titles, surnames and honorifics
The appropriateness of discussing personal matters at work
Appropriate ways of meeting people, building relationships and
entertaining
Botswana is an informal society. When you interact with Batswana, the

following tips will help you as you cross cultures:
Overt displays of wealth or status may be considered pretentious and

arrogant.
Recognize that lines may be blurred-lines between socio-economic
groups, lines between personal and professional lives and status in
the organizational hierarchy.
Appearance, demeanor, and lack of status symbols may be
deceiving. These external manifestations of status may be absent
and are often regarded as unnecessary and unwanted.
Talk in moderate tones and do not do anything to call attention to
yourself. People from Botswana strive to fit in at all times.
Group vs. Individual

The source of an individual's identity and loyalties

The relative importance of the individual versus the group
Whether legal systems will protect the rights of the individual or focus
on the group as a whole
Whether individuals prefer to work alone or be part of a group
Whether work teams operate as a seamless entity or as cooperating
individuals
The value of individual contributions vs. teamwork in accomplishing
and rewarding business goals
The roles and responsibilities of individuals to other family members
The appropriate levels of self-assertion and self-promotion within a
society
Botswana is a relatively group-oriented society. As you interact with

Batswana, it will be helpful to remember the following:
People value their role as a family or team member. They will often
identify themselves first as part of a group, then as an individual.
They may be uncomfortable if too much focus is placed on them
individually.
Individuals do not always feel comfortable taking sole credit for
accomplishments, even when credit is primarily due to them. Instead,
be sensitive to the role of the group, as well as the individual.
Promotions will be based on a mixture of group and individual
performance and achievement.
Individuals feel a strong sense of responsibility for family members.
Decision making may require a good deal of consensus building.
Interpersonal vs. Transactional Relationships

What constitutes a relationship

What are the expectations
Whether trust is deemed critical to building social or business
relationships
What takes precedence in making a business decision: the people
involved or other more objective business criteria
The pace and degree of formalized rituals in building new
relationships
The appropriateness of mixing business and pleasure, or
professional and personal lives
Botswana is a relatively interpersonal, relationship-oriented culture. When

you have business or social interactions with Batswana, you will want to
remember these points:
Relationship building is important and tends to be somewhat formal

and ritualized.
In general, relationship building takes time and attention. In return,
once developed, relationships are long lived.
Expect to be asked personal questions. This is how locals learn more
about you as a person so that they can be learn if the type of person
with whom they want a relationship.
In a business situation, personal relationships, trust and familiarity will
likely take precedence over price and perhaps even efficiency.
Employing or giving favorable treatment to family members and
friends may be good business, and what may be considered to be
"nepotism" in your culture may be openly accepted.
There are expectations that people have of relationship-based
behavior, which may include going out after work to socialize,
entertaining at ones home or even inviting someone for the weekend
and while these may be seen as casual in your culture, they carry an
underlying assumption of friendship.
Direct vs. Indirect

The relative importance of verbal vs. non-verbal communication

The degree of directness or subtlety in the language
The relative importance of contextual versus tactical information in
conveying a message
The need to maintain harmony and dignity when communicating
The degree to which a society uses conciseness and clarity versus
eloquent language when communicating
Botswana is a relatively indirect communication culture. The following tips

will give you clues about how you might handle communication with
Batswana colleagues:
Non-verbal gestures enhance the meaning of the spoken word.

Since the entire message is not contained in the words, people need
context and background information to confirm a shared
understanding.
Verbal eloquence is highly valued.
Take care when making introductions to have a respectful, even
deferential demeanor.
Show you are considering the subject thoroughly when a topic is
presented.
Fluid vs. Controlled Time

The degree to which people feel that they can control time
The relative importance of relationships vs. schedules
Attitudes towards timekeeping and punctuality
Comfort level with short range vs. longer term planning
The feasibility / appropriateness of assigning set times for social
functions or business meetings to start and finish
Botswana is a moderately Fluid Time culture. The following tips will give
you clues about how you may best interact with Batswana colleagues:
Be accepting of the fact that people do not feel a sense of urgency for
promptness, but they understand the need for deadlines and
schedules.
Since people have respect for schedules, it is often valuable to seek
concurrence from team members when establishing deadlines.
Plans are often fluid, changing frequently and often at the last minute.
Fluid Time cultures often strive for balance in professional and
personal lives. They may not share the same sense of urgency or
ambition about completing business projects, sourcing new business,
or personal career advancement.
It may be rude to interrupt a colleague who is taking a long time to
deliver a message, and brevity to maintain time schedules is not
considered a virtue.
Balance vs. Status

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

How status and success are defined by a society
The presence or absence of government-sponsored initiatives
relating to family welfare benefits
The source of an individual's identity and self-esteem
Tolerance for blurring the lines between professional and personal
lives
Botswana is a moderately Status-Motivation culture. When interacting with

Batswana, you should remember the following tips:
Personal identity, status and sense of personal accomplishment are

often derived from family, education and pursuits outside of the
workplace.
Employees may see a distinction between work time and personal
time although they may also blur those lines with friends and family.
Obligations to family and close friends are often viewed as important
as professional responsibilities.
People can gain status and respect by workplace accomplishments.
Social occasions may be used to achieve business objectives.
Younger workers may expect to be measured on their own
achievements.
External vs. Internal

The degree to which people feel they control their environment and
destiny-or the degree to which they feel their environment and
destiny control them
Openness to change and innovation
The preference for rules and structure
Willingness to take risks
The degree to which organizational practices encourage and reward
initiative and risk taking, and allow failure
Botswana is a moderately External Control society. When interacting with

Batswana, you should remember the following tips:
People in these societies believe they have limited control over their
destiny or environment.
Although change may be viewed in a positive light, people from
Botswana may be reluctant to adopt new products or systems without
a great deal of research.
Employees expect managers to be strong leaders who care for their
staff and take a personal interest in their lives.
When delegating work to employees, it is a good idea to make
periodic checks on progress.
Risk tolerance is often a matter of position, with risk tolerance limited
to those in decision making positions.
Country Overview
The People
Botswana is comprised of several ethnic groups, the largest of which is the

Tswana. Tswana ethnic dominance is derived from the eight Tswana
states that ruled most of the area in the 19th century. Under British colonial
rule, the populations of these states were given the official status of tribes.
Nationality:
Noun: Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Adjective: Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Population:
2,209,208
Note: estimates for this country explicitly take into account the effects of
excess mortality due to AIDS; this can result in lower life expectancy,
higher infant mortality, higher death rates, lower population growth rates,
and changes in the distribution of population by age and sex than would
otherwise be expected (July 2016 est.)
Population growth rate:

1.26% (2014 est.)
Ethnic groups:
Tswana (or Setswana) 79%, Kalanga 11%, Basarwa 3%, other, including
Kgalagadi and white 7%
Religions:
Christian 79.1%, Badimo 4.1%, other 1.4% (includes Baha'i, Hindu,
Muslim, Rastafarian), none 15.2%, unspecified 0.3% (2011 est.)
Languages:
Setswana 77.3%, Sekalanga 7.4%, Shekgalagadi 3.4%, English (official)
2.8%, Zezuru/Shona 2%, Sesarwa 1.7%, Sembukushu 1.6%, Ndebele 1%,
other 2.8% (2011 est.)
Source: The World Factbook
Cities & Regions
Botswana is a landlocked country in Africa that straddles the Tropic of

Capricorn. It is bordered by Zimbabwe on the northeast, South Africa on
and south and southeast, And Namibia on the west and north. Nearly 80%
of the country is comprised of the Kalahari Desert, which is not really a
desert, whose red sands have vegetation and an abundance of mineral
deposits.
Gaborone has been the capital since independence. It was built in the
1960s, and the specific site was chosen because it did not favor any one
ethnic group and was near the railway line. The city itself is designed in
concentric circles, much like a traditional village. As the city has grown,
there are several centers, each with circles encircling them.
The government area includes ministries, the National Assembly, and the
House of Chiefs. The capital city is also home to the University of
Botswana, and the National Museum. It is a thriving metropolis.
Government
Country name:
Conventional long form: Republic of Botswana

Conventional short form: Botswana
Local long form: Republic of Botswana
Local short form: Botswana
Former: Bechuanaland
Government type:
Parliamentary republic
Capital:
Gaborone
Independence:
30 September 1966 (from the UK)
Legal system:
Mixed legal system of civil law influenced by the Roman-Dutch model and
also customary and common law
More Government Information
Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members in Botswana

https://www.cia.gov
An online directory of leaders updated weekly by the Central Intelligence
Agency.
Background Note: Botswana

http://www.state.gov
An overview of government and political conditions published by the U.S.
Department of State.
Links to Government Web Sites

http://www.gksoft.com
A comprehensive directory of Batswana government Web sites.
Economy
Currency:
Pula (BWP)
Economy - overview:
Botswana has maintained one of the world's highest economic growth

rates since independence in 1966. Diamond mining has fueled much of the
expansion and currently accounts for one quarter of GDP, approximately
85% of export earnings, and about one-third of the government's revenues.
Tourism is the secondary earner of foreign exchange and many Batswana
engage in subsistence farming and cattle raising. Through fiscal discipline
and sound management, Botswana transformed itself from one of the
poorest countries in the world to a middle-income country with a per capita
GDP of $17,700 in 2015. Two major investment services rank Botswana as
the best credit risk in Africa.
Botswana's economy is highly correlated with global economic trends

because of its heavy reliance on a single luxury export. According to official
government statistics, unemployment is 19.5%, but unofficial estimates run
much higher. De Beers, a major international diamond company, signed a
10-year deal with Botswana in 2012 and moved its rough stone sorting and
trading division from London to Gaborone in 2013. The move was geared
to support the development of Botswana's nascent downstream diamond
industry.
Following the 2008 global recession Botswanas economy recovered in

2010. However, the Government of Botswana estimates the economy grew
by only 1% in 2015. This was primarily due to the downturn in the global
diamond market; water and power shortages also played a role. In October
2015 President Ian KHAMA announced a stimulus plan to boost the
economy through projects in agricultural production, construction,
manufacturing, and tourism development. In 2016, Botswana entered its
fourth year of drought, detrimental to Botswanas small, but vital agriculture
sector.
The prevalence of HIV/AIDS is second highest in the world and threatens

the country's impressive economic gains
Industries:
Diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver;
livestock processing; textiles
More Economic Information
Central Statistics Office
http://www.cso.gov.bw
Information maintained by the Central Statistics Office.
Geography & Climate
Location:
Southern Africa, north of South Africa
Area:
Total: 581,730 sq km
Land: 566,730 sq km
Water: 15,000 sq km
Land boundaries:
Total: 4,347.15 km
Border Countries: Namibia 1,544 km, South Africa 1,969 km, Zambia 0.15
km, Zimbabwe 834 km
Coastline:
0 km (landlocked)
Climate:
Semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
Terrain:
Predominantly flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest
Elevation extremes:
Lowest point: Junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
Highest point: Tsodilo Hills 1,489 m
Natural hazards:
Periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying
sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
Environment - current issues:

Overgrazing; desertification; limited fresh water resources
Geography - note:
Landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country
History Overview
The original inhabitants of Botswana were the Bushmen.
Farming people came into the area in the 5th century BC.
The Tswana came into the country during the 1st and 2nd centuries
BC.
European missionaries arrived in the 1800s.
To prevent Boer encroachment on the area, Reverend John
Mackenzie asked the British to occupy the area. Reverend John
Smith Moffat left the missionaries to take up a government post, later
helping create Bechuanaland Protectorate.
In 1836, the Africaners began the Great Trek from South Africa into
other regions on the continent. They forced many of the ethnic people
to move westward.
The Batswana seized the lands of the Bakhalagari people
commencing in 1842, making them into domestic servants.
The Boers attacked Botswana in 1852. The Batswana retaliated and
burned Boer homes.
By 1870, shortage of land in South Africa drove Boers into Botswana.
The missionaries petitioned the British government to intervene.
Reverend John Mackenzie declared a protectorate of the land around
the Molopo River in 1884. In 1885, the UK put Bechuanaland under
its protection.
In 1904, the UK assured inhabitants of the Bechuanaland
Protectorate, Basuotoland (Lesotho), and Swaziland that they would
not be included in the proposed Union of South Africa.
In 1920, the UK established two advisory councils representing
Africans and Europeans.
Copper mines were established in 1959.
In June 1964, the UK accepted proposals for democratic self-
government in Botswana. The seat of government was moved from
Mafikeng, in South Africa, to Gaborone in 1965. Seretse Khama, a
leader in the independence movement and the a descendent of the
traditional rule of the Bamangwato, was elected the first president, re-
elected twice, and died in office in 1980.
In 1967, diamonds were discovered at Orapa.
The UN demanded an end of Rhodesian hostilities on the Botswana
border in 1977.
Botswana became a founding member of the Southern African
Development Coordination Conference in 1980.
With the death of president Seretse Khama in 1980, vice president
Quett Masire was made president. He was re-elected in 1984, 1989
and 1994.
In 1995, the government began relocating bushmen to settlements
outside Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
The Kalahari bushmen took the government to court over the 2004
forced eviction from their land. They eventually won their battle in
2006.
Given falling diamond prices, the government cut production 50% in
April 2009. Production was increased in November, leading to an
economic recovery.
Government workers staged a two-month strike over wages in April
2011.
The government banned commercial wildlife hunting, commencing in
2014, because of a decline in animal populations.
Country Information
Embassies
Public Holidays
Social Etiquette
Meeting People
The most common greeting in Botswana is the handshake; however, the

one Batswana use is somewhat more extended than the traditional one
used in other countries. Take the person's right hand, shake once, then link
your thumbs and raise your hand until your arms make a tight angle.
Maintain the grasp on the other person's thumb and the top of their hand.
Then, quickly relax and drop your hand into a typical shaking hands
gesture, keeping the thumbs linked.
Greetings are accompanied by polite inquiries into the health and well-
being of the person and their family. Rushing a greeting by not engaging in
social pleasantries is extremely rude.
Close friends may hug and kiss in greeting. There are no prohibitions about
men and women greeting each other, although women should wait for the
man to initiate the handshake.
It is polite to address men who are senior to yourself in age or position as

Rra and women as Mma.
Gift Giving
In general, older Batswana do not celebrate their birthdays, although those

under the age of 35 may. Some ethnic groups celebrate the 21st and 40th
birthdays with a party. If so, a small gift is expected. You may give
something larger if the gift is from several people.
Here are some general gift giving guidelines (but also check to be sure
they are permitted under company policy):
If you are invited to a Motswana home, bring flowers, good quality

chocolates, or pasties to the hostess.
Unless you know the host drinks, it is best not to give alcoholic
beverages.
A small gift for the children is appreciated.
Wrapping a gift nicely shows extra effort.
If someone accepts a gift with both hands, they are saying thank you.
Verbal thanks is seldom given.
It is a matter of personal preference as to whether a gift is opened
when received.
Gifts are given with both hands or the right hand supported by the left
hand at the elbow.
Entertaining
How Batswana Entertain

With the exception of parties, Batswana do not generally invite others to
their home, although they are happy to entertain anyone who arrives
unannounced.
If you are invited to a Motswana house:
Arrive on time. Punctuality is appreciated.

Contact the hostess in advance to see if she would like you to bring a
dish.
Wear casual, but good clothes. Even if they are the latest style, do
not wear torn or tattered clothing.
Women should cover their thighs. As in much of Africa, the thighs are
an erogenous zone.
Expect to be immediately offered tea, which is the sign of hospitality.
Do not ask for a tour of the house. You will only be shown the public
areas.
A thank you note is not expected, but a telephone call the next day to
thank the hosts for their hospitality is a nice gesture.
Table Manners
Batswana have casual table manners. However, the more formal the
occasion, the stricter the protocol. When in doubt, watch what others are
doing and emulate their behavior.
Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and
the knife in the right while eating.
Keep your hands visible when eating.
Keep your wrists resting on the edge of the table.
Dining Out
Many restaurants include a service charge. If so, you may leave a tip to
reward exemplary service. If there is not a service charge, a tip of 10% is
given for good service. Most Batswana do not tip, but it is expected that
foreigners will.
Tipping
The following tipping hints are guidelines. You can find more explicit
information on restaurant tipping in the Dining Out section above.
Restaurants: 5-10% if no service charge

Porters: Loose change
Taxis: Round up
Approach to Time
Compared to most Africans, Batswana respect time, although they are not
slaves to their watches. In business they strive to arrive punctually and
meetings generally begin close to the appointed time. However, there is a
leisurely approach to life. Most Batswana believe there is sufficient time
that they can extend protracted greetings and take morning and afternoon
tea breaks.
In rural areas, time is centered on agriculture.
Conversation Topics
Batswana are excellent conversationalists, who enjoy conversing with

friends and family over a cup of tea. Good topics of conversation include
sports, especially soccer, your travels, things you have seen and enjoyed
in Botswana. There are few taboo subjects, although it is probably best not
to discuss religion or the country's history.
There is a strong sense of propriety in conversation. It is rude to swear or

tell sex-related jokes if there are women present.
Many Batswana stand close to a person of the same gender when

conversing. Even if you feel your space bubble has been invaded, try not to
back up.
Other Situations
Elders are respected and revered in Botswana. The following behaviors

are common:
Remove your hat or cap when speaking to an elder.

Offer your seat to an elder if there is not a vacant one.
Do not make direct eye contact with an elder unless you have a
personal relationship.
The invitation to stop by at anytime is meant. Batswana seldom extend

formal invitations, they expect people to drop by in the late afternoon or
early evening when it is cooler and everyone can sit outside. There is no
need to telephone in advance. Visiting friends is part of the culture.
Expect to queue often. Although most Batswana respect the line, there are
occasions when someone will cut in front of you. It is best to smile and not
make an issue of it. The Batswana believe that the person must have a
good reason for their breach of etiquette.
Although more common in rural areas, it is polite for women to keep their
thighs covered. As in many African countries, a woman's thighs are an
erogenous zone. Young Batswana in urban areas may wear tight pants or
short skirts, but it is more polite not to do so.
It is extremely rude not to greet Batswana when passing them on the

street.
Reading in public is rude.
Faux Pas
Keep in mind the following behaviors while in Botswana:
Ask permission before taking someone's photograph.

Look elders in the eye when greeting them or speaking with them.
Avoid public displays of anger.
Avoid public displays of affection in rural areas.
Do not point a finger at a person; this gesture is associated with
animals.
Do not hold your middle finger erect or waving a pointed index finger.
Both are very rude.
Communication
Communication Essentials
Most Batswana can speak several languages, including English. Even so,
since they learn British/South African English, they may not be aware of
the latest clichs and idioms.
Communication is generally polite. Greetings are leisurely and not as

rushed as in many Western countries. It is vital to append the words Sir
(Rra) or Madam (Mma) to the greeting. If you are rude to someone, they
may not do business with you.
In their attempt to be helpful and appear courteous, many Batswana have

difficulty giving a negative response. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask
open-ended questions.
Eye contact is crucial when conversing. If you do not make eye contact, the
Motswana may think you are avoiding them, which is an insult. However,
the rules change when speaking with elders, where it is polite to lower your
eyes as a sign of respect.
Botswana has a high-context communication culture where people use

non-verbal language to enhance their spoken words. They expect others to
pay attention to their non-verbal cues and use them to interpret the true
meaning of their words.
Although personal relationships make business run, personal sentiments

are not considered a sound basis for making decisions. When presenting
material, it is better to say "I think" rather than "I feel". Decisions are made
from facts and figures.
Key Words/Phrases:
The official language of Botswana is English. However, a large portion of
the population is more comfortable speaking a native language. The
largest population - 79% - speaks Sotswana, also called Setswana or
Tswana.
Yes: Ee
No: Nnyaa
Hello: Dumala
Goodnight: Boroko
Goodbye: Go siame
Please: Tsweetswee
Thank you: Ke itumetse (informal)
Thank you: Ke a leboga (formal)
How are you?: O kae? (informal)
How are you?: O tsogile jang? (formal)
I am fine: Ke tsogile sentle.
Spoken Key Phrases

http://www.omniglot.com
The Sotswana alphabet, pronunciation guide and links to more information.
Language Related Videos

http://www.youtube.com
A video featuring several spoken Sotswana words and phrases.
Using Translators
Take care in selecting a translator and develop an early understanding of
what you expect--specifically, the translation must be exact, rather than
what the translator thinks each party wants to hear.
To be on the safe side you may want to meet with the translator prior to
your appointments so that the person learns your accent and can be
exposed to any technical or non-familiar terms that may be used.
Developing a thorough relationship with your translator enables them to
argue your points with a level of confidence they might not otherwise have.
Have your translator explain to you the most elementary of basic
courtesies.
Non-Verbal Language
Batswana do not require as much personal space as do people from most

Western countries. The amount of space is greater when speaking across
the gender line, but decreases markedly when speaking with someone of
the same sex. If you back up to create a larger space bubble, you may
insult the Batswana.
Batswana frequently touch others on the arm when speaking to them.
It is impolite to walk between two people who are conversing.
Mail & Telephone
Letters/Email
Letters are used for formal communications. Letters may be addressed
using a person's honorific title and surname or their honorific title and
professional title.
Letters and emails should be warm and friendly, building upon the personal
relationship. There should be a brief personal comment before moving into
the business purpose of the communication.
If you write to introduce your company, it is a good idea to stress the

benefits of your products or services.
Telephone
Phone calls and emails are used for routine communication. A brief period
of general conversation about sports, family, or current events, less than
one minute, is sufficient before bringing the conversation to the business
topic.
It is important to be polite and append the appropriate term Rra or Mma for
Sir or Madam at the end of the greeting.
Presentations
Handouts
Handouts should be available in English, which is the general

language of business.
A brief written summary of the main points and the agenda should be
provided at the start of the presentation.
Handouts with additional details, background data, or charts and data
to substantiate what is presented should be given at the end of the
presentation.
Very technical data should be available is Setswana and English.
Presentation Slides/Power Point
Presentation materials should be spell-checked for British spelling.

Keep A/V slides simple and easy to read.
To emphasize a point, intersperse charts and graphs with written
material.
Use diagrams and pictures when possible rather than words.
Slides should be an outline; not the presentation.
Audience
Some may arrive late.

You may ask the audience to turn off their mobile phones. Most will
comply.
Presenter
Introduce yourself to each participant as they enter the room and

make a modicum of small talk.
Make eye contact with your audience; do not focus entirely on one
member.
Avoid using hyperbole, exaggeration or self-promotion.
Use proper grammar, pronouncing words clearly and distinctly.
Strive not to sound arrogant or pompous.
Minimize slang, jargon, and idiomatic expressions.
Double negatives, while understood, are considered poor grammar

and should be avoided.
The presentation style does not need to be overly formal, but it
should not be too familiar.
Speak in a straightforward manner. Use common sense arguments.
An eloquent yet concise speaking style is preferred.
Moderate expressive hand gestures if possible.
Opening the Presentation
Welcome the audience.

Introduce yourself.
Opening with a joke or humorous story at the start can facilitate
developing rapport with the audience.
Begin with an overview or agenda.
Begin with the business advantage of what you are about to discuss
and a big picture overview.
Body of the Presentation
Presentations should be well-organized, succinct and to the point.

Presentations should incorporate a combination of analysis, opinion,
and interesting facts.
When presenting a new concept, provide some historical context.
Provide supporting documentation including facts and figures.
Demonstrate how your idea has worked in the past.
Emphasize details and explain the practical implications of your
information.
Include case studies and testimonials.
Incorporate a combination of analysis, opinion, and facts.
Examples and illustrations should be drawn from local companies.
Closing the Presentation
You may present a summary at the end of the presentation or

discuss the next steps.
End with something for the audience to think about or consider.
Thank the audience.
Leave time for a Q&A session at the end of your presentation.
Date/Time
Date
In Botswana, dates are generally written in the day, month and year format
with a period between each number. If the day or month is less than 10,
including leading zeroes is optional. The year may be written in two- or
four-digits. Example: July 9, 2011 could be written 9.7.11 or 09.07.2011.
To ensure there is no confusion, you may want to spell out the name of the
month. This leaves no ambiguity as to what is the day and what is the
month.
Time
The 24-hour clock is a timekeeping convention where the time of a day is
the number of hours since midnight. The 12-hour clock divides the day into
two periods (midnight to noon and noon to midnight), each with 12 hours.
Thus, 2 o'clock in the afternoon would be 14:00 in the 24-hour clock.
Batswana generally communicate in writing using the 24-hour clock,

although they may use the 12-hour clock when speaking.
Business Protocol
Meeting & Greeting
Shake hands with everyone upon arriving and upon leaving.

Handshakes tend to lengthy. Read the Social Etiquette section
Meeting People for a description of the Batswana handshake.
Maintain eye contact while shaking hands, unless you are meeting
someone who is older than you in age or position, in which case you
should lower your eyes.
Greetings are somewhat lengthy and include discussions about the
other person's health and family.
Although not required, learning the greetings in Swetsana gives the
impression that you are interested in a long-term relationship. When
doing so, use "Rra" for sir and "Mma" for Madam.
Address people by their honorific title and their surname. Academic
or political titles may be used by some Batswana. Honorific titles may
be used in English.
Most people quickly move to a first-name basis, although it is
considered good manners to wait for your colleagues to suggest
moving to this level of intimacy.
Business Cards
Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual.

Present your card so it is readable to the recipient.
Glance at the card before putting it in a business card case.
Business Attire
The way a businessperson dresses conveys their professional image and

their respect for the people with whom they conduct business. As such,
what we report is the conservative approach to business attire for a
country. Appropriate attire varies within countries based on location, event,
and individual organization culture. Some industries and companies may
have less stringent requirements. Before embarking on an international
trip, it is generally a good idea to check with the local office to determine
what the appropriate dress code is in a specific location.
Business attire is conservative. It is important to dress well since this

denotes status.
In smaller companies, it may be possible to wear more casual
clothing, but it is best to err on the side of conservatism for the initial
meeting.
Men should wear lightweight, conservative business suits.
Women should wear elegant business suits or dresses.
Shoes should be highly polished.
Ensure that your accoutrements are of good quality and in good
repair.
Gifts
Here are some general gift giving guidelines (but also check to be sure
they comply with company policy):
Business gifts are not part of the business culture.

You may give something after the relationship has been developed.
Appropriate gifts include desk accessories or good quality pens.
Something with your company logo is acceptable.
Gifts should be nicely wrapped.
Business Entertaining
Business lunches are more common than business dinners.

Wait for the Batswana to initiate business discussions. Many prefer to
use this time to further the personal relationship.
The person who extends the invitation usually pays.

It is good manners to reciprocate hospitality, if time permits.
Business Hours
Offices: 7:30/8:00am4:30/5:00pm Monday to Friday

Government: 7:30am4:30pm Monday to Friday
Shops: 8:00am6:00pm Monday to Friday; 8:30am1:00pm
Saturday
Banks: 9:00am3:30pm Monday to Friday; varies by region on
Saturday
Business Meetings
Meeting Essentials
Structure: Batswana are comfortable working from an agenda.

Role of Leader: The leader agrees to the agenda, calls the meeting to
order, sets the pace, determines the next steps, and adjourns the
meeting.
Purpose: Meetings may be held to relay information, to build
consensus, to discuss a new project, or to exchange ideas.
Who attends: Various levels and key stakeholders attend.
Who participates/speaks: Key stakeholders may speak and even
disagree as long as it is done diplomatically. The general tone of
participants is respectful towards the leader.
The first meeting is often used to get to know each other and develop a
sense of trust rather than to conduct business. If meeting with a company
for the fist time, forward detailed information about your company, the
people who will be attending, and brief business biographies of each
participant. You can provide additional context by including references and
case studies.
It is common to serve guests tea. This offer should be accepted, since

doing so allows the Batswana to demonstrate their hospitality and creates
a more relaxed atmosphere.
Social conversation is an important facet of meetings. Since Batswana

prefer to know and like the people they conduct business with, they engage
in a great deal of leisurely getting-to-know-you conversation. Initiating a
discussion about your positive impressions of the country will endear you
to them.
As you would expect in a hierarchical culture, introductions are generally

done in order of seniority. If you come with a team, it is a good idea to
enter the room in rank order, with the most important person leading the
group.
Meeting styles may vary depending upon the type of company. Large
companies tend to follow Western business practices of starting and
ending meetings on time, working from an agenda, and not allowing
interruptions. Smaller companies may not have a set ending time for the
meeting, may not have an agenda, and the meeting may be interrupted.
In deference to their hierarchical style, age is respected and older people

are considered to be wise and knowledgeable. Therefore, it is a good idea
to include someone on your team who is older and can be viewed as an
authority.
Scheduling Meetings
Appointments are necessary and should generally be made several weeks

in advance, although it may be possible to do so with less notice. It is a
good idea to confirm the meeting a few days in advance. When meeting
with government officials, it is important to provide a great deal of lead
time.
It is often difficult to schedule meetings from mid December to mid January

or the two weeks surrounding Easter.
In business, punctuality is appreciated. Government officials may or may

not arrive on time, depending upon their personal preferences.
Agendas
If you want to work from an agenda, it is a good idea to forward it in

advance so that your Batswana colleagues are prepared for the
discussion.
Agendas are followed, although not necessarily in a linear fashion.
By the end of the meeting, the pertinent points have generally been
discussed.
If one topic leads to another, the conversation may veer off target, but
will ultimately return.
Wait for the most senior Batswana to refocus the discussion.
Conducting Meetings
Batswana tend to be friendly and courteous. They respect position and

status. Their communication style tends to be indirect, especially when
speaking with foreigners.
For the most part, Batswana prefer to maintain harmonious working

relationships, so they avoid confrontation. They may use metaphors or
proverbs to demonstrate a point.
It is imperative that you remain polite when dealing with Batswana. The
business community is relatively small and any indiscretion on your part
will quickly become public knowledge.
Batswana do not require a great deal of personal space when conversing.

They may move even closer when they become engrossed in a discussion.
Management Styles
Relationships
Although Batswana do not need long-standing personal relationships

before conducting business, they prefer to do business with people they
trust. Although not absolutely necessary, a letter of introduction can
facilitate making appointments. The Chamber of Commerce, the Botswana
Embassy in your country or your embassy in Botswana can usually help
you find someone to take on this task.
Networking and relationship building are crucial for long-term business

success. The business community is relatively small, so any transgression
on your part will quickly become public knowledge.
Network and spend time getting to know your Batswana colleagues. This
gives them the opportunity to understand your character, which will foster
trust in you as a business partner. Relationships are built in the office,
especially over tea which is often served mid-morning and mid-afternoon.
Although they can appear somewhat casual, Batswana expect proper

behavior and good manners. Their greetings tend to be rather lengthy and
include social discussions about their families or sports. Do not rush
through the greeting process. Spending time to greet associates in this
leisurely fashion is an investment, since it develops a personal relationship.
Your word will be treated as your bond. Therefore, do not agree to

something unless you have the authority, since failure to follow through
leads to long-term loss of confidence.
Management Essentials
If you were to think about the most important cultural attributes that you will
see operating in business in Botswana Africa, they would be:
Informality
Interpersonal relationships
Consensus building
Individual achievement
It is important to devote time to developing personal relationships and

getting to know your Batswana colleagues. Politeness counts in all things.
This includes appending the Rra or Mma, for Sir or Madam respectively, at
the end of greetings. Consider the time spent in leisurely getting-to-know-
you conversation as an investment in successful business.
Batswana have a somewhat indirect communication style where they are

concerned about both the content of their message as with how it is
received. They can be assertive if they feel passionate about a topic.
Generally, however, they are extremely careful when communicating
something that would hurt or offend.
While it is fine to show healthy self-confidence and pride in your company's

products or services, it is best to do so in an understated manner.
As in other hierarchical societies, managers may take a somewhat

paternalistic attitude to their employees. They often demonstrate a concern
for employees that goes beyond the workplace and strictly professional
concerns. This may include involvement in their family, housing, health,
and other practical life issues.
Risk Tolerance
Like many African countries, the tolerance for risk and change varies by
the level of the person involved. Lower level employees, who have little
power, also have limited tolerance for risk. Higher level employees can
take greater risks; however, they may only do so after considerable
thought, planning and evaluation.
It is important for innovations to have a track record or history noting the

benefits if they are to be accepted and implemented.
The fear of appearing foolish may lead to the need to thoroughly examine
every implication before reaching a decision. In other cases, decisions may
be made rapidly. It is often a matter of person preference of the person
involved.
Schedules & Deadlines
The view of schedules and deadlines varies by company. Some have a

controlled-time culture where adherence to schedules is important and
expected. Others have a more fluid approach to time. If it is important that
a deadline be met, stress how failing to do so could impact the rest of the
organization.
If you leave the country, stay in touch with your Batswana colleagues and
gently follow-up on the status of the project. It is generally a good idea to
institute milestones so that you know if a project veers off target.
Decision Making
Company Structure
Business is dominated by the government. Many companies, outside the
mining industry, are small.
Managing Employees
Employees prefer managers who provide clear targets and instructions and
are also paternalistic. They expect their manager to offer advice and
guidance about both business and personal matters. As such, managers
often know a great deal more about their subordinates' private lives than in
many countries.
When employees must be counseled for poor performance, it is done

privately. Praise for a job well done may be given in private or public.
Employees strive to be recognized. Therefore, it is important for the
manager to greet each employee daily. Seemingly a little thing, a daily
greeting can lead to greater harmonious working relationships.
Since managers are viewed as parental figures, they are expected to take
an interest in everything about their subordinates' lives, not just their

business side.
Decision Making
Batswana strive for harmonious working relationships. When possible,
decisions are reached after arriving at a consensus among their
stakeholders.
Batswana companies tend to be hierarchical, with decision making taking

place at the top of the company in small companies. In larger companies,
decision making may be delegated to key stakeholders.
Team Focus
Batswana enjoy working collaboratively with others to achieve a goal.
Since this is a hierarchical culture, it is important that the team leader have
a position that commands respect. The leader is then responsible for
explaining the goal to the entire team and ensuring that each member
understands their role. The leader should then harness the talent of the
group and develop synergies. The leader will be deferred to as the final
authority in decision making, but they do not dominate the discussion.
Negotiations
Batswana respect age and experience. If possible, include an older man on

your team. This shows respect for the culture and a keen interest to
complete the deal.
Batswana expect to develop a strong relationship with those with whom

they negotiate. Changing a member of the negotiating team may stall the
negotiations since the new person will have to build new relationships.
Batswana avoid confrontation. Rather than give a negative response, they

may offer an ambiguous response such as "I'm not sure," "we will think
about it," or "this will require further investigation." Some may even ignore
your question. Extended silences generally indicate a negative response.
Avoid hard sell techniques, which are disliked. Show emotion about your
product or service. Do not show anger. It is important to control your
temper while negotiating since emotional control is a sign of good
character.
Concessions are generally made begrudgingly. They are a last resort when
nothing else has led to the desired outcome. If negotiating with a large
company, be prepared to make concessions at the end of the process,
when the ultimate decision maker is involved.
When negotiating with a large company, remember that the final decision
maker may not be in the initial meetings. This allows your Batswana
counterparts to use the top executive as a bargaining tool. Since that
person did not actively partake in the negotiations, they will use him to
make concessions later, if necessary. Of course, this does not mean one
should not negotiate with the original company representatives. Being
aware of this tactic will allow you to be better prepared for concessions.
If you walk out of the negotiation table because you can not reach an
agreement, it will be known by others. Remember that everyone knows
everyone in Botswana. You can walk away from a negotiation, but only
after extensive attempts to come to an agreement. When and if the
differences are just too great, you can diplomatically excuse yourself from
discussions.
It may be a good tactic to inform your counterparts that you must call
headquarters for confirmation, but they will expect that your word is your
bond. Consequently, never make promises you cannot keep. You will be
called on them.
In the case of an impasse, you can leave the task of negotiation to one
side and turn toward relationship-building once again. Also, try to show
Batswana the concept of the win-win situation. If you can present this
graphically in a very basic way, even using a diagram to demonstrate how
everyone gets a lot by giving up a little, you can break the impasse.
Moving There
Advice and Tips for Moving
Customs Regulations
Entry Requirements
Getting Around
Getting There
Safety & Security
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Telephone Numbers

To reach emergency services from a local phone, dial 997 or 911.
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Telephone Numbers

To reach emergency services from a local phone, dial 997 or 911.
Safety Precautions
Today, we think of political situations as causing safety concerns, but

ordinary crime, weather and geographic problems also pose risks. The
wise traveler is cautious about hurricanes and earthquakes along with hotel
fires, pickpockets and spontaneous political demonstrations. Terrorist
attacks and kidnappings have simply brought all security concerns to our
awareness. With the exception of the emergency telephone numbers, this
information is compiled for travelers in general and will apply in varying
degrees to your destination and personal situation.
Before You Go
Take time to get all of your financial and personal records in order,
including preparing a will.
Talk with a trusted family member or friend about what types of
emergencies might arise in your absence, and what to do in those
events.
Think about the small (and large) disasters that could occur at home
during your absence and be sure there is someone prepared to assist
you.
Make copies of all of your travel documents (including detailed

itinerary with contact numbers) and be sure two people have easy
access to them.
Do the same with crucial health documentation.
Be sure someone knows where you will be and how to contact you in
emergencies at all times.
Find out the services your company offers to you in case of
emergency; obtain and make several copies of important emergency
company contact numbers to keep and give to all members of your
family who might need them.
Be sure you have enough of your prescription medication so you are
all right if you cannot get a refill right away; take an extra pair of
glasses if you wear them.
In-Country
So many variables go into being safe, and many of them revolve around
understanding the specifics of where you are. Be sure to learn details of
your location -- how to dress, where you can go and where to avoid, how to
act in public, how to carry yourself, and who to be watchful of.
Seek information from cultural experts and local nationals whom you have
confidence in. When in comes to your safety, dont be afraid to ask.
Hotel Safety
Know how to call for help AND what to say.

Do not display your guest room key unnecessarily.
Lock your door and do not answer it until you feel comfortable that
you know who it is.
Dont let strangers into your room.
Use the room safe or hotel safe deposit box.
Hide personal documents, valuables and other important items.
(Remember to safeguard your passport.)
Read the fire safety information and know what you would do if you
need to evacuate. Know exactly where the nearest fire exits are.
In the event that you might need to leave your room quickly, keep
your room key, your glasses (if necessary), a pair of shoes and some
money by your bedside.
Travel with a flashlight.
Women traveling alone will have different issues depending upon the
mors of the society youre visiting.
As a rule, be extremely cautious and circumspect.
Find out all the gender-based restrictions and abide by them.
Use a hotel known for its security and be sure that whatever
type of transportation you use, it is reliable and safe.
Ask hotel concierge or front desk manager to assist you
whenever you have questions about your safety. (They will also
arrange for you to have help, if you wish walking you to your
room very late at night or escorting you from a parking lot to the
hotel lobby).
The following websites offer specific advice for women:
Travel Tips for Women

Best Women's Travel Tips
Her Own Way: A Woman's Safe Travel Tips
Tips for Solo Women Travelers Women Travelers
Travel Tips
Crowded Situations
When youre in crowded places, be very careful to guard your

property at all times.
Carry as few valuable items with you as possible when you know
youre going to a crowded area. For example, expensive cameras,
PDAs and cash are easy targets.
Watch out for pickpockets who will try to distract you in many different
ways while taking your money. Even groups of children can be
working together to divert your attention while one will steal your
money.
Safety in Your New Home City
Learn about your host country and culture. This is not only wise for
business and social purposes, but is extremely important so you can
understand what may be offensive or negligent behavior.
The more you know about your location, the safer youll be; certainly
understand written and unwritten laws and codes of conduct.
Use your Embassy. These people are here to help you.
Embassies Around the World
Even if you are living in a relatively safe country, always be sure that
close family or friends have accurate contact information so they can
find you quickly.
For helpful information: Helpful Tips
If you are living in a high-risk location, your company should have
guidelines for your safety. Be sure you have 24-hour hotline numbers
and appropriate contacts who can assist you.
No matter where you livehigh risk or low risk countriestodays
world is volatile, and you never know when a potentially dangerous
situation can develop. Keep informednot only with your countrys
published data and warnings, but by identifying sources of local
news, reading local papers and telling your local friends to keep you
informed.
Emergencies
In an emergency that requires help by your government, such as a

lost passport or the need for money because yours has been stolen,
contact: Embassies Around the World
Make sure you know the name of the firm your company has selected
for medical emergencies and evacuation services. International SOS
provides emergency medical and evacuation services for individuals
and companies. You might want to contact: International SOS to see
if you qualify for some of their services.
Security Issues
Security is not simply a state-of-mind, nor is it a stroke of luck. Keeping

yourself and your family safe anywhere you gowhether it is an extended
trip within hours of your home or a long-term assignment halfway around
the worldrequires planning and active follow-through.
Clearly the length of time you spend and the geographic and political
profile of the countries youre living in--or traveling to--will make a
difference in your level of preparedness. Nonetheless, practicing common
sense based upon knowledge of your location will help you. Dont
underplay the importance of understanding what is culturally
appropriateit may help you avoid some difficult situations. With the
exception of the emergency telephone numbers, this information is
compiled for travelers in general and will apply in varying degrees to your
destination and personal situation. Always check to see what services your
company may offer to you.
Emergencies
In an emergency that requires help by your government, such as a

lost passport or the need for money because yours has been stolen,
contact: Embassies Around the World
Make sure you know the name of the firm your company has selected
for medical emergencies and evacuation services. International SOS
provides emergency medical and evacuation services for individuals
and companies. You might want to contact: International SOS to see
if you qualify for some of their services.
Prepare For Your Destination
Read about security and safety issues in the countries youll be

traveling to or living in.
For the most current, up-dated information, we recommend the
following government sites as quite comprehensive and easy-to-
understand:
Australian Travel Advisories
Canadian Travel Advisories
UK Travel Advice
US Travel Warnings
Read about other precautions you should take for weather- and
geographic-related concerns. For example, keep enough cash on
hand so you will be all right if there are power failures and ATM
machines dont work.
Be sure you know how to contact (and get to) your countrys
Embassy and Consulate wherever you are travelingyou need the
location details, phone and hours of operation. Embassies Around
the World
See if there are any health-related issues in the countries to which

youre traveling. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has in-
depth information regarding all regions of the world.
Be sure you know how to call for help in an emergency. You may need to
reach the police, fire and other emergency personnel. Be sure you know
the words to use in the local language.
En Route
Protect your passport; it is one of the most valuable items you

possess--so protect it as you would cash, credit cards and other
valuables. If it is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the nearest
appropriate Embassy or consulate.
Avoid calling attention to yourself by wearing fancy jewelry or carrying
other expensive items.
Whenever possible carry valuables and important prescription
medications in your carry-on luggage; do not pack valuables in your
checked luggage.
Do not leave laptops, computer bags or other luggage unattended at
any time.
Be able to answer questions about your luggage and be able to open
all suitcases and packages immediately, if asked.
Use your business address on your luggage tags, if possible.
Be sure to respond completely to requests by security officials and
avoid comments about security that could be misinterpreted.
When youre on the plane or train, read safety literature and be sure
you know where emergency exits are located.
For general information when you are en route, the U.S. State Dept.
offers a wide-range of information to travelers of all nationalities:
http://www.state.gov/travel/
Moving Around Safely
Always remain alert.

Avoid disturbances and loud arguments. When they occur, quickly
walk the other way.
Dress conservatively. Your interpretation of this guideline needs to be
based on local practices and customs. Attire you may think is
perfectly acceptable, may not be so youll be well served to learn
what is appropriate. Otherwise, you could run the risk of being
misinterpreted and perhaps becoming a target if your clothing is
provocative or offensive.
Ostentatious jewelry will also draw attention to you.
Learn about transportation in your locationwhats safe and what
can be problematic and when. Trains, subways, buses, independent
taxi cabs may pose specific problems. Find out before you go if it is
preferable to hire a private driver and car. Contact your Embassy for
detailed information.
You should also ask your company about specific transportation
guidelines theyve established for your safety.
Avoid areas where you can become a victim of crime, such as poorly-
lit streets, alleys, and deserted train stations.
If you drive, keep your doors locked and windows closed, and never
pick up hitchhikers.
Be wary when you are alone in lifts. Get off if someone suspicious
gets on.
If you find yourself alone in a train car or compartment after everyone
else leaves, you may feel safer moving to an occupied car. Identify
the location of the emergency alarm system.
Experts say that if someone does attack you, give them your
valuablesmoney and passportand do not fight back.
Be sure to know enough of the language to call for help. Consider
marking and tagging the pages of a phrase book with these types of
important phrases.
Even when you have a mobile phone, learn to use the local pay
phones and keep change with you.
Know Where Youre Going
Ask people in the hotel what areas you should avoid.

When you have a specific location youre going to, ask colleagues or
people who work in the hotel if there are things you should know
about that area.
If you cannot speak the local language, carry the card of your hotel or
your address with you at all times--as well as your destination
address.
Make others aware of your specific whereabouts, even when youre
going to business appointments.
*Sources: U.S. Transportation Security Administration
Settling In
Accommodation
Arrival Procedures
Conversions
Family Corner
Health and Safety
Media
Money and Banking

Botswana

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With a multi-party democracy since independence, Botswana is relatively

Conformity / Group Centeredness

Batswana consider their extended family to be almost as important as their

In their attempt to be helpful and appear courteous, many Batswana have

Botswana has a high-context communication culture where people use

Botswana is predominantly a Christian country. David Livingstone was a

Freedom of religion is enshrined in the Constitution and the various

Batswana are open to missionaries, in part because they often build

Religion in Batswana extols the virtues of treating people equally. It also

The Constitution enshrines equality, although the traditional patriarchal

The Womens Affairs Department (WAD) in the Ministry of Labor and

Women have attained senior roles in many government and public

About one-third of senior management roles are held by women according

View of Foreign Women

Tips for Businesswomen

Batswana are generally private people and do not discuss personal

Although it is important to appear warm and friendly and develop strong

personal relationships, do not to appear overly friendly or casual. Business

It is a good idea to establish your credentials quickly. If this is not done by

In many companies there remains a tendency to defer to the men on a

A woman should be authorized to make decisions. If she says she must

The view of foreigners often depends on their nationality. As a relatively

Since 2013, the government has had a practice of deporting homosexuals

Although somewhat wary of foreigners' intentions, Batswana are generally

Cross Culture Tips

The following cultural observations are based on the dimensions in the

Hierarchical vs. Egalitarian

How society is structured

Botswana is both an egalitarian and a hierarchical society, depending upon

People appreciate structure in manners, behavior and planning.

Formal vs. Informal

The importance of appearance and demeanor as an indicator of

The importance of protocol and etiquette

Botswana is an informal society. When you interact with Batswana, the

Overt displays of wealth or status may be considered pretentious and

Group vs. Individual

The source of an individual's identity and loyalties

Botswana is a relatively group-oriented society. As you interact with

Interpersonal vs. Transactional Relationships

What constitutes a relationship

Botswana is a relatively interpersonal, relationship-oriented culture. When

Relationship building is important and tends to be somewhat formal

Direct vs. Indirect

The relative importance of verbal vs. non-verbal communication

Botswana is a relatively indirect communication culture. The following tips

Non-verbal gestures enhance the meaning of the spoken word.

Fluid vs. Controlled Time

Balance vs. Status

The importance and value attached to professional vs. personal lives

Botswana is a moderately Status-Motivation culture. When interacting with

Personal identity, status and sense of personal accomplishment are

External vs. Internal

Botswana is a moderately External Control society. When interacting with

Botswana is comprised of several ethnic groups, the largest of which is the

Population growth rate:

Source: The World Factbook

Cities & Regions

Botswana is a landlocked country in Africa that straddles the Tropic of

there are several centers, each with circles encircling them.

Conventional long form: Republic of Botswana

Source: The World Factbook

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