Botswana

Government
Parliamentary republic.

Geography
Most of the country is neardesert, with the Kalahari occupying the western part of the country. The eastern part is hilly, with salt lakes in the north.

Historical Background
Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Botswana has one of the world's highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.

Capital

Gaborone

Government

Parliamentary republic
 -  President Ian Khama

Language

Setswana

Religion

Protestant

Area

581,730 km2 (47th) 224,610 sq mi

Population

2010 estimate 2,029,307[1] (144th)
2001 census 1,680,863 

Currency

Pula (BWP)

National Day

30 September Independence Day

National Symbols