Botswana Targets Two-Thebe Data by 2027 as Government Pushes Digital Expansion

Botswana Targets Two-Thebe Data by 2027 as Government Pushes Digital Expansion. Botswana is moving toward significantly cheaper digital access, with the Ministry of Communication and Innovation announcing new reductions in data tariffs as part of a broader national digitisation agenda. Speaking at a press briefing in Gaborone, Minister David Tshere confirmed that data tariffs have already dropped from 13 thebe to 9 thebe and are set to fall further to two thebe by 2027.

The reduction follows engagements between the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) and major network providers, including Mascom and Orange. The initiative aims to make data, SMS, and voice services more affordable for all citizens, enabling greater access to online government services as public systems migrate to digital platforms.

For Botswana’s business community, especially SMMEs relying on digital tools for operations, marketing, payments, and service delivery, the move signals a major improvement in cost efficiency. Lower connectivity costs can enhance competitiveness and expand opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking to operate in the country’s evolving digital economy.

Minister Tshere also updated the media on the progress of the Digital Delta Data Centre, which is scheduled to be launched by President Duma Gideon Boko on 25 November 2025. The facility is expected to position Botswana as a regional digital hub, offering infrastructure that can attract investors and support government ICT systems.

The upcoming centre will also play a key role in strengthening online access to public services and information. According to the Minister, the migration of government systems, including the Government Accounting and Budgeting System (GABS), will improve efficiency in areas such as payments and internal processes.

Currently, 52 digital services are available through the government’s main portal, 1gov.1citizen, which serves as a central gateway for accessing public information and online services.