Botswana

Original inhabitants of the Republic of Botswana were Bush people, thought to have migrated from the north.  Following these people were the Hottentots, and then Bantu speakers.  These people lived peacefully together, trading with each other.  In the late nineteenth century hostilities broke out between the Botswana and Boer settlers from the Transvaal, and in 1885 the land became a British protectorate known as Bechuanaland.  Attempts by South Africa to include Bechuanaland in the Union of South Africa were resisted, and, after a long process towards self-government, Botswana became an independent nation in 1966.  Botswana’s economy is based primarily on the export of diamonds.  The top 20 percent of the population earns two-thirds of the total income, while the bottom 50 percent earns less than one-sixth.    Botswana has the highest rate of HIV and AIDS infection in the world, with nearly 40 percent of all adults infected.  Protestantism is a significant force.  The United Congregational Church is the major denomination.  Seventh Day Adventists are the second largest denomination.  There are no WCC member churches based in this country.

(source: In God’s Hands)