Botswana - Country Profile

Botswana is commonly known as the ‘Gem of Africa', because of its diamond industry, but it used to be one of the world’s 20 poorest countries only two decades ago. Today it is the second wealthiest country in Africa, after South Africa, with its GDP per capita standing at US$11 400 as of January 2007.  The income gap between rich and poor is widening, despite these successes, and the lack of energy security remains one of the more essential issues that low-income groups grapple with on a daily basis. Meeting their energy needs is vital for socio-economic development.