BUSINESS

Botswana wants greater control over the diamond industry that built its economy. But with revenues falling and the natural diamond market under pressure, acquiring a majority stake in De Beers could become either a historic economic power move—or an extraordinarily expensive gamble.

Botswana’s inflation surge reveals how deeply global commodity shocks affect local prices. With heavy reliance on imported fuel, food and South African supply chains, can energy diversification, stronger domestic production and alternative trade routes build lasting economic resilience?

China’s zero-tariff policy for Botswana exports took effect in May 2026, covering diamonds, beef, and copper. But with Botswana’s cattle herd at under one million head and manufacturing capacity still narrow, does market access alone move the needle on Botswana’s trade diversification?

A 40-square-meter shop in Gaborone stocks spices that rival Johannesburg’s finest delicatessens. The Probe audits how Botswana’s bulk spice economy has democratized flavor across class lines in Southern Africa.

Eight potatoes for 40 Pula vs. a 10kg pocket for the same price. The Probe audits the supply chain gap between Gaborone’s formal retail aisles and the street economy — and names the Poverty Premium it creates.

Hailing a ride in Gaborone reveals a systemic failure: ride-sharing platforms shift hidden economic and psychological costs onto Motswana drivers and passengers while the algorithm quietly collects its commission.

Act I: The Clash That Wasn’t Conflict Across the borders and the cities, in construction sites, schools, hospitals, mines, and meeting rooms-there is a quiet tension that never quite explodes, but never disappears either. South Africans, born of rhythm and roar, feel...

Africa grows the coffee. The world drinks the profits. Every year, Africa produces nearly twelve percent of the world’s coffee supply, with countries like Ethiopia, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya leading the harvest. Farmers wake at dawn. Beans are picked,...