$12bn Qatar-Botswana deal caps years of quiet diplomacy

Two weeks ago, President Advocate Duma Boko presided over the signing of a landmark $12 billion multi-sector investment agreement between the Government of Botswana and Qatar’s Al Mansour Holdings.To many, the deal is nothing short of divine intervention—an economic breakthrough after years of quiet diplomacy.Despite the fanfare, some critics have cast doubt, labelling the agreement a scam. Their skepticism surfaced shortly after the signing ceremony, which brought together senior government officials and representatives of Al Mansour Holdings, an investment arm of the Qatari Royal Family.Under the agreement, the Botswana Development Corporation (BDC) has been appointed as the government’s investment arm to lead the partnership, which spans strategic sectors including infrastructure, energy, mining, diamond refinement, agriculture, tourism, cybersecurity, and defence.Botswana Guardian can reveal that the deal is the culmination of six years of high-level negotiations and reciprocal visits. At one point, Botswana nearly missed the opportunity - but persistent engagements revived the talks.The partnership underscores President Boko’s resolve to reshape Botswana’s economic trajectory. To many, it also reflects divine mercy upon the nation.Al Mansour Holdings, globally renowned for its diversified investments, first visited Botswana to assess its potential, particularly in diamonds and beef exports.The Botswana Investment and Trade Centre (BITC) hosted the delegation, even assigning a liaison officer to accompany them throughout their visit. The Qatari team met with stakeholders across government, parastatals, and the private sector, including BDC.Following their return to Qatar, Al Mansour Holdings maintained contact, expressing sustained interest in multiple sectors and pledging to return. Their first point of entry is now BDC, with expectations that their footprint will expand further.Importantly, the foundation of this engagement dates back to the administration of former President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi. His 2019 visit to Qatar led to a milestone -Qatar Airways launching direct flights to Gaborone.At the time, Qatari investors requested an Investment Protection Agreement (IPA), a prerequisite for committing funds. Although Botswana had a moratorium on such treaties, it pledged to make anexception for Qatar.The gesture was reciprocated with the launch of Qatar Airways flights, celebrated by Masisi as a sign of deepening ties between the two nations.However, progress stalled due to bureaucratic delays in finalising the IPA. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted momentum, leading to the suspension of Qatar Airways’ Gaborone route.Despite these setbacks, the deal has now materialised. Investment experts have dismissed social media claims branding the agreement a scam, pointing to Qatar’s global investment footprint -including its offer of a Boeing 747-8 jet for U.S. President Donald Trump’s exclusive use -as evidence of its financial clout.The Qatari Royal Family has the capacity to invest across Africa wherever viable opportunities exist. Given regional dynamics, it’s plausible that the United Arab Emirates and allied investors may follow suit.Historically, the UAE has mirrored Qatar’s investment moves, and Botswana’s stability, non-aligned stance, and open-door policy make it an attractive destination.Analysts and insiders agree that President Boko’s leadership has been pivotal. By acting swiftly and decisively, his administration has secured a transformative investment, positioning Botswana as the ultimate beneficiary.For many, the arrival of Qatari capital is more than economic -it is a moment of national grace.

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$12bn Qatar-Botswana deal caps years of quiet diplomacy