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HAUS partners in EU project supporting digital transformation in Botswana

The EU-Botswana project dedicated to advancing Botswana’s digital journey was officially launched in Gaborone on 6 May 2025. This Team Europe project, implemented by HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Management, the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV), and Expertise France, will run until mid-2027. It focuses on strengthening the legal framework, improving digital public services, and fostering innovation and digital entrepreneurship.

HAUS is Finland’s official implementing partner in the EU Global Gateway project, supporting Botswana’s national digitalisation strategy (SmartBots). Aligned with national priorities, the project aims to help Botswana become a knowledge-based economy.

The launch event brought together over one hundred stakeholders, including Minister for State President Mr. Moeti Mohwasa, Minister for Communication and Innovation Mr. David Tshere, senior government officials, civil society representatives, and private sector partners. The event highlighted the shared EU-Botswana commitment to building an inclusive, connected, and knowledge-driven society.

Botswana’s Minister for State President, Moeti Mohwasa, and EU Ambassador to Botswana and SADC, Petra Pereyra, at the official launch of the EU-supported Digital Transformation project in Botswana.

Minister Mohwasa emphasized that the project’s launch represents a critical advancement in providing digital infrastructure and services, empowering Botswana’s citizens through enhanced opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, and civic participation.

HAUS leads efforts in boosting innovation and digital entrepreneurship

The project will enhance digital skills and entrepreneurship, strengthen digital governance structures and legal frameworks, and promote inclusive access to digital public services.

HAUS leads project initiatives in innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital skills, with particular focus on youth and women entrepreneurs. Together with Expertise France and Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV), as part of Team Europe, HAUS will leverage Finnish expertise in innovation, digital governance, and entrepreneurship. This collaborative effort underscores strong European cooperation and shared support for Botswana’s digital transformation journey.

“Botswana has the potential to become a regional digital hub and a leader in innovation and skills development across Africa,” stated Petra Pereyra, EU Ambassador to Botswana and SADC, in the launch event.

The fireside chat focused on cooperation between Europe and Botswana in digital transformation. In the photo, from right: moderator Botho Cale Mothudi, Prof. Vasilis Koulolias (Advisor to the President on Digital Transformation), Ambassador of France to Botswana and SADC Olivier Brochenin, and Ambassador of Finland to South Africa and Botswana Pekka Metso.
The panel discussion explored European perspectives and lessons learned on sustainable digital transformation. In the photo, from right: moderator Botho Cale Mothudi, Linda-Lotta Luhtala (HAUS), Katrin Winter (ESTDEV), and Laurent Marion (Expertise France).