In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Botswana has reportedly cut electricity supply to parts of South Africa and shut its borders in response to rising xenophobic attacks targeting Botswana citizens.
President Duma Boko ordered the sweeping measures, signaling one of the toughest diplomatic stances in recent Southern African history. The move includes an immediate border closure and a directive for all Botswana nationals in South Africa to return home.
Boko condemned what he described as the “unacceptable and hostile treatment” of Botswana citizens, warning that his government would not tolerate continued violence or intimidation. He also invoked Botswana’s historic role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle, stressing that such solidarity should not be repaid with aggression.
The sudden actions are expected to strain economic and political ties between the two neighboring nations, with potential ripple effects across the region.
