Africa-Press – Botswana. Honourable Dr. Phenyo Butale, Minister of International Relations, represented President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko at the Closed Session of the 11th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) on 28-29 March 2026 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The Summit, chaired by His Excellency Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of Equatorial Guinea, brought together Heads of State, Vice Presidents, Prime Ministers, and official representatives from member countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. Attendees included notable leaders such as His Majesty King Mswati III of Eswatini, H.E. Mr. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon, H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola, and H.E. Dr. José Manuel Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste. The meeting also welcomed other influential figures including His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco and H.E. Mr. Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia. The gathering provided a platform for high-level deliberations on strengthening cooperation among OACPS member states in an increasingly complex global environment.
The Summit deliberated under the theme “A Transformed and Renewed OACPS in a Changing World,” focusing on key priorities such as enhancing south–south cooperation, diversifying funding sources, institutional reforms, and building capacity in digital transformation. Leaders emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration with both global and regional bodies to promote sustainable development and resilience among member states. Honourable Dr. Butale delivered a statement advocating for adaptive strategies in response to geopolitical shifts, stressing the importance of boosting intra-OACPS trade and improving financial management and accountability. He also highlighted the need for timely member contributions to reinforce the OACPS financial base while promoting south–south and triangular cooperation. His interventions reflected Botswana’s commitment to proactive engagement, regional solidarity, and the pursuit of initiatives that enhance the collective influence of OACPS nations.
Beyond the Summit discussions, Minister Butale engaged in bilateral talks with Honourable Minister of State Sandra Husbands of Jamaica to advance Botswana’s candidature for re-election to the UN Joint Inspection Unit for the period 2028-2032. The discussions focused on exploring opportunities for reciprocal arrangements on candidatures, demonstrating Botswana’s strategic approach to multilateral diplomacy. These engagements reinforced the country’s commitment to active participation in international governance, strengthening regional alliances, and leveraging diplomatic channels to secure strategic positions in global institutions. The Summit also provided an opportunity for networking and fostering partnerships that can enhance Botswana’s influence in areas of governance, trade, and institutional cooperation.
The OACPS Summit concluded with closing remarks from H.E. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, recognising the collective achievements and outlining the forward-looking agenda for the organisation. The 11th Summit highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving global dynamics while fostering resilience, innovation, and sustainable development across member states. By advocating for financial accountability, institutional reform, and stronger intra-regional trade, Botswana demonstrated leadership and commitment to advancing shared goals within the OACPS framework. The discussions also reinforced the role of high-level engagement and dialogue in addressing challenges, capitalising on opportunities, and ensuring that member states benefit equitably from regional and global cooperation.
Botswana’s participation at the 11th OACPS Summit underscores its dedication to proactive diplomacy, regional cooperation, and strategic global engagement. Honourable Dr. Phenyo Butale’s contributions emphasized adaptive policies, strengthened financial and institutional frameworks, and enhanced south–south collaboration as central to a renewed OACPS. The Summit provided a platform to advance Botswana’s priorities, foster bilateral and multilateral partnerships, and reinforce its candidacy for key international positions. By promoting sustainable development, trade, and institutional capacity, Botswana is positioning itself as a key player within the OACPS and the broader international community. The outcomes of the Summit reflect a commitment to transformative leadership, collaborative action, and the pursuit of shared prosperity across Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.
