Africa-Press – Botswana. The 52nd Botswana Police Senior Officers Annual Conference concluded on 20 February 2026 at the Botswana Police College in Otse, ending with a Media Conference that highlighted key decisions and future strategies. The three-day gathering brought together senior officers from across the country to discuss pressing challenges and develop solutions to enhance policing efficiency and community safety. Delegates reviewed operational performance, technological integration, investigative quality, and public engagement, aiming to modernize the Botswana Police Service and strengthen public trust. The conference emphasized practical measures to address response times, crime investigation, social media management, and community-based crime prevention initiatives. Outcomes from the conference reflect a commitment to innovation, accountability, and proactive engagement with citizens.
One of the primary resolutions focused on improving police response times, acknowledging public concerns over delays in addressing service calls. Officers committed to adopting advanced technologies such as CCTV monitoring and investing in a real-time computer-aided dispatch system with GPS-enabled tracking. This system will use data analytics to optimize deployment strategies and ensure rapid responses to incidents. By modernizing operational infrastructure, the Botswana Police Service aims to enhance efficiency while providing timely support to communities. This initiative represents a strategic shift toward technology-driven policing.
Enhancing the quality of investigations was another critical resolution adopted at the conference. Officers agreed to intensify the use of scientific methods and technology, including pathology services, to improve investigative outcomes. The conference emphasized intelligence-led investigations guided by prosecutions and enhanced collaboration with other countries to facilitate timely information exchange. Existing mechanisms such as SARPCCO and bi-national agreements will be leveraged for joint investigations, operations, and asset recovery. These measures aim to ensure investigations are thorough, timely, and effective in bringing offenders to justice.
The conference also addressed the management of social media, highlighting concerns over misinformation, cyberbullying, and hate speech. Resolutions included increasing public education and awareness campaigns on responsible online conduct. Officers committed to strengthening the implementation of the Cybercrime Act to promote accountability while protecting human rights. This approach aligns with broader efforts to create a safe digital environment and build public confidence in law enforcement practices. Ethical engagement online is now a strategic priority for the Botswana Police Service.
Community participation and collaboration were highlighted as essential elements in preventing crime. The conference resolved to enhance police-public partnerships to strengthen community-based programs addressing drugs, gender-based violence, stock theft, and road safety. Officers committed to inclusive, community-driven solutions, particularly targeting gender-based violence and child-related offenses. Programs like the ‘I am Part of the Solution’ initiative will serve as early intervention and risk-monitoring tools. This approach aims to empower communities while integrating public insights into policing strategies.
The conference concluded with a focus on mental wellness, recognizing its impact on operational efficiency. Resolutions included providing trauma intervention services within 72 hours of critical incidents and building capacity on mental health awareness for all officers. These initiatives are designed to support personnel, enhance resilience, and maintain a high standard of service delivery. The Botswana Police Service is prioritizing officer wellbeing alongside professional development and technological advancement. The 52nd Annual Conference set a clear roadmap for modern, accountable, and community-focused policing in Botswana.
