Africa-Press – Botswana. The Botswana Police Service (BPS) took a significant step on 25 March 2026 by signing a landmark agreement with AVIS Rent A Car to outsource vehicles for Maun and Broadhurst Police Stations. This initiative is part of a 12-month pilot project through which AVIS will supply 19 vehicles to Maun and nine vehicles to Broadhurst, covering multiple models suitable for police operations. The partnership is designed to address longstanding transport shortages, improve mobility for officers, and strengthen service delivery across these key stations. Commissioner of Police Dinah Marathe described the initiative as bold and progressive, emphasizing that the Botswana Police Service is approaching the project with optimism and a focus on efficiency. She highlighted that this model represents a practical solution to logistical challenges while demonstrating the Government’s commitment to adequately resourcing the Police Service despite economic constraints.
At the signing ceremony, Commissioner Marathe commended the Government’s prioritization of the project, noting that operational readiness and effective policing require reliable transport infrastructure. She emphasized that the introduction of outsourced vehicles will not only support day-to-day operations but also enhance the BPS’s responsiveness to emergencies and community policing efforts. The Commissioner underscored the strategic importance of this partnership, stating that improved mobility will allow officers to focus on law enforcement, public safety, and crime prevention without the limitations caused by vehicle shortages. She added that the pilot project will serve as a model for potential replication in other regions, ensuring that lessons learned are applied nationwide.
AVIS Rent A Car Managing Director, Mr. Unathi Sigabi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with the BPS and reassured the Commissioner that the company would leverage its expertise to deliver high-quality, reliable service. He noted that AVIS is committed to maintaining vehicles to the highest standards, ensuring that the fleet supports operational requirements efficiently. Both Commissioner Marathe and Mr. Sigabi emphasized that trust, accountability, and consistent performance would form the foundation of the partnership. The collaboration represents a practical approach to addressing resource gaps while fostering long-term relationships between public institutions and private service providers.
The partnership between the Botswana Police Service and AVIS Rent A Car marks a milestone in improving national policing capabilities. By outsourcing vehicles through this pilot project, the BPS is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce response times, and maintain higher service standards for the public. The initiative demonstrates a commitment to innovation, resource optimization, and public-private collaboration in law enforcement. With dedicated oversight and strategic implementation, the project will strengthen the Police Service’s capacity to protect communities and respond effectively to challenges. This agreement sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at equipping public services with reliable resources while supporting national safety and operational excellence.
