Africa-Press – Botswana. Parliament has passed into law the Employment and Labour Relations Bill, 2025 (Bill No. 10 of 2025) with a series of amendments following robust debate and stakeholder consultations.
The Bill, tabled by Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware sought to overhaul Botswana’s labour framework.
It establishes labour institutions, affirms fundamental employment rights, promotes fair labour practices, strengthens collective bargaining mechanisms, and lays down structures for dispute prevention and resolution.
Out of the 37 voting members, 35 MPs supported the Bill, one MP voted against it, whilst one abstained.
During the Committee Stage of the bill, Maj. Gen Mokgware agreed to a number of amendments, acknowledging that input from various stakeholders, including the business community helped refine the legislation.
Among the most significant changes were proposals made by MP for Maun East, Mr Goretetse Kekgonegile, which were largely adopted, including, Clause 172(6) appearing on page B.172, by substituting for the number ‘20 000’ appearing therein, the number ‘50 000’, meaning the fine amount was increased.
The Bill was also amended at Clause 244(1) appearing on page B.201, by substituting for the word ‘may’ appearing therein, the word ‘shall’, making the provision mandatory rather than discretionary.
Furthermore the Bill was amended at Clause 248(1) appearing on page B.205, by substituting for the word ‘may’ appearing therein, the word ‘shall.’ Another proposed amendment was at Clause 259(2) appearing on page B.212, by adding immediately after the word ‘workers’ the following words, ‘or any recognised trade union.’
However, MP Kekgonegile also withdrew some proposed amendments after further deliberations, which included Clause 259(4) (Page B.212).
He had proposed replacing ‘may’ with ‘shall’, but retained the original language following consultation, and clause 222(b) (Page B.193): A proposal to change ‘70’ to ‘100’ was also withdrawn, preserving the initial drafting of the Bill.
MP for Kanye West, Mr Victor Phologolo also successfully proposed an amendment at Clause 280(2) appearing on page B.222, by substituting for the number ‘30’ appearing therein, the number ‘90’ extending the timeframe referenced in the clause.
Minister Mokgware commended MPs for their collaborative approach and thanked all parties involved in shaping a bill that reflected the evolving needs of Botswana’s labour sector.
He noted that the adopted amendments would ensure more clarity, fairness, and enforceability of labour practices across the country.
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