Welcome to the Information Pack for the 2026 Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy in Botswana.
Here you will find essential details to help you prepare for your trip and participation in the Forum. This information will be continuously updated as we move closer to the event, so we encourage you to check back regularly for the latest updates.
Forum Venues
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University of Botswana campus: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rx8eQFzXCU7LHYAm8
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It is recommended to book your accommodation close by.
Entry Requirements
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Visa: Many nationalities (including EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Always check https://evisa.gov.bw/#/ or your local embassy for updates.
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Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
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COVID-19: As of now, no restrictions, but check for updates before travel.
Health & Safety
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Vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a risk country. Recommended: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus.
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Malaria: Present in the north (Okavango Delta, Chobe). For these areas prophylaxis recommended.
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Water: Drink bottled or purified water.
Vaccinations
If you are travelling to Botswana from areas where Yellow Fever is endemic, you must have a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. Otherwise, no other immunisations are required.
However, it would be wise to have an updated TPD (tetanus, polio, diphtheria) vaccine, and a Hepatitis A vaccine.
Furthermore, depending on your destination within Botswana and the time of year you wish to travel, it may be advisable to visit a travel medicine clinic in your home country to establish if further vaccinations are required/advised.
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/botswana#stay-healthy-and-safe
Getting Around Gaborone
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Taxis: Use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps (e.g., RTapp Botswana).
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Public Transport: Minibus taxis (“combies”) are cheap but can be crowded.
Things to Do in Gaborone
Cultural & Historical
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National Museum & Art Gallery: Showcases Botswana’s history, art, and culture.
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Main Mall: Bustling hub for shopping, cafes, and street vendors.
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Kgale Hill: Short hike for panoramic city views.
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Mokolodi Nature Reserve is a conservation area located just south of Gaborone. It offers an accessible wildlife experience with species such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. The reserve provides game drives, guided walks, and environmental education activities. From the University of Botswana, it is about a 20–25 minute drive.
