Local Government of Botswana

Ministry: Local Government

Association: Botswana Association of Local Authorities

Local government is provided for by the Local Government (District Councils) Act 1965 and the Townships Act 1965, and not by the constitution. The Ministry of Local Government is responsible for local government.

There are six urban councils and ten district councils, comprising 19 newly formed sub-districts. There are proposals for reforms giving local authorities greater autonomy. Local elections are held every five years.

The local authorities have revenue-raising powers, but the bulk of their funding comes from national government. They are responsible for provision of primary education; primary health care; tertiary and access roads; and village water supplies.