Justice for Every Child: Botswana Scales Up Digital Protection and Partnerships

Botswana is making powerful strides in creating a justice system that’s both inclusive and sensitive to the needs of children. In a recent forum, representatives from government, civil society, and international partners gathered to evaluate progress and chart the future of child justice reform.

At the forefront is the Botswana Police Service, which is leading efforts to leverage digital technology to make reporting abuse safer and easier for children

These online reporting tools aim to close the gap between vulnerable children and the support they desperately need, especially in cases of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and online exploitation.

Ngono pointed to success stories already emerging, such as cases processed from report to conviction in just one month. “That’s the kind of timely justice we’re working toward,” she said. Looking ahead, Botswana is committed to expanding child-friendly police centers across the country. These one-stop centers will offer legal aid, psychosocial counselling, and medical care—all under one roof. However, digital threats are also rising. “Online grooming and exploitation are growing concerns,” Ngono warned, calling for stronger digital safeguards and community vigilance.

UNICEF Botswana, a driving force behind the reforms, reinforced the need for collective responsibility. Acting Representative Kimanzi Muthengi stressed that child protection is not a solo mission but a national cause—requiring action from police, educators, families, and communities alike.