Botswana President Duma Gideon Boko will travel to South Africa on a private external visit from December 28, 2025, to January 7, 2026, according to an official press release issued by the Office of the President.
The announcement, dated December 27, 2025, states that Vice President Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe will assume the role of Acting President during Boko’s absence.
“President Advocate Duma Gideon Boko will undertake a private external visit to South Africa, from 28th December 2025 to 7th January 2026,” the statement reads.
The notice was issued from the Office of the President in Gaborone and signed under Government Communications.
It outlines the temporary transfer of executive authority in line with constitutional and administrative procedures.
“In his absence, the Vice President Mr. Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe, will assume the role of Acting President of the Republic of Botswana.”
The Office of the President did not provide details on the purpose of the visit, describing it as private.
Such announcements are customary when the Head of State travels outside the country, particularly when executive responsibilities are temporarily delegated.
President Boko, who assumed office earlier in 2025, has pledged transparency and adherence to constitutional norms, including clear communication regarding executive authority during his absence from the country.
Boko is currently serving as the sixth President of Botswana since November 1, 2024 and as leader of the Umbrella for Democratic Change since 2012.
He served as Leader of the Opposition from 2014 to 2019.
Vice President Gaolathe is expected to oversee government operations during the period, ensuring continuity of leadership and administration.
Botswana’s constitution provides for the Vice President to act as President when the Head of State is out of the country, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to perform official duties.
The announcement comes as the country enters the end-of-year holiday period, during which government operations typically continue under established protocols to ensure stability and uninterrupted public service delivery.
