 | It has been suggested that this article be merged into White Africans of European ancestry. (Discuss) Proposed since October 2024. |
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (July 2024) |
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
| Gaborone, Francistown, Ghanzi, Serowe, Lobatse[citation needed] | |
| Languages | |
| Afrikaans, English, Greek, Serbian[citation needed] | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| White people in Zambia, White people in Zimbabwe, White South Africans, White Namibians[citation needed] |
White Africans account for around 3% of the population of Botswana.[1]
Botswana became a British protectorate in 1885 and gained independence as a Commonwealth nation in 1966. White settlers in Botswana, mainly Afrikaners and a small number of English-speakers, began arriving in the 1860s and primarily settled on farms near the South African border. The White population in Botswana never exceeded 3,000 individuals. The English spoken by the local population is influenced by South African dialects.[2]
The present white population in Botswana is significantly smaller compared to its neighboring countries, with a considerable portion being non-permanent residents. This demographic trend is a result of Botswana's unique history as a protectorate rather than a colony. Many white Batswana can trace their ancestry back to colonial immigrants who arrived during British rule, although the majority are now citizens of Botswana rather than British. This demographic is typically affluent, with a significant number owning and operating their own businesses.[3]
- ^ "CIA - The World Factbook -- Botswana". CIA. Retrieved 2013-09-26.
- ^ Bolton, Kingsley; Kachru, Braj B. (2006). World Englishes: Critical Concepts in Linguistics. Taylor & Francis. ISBN 978-0-415-31508-1.
- ^ McIntyre, Chris (2014-04-01). Botswana Safari Guide: Okavango Delta, Chobe, Northern Kalahari. Bradt Travel Guides. ISBN 978-1-84162-489-1.