Current Time in Gaborone

Botswana's culture of time

Botswana's culture of time

A relaxed national character regarding time

The sense of time in Botswana is relatively relaxed, and being a little late for an appointment is often not considered a big problem.

Meetings and gatherings may not start as scheduled

In particular, informal gatherings and community events may start late, and this is tacitly accepted.

Religious and family events take precedence over time

Christian and traditional events are often given more importance than time, so flexibility is required.

Botswana's values ​​regarding time

Relationships and trust are valued more than time

People tend to value the relationship and atmosphere of the moment more than the time of an appointment, and harmony is valued more than strict time management.

A "slow culture" that takes things slowly

In daily life, people prefer to act without haste, and are tolerant of waiting times and delays.

Differences in awareness of time between urban and rural areas

In urban areas such as the capital Gaborone, people are relatively more punctual, and tend to be punctual in business.

Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or relocating to Botswana

Punctuality is expected in business

When foreigners participate in business events, punctuality is often expected, and being late can be considered rude.

Public transport operating times should be considered as a guideline

Buses and minibuses (combi) operate flexibly, and departure times may not be accurate, so you need to act with plenty of time.

Allow plenty of time for administrative procedures, etc.

Processing at government offices and public institutions can take time, so it is important to plan your schedule based on waiting times.

Interesting trivia about time in Botswana

The term "African time" exists

The term "African time" is a symbol of the country's tolerant attitude towards time, and is commonly known in Botswana.

Safari tours start with the sunrise

Safari tours, the highlight of tourism, often depart early in the morning, and a sense of time that is in tune with the rhythm of nature is important.

In areas with unstable power supplies, it can be difficult to be on time

In some areas, schedules can be delayed due to power outages, so it is necessary to be flexible in these circumstances.