Botswana

Mobile networks and carriers in Botswana use 2 GSM bands and 1 UMTS band. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work in Botswana. See the tables below for details.

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Botswana's mobile network has undergone significant development since its inception. The first mobile network was introduced in 1998, with the launch of the cellular service provider, Mascom Wireless. Initially, the network was limited, but it gradually expanded to cover much of the country. By 2011, mobile telephony had become a major communication tool, with operators like Mascom, Orange Botswana, and BTC (Botswana Telecommunications Corporation) competing for market share.

Key issues in the development of mobile telephony in Botswana included the acquisition of International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) spectrum and subsidies from the Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF). These efforts led to an increase in 4G population coverage from 56% to 90% by 2022. Internet average speeds also improved, reaching 21 Mbps during the 2021/22 financial year, largely due to upgrades and new site installations.

As of 2023, the mobile network in Botswana is characterized by high cell phone penetration rates, with many individuals having multiple numbers. The market is dominated by Mascom, which holds the highest market share of 43%, followed by Orange with 39%, and BTC with 18%. The Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) oversees the licensing and regulation of telecom services, ensuring consumer protection and promoting digital transformation through initiatives like the UNLEASH 2025 strategy.

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Carriers

Name	# of frequency bands in use
BeMobile	3
Mascom	2
Orange	2

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Frequencies in use

GSM

Name	Interface
900 MHz (E-GSM)	GSM
1800 MHz (DCS)	GSM

UMTS

Name	Interface
B1 (2100 MHz)	UMTS

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