Botswana Trademark Information

The Republic of Botswana is a sub Saharan country located in Southern Africa. It is bordered by South Africa to the south and southeast, Namibia to the west and north, and Zimbabwe to the northeast. The population is estimated at 1990876 with a GDP of $25.399 billion.

Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Four decades of uninterrupted civilian leadership, progressive social policies, and significant capital investment have created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. Mineral extraction, principally diamond mining, dominates economic activity, though tourism is a growing sector due to the country's conservation practices and extensive nature preserves. Botswana has one of the world's highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection, but also one of Africa's most progressive and comprehensive programs for dealing with the disease.

Trademarks are assigned through the Registrar of Companies and Intellectual Property, Ministry of Trade and Industry. Botswana is a member of the Madrid Protocol. A trademark is valid for 10 years and may be renewed for further periods of 10 years each.