Gaborone, Botswana – 9 June 2026
The Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) of Botswana joined Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) across the world in commemorating the inaugural International Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Day, an initiative of the Egmont Group aimed at raising awareness of the critical role Financial Intelligence Units play in combating financial crime and protecting the integrity of the global financial system.
Held under the theme “From Intelligence to Impact: Positioning FIA as a Guardian of Financial Integrity,” the event brought together senior Government officials, representatives of supervisory authorities, law enforcement agencies, reporting entities, development partners, academia and the private sector to reflect on the importance of financial intelligence in safeguarding economies, institutions and public trust.
Welcoming guests to the commemoration, FIA Director General Ms. Bopelokgale Soko highlighted the significance of International FIU Day and the important role played by Financial Intelligence Units in protecting national economies from the threats posed by money laundering, terrorism financing and other financial crimes. She noted that the day provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the FIA, strengthen stakeholder partnerships and reaffirm the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding Botswana’s financial integrity. The Director General further acknowledged the contributions of stakeholders and FIA staff whose dedication continues to advance the Agency’s mandate.
Delivering the keynote address, Honourable Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe, Vice President and Minister of Finance, described trust as one of Botswana’s most valuable national assets and underscored the importance of financial integrity in preserving that trust. He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting the FIA’s operational independence and ensuring that the Agency has the authority, resources and institutional support necessary to effectively discharge its mandate.
The Vice President further emphasized that the fight against financial crime requires collective effort from regulators, reporting entities, law enforcement agencies, public institutions and citizens. He called for continued collaboration as Botswana prepares for its Third Mutual Evaluation in 2027, noting that the effectiveness of the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism framework will depend on strong partnerships, institutional discipline and measurable results.
A key highlight of the commemoration was the unveiling of the FIA’s new corporate identity and the introduction of the Agency’s inaugural Strategic Plan and Website. These initiatives signify an important step in the Agency’s transformation journey and reflect its commitment to innovation, transparency, accessibility and enhanced stakeholder engagement.
While the Strategic Plan and website remain in the final stages of development, the event provided an opportunity to showcase the significant progress made to date and share the Agency’s strategic direction with stakeholders.
The programme also featured contributions from several distinguished speakers and stakeholders. Acting Permanent Secretary to the President, Ms. Matshidiso D. Bokole, emphasized the need to ensure that intelligence translates into meaningful outcomes through stronger collaboration, innovation and coordinated action. Acting Deputy Director General, Ms. Diana Moabe, highlighted the role of financial intelligence in supporting investigations, prosecutions and enforcement actions, while stakeholder representatives, including Mr. Matlhogonolo Mponang of Debswana Diamond Company and Dr. Lesedi Senatla of the Bankers Association of Botswana, reaffirmed the importance of public-private sector partnerships in combating financial crime and strengthening Botswana’s financial system.
Giving the vote of thanks, Deputy Director General Ms. Koongalele Chube described the occasion as a historic milestone for both the FIA and Botswana’s broader commitment to financial integrity and the rule of law. She expressed appreciation to Government, stakeholders, sponsors and development partners for their support and encouraged all participants to ensure that the commitments made during the commemoration translate into meaningful action and lasting impact.
As Botswana joins more than 180 Financial Intelligence Units around the world in commemorating International FIU Day, the FIA remains committed to transforming intelligence into impact, strengthening partnerships and protecting the integrity of Botswana’s financial system.
About International FIU Day
International FIU Day is commemorated annually on 9 June following its establishment by the Egmont Group, a global network of Financial Intelligence Units. The day seeks to raise awareness of the critical role FIUs play in combating money laundering, terrorism financing and other financial crimes through the collection, analysis and dissemination of financial intelligence.
