Botswana today reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional financial integrity as it hosted the 5th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Committee Meeting at the Protea Hotel, Masa Square.
The two-day meeting brings together senior government officials, financial intelligence experts, law enforcement representatives, and delegates from SADC Member States to discuss strategies for combating illicit financial flows, money laundering, and terrorist financing.
Officially opening the meeting, Acting Minister of Finance, Hon. Wynter Boipuso Mmolotsi, emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in addressing financial crimes that threaten economic stability and development. He noted that the region continues to face socio-economic challenges arising from global geopolitical developments, which have exposed vulnerabilities such as import dependence, limited economic diversification, and constrained fiscal space.
The Acting Minister highlighted that tackling illicit financial flows and strengthening anti-money laundering frameworks are critical to enhancing governance, mobilizing domestic resources, and promoting sustainable economic growth across the SADC region.
Mmolotsi also showcased Botswana's efforts to strengthen its AML/CFT regime, including the establishment of the Institute for Combating Illicit Financial Flows (ICIFF) in partnership with the University of Botswana in 2024. The institute serves as a centre for research, capacity building, policy development, and knowledge sharing, with plans to expand its reach across the region.
The Acting Minister further commended the progress made by SADC Member States in advancing regional financial governance. He noted with pride that Botswana was among the first countries to sign the amended SADC Protocol on Finance and Investment – Annex 12 on March 31, 2026, demonstrating its commitment to regional cooperation and financial integrity. He encouraged other Member States yet to sign the agreement to do so promptly.
Delegates are expected to deliberate on measures aimed at strengthening financial systems, enhancing regional cooperation, and improving collective responses to financial crimes. The meeting is also expected to foster greater collaboration between SADC institutions, the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG), and national authorities responsible for combating financial crime.
The Acting Minister expressed appreciation to the Government of Botswana, the SADC Secretariat, and ESAAMLG experts for their efforts in organising the meeting and supporting regional initiatives to safeguard the integrity of the financial sector.
