Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, recently officially opened the Botswana Police Senior Officers Annual Conference with a strong call for innovation, collaboration, and integrity in modern policing. Addressing senior police officers, President Boko emphasised the need to adapt to global changes and security threats while upholding public trust.

The conference, themed “Innovative Approaches in Modern Policing: Closing Gaps and Building Trust,” served as a platform for the police leadership to discuss strategies for tackling contemporary crimes, including cybercrime, drug abuse, and terrorism financing. President Boko underscored that these threats demand radical, technologically-driven solutions and enhanced international cooperation.

“Rapid advancements in ICT, AI, and the realities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution have reshaped both opportunity and threat landscapes,” the President stated, noting that Botswana must align with global protocols such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals and AU Agenda 2063 to remain relevant.

In response to rising crime and social ills, particularly among youth, the President called for a unified national effort involving not just law enforcement but communities, businesses, and other institutions. He reiterated the government's commitment to prioritising police welfare through improved infrastructure and ongoing capacity building.

Stressing the importance of ethical leadership in law enforcement, the president urged officers to act within the law, respect human rights, and maintain professional conduct. He also endorsed the “Adopt-a-Police-Station” initiative as a police-business collaboration to improve police operations and community trust.

As Commander-in-Chief, President Boko expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by frontline officers and emphasised the need for forward-thinking leadership within the police service. He charged attendees to “Interrogate existing strategies, innovate, and generate creative initiatives."

The President encouraged participants to develop robust, research-backed solutions to enhance national security and drive Botswana toward a safer, more prosperous future.

President Boko highlighted the vital role that the BPS plays in Botswana's development. “Your mandate is at the core of creating a conducive environment for attaining and sustaining peace, stability, and economic growth.

“Government will therefore continue to prioritise public security issues in its efforts to create a resilient, balanced and thriving economy that benefits all Batswana.”