Botswana this week welcomed delegates from across East and Southern Africa for the first Regional Peer-to-Peer Exchange Congress under the INTERPOL Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats. The three-day meeting, held in Gaborone from September 16 to 18, 2025, brings together more than 150 participants from 19 countries to strengthen cooperation against the growing threat of chemical and explosives terrorism.

Officially opening the congress, the Minister for State President, Honourable Moeti Caesar Mohwasa, applauded Botswana Police Service and INTERPOL for spearheading international cooperation against emerging security threats. He stressed that defeating the misuse of chemicals requires cross-sector collaboration. “Combating chemical threats is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement; we must work hand in hand with industry, academia and civil society to ensure that hazardous materials are managed securely.”

Delivering opening remarks INTERPOL Representative, Mr Alan Grimmer of the Chemical and Explosives Terrorism Prevention Unit, underlined the urgency of the task. “The threat of chemical and explosive terrorism is evolving at an alarming rate.”

He explained that the Global Congress, launched in 2018, now unites more than 2,000 experts worldwide to share knowledge and counter the illicit use of dangerous materials. “With representatives from 18 countries across East and Southern Africa, we have a unique opportunity to leverage our collective expertise and develop actionable recommendations that will drive change.”

He further noted that this Gaborone exchange builds on recommendations adopted at the 2025 Global Congress plenary in Amman, Jordan, particularly the call to strengthen regional networks.

For his part, Acting Commissioner of Botswana Police Service, Solomon Mantswe, expressed pride in Botswana’s role as host. He reminded delegates that Botswana has a strong history of collaboration with INTERPOL, including hosting the first African Regional Conference in 2011.

The Acting Commissioner underscored the danger posed by everyday chemicals falling into the wrong hands, adding that governments and private actors alike must safeguard the production, storage and use of such substances. Beyond the technical discussions, he encouraged delegates to enjoy Botswana’s hospitality.

Over the course of the congress, participants will share best practices, and develop strategies to reinforce chemical security.