Comparative Efficacy of Social Protection Programmes in Botswana and South Africa: Historical Contexts, Policy Developments, and Contemporary Challenges

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20082483

Benedikt Letso Freude¹, Thekiso Molokwane², and Christopher Dick-Sagoe³ (Political and Administrative Studies Department, University of Botswana, Botswana¹, School of Management, IT and Governance, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa², and
Department of Development Studies, University of South Africa, South Africa³)

This study presents a comparative analysis of the historical development, policy trajectories, and contemporary challenges of social assistance programmes in South Africa and Botswana. It examines how colonialism and Apartheid-era policies have shaped welfare provision in South Africa, resulting in a fragmented system with racial disparities, while Botswana’s welfare state emerged amidst challenges like severe droughts and limited resources, leading to community-based interventions. Post-Apartheid reforms in South Africa, such as the 1992 Social Assistance Act, aimed to address historical injustices and promote equality, while Botswana’s efforts focused on consolidating welfare measures and expanding coverage. Despite progress, both countries face challenges in ensuring equitable access to social assistance and adapting programmes to changing socio-economic realities. Through a context-specific analysis, this study contributes to the literature on comparative welfare regimes and offers insights for future research and policy interventions aimed at promoting inclusive development and social justice in diverse national contexts.