The Republic of Botswana (formerly Bechuanaland) located in south central Africa. Twice the size of Arizona, Botswana is bounded by Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Most of the country is near-desert, with the Kalahari occupying the western part of the country. Although Botswana is rich in diamonds, it has high unemployment and stratified socioeconomic classes. In 1999, the nation suffered its first budget deficit in 16 years because of a slump in the international diamond market. Yet Botswana remains one of the wealthiest and most stable countries on the continent.ENJOY!!

Languages: English, Setswana
Religions: Indigenous beliefs, Christian
Status: UN Country 1966
Pula: In Setswana (the language of Botswana) Pula means "Rain"

The note selected today is a 1982 issue of 2 Pula printed by Thomas De La Rue & Co Ltd. (TDLR)

(Front) Bird at ctr. President O. Masire at l. Arms w/ Zebras at upper r. (Back) Various workers.