On Thursday, November 5, President Ian Khama is scheduled to meet with President Barack Obama.

Abigail Wilson, IFES Deputy Director for Africa, comments on the visit:

"Botswana sets a high standard for democracy in the Southern African region. Their elections have been well run, utilizing appropriate technology and including the most rural and marginalized voters. The meeting between Presidents Obama and Khama should reinforce Botswana’s democratic gains despite its economic challenges."

The White House issued the following statement on the meeting:

"The President looks forward to welcoming President Khama of Botswana to the Oval Office on November 5, 2009. Botswana is a strong democratic partner in sub-Saharan Africa, and the two leaders will meet to discuss a wide range of regional and bilateral issues, including how the United States can support sound governance, economic development, and natural resource conservation throughout the continent. President Obama looks forward to working closely with President Khama to tackle shared challenges, including how to continue to address the issue of HIV/AIDS and its impact on the people of sub-Saharan Africa."

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Visit of President Khama of Botswana