1 Introduction It has become clichéd in the information society that access to ICT services is a prerequisite to any meaningful socio-economic development. It is in this regard that the Government of Botswana embarked on drafting Maitlamo, the National ICT Policy; the formulation of Universal Service Policy and the further liberalisation of the telecommunications sector. These efforts are in line with international initiatives such as the WSIS Declaration of 2003 and the WITFOR Gaborone Declaration of 2005 to which the Government of Botswana is signatory. As nations promote economies based on the exploitation of information in this age, developing countries such as Botswana are faced with particular challenges relating to the availability and cost in providing rural infrastructure. It is undeniable that demand for telecommunications services in Botswana far outstrips the current level of services provided. Despite sectoral liberalisation brought about by the implementation of the 1995 Telecommunications Policy, telecommunications services have not trickled down to the rural areas. This causes dissatisfaction among the populations living in the rural areas who feel marginalised. The costs of providing infrastructure to rural Botswana is immense and for the most part, there is little commercial basis for doing so. The large distances between communities, the difficult terrain, harsh climate conditions and the small scattered population in the rural areas all make it very costly for commercial operations. Against this background, Government recognises its social obligation to improve the standard of living for all citizens more especially in the rural areas. It is in light of this recognition that for more than ten years it has promoted and funded rural connectivity. Unfortunately these efforts have not lived up to all expectations and many communities remain unconnected. Concerns and issues raised by several stakeholders in relation to the implementation of the rural telecommunications program have prompted the Government to revisit rural telecommunications. It is this review process that has determined the need for drawing up a new strategy in order to accelerate progress. The directions, positions and measures outlined in this Strategy are intended to establish a comprehensive and balanced approach to ensuring telecommunications services are provided to the generality of rural Botswana on the basis of need. A framework for moving the Government’s ICT agenda forward has been articulated through this effort. This strategy lays the foundation for an accelerated expansion of infrastructure and services to the rural communities. It will increase competitiveness in the telecommunications sector, enhance opportunities for growth, capacity building Rural Telecommunications Strategy 26 October 2006 6