Country profile

What is it about Botswana? It has just concluded a parliamentary election and thereby asserted its unique record of uninterrupted democracy in a politically turbulent continent. As a diamond-rich African country,it is also seen as a counter to the suggestion that diamond reserves are typically exploited in troubled lands. Most recently,American Secretary of State Hillary Clinton hailed Botswana for using its diamond wealth sensibly to create infrastructure. And even though the country has one of the highest rates of HIV infection,taking a great toll on its economy,its record in sustaining high economic growth is a favourite story with critics of the Washington Consensus like Joseph Stiglitz on how governments should own the reform process. Though you can be sure that neither the World Bank nor the IMF has been lacking in praise for Botswana,either.

But if familiarity with the sights around Gaborone,the capital of Botswana,and the correct way to address a woman of a certain age Mma is rampant around the world,put that down to the amazing popularity of Alexander McCall Smiths No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency novels. McCall Smith,who admits to inspiration from R.K. Narayan,writes about the life and cases of Precious Ramotswe,traditionally-built and given to long meditations on her countrys natural beauty and the innate goodness of her people and national leadership. A coincidence that he chose this celebrated country to situate his good-natured detective,or did a socio-economic inquiry yield the choice?

McCall Smith may not tell. But as Ian Khama wins a five-year term to lead Botswana,raise a cup of red bush tea,Mma Ramotswes comfort drink,to a country that continues to intrigue.