State philanthropy: The demise of charitable organisations in Botswana

This article examines the decline of civil society and charitable organizations in Botswana, primarily attributed to increased state involvement in traditional philanthropic functions. It critiques how centralisation and bureaucratisation have inadvertently undermined grassroots initiatives and diminished citizen participation in social development efforts. The study highlights the adverse impact of governmental overreach on local philanthropic endeavors, suggesting a shift away from community-led approaches towards more state-controlled welfare mechanisms, leading to reduced civic engagement and independent charitable action.