The Botswana National Archives and Records Services is a government department established by the National Archives Act of 1978, amended in 2007. The main function of the Department is to provide records and information management service to government agencies; and to collect, preserve and access the nation’s documentary heritage.
Description of Service: The National Archives Act provides that records which are 20 years and above be open for public access. Archives are unique a fragile documents as they contain some of the earliest information on Botswana. They are a vital past of our National Heritage and in most cases exist in single copies. This calls for handling archives with care to protect then against further deterioration. Access to these documents is facilitated through a Search Room service. One needs to register and complete the Archives Requisition form. Access to documents is free and there are basically no restrictions to open documents.
Search Room and Requisition Regulations:
The following rules apply for one go have access to this service.
No file/document is allowed to leave the search-room
Files will be issued for consultation in the Search-room only.
Users to the Search-room are requested to sign their names once daily in the Users Attendance Register available in the search-room.
Smoking, eating and chewing in the Search-room is prohibited.
Users are requested not to use fountain pens and to seek permission before copying any document by tracing.
Unauthorized removal of any archival materials or publications from the Search-room is prohibited.
Bags are not allowed in the Search-room.
Leaning on documents is prohibited.
Researchers are allowed to request a maximum of four files at a time.
Please draw the attention of the Search-room Staff to any torn materials, missing pages or any other irregularities in the materials given to you.
Leave all files publications on the reading tables after use.
How do I get the Service: You may download the Archives Requisition form by clicking here.
Cost of Service: No charges are levied on this service. If there is need for a copy, 1 sheet costs 50thebe.
For more informtion, contact us:
Botswana National Archives and Records Services
P.O. Box 239
Gaborone
Botswana
Tel: 3911820
Fax: 3908545
Email: archives@gov.bw
Corner State Drive & Parliament Drive,
Government Enclave
Gaborone