What steps are needed to register as a lobbyist and secure meetings with Botswana Parliament for a mining policy proposal?

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out with this important query regarding mining policy advocacy in Botswana. Given your objective to influence the proposed amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act, it is critical to navigate the specific parliamentary and administrative protocols correctly.

Here is the professional guidance on your situation:

1. No Formal "Lobbyist Registry" Exists
Unlike in the United States or Canada, Botswana does not currently have a central "Lobbyist Registration Act" or a public register for private lobbyists. You do not need to apply for a "lobbying license" to operate. However, this does not mean the process is unregulated; you must operate under strict parliamentary standing orders and anti-corruption laws.

2. The Official Process to Influence Policy
To lawfully influence the upcoming changes to licensing and environmental policies, you should follow this two-track approach:

Ministry Level (Priority): The Ministry of Minerals and Energy is currently the lead authority reviewing the Act. You should formally register your firm as an "Interested Party" by submitting a written memorandum to the Permanent Secretary or the Director of Mineral Affairs Division. This is the most effective stage for technical input before the Bill reaches Parliament.

Parliamentary Level: Once the Bill is in Parliament, you can submit a formal Petition under Standing Order 35 of the National Assembly. This allows private entities to present their views to the House. You should also request an audience with the Portfolio Committee on Wildlife, Tourism, Natural Resources & Climate Change, which oversees mining impacts.

3. Securing Meetings and Disclosures

How to arrange meetings: Do not approach MPs informally for policy deals. The lawful route is to write a formal letter to the Clerk of the National Assembly, requesting a meeting with the relevant Committee Chairperson. For individual MPs, official scheduling requests sent to their constituency offices are standard.

Disclosures: While you do not file "lobbying disclosures," public officials are bound by the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Act. You must ensure that any engagement avoids conflicts of interest that would force an official to recuse themselves.

Next Steps
Since the "informal" nature of these rules can be risky if mishandled, I can assist you in drafting the specific Stakeholder Memorandum for the Ministry and the Formal Petition for Parliament.

I offer a dedicated consultation service via WhatsApp where we can discuss your specific policy goals and draft these documents at a low cost.