Botswana is one of Africa’s most politically stable countries and its diamond reserves have made a huge impact on the country’s income. However, half of the population still struggle to survive on less than $2 a day. One of the most vulnerable groups is women; one third of all families are now female-headed households and 60% of women live in extreme poverty.

The rampant spread of HIV/AIDS has added to the country’s burdens, with an estimation of 37% of the population now infected. The loss of lives through HIV in turn leads to an increase in the number of child headed families that is often left without proper financial means to support themselves or be able to maintain existing houses.

With so many people living in poverty, substandard housing is an overwhelming challenge. Most families live in traditional homes made of mud walls and thatch roofs, or inadequately constructed brick houses. Overcrowding exist in the majority of these houses, and a lack of natural light and ventilation are common problems, causing illness and other socially orientated problems.

Habitat for Humanity Botswana (HFHB) began in 1991, at the invitation of the former President, Sir Ketumile J. Masire. The first affiliates (local offices) were in Ghanzi, Francistown, Kanye, and Kasane. HFHB is now working in 17 communities.

HFHB houses measure approximately 20-34 sq. meters and consist of one to two and half rooms, made of cement blocks, concrete floors with corrugated iron roofs. All the houses have external pit latrines, which considerably improve health.