Diamonds: transformed Botswana from subsistence to middle-income economy in 25 years; world's third-largest producer. High economic growth, averaging 11.3% a year in 1980s. Prudent economic management. Large financial reserves. Copper, nickel, beef.
Weaknesses
Overdependence on diamonds (80% of export earnings; 50% of GNP). Weak agriculture and industry. Small population, water shortages and drought add to diversification problems. Adverse impact of beef industry on environment. High transportation costs to coast.
