Multi-level governance and implementation challenges in localising sustainable development goals: Evidence from Botswana

To strengthen the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Botswana has mapped relevant SDGs and targets to existing development plans, including Vision 2036. However, despite significant policy alignment between national development plans and the SDGs, the localisation outcomes are notably slow – epitomising the challenges faced by middle-income countries in the Global South. That is, the extent to which these frameworks in the Global South translate into effective local implementation remains unclear. This paper assesses the governance structures needed to ensure the effective localisation of the SDGs. While Botswana is used as a case study, the issues highlighted apply to many other countries in the Global South. The study utilises triangulation methodology, integrating published community-based monitoring system (CBMS) data and systematic document analysis. The analysis reveals that successful SDG localisation requires a clear governance framework that goes beyond national alignment with global goals. The analysis also reveals a clear governance framework for localising SDGs in Botswana. However, the case of Gabane suggests several challenges to SDG localisation that help explain the identified localisation gap. The study finds an apparent lack of community participation in implementing the SDGs. This has rendered local communities’ inclusion and participation difficult. Additionally, the study identifies gaps in monitoring and evaluation, primarily due to a lack of community-level data. It is recommended that deliberate steps be taken to build local governance autonomy, capacity, and participatory systems.