Duma Boko, 54, has been sworn in as Botswana’s new president following his alliance’s unexpected victory in last week’s general election, marking a historic shift in the diamond-rich nation’s political landscape.

The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) leader took the oath of office in Gaborone on Monday, succeeding former president Mokgweetsi Masisi after his party secured a decisive parliamentary majority, winning 36 of the 61 available seats.

In his first major appointment, Boko has named economist Ndaba Gaolathe as his deputy president, signalling a potential new direction for the southern African nation’s economic policy.

The transition represents a significant change for Botswana, which has been governed by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) since independence in 1966.

At Monday’s ceremony in the capital, Boko officially assumed leadership of one of Africa’s most stable democracies and largest diamond producers.

The change in leadership comes at a crucial time for Botswana’s economy, which has long relied on its diamond industry and faces challenges of economic diversification.

Further details about the new administration’s policy priorities and cabinet appointments are expected to be announced in the coming days.