The main languages in Botswana are English and Setswana. English is used for business, schools, and government. Setswana is spoken by more than 90% of the population. As we talked about on the video call there are other languages spoken here, depending on where different tribes were settled. The are over 30 including Kalanga, Setsubia, and Khosia.
The currency in Botswana is called pula, which is also the word for rain that is falling this week. It is divided into 100 thebes, much like our dollar and cents. One pula is currently worth 0.07 cents in USD, so 100 pula would be worth a little over $7. The paper notes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 pula denominations. They are each different colors and sizes with the 10 pula note being the smallest in size and green. The 200 pula note is the largest, and is purple with a pictures of zebras on the back. The coins range from thebes of 5,10, 25, and 50, to pula coins of 1, 2, and 5. Similar to coins in the United States, they are different sizes and can easily be identified by feeling the edges for people with sight issues.
While out walking, I have a habit of picking up loose change. Since the thebe coins are worth so little, people who drop them don't bother to pick them up.
