�Over P19bn in banks to lend out�

Officially opening a Bank Gaborone branch in Maun yesterday, Pelaelo said the status and health of the banking system is sound.

“I can report that banks have sufficient liquidity, totalling approximately P19 billion, inclusive of Bank of Botswana Certificates and balances held abroad, both of which could be liquidated in case of need, with minimal capital loss, to finance any effective and viable demand for credit.  However, it should be noted that the distribution of liquidity amongst banks will vary from time to time,” he said.