Parly endorses economic transformation programme
Pini Bothoko | Wednesday November 12, 2025 06:00
Presenting the motion, Gaolathe said Botswana’s historic economic success, anchored on diamond revenues, had delivered stability and prosperity over the decades, but also exposed structural weaknesses such as limited economic diversification, high unemployment, poverty, inequality, and fiscal pressures now threatening sustainable growth.
He stressed that Botswana has never lacked sound policies or well-crafted development plans, but rather struggles with implementation.
“Too often, good ideas stall at implementation, hindered by weak coordination, delayed decisions, and limited accountability,” he said.
Gaolathe said the BETP proposes a decisive shift towards delivery-driven reforms that prioritise execution, measurable outcomes, and long-term economic sustainability.
“BETP takes a bold step to reshape our economy for resilience, competitiveness, and inclusive growth. Our commitment is to long-termism policies that outlive political cycles and progress measured by prosperity that endures,” he added.
Gaolathe explained that the BETP was developed through a comprehensive diagnostic assessment, a strategic Cabinet retreat, and multi-sectoral labs. The government engaged Parliament, dikgosi, district leaders, the private sector, cooperatives, trade unions, and development partners.
He said a nationwide call for ideas attracted 2,925 submissions from Batswana and the international community, demonstrating public belief in Botswana’s transformation vision.
Some projects under the BETP are not new, as they had either stalled due to red tape, poor coordination, or limited capacity, whilst others are operational but need scaling up.
“The BETP also launches a new wave of bold initiatives to open new industries, attract investment, and position Botswana for lasting competitiveness. Projects such as the A1 Highway upgrade, Milk Valley, and the National Digital ID are now moving forward after years of uncertainty,” Gaolathe said.
Commenting, MPs backed the motion calling for delivery. MPs across the political divide supported the motion, emphasising the urgency of job creation, economic diversification, and implementation discipline.
Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Edwin Dikoloti, said submissions made by Batswana showed that citizens strongly believe agriculture can transform livelihoods and stimulate the economy.
“The projects are good; what is important is implementation. As the ministry, we are committed to supporting the minister to achieve this vision,” he said.
Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Major General Pius Mokgware, echoed the need for transparency, efficiency, and anti-corruption safeguards.
“If implemented accordingly, these projects can help create jobs and boost the economy. There should be transparency and competitiveness. We must review procurement systems and eliminate corruption, which has derailed progress for years,” he said.
Maun East MP, Goretetse Kekgonegile, said unemployment remains severe, especially in rural areas.
“Our focus should be rural development. People in rural areas are overwhelmed by joblessness, and they need empowerment where they live,” he said.
Serowe North MP, Baratiwa Mathoothe, welcomed the inclusion of the Botala Energy gas project in Serowe, saying it has the potential to create jobs and position Botswana as a leading gas supplier.
He commended Serowe and Palapye Trusts for leasing rather than selling land to the developer, urging more villages to leverage land to empower communities.
Minister of Higher Education and Tswapong North MP, Prince Maele, said BETP directly addresses unemployment and could encourage job creation if risk-mitigation measures and leadership capacity are prioritised.
“We must identify the right institutions and leadership to drive these projects. Rural industries must be developed to improve livelihoods. In Tswapong, for example, we have produce such as phane and watermelons that should be turned into viable industries,” he said.
Responding to MPs, Gaolathe acknowledged that unemployment remains the nation’s biggest challenge, but said the BETP aims to build a diverse, export-driven economy where citizens meaningfully participate.
“We must join hands to boost our economy. We have qualified people in the system, but we are not utilising them well. That must change,” he said.
Gaolathe pledged ethical leadership and zero tolerance for corruption in the implementation process.
“I agree that government must be trustworthy, and I personally commit to ensuring that we deliver free of corruption,” he said.