UDC rolls out 'promised' child grant
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday February 4, 2026 09:29
Speaking in an interview with The Monitor on Saturday, UDC executive secretary Dr Patrick Molutsi said the programme reflects a commitment the party made to Batswana during the election campaign. He explained that the CGP is designed not only to ease the financial strain on households with young children, but also to contribute to population growth and early childhood development. Under the programme, qualifying children under the age of one will receive a monthly cash grant of P300. According to Molutsi, whilst the amount may appear modest, it is intended as a starting point to provide immediate relief to struggling families.
“When we were campaigning, we promised Batswana that we would support children under one year of age with P300,” Molutsi said. “Although this is not enough, it will help where possible, especially for poor and vulnerable households.” Beyond direct cash support, Molutsi noted that the Child Grant Programme is structured to link beneficiary families to essential social services. In this regard, the initiative seeks to reduce poverty, promote child survival and strengthen early childhood development outcomes across the country.
He further explained that the primary objective of the CGP is to lessen the financial burden of childcare, particularly among low-income households. By providing regular cash transfers, the government hopes to improve household stability during a critical stage of a child’s development.
Moreover, Molutsi indicated that the programme could be reviewed in the future, depending on the performance of the national economy. He said the current grant amount should not be viewed as fixed, but rather as part of a broader, evolving social protection framework.
“When the economy of the country improves, the government may look into it again,” he said, suggesting that adjustments to the grant value could be considered over time.
In addition, Molutsi emphasised that the CGP aligns with broader efforts to reduce inequality and support vulnerable groups. He argued that targeted social protection measures such as child grants play a crucial role in breaking cycles of poverty and ensuring that children get a fair start in life. Whilst the programme is seen as a step towards fulfilling UDC’s campaign pledges, its long-term impact will likely depend on effective implementation, coverage, and sustainability. Nonetheless, Molutsi maintained that the CGP demonstrates the party’s intention to translate promises into action. “This is about doing what we said we would do,” he said. “It is about supporting families and investing in the future of our children.” The rollout of the programme is expected to start on April 1.