Botswana faces tighter fiscal space, weaker buffers
Tuesday, February 03, 2026 | 260 Views |
Gaolathe. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG
Speaking at the Budget Pitso, Gaolathe said Botswana's economic model, heavily reliant on diamonds and government intervention, can't sustain the country in the same way it has for decades.
Gaolathe highlighted global uncertainty, market volatility, and uneven growth as contributing factors. "The era of ample fiscal buffers, healthier reserves, and the confidence to design and fund reforms has passed," he said.
Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...