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.
As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...