Budget deficits expose Botswana to credit rating downgrade
Friday, October 13, 2017
The Budget Strategy Paper for the 2018/19 financial year projects the budget deficit for the current financial year to increase from P2.35 billion announced by Finance Minister, Kenneth Matambo in February to P6.5 billion.
The deficit is seen widening to P8 billion in the next financial year leading to cumulative budget gap of P15 billion by 2020, a development that is contrary to government’s commitment in NDP 11 to reign in budget deficits.
The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...