Econsult raises alarm on fiscal sustainability

Friday, May 03, 2024 | 420 Views |

Watching the numbers: Serame announced a considerable deficit in February that she plans to finance through domestic borrowing

Researchers at economic consultancy firm, Econsult Botswana, say government’s continuing tendency to spend more than it has, and perennially run deficits, is draining its savings and putting the country on an unsustainable economic trajectory.

Generally, Botswana is known for its prudent fiscal policy, with excess government earnings being saved or invested in offshore accounts to shield the mineral dependent economy from rainy days. Despite this track record, the government has, in recent years, been withdrawing significantly from these savings to finance national budget gaps.

The situation has decreased the economy’s resilience in the face of future shocks.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Gaolathe engages Dangote

Mbongeni Mguni | 10 h ago

Fresh audit exposes COVID spending chaos

Mbongeni Mguni | 1d ago

Selefu

joey kambai | 14 h ago

DPP strengthens response to GBV cases

Mpho Mokwape | 16 h ago

AAB marks 30 years with bold vision

Kabelo Boranabi | 1d ago

Pursuit for Kgosi Sekai’s scalp continues

Innocent Selatlhwa | 1d ago

Court affirms adopted children's inheritance rights in landmark ruling

Titus Mbuya | 1d ago

A child, DNA test, estate fight: court draws the line

Mpho Mokwape | 1d ago

Justice delayed is trust denied

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...

The Monitor Editor | 28 April 2026

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.