Govt has BoB support for deficit funding

The Bank of Botswana has reportedly given its blessings to Government for the funding of all or part of this year's P12.1 billion deficit from the domestic capital market, brushing aside concerns that the move could crowd out the private and parastatal sectors.

BoB's support clear the way for finalisation of a bond issuance programme and eventual tabling before the winter Parliament which sits from July. Government also plans  to draw down on its reserves in funding the deficit arising in the 2010/11 budget.

While Government's caps and policies on domestic borrowing entitle it to raise the entire deficit from the local market, analysts - including the International Monetary Fund - have cautioned that this could crowd out other players in the capital market through factors such as higher interest rates and lower liquidity.

Editor's Comment
Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

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...

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