Gov't plans underway to revitalise AB
Monday, April 25, 2022 | 1010 Views |
Air Botswana flight
Giving updates on the rationalisation of the government portfolio responsibilities last week, President Mokgweetsi Masisi said the rationalisation exercise was guided by the Constitution. “Government will enter into a strategic partnership with the private sector to revitalise and develop Air Botswana, which is seen as playing a critical role in the economy,” he said.
With the privatisation, government is also aiming at weaning itself of its financial commitment to the airline. The national air carrier has experienced running losses since 2008, due to an ageing fleet, high maintenance costs, equipment failure, route redundancy and pressure from competition.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...