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Gov't plans underway to revitalise AB

Air Botswana flight
Air Botswana flight

Government is in the process of revitalising the civil aviation sector, Business Monitor has learnt. Plans to engage the private sector in the ownership and management of Air Botswana (AB) are underway to ensure the continued provision of air services in the domestic, regional and international markets as a viable and efficient airline.

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.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

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...

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