IMF optimistic on Botswana rebound, but warns of price pains :: Mmegi Online

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects Botswana’s economy to rebound by 4.4 percent this year, slightly below its April forecast, whilst warning that inflation will continue to bite into consumer's pockets staying above the central bank’s objective range.

The October World Economic Outlook (WEO) forecasts Botswana’s economy to recover from last year’s 0.7 percent contraction, that was mainly driven by a slowdown in the diamond mining sector. In April, researchers had projected a stronger expansion of 4.7 percent for 2026.

Whilst the IMF has maintained a cautious economic outlook for the country it has sounded the alarm over cost of living. Researchers now expect inflation to average 7.2 percent this year, up from the 5.1 percent projected in April. For 2027, the forecast has increased from 5.7 percent to 7.4 percent, suggesting more persistent pressure on household purchasing power.

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IMF
ECONOMY

IMF optimistic on Botswana rebound, but warns of price pains

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects Botswana’s economy to rebound by 4.4 percent this year, slightly below its April forecast, whilst warning that inflation will continue to bite into consumer's pockets staying above the central bank’s objective range.

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