Mmegi

IMF sees diamond downturn squeezing growth

At the helm: Finance Minister, Peggy Serame, will be keeping a close eye on the numbers emerging from various sectors of the economy PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
At the helm: Finance Minister, Peggy Serame, will be keeping a close eye on the numbers emerging from various sectors of the economy PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) now expects the local economy to expand by just one percent this year, as the downturn in diamond mining and associated activities continues.

Earlier this year, in its World Economic Outlook, the IMF had projected 3.6 percent growth for Botswana in 2024. Government at the time of the February budget speech projected a 4.2 percent expansion, but the Bank of Botswana recently said this would likely be missed due to the underperformance of the key mining sector.

In a statement following the institution’s annual review with local fiscal and monetary policy authorities, Luc Eyraud, division chief in the IMF African Department, said the slowdown in diamonds would weigh down the economy this year.

Editor's Comment
A collective responsibility to end FMD spread

As cases continue to threaten herds and rural livelihoods, one simple but critical action can make a powerful difference: strictly adhering to FMD regulations, including refraining from slaughtering cloven-hoofed animals.Cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, are highly susceptible to FMD. Slaughter, especially during outbreaks or restricted periods, significantly increases the risk of spreading the virus through...

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