IMF urges Botswana to raise borrowing limits
Friday, December 12, 2025 | 850 Views |
Decisions: Finance Minister, Ndaba Gaolathe, is balancing the need for more debt with the risks of a spiral PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
The IMF however also emphasised the need to keep an eye on spiralling debt, with government's debt pile having grown from P48 billion in 2021 to an estimated P74 billion at the last count. The major factors have been the rolling budget deficits dating back to 2016–2017, COVID-19 and the more recent diamond downturn.
The IMF, which recently published the findings of its annual economic bilateral engagement with the government, known as the Article IV mission, recommended the expansion of borrowing limits for the country, as the country’s financing needs continue to outstrip capital supply through conventional revenue channels.
Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...