Moody’s gives diamond deal a thumbs-up
Wednesday, August 16, 2023 | 1400 Views |
Handshakes and smiles: De Beers CEO, Al Cook and Minerals minister, Lefoko Moagi after clinching the deal recently PIC.DE BEERS BOTSWANA FACEBOOK
As a wholly state-owned entity, the BDC’s credit rating is linked to government’s own outlook and the related forecasts around the country’s economic performance. In a recent update, Moody’s said the country’s economy was now projected to grow by 3.9% and 4.2% in 2023 and 2024 respectively, “partly driven by the new agreement in principle between government and De Beers.
The agency said the agreement is expected to increase the country’s share of diamond production, driving fiscal revenues higher and in turn bolstering economic activity.
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...