Mmegi

Budget slowdown focuses on the wrong numbers

Friday, January 23, 2026 | 250 Views |

Tricky numbers: Gaolathe has said he wants to see a greater focus on capital investments and cutbacks on the recurrent budget PIC MORERI SEJAKGOMO

Budget outturn figures show that government has managed to restrain spending from P97.6 billion to P77.9 billion in 2025-26, with the adjustment falling most heavily on the development budget. While this headline reduction may suggest fiscal discipline, a closer look at the numbers reveals a worrying trend, writes TIMOTHY LEWANIKA

In line with progressive calls from different Bretton Woods institutions to slow spending and consolidate the fiscus, government has cut headline expenditure but the forgone opportunity appears to be investment in the country’s future.

The cuts suggest government continues to trim investment expenditure while protecting consumption, reinforcing a growth model that prioritises short-term stability over long-term wealth creation.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

ECONOMY

Striding back: Kutlwano volleyball women’s team PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

Kutlwano targets league title

Calistus Kolantsho | 12 h ago

GU Stadium bears the brunt of venue shortages

Mqondisi Dube | 12 h ago

Boko’s unfinished media battle

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | 12 h ago

Can Chiefs compound Rollers’ problems?

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | 12 h ago

Remembering Mma Stompi

Sharon Mathala | 12 h ago

Fare thee well Onty

Staff Writer | 12 h ago

I don't have a lawyer yet -Seretse

Larona Makhaiza | 1d ago

The Makhenes Are Coming to Mzansi Magic

correspondent | 09 Mar 2026

Let's show compassion to baby Asli

Her story is heartbreaking not only because she is fighting for her life at such a tender age, but because her parents have spent months navigating a medical journey filled with uncertainty, delays, and rising fear.What began as something that seemed as simple as jaundice has escalated into a life-threatening condition that now requires an urgent liver transplant.For Asli’s parents, the reality is devastating. They are not asking for luxuries...

Mmegi Editor | 06 March 2026

About us

Mmegi is the leading independent source of breaking news, latest news, current
affairs, Politics, Business, Sport, debates, analysis, and entertainment news in Botswana.

Explore

More