Key oversights, insufficiently addressed issues in Budget Speech
Friday, February 21, 2025 | 480 Views |
Setting policy: Gaolathe PIC KENNEDY RAMOKONE
The speech highlights several positive developments, including the successful renegotiation of the diamond agreement with De Beers, which is expected to bolster Botswana’s position in the global diamond market.
Additionally, the government’s commitment to diversifying the economy through investments in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy is commendable. The proposed increase in old age pensions and the introduction of a targeted monthly allowance for newborns are also steps in the right direction, reflecting a focus on social welfare and inclusivity.
That sounds like good news. But the report also warns that this may simply be because our digital economy is still young, not because we are safe. As more people shop, bank and pay online, criminals will follow.We Batswana do not need a report to tell us that danger is real. Many of us have heard of or fallen victim to KYC scams. A caller impersonates your bank or mobile money provider. They say they need to “verify” your account. They ask...