New financial year: New risks, new opportunities
Friday, March 20, 2026 | 260 Views |
Holding firm: Gaolathe says his focus is on expanding the productive sectors of the economy PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE
The start of the new financial year on April 1 marks a pivotal cycle for government and the broader economy, navigating the cost of delivering public services, the burden of rising debt and the need to reignite growth.
The climate is supported by green shoots of recovery in some segments of the diamond market, as well as the associated accelerated efforts to stimulate demand for the stones. New revenue lines are also strengthening in base metals, specifically copper, whose exports in 2025 soared beyond P11 billion for the first time, providing a timely injection for the foreign reserves as well as tax and royalty receipts for government.
As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...