Who failed Botswana — The technocrats or the system? :: Mmegi Online

With emptying coffers, a bloated public sector, and an undiversified economy, Botswana finds itself at an economic crossroads. Despite decades of relative prosperity, the nation appears to have squandered its moment in the sun. The question now is where the blame truly lies: with the technocrats who have implemented policy, or with the economic system itself? TIMOTHY LEWANIKA writes

There is a Maasai proverb that says, “Don’t let the belly make you useless.”

Given the current economic crunch, one might wonder if Botswana grew drowsy from a prolonged diamond feast. For years, the country enjoyed consistent economic growth powered by its mineral wealth. But now, as the diamond windfall wanes and debt piles up, the reality of an underprepared economy has come crashing in. It seems Botswana is waking up — only to find itself in freefall, with no recovery in sight.

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