No more free help from burdened gov’t

Friday, October 03, 2025 | 760 Views |

Boko addressing UDC members PICS: KENNEDY RAMOKONE

With a significant proportion of the population relying on social protection, the government plans to move away from giving people free assistance as it seeks to reduce public spending pressure.

Under the National Development Plan 12 draft, which will be considered by Parliament at a special meeting from October 13 to November 7, the government is worried that Batswana’s heavy dependence on such programmes raises concerns about their long-term financial sustainability.

Reportedly, out of a national population of 2.3 million, a total of 1.6 million individuals benefit from various social protection programmes across ministries.

Already have an active account? Log in here.

Or Sign up and get unlimited access to premium articles.

Boko

Orapa targets reinforcements after near-miss

Kabelo Boranabi | 2d ago

FNB hosts watch party for World Cup opener

staff writer | 2d ago

Goi's Grill gears for fourth edition of five-a-side tourney

staff writer | 2d ago

Doctors say medicine crisis far from over

correspondent | 2d ago

Maxy Khoisan: A voice beyond borders

Johannes Kambai | 2d ago

TAFIC back in the hands of society

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | 2d ago

Botswana hosts AviaDev Africa

Pauline Dikuelo | 11 Jun 2026

Mokomeng rejects pro deo counsel, opts for Ngakaagae attorneys

Larona Makhaiza | 11 Jun 2026

Mob justice isn't just

A young man suspected of breaking into a car was seized by residents, severely assaulted, and died in the hospital within an hour. We unreservedly condemn this mob justice. It is not a solution to crime, but a criminal offence that turns citizens into murderers.Residents are understandably angry about theft. The person who raised the alarm at 4am acted lawfully, and the neighbours who rushed to help showed community spirit. But what followed was...

The Monitor Editor | 09 June 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.