Norman Maitase
Botswana has been navigating challenging financial waters in recent years, a narrative that has dominated headlines and public discourse. However, beneath the surface of economic anxiety, there are critical achievements unfolding that often go unnoticed. A closer look at the UDC government’s tenure reveals a quiet but steady push toward fiscal discipline, structural reform, and social investment.
Botswana is moving forward with a clear focus on accountability, strategic investment, and social impact—proving that careful governance can deliver tangible benefits even amid financial pressures.
Here are the five major developments shaping Botswana’s economic recovery that aren’t making the front pages.
- Reining in National Debt
Fiscal responsibility often starts with managing institutional liabilities. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) has successfully slashed its debt from P1.5 billion down to P1 billion, with the figure continuing on a downward trajectory. This decisive debt reduction demonstrates a renewed commitment to sustainable management of public funds and restoring health to essential public services.
- The Historic Turnaround of the BMC
For over nine years under previous administrations, the Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) was widely viewed as a financial sinkhole. Between 2015 and 2022, the struggling parastatal relied on massive bailouts—receiving P300 million, P100 million, and P120 million respectively just to stay afloat.
The narrative has dramatically shifted. In less than 18 months under the UDC government, the BMC has not only cleared its debt but has also seen its revenue surge by 31%. This swift turnaround points to highly effective management and a laser focus on revitalising one of Botswana’s most historic economic engines.
- Halting Rampant Project Inflation
Runaway public spending has long been a drain on the national treasury. A glaring example is the Development Manager (DM) Model projects, which were initially budgeted at BWP 13 billion but saw projected costs balloon to an unsustainable BWP 56 billion under previous estimates.
To stop the financial bleeding, the current government took drastic action: out of 148 projects, 132 have been suspended, leaving only 16 highly viable projects to move forward. This aggressive curbing of unnecessary spending ensures that national resources are utilised wisely rather than lost to inflated budgets.
- Investing in the Future Workforce
Even amid tight financial constraints, human capital remains a priority. The government has increased student allowances for the Brigades to P1,900. This targeted investment goes beyond mere financial aid; it actively incentivises participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. By doing so, the government is taking direct steps to close the national skills gap and equip Botswana’s youth for the industrial challenges of tomorrow.
- Securing Livelihoods for Temporary Workers
In a major win for labour rights and grassroots economic stability, all temporary workers in cleaning and security across the government will be fully absorbed starting 1 April 2026.
The government has assured that no one will be left behind, explicitly noting that those with expiring contracts will see them extended. This policy provides profound stability for thousands of households. Furthermore, it promises a powerful ripple effect across the broader economy, injecting vital spending power into sectors like retail, transportation, and insurance.
