In an ambitious move to steer Botswana out of economic stagnation, President Duma Gideon Boko this morning unveiled an Economic Transformation Programme aimed at repositioning the nation on a sustainable and inclusive growth path.
Speaking at the official launch in Gaborone, President Boko acknowledged the country’s ongoing economic challenges but struck an optimistic tone.
“Botswana has itself to blame for the economic stagnancy — and therefore, it must also be the one to pull itself out,” said Boko, calling for a national mindset shift rooted in resilience, innovation, and diversification.
The newly introduced programme promises a “fast and fearless delivery culture,” with an emphasis on broadening revenue sources and reducing over-reliance on the traditional mining sector. Boko stressed the urgency of reform, especially in light of soaring youth unemployment, which he described as “a galvanising constraint and a ticking bomb.”
He warned that the country’s historical mono-sectoral economic model had become a chokehold on progress. To this end, he stated that this economic transformation programme offers an opportunity for both locals and foreign investors. Meanwhile, he also called the private sector to come on board to help grow this nation.
The programme will be coordinated by the National Planning Commission (NPC).