09 Feb 2025

The month of February marks a significant juncture in Botswana’s calendar of events, staging the commencement of the legal year and presentation of the budget speech.

This year, these events carry a level of significance since they will be unfolding under President Advocate Duma Boko’s administration.

Today, the nation will learn what awaits them from Minister of Finance, also Vice President, Mr Ndaba Gaolathe’s 2025/26 budget speech.

The budget will outline government’s strategy in prioritising essential services while potentially implementing austerity measures.

How Batswana perceive this budget will be crucial in shaping public opinion and the government’s future trajectory.

The sentiment surrounding the budget is one of cautious optimism mixed with apprehension.

Borolonng crop production farmer, Mr Thembo Lebang said it was early to predict specifics as the new government was yet-to reveal its agenda, as such was reluctant to advocate for a significant per cent allocation to agriculture, but emphasised the sector’s vital role in rural livelihoods.

He highlighted significant challenges facing the sector, including prolonged drought, unpredictable rainfall, lack of groundwater, and extreme heat, which  had impacted crop yields, with farmers producing far less than anticipated.

Mr Lebang called for at least 30-60 per cent of the budget to support agriculture, suggesting that the government should consider for modern agriculture, such as irrigation infrastructure, drought-resistant seeds, agricultural technology, and training programmes.

He added that government should diversify the economy by investing in the long-neglected manufacturing sector, and attracting foreign direct investment by supporting existing factories and establishing new ones.

  He championed the development of a domestic drug manufacturing industry, citing the country’s educated workforce, including scientists, and abundant indigenous medicinal plants as significant assets, arguing that this sector presents a lucrative opportunity given the global prevalence of disease outbreaks affecting humans, animals, and other species.

 Mr Lakidzani Masedi of Sebina also predicted a ‘tight’ budget reflecting the nation’s reportedly strained financial situation.

He advocated for a significant reallocation of funds, prioritising the Ministry of Agriculture.

He viewed agriculture as the bedrock of rural livelihoods, having sustained Batswana with or without substantial government support.

Mr Masedi highlighted the sector’s comprehensive value chain, encompassing all stages from land preparation to harvest.

He noted the decline of diamond revenue, a previously significant economic driver, exacerbated by recent poor sales and dwindling reserves, underscoring the increased need for investment in agriculture.

Former Francistown Mayor and businessman, Mr Godisang Radisigo who shared the same sentiments of prioritising agriculture sector  emphasised its crucial role in ensuring food security.

He cautioned against dismantling existing agricultural policies and programmes, specifically citing the recent lifting of the vegetable import ban as a questionable decision.

Mr Radisigo stressed the significant employment potential and export opportunities within the agricultural sector, suggesting a focus on exporting to reduce the country’s import bill.

He recommends promoting trade and technological advancements while maintaining the vital cattle industry and its beef export market to Europe.Integrated Technology economist, Mr Shushain Baitsheyetse predicts a ‘normal’ budget despite repeated rhetoric to the contrary, arguing that the perceived budget shortfall stemmed not from lack of available funds, but rather from unrepatriated capital that remained circulating within the domestic economy.

He said prioritising agricultural investment was key, for sustaining livelihoods, bolstering the trade sector, and overall economic growth.

Botswana’s economy was not in crisis, and the current pressure stemmed from the new government’s election promises, which should be implemented in phases or staggered releases to avoid strain, he said. ENDS