
A recent Auditor General’s report highlights significant issues within government financial systems, revealing that billions of Pula are sitting idle in government accounts while other public funds are being diverted or mismanaged. The report indicates a systemic breakdown in the governance of public funds, with money remaining untouched for years across several funds. For instance, the Debt Participation Capital Fund has shown no activity since 2015, despite holding P9,153,713 as of March 31, 2023. This dormancy raises concerns about the fund's relevance, operational effectiveness, and the efficient use of public resources, suggesting a lack of active program implementation or periodic review of fund objectives.
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Must ReadThe Auditor General has identified billing irregularities totaling at least P105 million at the Water Utilities Corporation WUC, corroborating customer complaints about high and inaccurate water bills. The Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending March 31, 2023, revealed that P105 million in debtor balances were incorrectly recorded in the corporation’s debtors’ book. These errors were primarily due to mistakes in meter readings, including incorrect readings being processed for billing without correction. Consequently, 257 individual customers received bills exceeding P100,000.
Must ReadBotswana's financial watchdogs have frozen approximately P184 million in assets suspected to be proceeds from financial crimes such as fraud, money laundering, or corruption. This figure, updated from P179 million in January, indicates an increase in detectable assets under investigation. The country's financial watchdogs, investigators, and prosecuting authorities recently presented findings from a national risk assessment report on money laundering and financial terrorism, highlighting ongoing efforts to recover illicitly obtained funds.
Must ReadBotswana's government is accelerating its plans to implement a 24-hour economy, with extended liquor trading hours being an initial policy change to revitalize nightlife and enhance tourism. The Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship indicated that this initiative is supported by World Bank research. This research identified several weaknesses in the tourism sector's diversification, such as low visitor numbers, shorter stays, and inadequate infrastructure.
Must ReadThe Botswana Police Service BPS has called on the public to actively participate in ensuring safety and security during the World Athletics Relays 2026, scheduled for this weekend in Gaborone. BPS Commissioner, Dinah Marathe, emphasized that the success of this event relies on the cooperation of law enforcement agencies, the public, the business community, and all stakeholders. Marathe urged Batswana to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and fully cooperate with security personnel, highlighting that effective policing requires strong community partnership. She stated, "We depend on the partnership of the community that we serve."