Botswana economy loses P1 billion to corruption between 2020 and 2024
via Mmegi3 min read
Botswana's economy experienced an estimated loss of close to P1 billion due to corruption in both the public and private sectors from 2020 to 2024. These figures, the first of their kind released in the country, come from the national dirty money watchdog. During this period, Botswana's ranking on the Corruption Perceptions Index declined from 35th out of 180 countries in 2020 to 43rd out of 180 countries in 2024. The National Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment Report, recently released by the Non-Bank Financial Institutions Regulatory Authority NBIFRA, provided this initial estimate of corruption's cost. Researchers identified corruption as a prevalent money-laundering threat, noting that it generated substantial illicit proceeds and allowed criminals to exploit public institutions and conceal illegal fund movements.
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The Botswana Congress Party BCP is experiencing significant internal divisions as it prepares for its elective conference. Once known for calm internal contests, the main opposition party is now marked by open factional battles and public campaigning by rival teams, raising concerns about unity before the 2029 General Election. The conference will elect new national leadership, with members appearing more divided than in the past. The BCP's tradition of avoiding personal attacks during internal elections has eroded due to open rivalry, with competing camps mobilizing support through organized teams, public meetings, and media engagements. Appeals from senior party leaders for issue-based campaigns have had little impact, as campaign rhetoric has intensified. A key contest is for the vice president position, where incumbent Taolo Lucas is defending his role against Member of Parliament Unity Dow. Dow's supporters, campaigning under the slogan "Re Motia," advocate for fresh leadership to reposition the BCP for the 2029 national polls, believing new faces will attract voters and strengthen electoral prospects.
The three affiliates of the Umbrella for Democratic Change UDC – the Botswana National Front BNF, Alliance for Progressives AP, and Botswana People’s Party BPP – are planning to hold policy forums during the President’s Day holidays. These gatherings aim to align their priorities with the governing coalition and identify areas for reform. The UDC-led government has indicated its intention to review laws and regulations that hinder economic growth and public service delivery. UDC president Duma Boko has previously stated that some outdated laws discourage investment, making Botswana less attractive to investors, and that reviewing these laws is crucial for economic development.
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