BNYC and BOCONGO weigh the budget's impact on youth and communities

A post-budget huddle just put Botswana’s spending plan under a microscope from civil society watchdogs.

Budget scrutiny after national speech

• BNYC teamed up with BOCONGO two days after the National Budget Speech.
• Groups dissected whether allocations tackle youth joblessness and high costs.
• Attendees questioned how spending lines up with fiscal strain.
• Calls grew for a broader dialogue that reflects citizens’ realities.

Civil society pushes accountability

• Ms. Laone Desert framed the budget as a signal of priorities.
• She pointed to gender equality and youth inclusion in allocations.
• Monitoring spending was pitched as a civic duty.
• Organisations were urged to track results, not just promises.

Transparency gaps spark concern

• Mr. Robert Letsatsi flagged weak oversight in the budget cycle.
• He cited limited Auditor General independence and audit delays.
• Absence of a Budget Act drew criticism.
• Greater public access to fiscal data was demanded.

Youth focus and coordinated advocacy

• Participants admitted that civil society has not shaped priorities enough.
• Collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Gender Affairs was suggested.
• Tracking expenditure was described as fuel for evidence-based advocacy.
• Coordinated pressure during parliamentary debates was encouraged.