Minister for State President Moeti Mohwasa presented Botswana’s Draft National Development Plan (NDP) 12 on Monday, identifying unemployment as a critical national challenge. The plan outlines strategies to drive private sector–led growth, strengthen youth entrepreneurship, and reform skills development systems to match economic needs.
Unemployment in Botswana stands at 27.6 percent overall and 38.2 percent among the youth. The government aims to address this through initiatives that promote job creation in both formal and informal sectors. Mohwasa emphasized that the state’s role is to enable opportunity, not dictate it. This shift signals a stronger focus on empowering citizens and businesses to create jobs through innovation and enterprise.
NDP 12 positions the private sector as the main driver of economic expansion. The plan calls for improved access to financing, reduced bureaucratic barriers, and the creation of a more favorable environment for investors. At the same time, it highlights the need for skills reform. Training programs will align more closely with market demand, especially in technical and digital fields. This approach is designed to prepare young people for emerging sectors such as renewable energy, ICT, and manufacturing.
The plan includes several social commitments aimed at improving livelihoods. Student allowances will rise to P2,500, giving tertiary learners better financial support. The old age pension will increase to P1,800, providing greater protection for elderly citizens. Additionally, the government plans to build 100,000 houses to reduce the housing deficit and stimulate the construction sector.
Mohwasa said Botswana’s long-term prosperity depends on diversifying beyond traditional sectors. NDP 12 promotes export-oriented, value-added production to reduce reliance on diamond mining. The focus areas include energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and digital services. By expanding these sectors, the government seeks to attract new investments, boost exports, and create sustainable jobs.
Mohwasa stressed the importance of eliminating unnecessary regulatory hurdles that slow down business activity. He noted that government policies must support, not restrict, economic participation. “Our approach is simple, government should not call out opportunity, but rather enable and unlock it,” he said.
The Draft NDP 12 reflects Botswana’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. It aligns with Vision 2036 goals, emphasizing shared prosperity and self-reliance. By prioritizing job creation, skills development, and private sector leadership, the plan seeks to turn economic potential into tangible opportunities for every Motswana.
NDP 12 presents a clear roadmap for Botswana’s next phase of growth. It addresses unemployment with actionable measures, promotes diversification, and invests in citizens’ welfare. If successfully implemented, it could mark a decisive step toward a more dynamic and inclusive economy.
