BCP to scrutinise Govt. Asset Securitisation Funding Model

The main Opposition party, the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), will scrutinise the government’s newly introduced funding model under the Draft National Development Plan (NDP12).The model which the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government says is a strategic initiative, is known as the Asset Securitisation.Minister for State President, Moeti Mohwasa told Parliament this week that this is an initiative through which Government intends to leverage and unlock greater value from government-owned properties.The latter is a funding mechanism that does not require any budget allocation to meet the development cost of new facilities as it raises funding from capital markets, Mohwasa explained.The BCP President stated that they will first have to understand the elephant in the room.“I wish I knew what even the words mean. We are not going to be derailed by catchphrases. We are going to research on it and find out what good it brings to the needs of our people,” Saleshando said during a press conference on Tuesday, when asked of his thoughts about the proposed funding model.Saleshando has argued that the focus should be on what serves Batswana.“I have to ask myself what it means for my constituency. If you look at what Maun North needs for the upliftment of its people as an example I will have to establish if they are catered for,” he said.He indicated that the demands of the electorate have to be met more than anything. Saleshando who is also the Leader of Opposition in Parliament reiterated that Batswana need access to education, health and job creation.Saleshando told the media that the biggest fear among the youth especially those at tertiary level is whether once they complete their studies they will secure jobs.Mohwasa has told Parliament that as Government, they see the funding model as a transformative instrument to enhance service delivery, stimulate economic activity, and deepen capital market development.He revealed that the benefits extend not only to government but to a broad spectrum of stakeholders across the economy. The minister highlighted that this initiative is currently under pilot with a view to rolling it out once fully confirmed.“Furthermore, this initiative is set to stimulate local economic activity, particularly in construction, facilities management, capital markets, and commercial services. It promotes inclusive procurement, empowers local contractors and suppliers, and strengthens investor confidence.By fostering public-private partnerships, it supports long-term sustainable job creation, infrastructure development, and a more resilient national economy”, Mohwasa said.He told MPs that this initiative embodies the spirit of NDP 12—a plan for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and economic transformation.“However as part of its commitment to improving efficiency, accountability, and service delivery this Government aims to re-establish a neutral and merit-based dedicated public service. This will be achieved through pursuing major reforms to corporatise the Public Service during NDP 12," he added.

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BCP to scrutinise Govt. Asset Securitisation Funding Model