In his stirring inaugural budget speech, Vice President Ndaba—who also heads the Ministry of Finance—presented an inspiring vision for Botswana’s future. His address, rich with ambition and detailed fiscal plans, calls for unity, economic diversification, and a digital transformation to propel Botswana into a new era. While many commendable initiatives were outlined, some critical oversight mechanisms merit additional attention—especially in areas where Botswana’s current Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board (PPADB) may not fully meet international best practices.
In this commentary, I offer recommendations for new, independent oversight bodies that complement and enhance existing structures like the PPADB, drawing on successful models from around the world.
1. National Fiscal Oversight Commission
The Missing Element:
Although Vice President Ndaba acknowledged the sizable budget deficit (around 7.56% of GDP) and shrinking foreign exchange reserves, he did not propose a dedicated body to enforce fiscal discipline.
Recommendation:
National Fiscal Oversight Commission (NFOC): This independent body would monitor fiscal performance, enforce a strict fiscal rule, and oversee the establishment of a “rainy day fund.” By publishing quarterly reports, the NFOC would ensure that every pulā is spent wisely and transparently.
International Example:
New Zealand’s Auditor-General serves as a robust independent watchdog ensuring fiscal discipline. Botswana’s NFOC could adopt similar practices, tailoring them to local conditions.
2. Public Investment Review Board
The Missing Element:
The speech outlined plans to reform state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public spending but did not specify an independent mechanism to evaluate and prioritize public investments.
Recommendation:
Public Investment Review Board (PIRB): Tasked with rigorously evaluating all major infrastructure projects, the PIRB would use performance benchmarks, risk assessments, and cost–benefit analyses to prioritize high-impact projects and ensure economic returns.
International Example:
Germany’s Federal Audit Office, combined with elements of the United Kingdom’s National Audit Office, has successfully ensured that large-scale investments deliver value for money. The PIRB would function similarly in Botswana.
3. National Digital Governance Commission
The Missing Element:
While the National Digital Transformation Strategy (SmartBots) was a highlight, the speech did not explore how to independently oversee and secure the digital transition.
Recommendation:
National Digital Governance Commission (NDGC): This commission would govern digital government services, set cybersecurity standards, and ensure data protection. Its oversight would help build trust in e-government services and guarantee that digital initiatives remain citizen-centric.
International Example:
Estonia’s e-Governance Academy and its Digital Government Unit serve as models for independent bodies driving secure digital transformation. Botswana’s NDGC could mirror these practices to set global benchmarks.
4. Procurement and Integrity Commission (PIC)
The Missing Element:
Botswana already has the PPADB, which manages public procurement and asset disposal. However, while the PPADB provides essential functions, its current mandate may not fully cover the comprehensive oversight needed for competitive, transparent, and corruption-free procurement processes.
Recommendation:
Procurement and Integrity Commission (PIC): Rather than duplicating the PPADB, Botswana should consider either expanding PPADB’s mandate or establishing the PIC as a complementary body. The PIC would have exclusive investigatory powers to monitor procurement processes, enforce transparency, and address irregularities in public spending with full independence.
International Example:
Singapore’s Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) and the UK’s framework under Public Contracts Regulations exemplify bodies that maintain procurement integrity. The PIC would incorporate these proven approaches to safeguard Botswana’s procurement processes.
5. Risk Management and Strategic Investment Office (RMSIO)
The Missing Element:
The speech briefly mentioned the risks associated with mega-projects and external economic shocks, yet it lacked a detailed strategy for managing these risks.
Recommendation:
Risk Management and Strategic Investment Office (RMSIO): This office would be responsible for establishing dedicated Project Management Offices (PMOs) for major initiatives, performing regular risk assessments, and ensuring projects meet defined milestones and budgets. This centralized unit would monitor the strategic management of investments, ensuring resilience against global shocks.
International Example:
Canada’s independent project review panels for infrastructure projects highlight the value of dedicated risk management bodies. Botswana’s RMSIO would adopt a similar model, providing strategic oversight and enhancing project success.
A Roadmap for a Transparent and Prosperous Botswana
Integrating these new recommendations with existing initiatives can significantly strengthen Botswana’s governance framework. Here’s a concise roadmap:
National Fiscal Oversight Commission:
Enforce strict fiscal rules and establish a “rainy day fund.”
Publish quarterly fiscal reports for enhanced transparency.
Public Investment Review Board:
Evaluate and prioritize high-impact public investments rigorously.
Adopt clear performance benchmarks and risk assessments.
National Digital Governance Commission:
Oversee digital government initiatives and set robust cybersecurity standards.
Ensure digital services are efficient, secure, and citizen-focused.
Procurement and Integrity Commission:
Expand the existing PPADB mandate or establish a complementary PIC with independent investigatory powers.
Monitor and address corruption in public procurement through transparent processes.
Risk Management and Strategic Investment Office:
Establish dedicated PMOs for major projects.
Conduct regular risk assessments and enforce milestone-based project management.
Vice President Ndaba’s budget speech is an ambitious blueprint for Botswana’s future, emphasizing unity, diversification, and digital innovation. Yet, by integrating these additional recommendations—particularly the establishment of independent oversight bodies inspired by international best practices—Botswana can further enhance transparency, accountability, and strategic management of its resources.
While Botswana already benefits from structures like the PPADB, expanding and complementing these frameworks with new bodies such as the National Fiscal Oversight Commission, Public Investment Review Board, National Digital Governance Commission, an enhanced Procurement and Integrity Commission, and a dedicated Risk Management and Strategic Investment Office will set a new standard. These measures, tailored to Botswana’s unique context and inspired by successful models from New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, Estonia, and Canada, promise a future where robust oversight transforms potential into lasting prosperity.
*Dr Matlhogonolo Mongwa-Mouwane is a proprietor of Kalafhi Medical Center in Gaborone
