Poverty dynamics in Botswana: Policies, trends and challenges

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of poverty dynamics in Botswana from 1980 to 2014. It highlights, poverty-alleviation policies that have been implemented, the trends in poverty as well as the challenges that have been faced in reducing poverty. The main objective of this article is to discuss the successes that have been achieved and the challenges that have been faced in Botswana on poverty alleviation, with the view that other countries facing poverty challenges can learn from the dynamics. Poverty-reduction policies implemented in Botswana are three-pronged. Firstly, there are policies that increase income and livelihood for the poor. Secondly, there are policies that support infrastructure development especially in basic service provision like health and education. Thirdly, there are policies that focus on short term relief—targeting the poor and the vulnerable through social welfare programmes. Despite all the policies that have been implemented, it can be concluded that Botswana (like many other developing countries) still faces a number of challenges related to poverty reduction.

Keywords:

• Botswana
• poverty
• trends
• policies
• challenges

JEL classifications:

• I3
• I38

Public Interest Statement

Poverty Dynamics in Botswana: Trends, Policies and Challenges outlines poverty related policies that have been implemented in Botswana from 1980 to 2014. The article highlights the trends in poverty and the challenges that have been faced, in an effort to alleviate poverty. The main objective of this article is to discuss the successes that have been achieved and the challenges that have been faced in Botswana on poverty alleviation, with the view that other countries facing poverty challenges can learn from the dynamics.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mercy T. Magombeyi

Mercy T. Magombeyi is a doctoral candidate, Department of Economics, University of South Africa (UNISA), South Africa.

Nicholas M. Odhiambo

Nicholas M. Odhiambo is a professor, Department of Economics, University of South Africa (UNISA), South Africa.