Fiscal Reset Urged as UB Academics Push for Subsidy Reform and Stronger Tax Collection

Fiscal Reset Urged as UB Academics Push for Subsidy Reform and Stronger Tax Collection. Academics at the University of Botswana urged policymakers to reassess public spending priorities and strengthen tax collection systems as the country confronts declining revenues and persistent youth unemployment.

Speaking at a budget dialogue in Gaborone, Botswana, scholars said fiscal reforms were necessary to protect long term economic stability and expand opportunities for employment.

They argued that reviewing subsidies and improving revenue administration could help government recover resources currently lost through inefficient targeting and collection gaps.At the discussion hosted by the University of Botswana, participants examined fiscal pressures affecting the national budget and evaluated policy responses aimed at sustaining growth.

Dr Jonah Tlhalefang said subsidy programmes were not consistently reaching intended beneficiaries and were contributing to revenue losses that could otherwise support public services.He noted that reviewing subsidy structures could improve efficiency while ensuring that assistance remains aligned with policy objectives and social needs.

Academics also warned against raising the national debt ceiling without careful consideration of borrowing costs and broader financial market effects.

They cautioned that higher debt levels may place upward pressure on interest rates, potentially increasing repayment burdens and limiting fiscal flexibility.Instead, speakers highlighted investment in the creative sector as a pathway to job creation, economic diversification and expanded participation in emerging industries.

Participants said strengthening tax collection mechanisms would further support revenue mobilisation by improving compliance and reducing leakages across the system.

They emphasised that targeted reforms, combined with effective expenditure management, could help stabilise public finances while promoting inclusive economic development.

The dialogue concluded with calls for continued policy evaluation and collaboration between researchers and decision makers as authorities consider future fiscal adjustments.

Attendees said evidence based analysis and transparent implementation would be essential to ensuring that policy changes deliver measurable outcomes and support sustainable long term economic resilience across Botswana going forward.