Botswana’s ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) is considering introducing an unemployment allowance as part of its broad social support strategy.
The proposal, revealed by UDC Policy and Strategy Director Patrick Molutsi during a panel discussion hosted by the Botswana Federation of Public, Private and Parastatal Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU) late Wednesday, is contingent on the country’s economic recovery to ensure sustainability.
Molutsi said the allowance would go a long way in alleviating unemployment challenges, stimulate spending and reduce poverty.
The initiative draws parallels to South Africa’s social grant system, which includes unemployment benefits aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.
He also announced plans for the government to sponsor citizens pursuing master’s degrees as a measure to address youth unemployment.
Botswana faces significant unemployment of around 25 percent, with youth unemployment estimated at more than 40 percent.
JN/APA