Sourced reading on the economy, small firms, energy, trade and capital in Botswana and across Africa.
Insights
Our reading of the data, with every figure linked to its source.
Second-quarter growth of 8.7% was driven almost entirely by diamond mining. What the numbers say about the rest of the economy, and where patient capital can help.
October 20265 min readInflation is easing but still above target, the policy rate is 5.5%, and the 2026/27 budget raises taxes. Why tighter conditions favour disciplined, short-cycle funding.
October 20265 min readBotswana’s main SME lenders are shifting from single loans to whole value chains and bankability support. What that tells us about how early-stage capital should work.
October 20264 min readAfrica faces a trade finance gap of about US$100 billion a year, just as a continental market opens. Why funding linked to real sales matters for Botswana’s businesses.
October 20264 min readIn numbers
Data as at 28 October 2026. Each figure links to the article that explains it and lists its sources.
In the news
The October World Economic Outlook trims April’s growth forecast and raises its inflation projections for 2026 and 2027.
Botswana · MarketsThe fund has moved into implementation to direct diamond revenue into non-mining sectors, with an independent board chaired by Dr Akinwumi Adesina.
Botswana · DiamondsHeadline inflation fell from 9.3% in August, but remains above the central bank’s 3–6% objective range.
Botswana · MarketsStatistics Botswana data show diamond mining up 94.7% and non-mining GDP down 0.2%, renewing calls to diversify.
Botswana · DiamondsThe IMF’s regional outlook update, “Resilient Growth, Clouded Outlook”, calls for protecting productive investment and enabling private-sector growth.
Africa · MarketsWe are glad to share how we read the market.