Africa-Press – Botswana. Acting President Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe yesterday urged the leadership of the Botswana Institute for Development Policy Analysis (BIDPA) to repurpose itself to support Botswana’s ambitious economic and developmental goals. He emphasized that the country will require the institute’s expertise as it implements the Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP).
Delivering a keynote address at BIDPA’s 30th anniversary gala dinner and prize-giving ceremony, Mr Gaolathe highlighted the need for Botswana to move beyond reliance on diamonds and transition toward a private-led, export-driven economy. He stated that the government will seek regular technical support from BIDPA to create better opportunities for Batswana. “Repurpose yourself because the think tanks of the future must be agile, data-driven, financially resilient, and strategically positioned to interpret global trends,” he advised.
Addressing current financial and economic challenges, Mr Gaolathe stressed the importance of fostering open dialogue between government and policy-making institutions. He noted that countries that adapt quickly to changing circumstances invest not only in strong research institutions but also in the capacity to use their findings effectively. “Botswana must be no different,” he said.
He also cautioned BIDPA leadership to remain committed to its core mandate, emphasizing that policies must be rooted in evidence rather than speculation. “Let us recommit ourselves to the principle that has guided this institution from the beginning, that policies must be rooted in evidence not in speculation,” he said.
BIDPA board chairperson, Daniel Molaodi, urged the government to provide additional support to enable the institute to undertake more innovative and impactful research. During the ceremony, former board members and executive directors were recognized with awards for their contributions to the institution.
The 30th anniversary celebration was held under the theme “Celebrating 30 Years of Providing Evidence-based Policy Advice: The Role and Future of Think Tanks In a Rapidly Changing World,” reflecting BIDPA’s commitment to shaping policy in Botswana through rigorous research and strategic insight.
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