The Government of Botswana has introduced new social welfare initiatives designed to improve the well-being of its citizens, with implementation set to begin in 2025.
Key measures include a monthly allowance for newborn babies, free sanitary pads for female students, and an increase in the Old Age Pension, also known as the Tandabala Allowance.
Botswana’s Vice President and Minister of Finance, Mr. Ndaba N. Gaolathe, announced during the 2025/2026 budget presentation on February 10 that newborn babies would receive a monthly allowance of P300 until they turn one year old. “We are also proposing a targeted monthly allowance of P300.00 for newborn babies until they turn one year old,” he stated. Details on when the allowance will begin have yet to be clarified.
In a move to promote dignity and educational equality, Mr Gaolathe revealed plans to provide free sanitary pads to female students.
“Additionally, we will be proposing the provision of free sanitary pads to female students, ensuring that dignity and essential needs are upheld across different segments of our population,” he said.
The Tandabala Allowance, which supports elderly citizens, will increase from P830 to P1,400 starting April 2025. “Mr. Speaker, the true measure of a society lies in how it cares for its most vulnerable members, reflecting its collective humanity and sense of justice. While fiscal constraints limit substantial increases in social welfare programmes, we remain resolutely committed to inclusiveness and the well-being of our citizens. With this in mind, we propose an increase of the Old Age Pension (Tandabala Allowance) from P830.00 to P1,400.00 effective 1st April 2025,” Mr Gaolathe explained.
These measures reflect the government’s dedication to inclusivity and ensuring that resources are directed to the most deserving members of society, even amid fiscal constraints.
