‘I want my life back’: drugs shortages lay bare economic impact of diamond crash in Botswana
Summary
Botswana is facing medicine shortages in public healthcare after its diamond industry crashed, causing economic problems. Many people cannot afford essential drugs, and the government has declared a health emergency. The drop in diamond prices has hurt the country’s economy and increased unemployment.Key Facts
- Botswana relies heavily on diamonds, which make up 80% of its exports.
- Diamond prices have fallen 60% in four years, reducing Botswana’s wealth.
- The economy shrank by 3% in 2024 and 1% in 2023, according to the IMF.
- Public healthcare, which is supposed to be free, now faces drug shortages and higher costs.
- The Central Medical Stores agency is blamed for drug price increases and corruption.
- Unemployment rose to 21% as the economy worsened.
- Botswana was once one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, helped by diamond wealth.
- Rising fuel prices caused by conflicts in the Middle East also threaten Botswana’s economy.
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