Botswana Elder Care Spending during Fiscal Consolidation

Botswana’s population of older people has grown quickly over the past twenty years, increasing the need for strong social protection and care systems. This report examines how the government supports older people through programmes such as the Old Age Pension (OAP), Destitute Programme, Disability Allowance, and home-based care services. It draws on government data from 2005 to 2024/25 to track changes in spending and coverage over time.

The findings show that although government spending on older people has increased, most of this growth has been directed towards pensions. The expansion of the OAP, through higher payments and a lower age of eligibility, has improved income security for many older people. However, other forms of support have not kept pace. Fewer older people now receive destitute support, disability support remains limited, and spending on home-based care has declined.

The report highlights the important role played by community-based organisations, which are providing care and support, often with little or no funding. It argues that Botswana needs to invest more in care services. Without this, the country risks having a system that provides income support but does not fully meet the care and wellbeing needs of older people.