Household goods and entertainment sector saw a rise in price from January to March 2025

Good morning! Let’s get into today’s article on what Statistics Botswana report; in order to keep track with our expenses and costs of living, we need to know why things feel more expensive and how we can better budget for our day to day lives:

Household & Entertainment Costs in Botswana: Jan–Mar 2025 Inflation Update

Botswana’s cost of living is changing—and while overall inflation remains stable at 2.8% in March 2025, specific categories like household goods and entertainment are quietly rising. For young professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, these areas are where daily budgets can get squeezed the most.

Here’s what the CPI data from January to March 2025 reveals—and what you can do about it.

 Household Costs Are Creeping Up

From January to March 2025, the Furnishing, Household Equipment & Routine Maintenance index rose by +0.8%.

Key increases included:

• Goods for household maintenance: +1.3% (March)

• Furniture & furnishings: +0.7%

• Floor coverings: +0.7%

• Household textiles: +0.4%

What this means for you:

• If you're setting up a new apartment or buying essentials like cleaning products or furniture, prices are climbing.

• Small business owners in cleaning, real estate, or interior décor may face higher supply costs.

Money tip: Buy household items during promotions, opt for local brands, or team up with roommates to split essentials.

 Entertainment & Recreation Getting Pricier

The Recreation & Culture category saw subtle but consistent increases:

• Up +0.6% in February and +0.4% in March.

• Increases were mostly due to:

  • Books, newspapers, and stationery

  • Cultural events and entertainment

  • Sport and outdoor recreation services

What this means for you:

• Students buying textbooks or school supplies are paying more.

• Subscriptions (e.g., Netflix, music apps) and weekend leisure activities are also becoming more expensive.

Money tip: Set monthly entertainment budgets, explore student discounts, and consider free/low-cost cultural events in Gaborone and major villages.

Smart Ways to Beat Rising Living Costs

1. Bulk Buy with Friends or Family: Household goods bought in bulk (e.g., detergent, tissue) can bring long-term savings.

2. Shop Smart with Local Apps: Use local price comparison tools or online shops that offer delivery discounts.

3. Start a Side Hustle Around These Needs:

   • Selling affordable home essentials

   • Offering cleaning or organizing services

   • Renting out textbooks or reselling stationery in student areas

4. Budget for Joy: Entertainment is important, but treat it like a scheduled expense, not an impulse one.

Finally

Inflation might seem slow on the surface, but prices on things that affect your daily comfort, like household goods and entertainment, are gradually rising. By planning your spending and spotting small business opportunities in these areas, you can stay ahead of inflation and profit from it.

Source: Statisticsbotswana.org.bw