It is eetimated that GDP qrew by 13 per cent in lYB3/84 and by 12 per cent in 1984/85, primarily the result ot increased diamond production and improved prices for di amonde . GDP per capita was estimated at approximately $840 in lY82 and, in epite Of a relatively hrqh population qrowth rate (approximately 3.3 per cent per annum) , has probably improved. A record overall balance-ot-payments surplus ot $94 million was recorded ln lYB4/85 with the result that, at the end ot 1984, toreiqn reserves totalled $425 milllon, equivalent to eiqht months’ imports. For 1985186, the Government has proJected a sharp decline In GDP qrowth to approximately 4 per cent as a result ot the lack of mayor new investments, an end to the espaneion of diamond production and the contlnulnq adverPe Impact ot drouqht on the agricultural sector. 69. In epite of thle pertormance, there are some tundamental weaknesses in the economy of Botswana. The country remains hiqhly dependent on South Atrica for trade, traneport and employment ot a substantial proportion ot the Botswana labour force I The Vaqariee ot the world diamond market have a major impact on economic performance8 in 1984, diamonds accounted tor 76 per cent ot total exports. In Bpite of a continuinq shortaqe of Akilled manpower, there is increasinq ditticulty / . . . s/17453 Enqlr sh Paqe 21 in providinq euttlcrent new yobe tot new entrants to the labour market, 1nClUdlnq the larqe rural-to-urban mrgtat Ion. Critical new investment pcoqcammes, In particular the Sue Pan soda ash proyect, depend on a qenetal atmosphere ot reqional stability which is eaeily endanqered by events such as the 14 June 1985 attack, and on agreement by South Atrlca to purchase the flnal output. 70. Most aer ious, however, IS the Lmpact ot four consecutive years ot drought. 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a report on the economic situation of Botswana, discussing its GDP growth, trade, and dependence on diamond production. It also touches on the impact of drought and regional instability on the economy. The text highlights the country's reliance on South Africa for trade and employment, as well as the challenges in providing new jobs to new entrants in the labor market.

**Category**
Economic development, International trade