05 Mar 2013

Construction of Karekatee Nxua cluster fence has been delayed by problems encountered during tendering process for supply of fencing material.

The Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Mr Oreeditse Molebatsi said the first tender was floated by Tutume Sub-District Administration Tender Committee from August 6 and was supposed to run up to September 6, 2012.

However, Mr Molebatsi said it was realised that the tender committee did not indicate tender closing date.

Therefore, he said the tender was opened on December 5 and was evaluated for adjudication on January 28, 2013.

Mr Molebatsi said the tender was not awarded because of the technicalities which were being attended to. He said efforts were being made to conclude and award the tender.

Mr Molebatsi said the ministry regretted the delays as the fence was meant to protect crops from damage by both domestic and wild animals and hence improve productivity.

He said while waiting for fencing material, 42 Ipelegeng employees were engaged to clear the fence line. The assistant minister said to date, the whole 10.4km cluster perimeter alignment had been cleared.

The minister further said since commencement of construction work was delayed, it would be rolled over to 2013/14.

Tonota North MP, Mr Fidelis Molao had wanted to know what caused the delay in implementing the cluster fencing for Karekatee Nxau cluster fence in the Mokubilo area despite approving its establishment in October 2012.

Mr Molao also wanted to know whether the delay would not dampen the spirits of farmers who would have benefitted from the programme. ENDS