09 Dec 2014

MP for Gaborone South, Mr Kagiso Molatlhegi has called for the diversification of the economy through the use of green technology.

Responding to the State-Of the Nation Address on December 8, Mr Molatlhegi said two per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) should be used for the diversification and development of the green economy.

He said the use of green technology may create employment in the agriculture, tourism, transport and energy sectors. He said the opportunities within the sectors should be considered as they may lesson unemployment through decent green jobs.

Mr Molatlhegi further noted that it was vital for government to seriously reform the economy to focus on low-carbon and resource efficient sectors as the raw materials for the green economy are within the communities, which he said will serve them better.

He gave an example of the recycling of waste at landfills in areas around Gaborone, such as Ramotswa, Gamodubu and Bokaa, could provide employment for people living in the city.

Mr Molatlhegi further called for improved provision of waste water services in his constituency as most dwellers were using pit-latrine toilets.

He said the deadline faced by Gaborone South residents for waste water collection by Water Utilities Corporation set for December 31 was not feasible.

Mr Molatlhegi further called on Lands and Housing ministry to inspect some of the old and abandoned buildings in Selemela Ward which have since became a hive for criminal activities.

Mahalapye East MP, Ms Botlogile Tshireletso advocated for the construction of the road that will pass from Dibete-Mookane to Machaneng, which she said will ease Traffic congestion on the A1 road, especially for people going to the Martins Drift Border Post and Tswapong and Bobirwa areas.

She said Shakwe and Pashalt Border road was also important as it connects Botswana and South Africa.

Also she said there were no proper roads in Boseja Ward, which she said because of financial constraints, they could be maintained through the use of interlocking bricks.

She also called for the provision of electricity in Kodumatse, Mokoswana and Setsile.

Ms Tshireletso further said her ministry had strengthened the implementation of Children’s Act to support and protect the right of children. A fine of P50 000 or 25 years imprisonment will be imposed on people who molest children.

She further called MPs to engage with the society to strengthen its implementation. ENDS