15 Jan 2015

Somerset East Ward Development Committee (WDC) chairperson, Mr Molaodi Maiketso has commended government for coming up with the Traditional Beer Regulations of 2011.

Speaking in a kgotla meeting addressed by the Francistown South MP, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi on January 14, Mr Maiketso saidt since the implementation of the regulations, the crime statistics in the ward had declined.

He noted that prior to the implementation of the regulations, crime such as assault and common theft were on the increase in his area. Mr Maiketso however decried that the use of drugs was still a concern in the area and he implored parents to sensitise their children on the dangers of indulging in drugs.

On other issues, the chairperson called on the government to increase WDC allowances, noting that due to the insignificant allowances, people were not interested in becoming members but rather prefer to work in Ipelegeng. Mr Maiketso suggested that the government should also start considering WDC members when nominating councillors.

He requested for a pedestrian bridge over the Tati River, adding that having one will not only shorten the distance for the pedestrians but will also curb crime. Mr Maiketso said people were robbed on that route due to lack of a bridge and now only a few people use the route.

Furthermore, he requested the government to tarmac the road between the High Court and Galo Mall and some internal roads in Somerset East ward.

A resident, Ms Joyce Senokwane decried the shortage of doctors and nurses at Botswelelo clinic, noting that due to the lack of a doctor at the local clinic they were referred to Area W clinic where they spent hours in queues.

Ms Senokwane said there is need for another nurse at Botswelelo clinic because currently there is only one nurse.

A youth, Ms Chabuya Maizanise called on the government to make a provision that will protect young entrepreneurs from competing with established entrepreneurs.
Ms Maizanise also complained of lack of proper monitoring of the youth projects that were funded through the Youth Development Fund (YDF).

Ms Doreen Fane lamented that people who were renting were disqualified from benefiting from the Poverty Eradication programme.
Mr Israel Makwape complained of the delay in enrolling beneficiaries in the old age pension fund.

In response to some of the issues raised, Francistown Chief civil, mechanical and engineering officer, Mr Thuto Obakeng expressed hope that the upgrading of internal roads and the pedestrian bridge will be included in the National Development Plan (NDP) 11.

Ms Olorato Onneile, a Community Development Officer explained that the council has been authorized to suggest other packages that could do well in Francistown but not included in the programme’s packages.

She said the initiative will create room for those renting to benefit as they will be funded for projects that do not need much space and could be easily relocated when beneficiaries relocate from the rented houses.

For his part, Mr Mmolotsi noted that the issue of shortage of health personnel was worrisome as it affected the whole the country.
He assured the residents that he will engage the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture on some of the challenges that the youth encounter.

The MP also informed the residents about the deliberations of the previous parliament session. ENDS