10 Mar 2015

A private abattoir, owned by pensioner, Mr Austin Mbakile, is yet to be inspected to allow for operations to commence.

Mr Mbakile used a visit to his farm by the acting Minister of Agriculture, Mr Patrick Ralotsia, on March 5 to raise his concern. He pleaded with the acting minister to do follow-ups on what could have delayed the inspection since he had submitted all the requisite documents to the relevant authorities so that they could do the inspection.

The entrepreneur stated that the large building model was derived from the internet, which originated from China and he saw the need to bring it home. “I have spent about P4.5 million on this building and I was hoping to earn from the returns. It is indeed straining because we could have opened for business this year,” he noted.

He also urged the acting minister to initiate talks with the Department of Roads to construct a road to the abattoir. In his response, Mr Ralotsia applauded Mr Mbakile for a job well done, noting that it gave great pleasure to see such investment owned by the private sector as these are the things that boost the country’s economy.

Mr Ralotsia mentioned that about 17 000 people in this country, especially the youth are employable yet unemployed, which is a major concern and therefore he urged the private sector to find ways in which they can help to resolve the situation.

He said he will look into Mr Mbakile’s plea with a view to finding the reasons behind the delay to inspect the abattoir. He also mentioned that he believes the agricultural sector is the only sector that can create more jobs as compared to other sectors.

He therefore urged all stakeholders to work together in order to realize their vision. ENDS