21 Jun 2015

The Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, Mr Kitso Mokaila, has applauded the staff from various departments under his ministry for finding time to undertake compassionate activities despite the challenges that bedevil the ministry such as water and power shortage.

Speaking at the official handing-over of a house build by the departments at Malwelwe in the Letlhakeng Sub-district on June 19, Mr Mokaila said such a gesture gives the ministry pride.

“Batswana seem to be slowly losing the spirit of compassion which we have been known for over the years, so it is good to see our ministry still holding it high. Such a gesture should continue, no matter the challenges we face as a ministry, and I want to assure the staff under my ministry that I will always support and be with them whenever they undertake such activities of benevolence,” he said.

Mr Mokaila also advised the family that the house should not cause conflicts in the family, but should rather console them for their loss.

The ministry staff built the house after one member of the family who was also an employee of the Department of Water Affairs, Ms Gasetsewe Kentshitswe passed away in 2001, leaving behind her three young daughters.

Mr Mokaila also advised the daughters to take responsibility and work hard for a decent living rather than wait for assistance from good Samaritans.

He said the house was also in one way, a gesture to appreciate the village of Malwelwe for its water that serves areas such as Molepolole, Mogoditshane and Thamaga.

For her part, the caregiver, Ms Boitshwarelo Kentshitswe, who is an aunt to the orphans, applauded the good work by the ministry, saying such compassion should live on even in other areas.

She said the house will be a permanent reminder of her departed sister.

The two and half house has also been fitted with a solar power system as well as basic furniture such as beds, stoves and chairs. ENDS