08 Jul 2015

Ministries and parastatals have been directed to dedicate their efforts to employment creation, poverty eradication, quality education, health and HIV/AIDS and anti- corruption.

Minister of Transport and Communications, Mr Tshenolo Mabeo outlined the ministry’s roadmap as an attempt to drive the government’s five priority areas for the next five years.

Speaking during the ministry’s board chairpersons’ forum on Monday, July 6, Mr Mabeo said he believes that his ministry is the backbone of the economy of Botswana and the destiny of their people hinges on their output.  

He cited employment creation as one of the key performance areas that would be reported on quarterly basis in order to assess the ministry’s input.

Minister Mabeo said his ministry also supports all initiatives that are geared towards eradicating poverty, adding that focus should be placed on identifying initiatives that could empower Batswana to make a living either through procuring locally manufactured goods or reserving certain businesses for them.          

He reiterated government’s concern over the current status of mismatch of skills by various institutions, adding this has resulted in the need to retool graduates after obtaining employment.

Mr Mabeo further said the government urges all to find opportunities within their respective organisations on how they could improve the education system so that a pool of skilled personnel could be developed to cater for job market changes.

“The Cabinet recently approved a comprehensive Education and Training Strategic Sector Plan developed by the Ministry of Education and Skills Development which will guide the provision of quality, relevant and sustainable lifelong education which is globally competitive, so as to transform Botswana from a resource based to a skill and knowledge based society,”  Mr Mabeo said.

The minister also called upon the ministry to mainstream health and HIV/AIDs programmes in the workplace, adding that if done properly, future generation could be saved from the devastating scourge.

“ Wellness programmes are also to be driven with zeal. They should no longer be taken as an option but a must because government recognises and believes that a healthy workforce can significantly contribute to improved service delivery,” he noted.    Furthermore, Mr Mabeo raised government’s concern about the rate at which corruption allegations were reported against some public officers.

However, he called upon the ministry and its parastatals to revisit their business processes, identify and close loopholes that are a breeding ground for corruption.  

“I strongly believe that if we heed the government’s clarion call, our efforts in moving the country forward is achievable,” said Mr Mabeo. ENDS