23 Aug 2015

President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama says he does not regret his choice of Vice-President. Speaking during a kgotla meeting in Tshwaane village in Moshupa Sub -district on Thursday August 20, President Khama said Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s ability and knowledge are beyond reproach.

“Ever since assuming the vice-presidency, he has acquainted himself very well and has been of great assistance to me,” he said. It is upon this backdrop, Lt Gen. Khama felt indebted to the people of Tshwaane whose vote during last elections ensured Mr Masisi’s eligibility to ascend to the second most powerful position in the country.

President Khama’s remarks followed commendations directed at him by residents of Tshwaane who thanked him for his confidence to confer Moshupa/Manyana legislator with such an important portfolio.

Residents of Tshwaane also expressed happiness at the move by government to retract its initial decision to demolish their homesteads; something Kgosi Loikotlhae Baiteri said was a demonstration of true democracy that exists in the country.

Kgosi Baiteri was hopeful the settlement would also attract development that go together with its newly acquired status. 

Mr Kesebonye Mosugadikobo, a resident of Tshwaane said although government has made great strides in fighting abject poverty through an array of programmes, time is ripe for government to consider increasing the free five hectares given to Batswana through ISPAAD to 10.

This, he said, would help raise throughput and ensure the country’s food security.

Another resident, Ms Sepitlo Gabanathuso complained that officials charged with poverty eradication programme take long to respond to residents’ requests and that upon inquiry no clear cut answers are given.

Responding, deputy permanent secretary in the ministry of Agriculture, Dr Kekgonne Baipoledi said he was aware of some delays in the implementation of poverty eradication programmes and promised that they were working round the clock to put in place measures to stem the tide. 

For his part, director of Crop Production, Mr Galeitsewe Ramokapane stated the free five hectares given to Batswana under ISPAAD is enough to boost the country’s food security if farmers employ contemporary farming methods.

Mr Ramokapane also concurred with residents that there were some tractor operators who do a sloppy job during ploughing season; something he said would be closely monitored in the next ploughing season so that necessary action can be taken against culprits. BOPA