24 Aug 2015

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture (MYSC) Thapelo Olopeng said he believes quadbikes were capable of unravelling the challenges that extension officers were experiencing in remote areas. 

Olopeng said this while handing over 10 quadbikes worth P777 000 on Friday August 21, adding that they were bought after realising the hardships that extension officers encounter in their efforts to monitor projects.

The minister said vehicles could still be used in cases where there were no alternative.

He noted that through the use of quadbikes, extension officers would be able to monitor projects on time and at less costs to the government.  

“I believe that it is only through implementation that the ministry can bring tangible results. I am convinced that this initiative will work as these quadbikes are safe and can traverse through any environment,” he said.

He said he invited the Minister of Lands and Housing, Prince Maele as his ministry was also facing similar challenges. 

The minister advised users to refrain from misuse, and urged them to take care of them.

In his opening remarks, the ministry’s permanent secretary, Ntabeni Malikongwa said the quadbikes were essential for their extension officers as they faced a dire need for transport in visiting their outreach areas.

He said extension officers had difficulties in accessing areas due to lack of transport hence the ministry has resolved to buy the quadbikes to remedy the situation.

Giving a vote of thanks, the programmes coordinator, Ms Betty Gaotilwe said the provision would solve the issue of poor service delivery and lack of transport which had been a stumbling block. 

The officers are scheduled for riding tests and licencing as the quadbikes will be registered and used on public roads. Ends