28 Sep 2015

The Ministry of Transport and Communications has embarked on a move to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the transport system in the country that will contribute to economic growth. 

Speaking during a kgotla meeting in Kanye recently, transport and communications minister, Mr Tshenolo Mabeo said in their quest to heighten transport system his ministry teamed up with the world’s best to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. 

The minister said the ministry through Roads Department in partnership with the World Bank is implementing Output and Performance-based Road Contracts (OPRCs) under Botswana Integrated Transport Project (BITP) geared to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of road operations. 

He said network of roads facilitate movement and by so doing enhancing trade and commerce within the SADC region, adding that quality roads expedite service delivery. 

Minister Mabeo said the project will assist in reducing road carnage. OPRCs will ensure that the physical condition of the roads under contract is adequate for the need of users, over the entire period of the contract which is 10 years. He further explained that the project aims to avoid premature deterioration of roads, improving road safety and maintaining a consistence level of service. Mr Mabeo pleaded with all stakeholders to come on board, put Botswana first and play a meaningful role to ensure the success of the project. 

The minister said the construction of a road from Mmakgodi junction to Jwaneng roundabout is part of the pilot project in which after successful completion can be rolled to other areas in the country. 

He said most Batswana and international investors use the Trans-kalahari corridor, trucks which use the road pay levy; therefore it will benefit Batswana because the levy augment government coffers. The minister added that roads and telecommunications create conducive environment for the economy to thrive.

He said he is confident that the project which comprises of package one which includes A2 and A 10 road sections and package two includes B101 road section will bring desired results. The two packages also cover connecting the villages on the vicinity of a 10 kilometre radius of the main road section at the time of improvement or rather rehabilitation which will be done in accordance with the Access Roads Policy. 

Minister Mabeo said package  one was awarded to ELSAMEX – ITNL JVCA, a joint venture between ELSAMEX from Spain and IF&LS Transportation Networks Limited from India, at a contract amount of over P1 billion for the entire 10 year project period.Works commenced in May, 2014. Ends