06 Oct 2015

Gaborone Town Council has passed a motion seeking to revoke the name Ditimamodimo for Gaborone Block 7 “and any other area in Gaborone where the gravity of concern has been ascertained and formalised in writing.”

Presenting the motion, nominated councillor, Mr Kagiso Ntime stated that the Gaborone Block 7 residents were strongly against the name. 

Councillor Ntime was of the view that residents should not be forced to accept a name they did not want, adding that if ever the name was discussed back then, the current residents should be re-consulted to find out if they still prefer the name or not.

Councillor Ntime emphasised the need for consultation and described it as a key in nation building.

He said for residents of Block 7 to petition the government was a huge step, suggesting that the area should remain Block 7 or given a different name.

Supporting the motion, Councillor Mmapula Amos of Phakalane said residents should be given a chance to name their suburb.  Councillor Amos said instead of Ditimamodimo, residents could use names of heroes and people who contributed immensely to the country’s development.

He also said residents of Block 7 should be allowed to suggest their desired names.  For his part, the city clerk, Mr Mpho Mathe confirmed that indeed some residents showed their displeasure at the name.

Mr Mathe however said the council has not yet convened a kgotla meeting with the Village Development Committee so as to get their views. He nevertheless said that he would consult with physical planners to re-visit the residents. Ends