10 Nov 2015

Members of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi have assured the Presidential Task Team for Development of Vision 2036 of their unwavering support in their anticipated country-wide tour which kick-starts next week.

The team, which is led and chaired by Mr Neo Moroka, is expected to embark on two-phased nation-wide tour to solicit ideas from Batswana, which will be used as a yardstick in shaping the future development of the country.

Addressing dikgosi during a breakfast meeting held at the Gaborone International Convention Centre, Mr Moroka said the 34-member team which was recently launched by President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, will among others, mobilise Batswana to define their own long term social, environmental, political and economic development strategy.    

Their other term of reference is to review all relevant background materials on the subject, including the Draft Framework for New Long Term Vision for Botswana; to consult with members of the public on the subject through press, meetings, seminars, and invite submissions, either oral or written by individuals or organisations; and to produce New Long Term Vision for Botswana Document reflecting the consensus that would have emerged from the consultations.

The task team is made of 15 members representing different institutions including the Vision 2016 Council, Ntlo Ya Dikgosi, youth, political parties, trade unions, private sector, NGOs; Botswana Council for People with Disability, faith based organisations and the media. 

Other 19 members are experts in four thematic areas of social development, sustainable environment, economy, governance and security. 

The team, which is expected to deliver the report to the President by May 32, 2016, will start addressing meetings in Kgatleng, Kweneng, South East and Southern District as from November 17 to 27, 2015. 

It has called for the support of dikgosi and other community leaders to bring people to its meetings. 

Speaking at the event, chairman of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi Kgosi Puso Gaborone observed that the country was able to achieve some of its intended dreams through Vision 2016. 

To this end, he said the team should takea leaf from the Vision 2016 achievements and failures to map a way forward.

Kgosi Puso said since the country has for the past 19 years underwent changes, it should come up with new innovative dreams that speak to today’s realities. He said Batswana should have a sense of ownership of the new vision. 

Kgosi Mosadi Seboko of Balete said the task team should make it a point that they address Bazezuru of Taung in her tribal administration. All dikgosi expressed support for the initiative. Ends