23 May 2016

The Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Mr Shaw Kgati has cautioned his staff to guard against corrupt practices and other criminal activities and live by the values enshrined in the public service charter as they implement their projects and programmes.

“As a ministry, our anti-corruption policy which should be a matter of priority should be cascaded to all aspects of the ministry,” he said.

Mr Kgathi said this at his ministry’s 4^th rewards and recognition ceremony which was held recently, where 48 recipients across the Ministry were recognised and rewarded for their contribution in ensuring that the Ministry achieves its set goals for the year 2015/16.

He said in implementing the policy, the different departments of the ministry conducted corruption risk assessments, especially in areas like procurement and project execution which were prone to corruption.

“This year we are celebrating our achievements under the theme; Celebrating Success and Rewarding Dedication to duty in the achievement of 50 years of success,” he said.

Mr Kgathi expressed pleasure that the ministry’s performance had been improving over the years where its performance was declared unratable in 2011/12. ENDS

He said over the years performance trend had been rising, adding that his ministry was counted amongst the top achievers in the public service.

“As we celebrate the awardees this evening, we must also thank those who did not make it to the podium, but contributed significantly to making the champions we celebrate tonight. We cannot all be called, otherwise the whole thing will lose meaning,” he said.

Mr Kgathi said governments in developing countries were faced with the urgency to deliver improved and effective services to the citizens, usually with limited resources, adding that governments, with Botswana included were under pressure to adopt innovative approaches and solutions that would reduce spending while prioritising and fast tracking service delivery.

“This therefore calls for cost effectiveness in terms of project planning, execution and procurement systems including aligning our practices aimed at quality service to our citizenry,” he said.

He called upon leaders to make sure that staff grievances and disputes were resolved as early as possible for the achievement of the happiness index in the workplace.

In her welcome speech, the ministry permanent secretary, Ms Segakweng Tsiane said for the past five years, the ministry had committed itself to achieving best results.

“Let me assure you that it is such commitment that underpins the ministry’s performance which has been consistent among the best,” she said.

She expressed said performance signified a symbiotic relationship between leaders and the entire team, adding that, inspite of that, it all boiled down to the execution of the individual intention model, unity of purpose, aligned and synchronised action of one.

The awards category included, long service awards, performance awards, special awards, team recognitions, beauty pageant award, permanent secretary’s and minister’s awards. ENDS