15 Aug 2016

Some residents of Somelo have called on government to re-instate the Rural Area Development Programme (RADP), which aims at improving living standards of communities far from services.
Speaking during a recent meeting addressed by the North West District Council chairperson, Mr Reaboka Mbulawa, residents said since the programme was stopped, the village was experiencing high number of destitute people.
The programme benefitted people who lived outside at least 15 kilometres from established villages and settlements and did not have access to basic social amenities.
Kgosi Mokutshwane Komee of Somelo said the programme was making a huge impact in the lives of the communities as every year about five people were assisted with five cattle and fifteen goats.
He said the beneficiaries made ends meet as they looked after their livestock and ensuring that they multiplied while at the same time they enjoyed milk and sold some to generate income.
Under the programme, children were assisted with food, toiletry, clothing, bedding, and transportation.
The communities also enjoyed water rights.
Kgosi further revealed that the last time people were assisted was in 2011 and the programme was stopped without any consultation with the affected communities asking the council chairperson to explain why the programme was stopped.
Residents also complained about shortage of water noting that they spent months without water. They said their livestock was dying because of thirst. It was reported that the tank which supplied livestock with water has blasted while its stand broke.
Village Development Committee chairperson, Mr Kebitse Kamandaku complained about some council projects that were not maintained.
He also inquired about housing for destitute noting that some houses were constructed without toilets and water connection while some houses were not complete.
Mr Kamandaku appealed to the council to include all the basic necessities while housing the destitute. Responding to the residents concerns, the deputy council chairperson, Mr Latlhang Molonda explained that the RADP was stopped because of financial constraints.
He appreciated the fact that the programme was making difference in the lives of many and assured residents that should the funds be availed, the programme would continue.
He also encouraged residents to take advantage of other initiatives in place aimed to uplift the living standards of the communities.
For his part, Mr Mbulawa informed residents that the issue of water crisis and the colour was an outcry the whole district.
He assured them that he would take it up with the relevant minister.
The chairperson also noted that a temporary measure must be done to address the water crisis in the village. ENDS