07 Sep 2016

Francistown City Council (FCC) clerk, Mr Mompati Seleka has urged the Ward Development Committees (WDCs) to commit to their mandate to accomplish their desired goals.

Speaking at a two day capacity building workshop in Francistown, he said there were certain issues such as mishandling of finances, which committees should address.

He said they would not compromise the development of the city by retaining non-performers, further applauding the committees for their contribution to the golden jubilee celebrations preparations.

Mr Seleka said they would be banking on their usual support for the success of events leading to independence day.

He said the WDCs as pioneers of sustainable development should continue striving to develop their wards as they would be contributing to the 17 sustainable development goals.

The city clerk said even though there were challenges faced by communities, it was upon them to solve them together with members of the community.

Mr Seleka encouraged the WDCs to utilise the skills and programmes available and collaborate with other key institutions to overcome their challenges.

He said community projects could also address unemployment challenges in communities, therefore they should utilise the council office to implement their initiatives to create jobs.

Furthermore, he urged WDC chairpersons to take responsibility for all challenges committees were facing and seek intervention at an earlier stage and not allow community politics to derail them from advancing the interest of their committees.

He said they should partner with the private sector and non-governmental organisations to create more jobs in their communities hence promote sustainable economic development.

FCC senior development officer, Mr Gerald Mahumba encouraged WDCs to take control of developments and come up with ideas to improve their wards by engaging with the community in every step they take.

He said they should work on bringing change and leave a mark to be remembered for contributing to building up communities, adding they should formulate proposals for the solution of community needs and be committed to act on their particular goals.

He encouraged them to solicit assistance and partner with other development agencies to undertake their projects.

Mr Mahumba further encouraged members to respect one another, follow the constitution of the committee and utilise what they have to push their developments forward.

In addition, FCC community development officer, Ms Goitseone Ramacha encouraged the committees to manage the available resources and knowledge in order to make a living. She said they could use human capabilities, capital assets and other practices of engaging in activities required for a means of living, citing co-operatives in their communities.

Ms Ramacha said committees should aim at doing sustainable projects, which would generate money on a long term basis.

She encouraged them to work with members of the communities and use their talents, skills, education, literacy and their knowledge to create jobs, reduce crime and increase their income.

Furthermore, she urged them to be united and let peace prevail amongst them for the better development of their wards. ENDS