29 Nov 2016

 The recent country’s golden jubilee launch of National Vision 2036, under the theme “Achieving Prosperity for All” was based on the principles of Democracy, Development, Self-reliance, Unity and “Botho”.

This was said by the Permanent Secretary to the President (PSP), Mr Carter Morupisi at Lecheng during the handing over of six houses built by Mascom under the Presidential Housing Appeal.

Mr Morupisi, who is also Mascom board chairperson, said the vision shall be delivered through the four inspirational pillars of Sustainable Economic Development, Human and Social Development, Sustainable Environment and governance, peace and security.

He said these gestures of good corporate citizenship as demonstrated by Mascom were pivotal to the realisation of 20 years strategy as a country.

The six houses handed over include three at Malaka, one Lerala and two at Lecheng, making a total of 33 houses built by Mascom this year.

He noted that Mascom played a vital role in supporting primary schools in Lerala/Maunatlala constituency, by connecting internet services to Malaka and Lecheng. Mr Morupisi applauded Mascom under their slogan “Number 1 because of you” saying it had come true as they focus on ploughing back into the community.

He said through the e-schools programme, ‘they are continuing to make an impeccable legacy in closing the digital divide between the haves and have nots.’

Mr Morupisi also said the renowned Mascom Kitsong Centres, which target young Batswana living in rural areas by assisting them start their own ICT businesses is a welcome initiative that will not only close the gap but will also create jobs and consequently take Batswana out of poverty, in line with two of the country’s five key Priority Areas.

He congratulated all beneficiaries and conveyed President Lt Gen Seretse Khama Ian Khama’s hope that the blessings they received would have a bigger and more sustainable bearing on their lives as families. Other villages like Ramotlabaki, Molepolole, Gamodubu, Mogoditshane, Bobonong and Kuke had already benefited from the Mascom gesture, he noted.

Earlier on, Mascom’s chief community and public relations officer, Ms Tebogo Lebotse Sebego said the idea came about after realising the needs of members of the community during their countrywide installation of transmitters.

She noted that it was during those times of heavy rains when they decided to assist members of the public with shelter, food, bedding and clothing.

She said there was no how her company could have survived without the input of the community, adding that ”Motho ke Motho ka batho” or “Kompone ke Kompone ka setshaba”

Giving a vote of thanks, on behalf of area MP, Palapye Administration Authority chairperson, Mr Lesedi Phuthego said that shelter was very important and applauded the President for appealing to members of the public, individuals and companies to assist the underprivileged people with shelter.

He said Mascom had done a commendable work that could not be forgotten by members of the community at large especially beneficiaries, as that would go a long way in touching their lives socially and spiritually.

He said Mascom had played its part and it was therefore upon the council to ensure that those people are provided with food, clothing and other necessities.

He emphasised the importance of taking care of those buildings and further thanked the Office of the President staff for overseeing the housing projects and making sure that the houses are well handed to relevant people.

The beneficiaries, amongst them, Mr Setupula Sebita thanked the almighty God and the good Samaritans who came up with the ideas. ENDS