14 Mar 2017

Ipelegeng programme has been hailed as a catalyst for timely project completion.

Jwaneng mayor, Mr Tsietsi Oodira-Kwenje told a full council meeting on Friday that the drought relief programme had managed to complete 29 projects out of 39 that were allocated to them, adding that the remaining 10 minor projects were on-going.

He said 75 per cent of the programme’s budget had been used on labour intensive, maintenance and minor construction projects.

He however outlined that the major challenge in the district was to meet the 288 quota, which had an impact on sustenance suppliers as they were engaged in framework contracts.

He said the council would continue to engage beneficiaries from neighbouring villages and extend working hours where necessary.

Councillor Ronicah Ntsimako of Mogale Ward applauded Ipelegeng workers for speeding up project implementation, thus reducing costs and saving time.

He however called on government to review Ipelegeng wages to match the noble job the employees render.

Mr Ntsimako further said the council should hasten to meet the quota to employ more people.

He said although the programme was a temporary relief, more people could benefit from it to beat unemployment odds.

Specially elected councillor, Ms Olga Ditsie cautioned that recruiting people from neighbouring villages to work for Ipelegeng in Jwaneng might bring back the problem of squatting.

“Since we are below the quota of 288 people, we can still work with the people who show interest on the programme and leave the remaining quota to other districts to enhance performance of the programme in the country,” she explained.

The town clerk, Mr Dick Kalantle however highlighted that some people dump the programme to work in contractors under Jwaneng Mine.

He said the council would continue to do all it can to support and implement the programme in the town.

Meanwhile, the council has managed to complete most of their projects under the Economic Stimulus Programme.

Mayor Oodira-Kwenje however said they were forced to terminate the contract for construction of a classroom block at Jwana Primary School due to poor performance by the contractor.

In an effort to fast-track completion of the project, which is currently at 35 per cent, the second best evaluated bidder has been recommended and awarded the project at a negotiated amount of P659 534.75.

It is expected to be completed on May 22. ENDS