28 Mar 2017

North West District councillors have adopted the DDP8 plan with mixed feelings as some complained that it does not address the needs and aspirations of communities.
While some welcomed the plan, some wanted the planners to go back and include some projects which were proposed by communities during the consultative exercise.
After a lengthy discussion, the house had to vote and 17 councillors adopted the plan while 12 countered. Some councillors did not vote while some were not present due to other commitments.
Those who were against the plan complained that some of the projects funded were not a priority, citing the Maun Educational Park (MEP). They complained that the plan does not reflect the wish and desires of the people of Ngamiland.
Most of them expressed disappointment that infrastructure development and internal roads were not funded and yet they were a priority to the district.
They also said education and health issues were not covered.
Specially elected councillor, who is also Okavango Sub-district chairperson, Mr Mbahahauka Kambimba argued that the council was intending to transform the district into an environment that was capable of attracting investment and said without good infrastructure, their efforts would be fruitless.
Furthermore, he noted that the district was said to be a tourism hub, but that eternal roads left a lot to be desired and wished they could have been included in the plan.
He explained that infrastructure was key to the development and growth of the local economy, but expressed concern that it was not in the forefront in DDP8.
He also complained about many polices and acts in place which he said interrelated and called for harmonisation. Cllr Kambimba also noted that the council does not do enough in implementing the Local Economic Development (LED) because it does not have structures on the ground.
Cllr Kaukapita Kaukapita of Sedie appreciated the plan but expressed worry that the council spent money during consultation exercise, and that it was painful as most of the proposed projects were not approved.
He questioned the person who does the prioritisation of the projects.
Cllr Luke Motlaleselelo of Bojanala observed that MEP was not a priority to the district, adding that “our priorities are left out.”
He said internal roads were in a bad state and that it was unfortunate that they were not included in the plan.
He also noted that some children were still travelling long distances to access education and there was no proposed school in the plan.
However, those who welcomed the plan suggested that the corrections and input by the house be included.
Earlier, the district development officer, Mr Desmond Ramodisa informed the house that the plan covered ongoing projects, adding that there was no funding for new projects.
Some of the projects that were funded include the electrification of main gates at Samuchima, Ikoga, Mogapelwa, Mowana and Matabologa, the Shakawe revenue office, power upgrading in some schools, construction of a severe and multiple disability centre in Maun and construction and upgrading of health posts and clinics without maternity wings at Ngarange, Nxamasere, Toteng and Xhaoga respectively. ENDS